MERRY CHRISTMAS

COUNTRY GRAMMY NODS FOR 2012

Big Night for Country last night at the Grammy Nominations: Live show.

Here's how we shake out.

Best Country Solo Performance

• Jason Aldean - "Dirt Road Anthem"
• Martina McBride - "I'm Gonna Love You Through It"
• Blake Shelton - "Honey Bee"
• Taylor Swift - "Mean"
• Carrie Underwood - "Mama's Song"

Best Country Duo/Group Performance

• Jason Aldean & Kelly Clarkson - "Don't You Wanna Stay"
• Kenny Chesney f/ Grace Potter - "You and Tequila"
• The Cival Wars - "Barton Hollow"
• Thompson Square - "Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not"

Best Country Song (songwriter's award)

• Thompson Square - "Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not"
• Blake Shelton - "God Gave Me You"
• Trace Adkins - "Just Fishin'"
• Taylor Swift - "Mean"
• Vince Gill - "Threaten Me With Heaven"
• Kenny Chesney f/ Grace Potter - "You and Tequila"

Best Country Album

• Jason Aldean - My Kinda Party
• Eric Church - Chief
• Lady Antebellum - Own the Night
• Blake Shelton - Red River Blue
• George Strait - Here For a Good Time
• Taylor Swift - Speak Now

The Band Perry is up for Best New Artist (an all-genre category)

OK - now just what the heck are the Grammy's thinking? "Mama's Song" is too old to be up (IMHO)

But it's the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category that has me scratching my head. Perhaps the Grammy's need to be made aware that just 'cuz a person sings with someone else does not mean that they are a Duo or Group. Love Jason & Kelly's song and Kenny & Grace's - but I don't think they belong in this category as they are solo artists who have brought a special guest in (and one who's not country to boot!)

But that's the Grammy's - they just don't understand Country Music! They're getting better - but still...

P.S. I love the Civil Wars - but they haven't released any music for me to play. What's up with that??!!!

CMA COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

The special - that airs on ABC at 8pm on 12/1 - was filmed the day after the CMA's.

Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland hosted.

Some of the highlights:

• Sugarland performing a part-English/part-Spanish "Silent Night"
• Darius Rucker sings "Winter Wonderland"
• Lauren Alaina - backed by an orchestra - singing "Grown Up Christmas List" to a group of small children
• Vince Gill & Miss Piggy duet on "Baby, It's Cold Outside" (bet that's funny)
• Scotty McCreery sings "The First Noel"
• Little Big Town sings "Santa Claus is Back In Town" with a blues spin and Keith Urban on guitar
• Rascal Flatts performs "White Christmas"
• Faith Hill and Martina McBride also perform before a huge finale ends the show.

BILLBOARD TOURING AWARD COUNTRY WINNERS

If you've seen Jason Aldean I don't think you'll be surprised to hear that he won the Breakthrough Award.

Taylor Swift won the Billboard Concert Marketing and Promotion Award for her Speak Now world tour sponsored by Cover Girl.

Kenny Chesney's Goin' Coastal tour (which played for more than 1.3 million fans) with Zac Brown Band, Uncle Kracker and Billy Currington won Top Package.

COUNTRY JAM

The 3-day Festival in Eau Claire is July 19th - 21st.

Signed on? So far...

• Jason Aldean
• Trace Adkins
• Luke Bryan
• Chris Young
• Jerrod Niemann
• LoCash Cowboys
• Justin Moore

How far is Eau Claire from Horicon?

CMA LIVE BLOG #12

That grecian inspired dress Carrie is wearing reminds me of I Dream of Jeannie.

Congrats to Reba going in the Hall of Fame - and Bobby Bradock. Reba looks amazing.

Entertainer of the Year is Taylor Swift - and I love that dress!

CMA LIVE BLOG #11

The Glen Campbell tribute is so moving.

I wish I could see him in Wausau next month. I know it will be one of my biggest regrets.

Hey, Brad & Carrie were just talking about the Oscars - like I suggested earlier - they would be great hosts!

Faith Hill - not crazy about this performance, but know I will like the produced version of Coming Home. Really hate her hair, and those pants!

Dierks Bentley (should be performing!!) and Emily VanCamp (ABC's awesome Revenge) present Female Vocalist of the Year.
Miranda Lambert - who looks smashing in her pink dress. Very funny giving Blake a shoutout saying, "It's going to be a good night." Then seeing him rub his hands in anticipation with a gleam in his eye.

CMA LIVE BLOG #10

I thought Jason was kinda boring - didn't engage me.

Reese Witherspoon is a doll. Lucky her gets to introduce Male Vocalist of the Year.

And the winner is...
Blake Shelton! YAY!

Now it's the beautiful Martina's turn, with a beautiful song.

CMA LIVE BLOG #9

Time for Remind Me on TV for the first time ever.

I like Carrie's dress and hair. Her legs are so shiny though they are a bit distracting.

Awesome performance - Carrie can really belt it out.

New Artist of the Year time! Lucky Lauren Alaina intros it with Jake Owen.

It's The Band Perry! Big night for them.

Scotty McCreery was cute - next year he'll probably sing a full song.

CMA LIVE BLOG #8

I really like the new one from The Band Perry. All Your Life was wonderful live.

Billy Currington! Say my name, say my name, say my name! I like LeAnn Rimes dress.

Vocal Group of the Year = Lady Antebellum. Knew it, though Zac Brown Band was my pick.

LOL Zac has a Red Solo Cup!

Oh yeah, Sugarland and Matt Nathinson! Run is a sexy little number. Love her jacket and those shoes!

Craig got the Video of the Year correct with You & Tequila from Kenny & Grace Potter.

CMA LIVE BLOG #7

I've lost track of the number of Carrie's dresses, but this one would be better with out the black layered neck thing?

Heeheehee - Little Jimmy Dickens as Justin Bieber.

Lionel Richie with Little Big Town, Rascal Flatts & Darius Rucker.

No surprise - Little Big Town sound and look amazing.

Darius Rucker sounded good on Stuck On You.

Heard Rascal Flatts do Dancing On the Ceiling at Country USA this year, so already knew how good it was going to be. Better with the real thing as oppose to the video/hologram.

CMA LIVE BLOG #6

The Miss Piggy bit was great! ROFLMAO! I'm guessing Brad adlibbed that line about touching her there when he realized where his hand landed! LOFL

Lady A are amazing! Kristin has tix to see them at Summerfest - Jealous!

Erin Andrews and David Freese - I really have no idea who they are - yes, I know Erin's name and story, but just the basics.

Album of the Year = My Kind of Party - Jason Aldean - no brainer!

Kenny Chesney & Grace Potter sound great on You & Tequila - goosebumps as Michelle said.

CMA LIVE BLOG #5

SQUEEEEEE - it's Luke Bryan!!!!! Why did I pick the Band Perry to win? Can I change my pick now to Luke? He is skyrocketing! What was I thinking? Standing O!

Ha! I got the musician of the year right!

CMA LIVE BLOG #4

Prince Charming & Snow White introduce the Vocal Duo of the Year - SUGARLAND!!!!

LOL to Jennifer shouting out to Greg Allman that it was her on the red carpet. I love Jen's dress.

OMG - there's Brad's $2000 camo jacket!!!

Time for some New Artist of the Year action.

Eric Church is so great! I think the fair should bring him back!

Thompson Square sound pretty good. Shawna has a very intersting dress on - I can't decide if I like it or not.

Chris Young!!! I wish he was singing Tomorrow even though Voices is terrific.

Taylor's song - This Love Is Ours - was so sweet. She sounded wonderful.

WTF is Carrie wearing?

CMA LIVE BLOG #3

Hmmm - not crazy about dress #3 for Carrie.

Oooo - Miranda! Wow - look at that jewel thing on the middle of her shirt. I love the fringe! Ooo - like the airport info on the video screens. Miranda looks good! And she sounds good! Can I get a pink microphone for the fair next year?

Yummy - Emmit from Twilight! And Kellie looks so great! They get to give out Song of the Year. I had picked The Band Perry - but man, I love Zac Brown Band.

Well, I got that one!

Song of the Year = If I Die Young - The Band Perry.

A standing O for the very deserving Zac Brown Band and Greg Allman! Wow! That was just an amazing performance of Georgia On My Mind.

Up now it's Rascal Flatts & Natasha Beddingfield with Easy - They sound so good.

CMA LIVE BLOG #2

Love dress #2 for Carrie - with matching shoes.

Keith Urban performing - You Gonna Fly!

Brad changed his outfit! Intro's the lovely Sara Evans and her #1 A Little Bit Stronger. Interesting - there are ariel acrobats spinning around on fabric during the performance. I love the dress Sara was wearing on the red carpet.

CMA LIVE BLOG #1

The opening was great! Footloose was fun & Brad & Carrie were very funny - can they host the Oscars? Love that funky dress Carrie's wearing - and those shoes!

Single of the Year = If I Die Young!

Beautiful song - bet it wins more awards!

CMA NOMINATIONS & LEZLI'S PICKS

Entertainer of the Year

Jason Aldean
Brad Paisley - Lezli's Pick
Blake Shelton
Taylor Swift
Keith Urban

Male Vocalist of the Year
Jason Aldean (this could be his year - but...)
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton - Lezli's Pick
Keith Urban

Female Vocalist of the Year
Sara Evans
Miranda Lambert - Lezli's Pick
Martina McBride
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

Album of the Year
All About Tonight - Blake Shelton
My Kinda Party - Jason Aldean - Lezli's Pick!
Speak Now - Taylor Swift
This Is Country Music - Brad Paisley
You Get What You Give - Zac Brown Band

Musical Event of the Year
"As She's Walking Away" - Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson
"Coal Miner's Daughter" - Loretta Lynn, Sheryl Crow and Miranda Lambert
"Don't You Wanna Stay" - Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson
"Old Alabama" - Brad Paisley featuring Alabama - Lezli's Pick
"You and Tequila" - Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter

New Artist of the Year
The Band Perry - Lezli's Pick
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Thompson Square
Chris Young

Music Video of the Year
"Honey Bee" - Blake Shelton
"If I Die Young" - The Band Perry
"Mean" - Taylor Swift
"Old Alabama" - Brad Paisley featuring Alabama
"You and Tequila" - Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter

Single of the Year
"A Little Bit Stronger" - Sara Evans
"Colder Weather" - Zac Brown Band
"Honey Bee" - Blake Shelton - Lezli's Pick
"If I Die Young" - The Band Perry
"Don't Want to Stay" - Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson

Song of the Year (songwriters award)
"Dirt Road Anthem" - Grant Lee Gilbert and Colt Ford (Jason Aldean)
"If I Die Young" - Kimberly Perry (The Band Perry) - Lezli's Pick
"Mean" - Taylor Swift
"You and Tequila" - Matraca Berg and Tina Carter (Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter)
"Colder Weather" - Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrett, Levi Lowrey and Coy Bowles (Zac Brown Band)

Vocal Group of the Year
The Band Perry
Lady Antebellum- (It will prolly be them, but...)
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts
Zac Brown Band - Lezli's Pick

Vocal Duo of the Year
The Civil Wars
Montgomery Gentry
Sugarland - Lezli's Pick
Thompson Square

Musician of the Year
Sam Bush - mandolin
Jerry Douglas - dobro
Paul Franklin - steel guitar
Dann Huff - guitar
Mac McAnally - guitar

PRE-CMA SHOW

Check out Robin Roberts: All Access Nashville tonight on ABC. Robin will sit down and chat with Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, Faith Hill, Sugarland, Scotty McCreery, and Lauren Alaina. It's all in anticipation of the CMA's tomorrow night.

NEW WILLIE CD

The latest from Willie Nelson is due November 21st. Called Remember Me, Vol 1, it features songs Willie picked that he considers country's most definitive. The songs go back 70 years! This Vol (Vol 2 comes next year!) comes from Willie's sessions with his friend and producer James Stroud (the two volumes will feature 30 songs).

Each track features the work of Nashville's top musicians. Eddie Bayers on drums, David Hungate on bass, Brent Mason on electric guitar, Biff Watson plays acoustic guitar, Mickey Raphael is on harmonica, Sonny Garrish plays steel guitar, John Hobbs does the piano/keyboard work, Aubrey Haynie is on the fiddle/mandolin and Wes Hightower along with Cindy Walker provide background vocals. Jerry Puckett and Chris Collins are also guests.

Remember Me, Vol. 1

• Remember Me (Ernest Tub, 1950, #5 Country)
• Sixteen Tons (Tennessee Ernie Ford, 1955, #1 Country & Pop)
• Why Baby Why (George Jones, 1955, #4 Country)
• Today I Started Loving You Again (Merle Haggard, 1970)
• I'm Movin' On (Hank Snow, 1950, #1 Country)
• That Just About Does It (Vern Gosdin, 1989, #4 Country)
• This Old House (Rosemary Clooney, 1954, #1 Pop)
• Sunday Morning Coming Down (Johnny Cash, 1970, #1 Country)
• Smoke That Cigarette (Tex Williams, 1947, #1 Country)
• Slowly (Webb Pierce, 1054, #1 Country)
• A Satisfied Mind (Porter Wagoner, 1955, #1 Country)
• Roly Poly (Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys, 1946, #3 Country)
• Release Me (Ray Price, 1954, #6 Country)
• Ramblin' Fever (Merle Haggard, 1977, #2 Country)
• More and More (Webb Pierce, 1954, #1 Country)

CMA PERFORMERS & PRESENTERS - UPDATE

The show is November 9th at 7pm on ABC.

Presenters

• Lauren Alaina
• Dierks Bentley (should be singing!)
• Billy Currington
• Jake Owen
• Kellie Pickler
• Reba McEntire
• LeAnn Rimes

Performers

• Sugarland & Matt Nathanson (who has been out with them a lot on the road :) - they'll sing Run a song Matt wrote with Sugarland.
• Faith Hill - she'll sing her new single Come Home
• Lionel Richie will perform with Little Big Town, Darius Rucker & Rascal Flatts (songs from his upcoming country duets album Tuskegee)
• Lady Antebellum
• Miranda Lambert
• Band Perry
• Jason Aldean
• Blake Shelton
• Taylor Swift
• Keith Urban
• Brad Paisley & Carrie Underwood - they'll sing (for the first time on TV) Remind Me
• Thompson Square

HILLARY SCOTT ON REDBOOK MAGAZINE

Check it out! She's gorgeous!

In the magazine she talks about her future wedding to Chris Tyrell. She says, "Everything's brighter" since she became engaged. Chris "embraces" her for herself, and makes her feel "more comfortable in [her] own skin." The wedding should be sometime early next year.

THROAT SURGERY FOR KEITH URBAN

Later this month Keith Urban will have surgery to remove a polyp from his vocal cords. He has had to cancel appearances where he would need to sing multiple songs - those shows will be made up next year. He will be honoring his commitments for one-son performances, so we will see him next Wednesday at the CMA's. (YAY!) He, along with Vince Gill and Brad Paisley will be honoring Glen Campbell at the big event Wednesday, and I know Keith wouldn't want to miss honoring someone he calls a "guitarist (I LOVE that!). Someone who has probably been one of his biggest influences.

Best of luck to Keith with the surgery.

ACA's

The American Country Awards will be back on FOX December 5th.

Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, (solo and with) Pistol Annies, Thompson Square, Eli Young Band, Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, the Band Perry, and co-hosts Trace Adkins and Kristin Chenoweth are all performing.

You can vote until 11/11 - except the Artist of the Year voting goes until 12/2.

Vote at TheACAs.com.

CMA NEWS

The 45th Annual CMA's are next Wednesday at 7pm.

Lionel Richie will perform some of his songs from his country duets album Tuskegee - which is coming out in March. Little Big Town, Darius Rucker, and Rascal Flatts will perform with Lionel at the CMA's.

On Tuskegee you can also hear duets with, among others, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Shania Twain, Jennifer Nettles, Billy Currington and Willie Nelson.

Can't wait to hear some of these songs!

Also, Vince Gill, Brad Paisley and Keith Urban will pay tribute to Glen Campbell.

CARRIE IS ONE HOT BLONDE

(or yellow hair as Tina Fey would say :)

NTBlondes.com has awarded Carrie Underwood the title of Hottest Blonde for 2011. It's their first ranking of the 100 hottest celebrity blondes.

Here's the Top 10.

1. Carrie Underwood
2. Charlize Theron
3. Brooklyn Decker
4. Heidi Klum
5. Paris Hilton
6. Cameron Diaz
7. Blake Lively
8. Beyonce
9. Gwyneth Paltrow
10. Reese Witherspoon

INSPIRATION AWARDS

The 17th Annual Inspiration Country Music Association's Faith, Family & Country Awards happened last Friday night.

Lady Antebellum's "Hello World" won the Video award.

Justin Moore's "If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away" won Mainstream Inspirational Song.

Joey + Rory won Vocal Duo award (I'm thinking not for their song "Cheater, Cheater" :)

Ricky Skaggs won Entertainer of the Year.

Jeff Bates won Mainstream Country Artist. (um, OK)

The Roys won Inspirational Bluegrass Artist.

Carrie Underwood's feature film debut Soul Surfer won Faith & Family Movie.

CMA COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

The show will be back for a second year, with Jennifer Nettles, of Sugarland, once again hosting. Lots of our favorite artists will perform and share their favorite holiday memories. The program airs at 7pm on ABC December 1st (and isn't it shocking to think that is only a little over a month from now?!)

Performers

• Faith Hill
• Martina McBride
• Vince Gill & Amy Grant
• Kellie Pickler
• Darius Rucker
• Little Big Town
• Keith Urban
• Rascal Flatts
• Brad Paisley
• Scotty McCreery
• Lauren Alaina
• Sugarland

LONESTAR IS BACK TOGETHER!!!!

What a way to celebrate their 20th anniversary! Richie McDonald has rejoined the group! There will be a new album and a world tour in 2012! (no release date yet - but I'll let you know!)

Here's the statement Richie made. "Five years has come and gone since I left Lonestar. We've all tried other avenues and the fact remains that some things were just meant to be. With the Lonestar 20-year reunion approaching, Dean, Michael, Keech and I got together and have decided we have some unfinished business to take care of. I miss those crazy nights running around onstage making music with my band of brother."

Dean Sams (keyboardist) said, "We have so much more music to offer the country music fans, and truly feel they want us back on the radio and out on the road performing live for them. After a lot of soul searching and long conversations between all of us involved, we are energized and excited to be writing and recording new music together again!"

Drummer, Keech Rainwater added, "I think fans ultimately wondered if this was ever going to happen again, and it always seemed like the original Lonestar as a whole was better than the sum of its parts. (I wonder what John Rich - who was in the original Lonestar - feels about that statement.) I think that having a break for a while, will have sparked new ideas and great music, both live and in the studio."

Michael Britt says, "I'm proud of everything we've achieved in our career so far, doing things that not many bands have been able to do. But even after all that we've done, I think we still have a powerful drive to keep making music and doing new things."

Lonestar has sold more than 10 million albums since 1995 and have 10 number ones!

So what about the lead singer that took Richie's place? Cody Collins went on tour with Lonestar, and can be heard on their 2010 album Party Heard Around the World (and you can hear him on "Let Me Love You" on WXRO). The four reunited members of Lonestar wish him the best in his future musical endeavors. (I'm curious if/when we'll hear from Cody - who I thought was very talented).

PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS

Country artists are up for several awards. This is just the preliminary batch of nominees that will be cut down soon. Vote for your favs at peopleschoice.com

Favorite Country Artist of the Year nominees

• Blake Shelton
• Brad Paisley
• Sugarland
• Jason Aldean
• The Band Perry
• Keith Urban
• Kenny Chesney
• Lady Antebellum
• Miranda Lambert
• Rascal Flatts
• Taylor Swift
• Zac Brown Band

Favorite Male Artist of the Year (all-genre - here are the country nominees)

• Keith Urban
• Kenny Chesney
• Blake Shelton

Favorite Female Artist of the Year (all-genre - here are the country nominees)

• Miranda Lambert
• Taylor Swift

Favorite Album of the Year (all-genre - here are the country nominees)

• Eric Church - Chief
• Lady Antebellum - Own the Night
• Blake Shelton - Red River Blue

COUNTRY DANCE 2

The set list for the video game has been released. Lots of good stuff. Like, Blake's "Honey Bee," Dierks "Sideways," Josh Thompson's "Won't Be Lonely Long," Luke Bryan's "Country Girl (Shake It For Me)," and "Better Life" from Keith Urban. You can get the game Nov. 1st.

JO DEE MESSINA IS...

Pregnant! Congrats to Jo Dee and her hubby Chris. They're expecting baby #2 - though no word on a due date. Jo Dee recently tweeted, "Our family is very excited. In a few months, Chris, Noah and I will be welcoming baby number-two."

ACM's BRING BACK SONGWRITERS AWARDS

The Songwriter of the Year category was first awarded to Roger Miller in 1965, but was discontinued. The Song of the Year always went to the Songwriters. Well, now, they are going to bring back the Songwriter award! Not sure if that means the Song of the Year is just getting a name change, or if we're getting one more award, so I'll keep you updated. As a songwriter girl, I'm very excited.

KEITH URBAN

He might be doing The Voice down under! The Daily Telegraph says that he has reportedly signed on for the Australian version of the show. Seal, Joel Madden and Delta Goodrem are also set to be coaches. Filming is expected to start early next year.

CMA PERFORMERS & PRESENTERS - UPDATE

The Award show is November 9th on ABC.

Faith Hill will perform at the CMA's for the first time in 5 years. She'll debut her first single from her next album (out early 2012)! Very excited to hear that!

10/27 UPDATE

Lionel Richie will perform select songs from his country duets album, Tuskegee with Little Big Town, Darius Rucker & Rascal Flatts. (Other duets on the album include Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Shania Twain, Jennifer Nettles, Billy Currington , and Willie Nelson. The album comes out in March.)

So performers signed up include:

• Faith Hill
• Lady Antebellum
• Miranda Lambert
• The Band Perry
• Jason Aldean
• Blake Shelton
• Taylor Swift
• Keith Urban
• Brad Paisley & Carrie Underwood
• Lionel Richie w/ Little Big Town, Darius Rucker & Rascal Flatts

FORBES HIGHEST PAID - GUESS WHICH COUNTRY STAR IS IN THE TOP 10

No brainer - it's Taylor.

The list looked at money from May 2010 to May 2011.

Forbes' Highest Earning Women in Entertainment

1. Oprah Winfrey - $290 million (Forbes estimates she's worth $2.7 billion)
2. Lady Gaga - $90 million
3. Bethany Frankel - $55 million
4. Gisele Bundchen - $45 million
5. Ellen DeGeneres - $45 million
6. Judge Judy - $45 million
7. Taylor Swift - $45 million
8. Katy Perry - $44 million
9. Beyonce - $35 million
10. Danielle Steel - $35 million

TIM & CURB RECORDS

The latest on their lawsuits finds a November 29th court hearing scheduled to decide whether Tim McGraw can record any new albums during the ongoing legal dispute. A trial date on the contract dispute has been set for July 9, 2012. Court records state that the hearing will "first make a final determination on whether or not Curb is entitled to prevent Mr. McGraw, by injunction or otherwise, from recording for other entities other than Curb."

CMT ARTISTS of the YEAR

The honorees for 2011 are Jason Aldean, Kenny Chesney, Lady Antebellum, Brad Paisley, and Taylor Swift. They were chosen from a compilation of their music sales, country radio airplay, their concert grosses, video streams, searches and page views on CMT.com. In the last year these artist have collectively sold more than nine-million albums and more than 20-million downloads of their current singles!

The 90 minute Artists of the Year special will feature the honorees performing as well as celebrities from all over. As soon as I know more I'll pass the info on.

I can tell you it's December 13th on CMT at 8pm.

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS GIFT

Colonial Candle and Big Machine records have teamed up for an exclusive gift set. You'll get a nine-song CD with a "holiday sparkle" candle. Songs? The Band Perry's "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," Martina's "Please Come Home for Christmas," Reba's "I'll Be Home for Christmas," Rascal Flatts "Mary Did You Know," and songs by Edens Edge, Justin Moore, Eli Young Band, Jewel and Steel Magnolia. It's out this month.

TIM'S MOVIE OPENS FRIDAY

You can catch Tim McGraw's latest film "Dirty Girl" this Friday. Tim plays the part of Danny - the estranged dad of the main character. He says he was drawn to this role the moment he read the script. "The part where the daughter finds her father is sorta something I could relate to. It had some similarities to my own life."

CMA Nominations are in!

Entertainer of the Year

Jason Aldean
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Taylor Swift
Keith Urban

Male Vocalist of the Year
Jason Aldean
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Keith Urban

Female Vocalist of the Year
Sara Evans
Miranda Lambert
Martina McBride
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

Album of the Year
All About Tonight - Blake Shelton
My Kinda Party - Jason Aldean
Speak Now - Taylor Swift
This Is Country Music - Brad Paisley
You Get What You Give - Zac Brown Band

Musical Event of the Year
"As She's Walking Away" - Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson
"Coal Miner's Daughter" - Loretta Lynn, Sheryl Crow and Miranda Lambert
"Don't You Wanna Stay" - Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson
"Old Alabama" - Brad Paisley featuring Alabama
"You and Tequila" - Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter

New Artist of the Year
The Band Perry
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Thompson Square
Chris Young

Music Video of the Year
"Honey Bee" - Blake Shelton
"If I Die Young" - The Band Perry
"Mean" - Taylor Swift
"Old Alabama" - Brad Paisley featuring Alabama
"You and Tequila" - Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter

Single of the Year
"A Little Bit Stronger" - Sara Evans
"Colder Weather" - Zac Brown Band
"Honey Bee" - Blake Shelton
"If I Die Young" - The Band Perry
"Don't Want to Stay" - Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson

Song of the Year (songwriters award)
"Dirt Road Anthem" - Grant Lee Gilbert and Colt Ford (Jason Aldean)
"If I Die Young" - Kimberly Perry (The Band Perry)
"Mean" - Taylor Swift
"You and Tequila" - Matraca Berg and Tina Carter (Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter)
"Colder Weather" - Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrett, Levi Lowrey and Coy Bowles (Zac Brown Band)

Vocal Group of the Year
The Band Perry
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts
Zac Brown Band

Vocal Duo of the Year
The Civil Wars
Montgomery Gentry
Sugarland
Thompson Square

Musician of the Year
Sam Bush - mandolin
Jerry Douglas - dobro
Paul Franklin - steel guitar
Dann Huff - guitar
Mac McAnally - guitar

TIM & FAITH BARBIE DOLLS

They are adorable! Mattel is adding Tim & Faith Barbie Dolls to their collection of country Barbies (Taylor, Martina, Reba and LeAnn also have dolls in their image). They are a set - and priced at $69.95. I love that "Tim" has a scruffy beard! And there's accessories! (Not that you would even think of taking them out of the box and playing with them!)

BLAKE SINGS "FOOTLOOSE"

That stupid remake is at least going to have a very decent soundtrack.

Here's the track listing for the movie Footloose (which is out 10/14 - Lezli will NOT be going).

1. Blake Shelton - Footloose


2. Zac Brown - Where the river goes


3. Lissie - Little Lovin'


4. Ella Mae Bowen - Holding Out For a Hero


5. Jana Kramer - Let's Hear It For the Boy


6. Whitney Duncan - So Sorry Mama


7. Big & Rich f/ Gretchen Wilson - Fake ID


8. Victoria Justice & Hunter Hayes - Almost Paradise


9. Cee Lo Green f/ kenny Wayne Shepherd - Walkin' Blues


10. The Smashing Pumpkins - Window Paine


11. A Thousand Horses - Suicide Eyes


12. David Banner - Dance the Night Away

COUNTRY'S HOTTEST 20

CMT has a special planned for August 10th. "What's Your 20? 20 Greatest Men, 20 Years."

Here's how it works - CMT has selected the 20 men - we rank them.

Here's our choices

• Trace Adkins
• Jason Aldean
• Dierks Bentley
• Garth Brooks
• Brooks & Dunn
• Johnny Cash
• Kenny Chesney
• Vince Gill
• Alan Jackson
• Toby Keith
• Tim McGraw
• Willie Nelson
• Brad Paisley
• Rascal Flatts
• Blake Shelton
• George Strait
• Randy Travis
• Keith Urban
• Hank Williams Jr.
• Zac Brown Band

POLLSTAR'S TOP NORTH AMERICAN COUNTRY TOURS

This list is for the first half of 2011

#4 - Kenny Chesney - $46.7 million

#6 - Taylor Swift - $29.5 million (she's been out of the country for most of the first half of 2011)

#15 - George Strait, Reba McEntire, & Lee Ann Womack - $18.4 million

#27 - Brad Paisley - $11.9 million

#28 - Jason Aldean - $11.8 million

#33 - Sugarland - $10.1 million

#39 - Rascal Flatts - $9.2 million

#49 - Tim McGraw - $7.3 million

#50 - Zac Brown Band - $6.7 million

"OWN THE NIGHT" TRACK LIST

I've got September 13th on my calendar for many reasons. First - it's my parents 44th Wedding Anniversary (way to go Mom & Dad!), but it's also the day that Lady Antebellum's "Own the Night" album is out. Can NOT wait!

Here's the track listing.

1. We Owned the Night
2. Just a Kiss
3. Dancin' Away With My Heart
4. Friday Night
5. When You Were Mine
6. Cold As Stone
7. Singing Me Home
8. Wanted You More
9. As You Turn Away
10. The Love I've Found In You
11. Somewhere Love Remains
12. The Heart of the World

AAUCCKTTIINNGG!

One day we might see Jason Aldean in a few roles. He recently told the Courier Press from Evansville, IN that he wouldn't rule acting out. He was pitched a movie script recently. Jason says he would like to ease into it, maybe try it out, and not jump into the larger roles right away. You know, find out if it's something he's interested in. He will not kiss anyone on screen though. He doesn't want his kids to be "confused." This doesn't stop them from trying though. Jason said, "It seems like every time I get a video treatment, for some reason it's got me hooking up with some girl and I'm like, damn, y'all gotta get somebody else to do that."

You can spot Carrie Underwood in the premier of CBS's Blue Bloods on September 23rd. Sh will play herself, along with Tony Bennett as they perform "It Had To Be You" from Tony's Duets Two album - which hits stores September 20th.

MONTGOMERY GENTRY PERFORMS FOR EVERY SOLDIER

And I do mean every soldier - around the entire globe. The USO Homefront Concert is set for next Tuesday - July 26th. The concert takes place in Louisville, Kentucky and there will be 1,400 people at the National Guard's National Volunteer's Workshop and Symposium to watch - which doesn't sound like every soldier. But...the Pentaon will uplink the concert to the Armed Forces Network. That means it will be beamed to all military bases around the world. You don't have to be in the service to watch though. Like the Homefront Concert USA page on Facebook to see it yourself.

Here's the link to the Facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=219940491378057

DUH! KENNY CHESNEY IS HOT!

Cosmo did a list of Hot Guys on Tour and Kenny Chesney made the cut. This is what Cosmopolitan said of Kenny; "Worn-in jeans, cowboy hats, cut-off tees...Kenny may not have Katy Perry's costume budget, but we still think his, um, tractor's sexy." LOL

Cosmo's Hot Guys in Bands

1. Adam Levine of Maroon 5 (and winner of The Voice)
2. Andrew McMahon of Jack's Mannequin
3. Jared Leto of 30 Seconds to Mars
4. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver
5. Kenny Chesney
6. Kid Cudi
7. All Four Kings of Leon
8. Matt Bellamy of Muse
9. Michael Buble
10. MKOTBSB Members

SUGARLAND CONTEST

Their current song is "Tonight" and they're running a fan video contest. They want you to submit a 2-minute video answering questions like "What are you waiting for 'Tonight?' Is it a dream date with your partner? A night in with your children? An evening out with friends? Some quiet time alone?"

You are given a number of Sugarland clips that you mix up with your own video footage to explain what the songs title means to you.

Sugarland will chose 10 favs and post them online so we can pick the winning entry.

The winner receives a trip for two to see Sugarland play their final "Incredible Machine 2011 Tour" show in Atlanta, GA. The prize includes a meet-n-greet with the band and dinner for two.

Details at SugarlandMusic.com

BABIES!

Jewel and her hubby Ty Murray are parents! Monday night their baby boy was born. Kase Townes Murray arrived at 7pm (CDT), and weighed 7 pounds - 6 ounces. Jewel gushed to People exclusively, "Ty and I are so pleased to welcome our new baby boy into the world. We are overcome with happiness - it really is as great as everyone told us it would be - better even!"

These are a shots of his nursery - which Jewel tweeted.

Justin Moore's wife Kate is going to have a girl in November. This will be their second daughter. Ella Kole turned one last February.

& BREAKUPS

Of a sort. Cheyenne Kimball has decided to leave Gloriana! There was a note posted on their website Monday that read:

As you may have heard, Cheyenne Kimball chose to leave our band. We need you to know that Gloriana will absolutely continue on. We couldn't imagine our lives any other way.

We are 100 percent committed to all of you, our fans and supporters. As planned, we will debut our new music video this week and will continue touring and supporting "Wanna Take You Home" while finishing up our new album. We wish Cheyenne the best of luck in whatever lies ahead for her.

Much love,

Tom, Rachel, and Mike - Gloriana

Well, Sugarland lost a Kristin Hall and went on to HUGE success. Gloriana is a new group - but very good - so hopefully they will be able to continue on to big things. And all the best to Cheyenne.

P.S. In case you're wondering - Cheyenne is the blond on the left.

UPDATE 7/13/11 - It seems her leaving blindsided the rest of Gloriana. Tom Gossin said, "she just kind of took off after the show." (last Friday night) She didn't respond to an email they sent her and "then, just like everybody else, we saw her Twitter page on Saturday." (That tweet has been taken down since then - but it said that she was no longer part of the group and it was time to move on.) They say it was a shock because "there was nothing particular leading up to this."

ENGAGEMENT'S!

The duo of Steel Magnolia - Meghan Linsey and Joshua Scott Jones are engaged. Joshua gave Meghan his great-grandmother's antique engagement ring (awwwww) before they won CMT's "Can You Duet" in 2009! Yes 2oo9! They've kept the secret this long. Joshua is thinking of a wedding next year on his birthday, July 10th, but Meghan says he is just thinking that date 'cuz it's his birthday. She said she asked him, "Well, do you know if it's a Saturday? Is it a Tuesday?" She said "he doesn't think about those things." Since it's Leap Year next year - she's right, it's a Tuesday, so I don't think that will be the date!

Rumors flew that Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum was engaged when she wore this ginormous diamond on her ring finger at the ACM's this spring, and she had to shoot those down. But congrats are now in order! Chris Tyrell popped the question during the 4th of July weekend. She said, "our families were close by, but it was just us out on a beautiful deck overlooking a lake on East Tennessee. We had just been on a hike and - in our workout clothes - he hit the knee! We feel so blessed by God that He sent us each other, and we are looking so forward to forever together!" Chris is currently working in Edens Edge's backing band on Brad Paisley's tour. They met while he was playing drums for Love and Theft when they were both on the Tim McGraw tour last year.

WILLIE'S POT CASE

It ain't over folks. A judge has refused to approve a plea deal that reduces Willie's drug charges - you'll recall Willie was arrested on suspicion of possession last November after the border patrol thought they smelled pot on his bus. Willie's deal allowed him to plead no contest to a reduced charge of misdemeanor possession of drug paraphenalia, and pay a $500 fine and $280 in court costs.

Last Friday County Judge Becky Dean-Walker admitted she signed that deal and then changed her mind and scratched her name out. She feels he deserves a tougher sentence, saying, "I'm not going to be guilty of signing something because someone is a celebrity...Everybody should be treated the same in my court."

So now the case is still pending.

I'll keep you up to date.

BLAKE & MIRANDA'S WEDDING

There are some seriously awesome pictures at JunkGypsyblog.com. Scroll down to see what they reception looked like, along with a very cute pix of Blake & Miranda.

GUESS WHO'S UP FOR A LOT OF TEEN CHOICE AWARDS

Yeppers. Taylor Swift. 6 nominations for her. August 7th is the date of the awards.

She is nominated in several country categories but also in several all-genre categories.

• Female Artist category
• Love Song category for "Mine"
• Break-Up Song category for "Back to December"
• Red Carpet Fashion Icon

Choice Music: Male Country Artist

• Jason Aldean
• Luke Bryan
• Brad Paisley
• Blake Shelton
• Keith Urban

Choice Music: Female Country Artist

• Miranda Lambert
• Jennette McCurdy
• Kellie Pickler
• Taylor Swift
• Carrie Underwood

Choice Music: Country Single

• "If I Die Young"- The Band Perry
• "Country Girl (Shake It for Me) "- Luke Bryan
• "Just a Kiss" - Lady Antebellum
• "Honey Bee"- Blake Shelton
• "Mean" - Taylor Swift

Choice Music: Country Group

• Lady Antebellum
• The Band Perry
• Rascal Flatts
• Steel Magnolia
• Little Big Town

GLEN CAMPBELL HAS ALZHEIMER'S

He spoke with People magazine exclusively. The diagnosis was made six months ago, but he has suffered from short term memory loss for years. Because he has some farewell concerts planned this fall his wife Kim says he decided to go public now. She says, "Glen is still an awesome guitar player and singer. But if he flubs a lyric or gets confused on stage, I wouldn't want people to think, 'What's the matter with him? Is he drunk?" Glen says, "I still love making music. And I still love performing for my fans. I'd like to thank them for sticking with me through thick and thin."

QUAKER'S CHEWY SUPERSTAR

Kids 8 to 14 can pick one of four songs - including the JaneDear Girls "Wildflower" - and sing them karaoke style for a chance to win a super cool prize.

$5,000 cash!

Nick Jonas will produce a song they'll record.

They'll sign with Jonas Management Group.

ChewySuperstar.com has all the info.

I SAID IT FIRST

Ever since seeing Ashton Shepherd at Country USA Saturday I have been saying she is awesome. Her performance was terrific. Well, now Rolling Stone recognized her as an "Artist to Watch." The magazine compared her to Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette.

She's had a couple of amazing songs and I hope she can continue to do well. She really is a terrific performer and I think Rolling Stone is totally right!

She has an album coming out soon - Where Country Grows - and she's going to have her baby soon.

Ashton says she hopes to be back in time to hit the CMA red carpet.

P.S. You'll be able to bid on an Ashton Shepherd autographed photo at next year's WBEV/WXRO Children's Radiothon.

MORE 'ALL ACCESS' CRAIG MORGAN

"Craig Morgan All Access Outdoors," his weekly hunting show is back on the Outdoors Channel. Craig says there will be more of the same in the 2nd season. He says, "We're going to highlight the characters that are involved in the show, [like] my band, crew, family members, because they are a big part of my world. Craig says, "That's really what the show is about: my world. So we're going to highlight them a little bit, plus...it gives me an opportunity to make fun of my band guys!"

VINCE GILL

He's getting a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!!

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce decided 2012 will be his year. Vince is expected to join the likes of Jennifer Lopez, the band America, Boyz II Men, Hal David, David Foster and Heart (aka Ann & Nancy Wilson). Barry While will be honored with a posthumous star.

THANK YOU

You are truly the best. Kids in Dodge County will get the support and help they need thanks to all your generous donations for the WBEV/WXRO Children's Radiothon. Almost $112,000 this year! Over $1.1 million in 14 years.

I am truly blessed to live in this community.

Thank you!

WHO BEATS TAYLOR AS HIGHEST PAID MUSICIAN IN COUNTRY?

Forbes has just released their list of the 25 highest-paid musicians from May 2010 to May 2011. This numbers are from all pretax income earned, before subtracting agent and manager fees. Pollstar, RIAA and interviews with industry insiders like lawyers, managers, concert rpomothers, agents and sometimes the musicians helped compile he totals.

As far as who beats Taylor? It's Toby. He is #11 on the list while Taylor is #13. There's only a $5 million dollar difference though.

Forbes 25 Highest-Paid Musicians

1. U2 - $195 million

2. Bon Jovi - $125 million

3. Elton John - $100 million

4. Lady Gaga - $90 million

5. Michael Buble - $70 million

6. Paul McCartney - $67 million

7. Black Eyed Peas - $61 million

8. Eagles - $60 million

9. Justin Bieber - $53 million

10. Dave Matthews Band - $51 million

11. Toby Keith - $50 million

12. Usher - $46 million

13. Taylor Swift - $45 million

14. Katy Perry - $44 million

15. Brad Paisley - $40 million

16. (Tie) Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers - $38 million

16 .(Tie) Jay-Z - $38 million

18. (Tie) AC/DC - $35 million

18. (Tie) Sean "Diddy" Combs - $35 million

18. (Tie) Beyonce - $35 million

18. (Tie) Tim McGraw - $35 million

18. (Tie) Muse - $35 million

23. Rascal Flatts - $34 million

24. Kenny Chesney - $30 million

25. Rihanna - $29 million

RED RIVER BLUE

It's the title of Blake Shelton's 8th studio album which is out July 12th. I just got the track listing and wanted to share with you.

1. Honey Bee
2. Ready To Roll
3. God Gave Me You
4. Get Some
5. Drink On It
6. Good Ol' Boys
7. I'm Sorry
8. Sunny In Seattle
9. Over
10. Hey
11. Red River Blue

BABIES!

Congrats to Justin Moore and his wife Kate as they are expecting baby #2 in November. This baby will join Ella Kole who is a little over a year.

Eric Church and his wife Katherine are expecting a boy in October. He'll be their first child.

PROUD TO BE HERE

That's the title of Trace Adkins new CD that is set to hit shelves on August 2nd. "Just Fishin'" is the first single. Trace says, "The title song could have been based on my life, and it's about narrow escapes and the grace that guides you through. Obviously, now after the fire, Proud to Be Here takes on an even greater significance. Once again, I've been blessed and everyone is safe." Trace has had several near death experiences (once a tractor fell over on him crushing his sternum while working on his farm).

You can pre-order the deluxe edition starting July 12th on iTunes. The deluxe edition includes 4 additional tracks including a Blake Shelton duet for a song called "If I Was a Woman." Already can't wait to hear that one!

CMT AWARD WINNERS

"And the Buckle Goes to..."

Sugarland! "Stuck Like Glue" wins Duo Video of the Year

Justin Beiber w/ Rascal Flatts! "That Should Be Me" wins Collaborative Video of the Year

Jimmy Buffet and the Zac Brown Band! "Margaritaville" wins Performance of the Year

The Band Perry! "If I Die Young" wins Breakthrough Video of the Year

Miranda Lambert! "The House That Built Me" wins Female Video of the Year

Lady Antebellum! "Hello World" wins Group Video of the Year

Blake Shelton! "Who Are You When I'm Not Looking" wins Male Video of the Year

Taylor Swift! "Mine" wins Video of the Year

2011 CMT MUSIC AWARD NOMINEES

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Jason Aldean, "My Kinda Party"
• Kenny Chesney, "The Boys Of Fall"
• Lady Antebellum, "Hello World"
• Miranda Lambert, "The House That Built Me"
• Rascal Flatts, "Why Wait"
• Sugarland, "Stuck Like Glue"
• Taylor Swift, "Mine"
• The Band Perry, "If I Die Young"
• Carrie Underwood, "Undo It"
• Zac Brown Band, "Colder Weather"

MALE VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Jason Aldean, "My Kinda Party"
• Kenny Chesney, "The Boys Of Fall"
• Toby Keith, "Bullets In The Gun"
• Blake Shelton, "Who Are You When I'm Not Looking"
• Keith Urban, "Without You"

FEMALE VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Sara Evans, "A Little Bit Stronger"
• Miranda Lambert, "The House That Built Me"
• Reba, "Turn On The Radio"
• Taylor Swift, "Mine"
• Carrie Underwood, "Undo It"

GROUP VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Lady Antebellum, "Hello World"
• Little Big Town, "Little WhiteChurch"
• Rascal Flatts, "Why Wait"
• The Band Perry, "If I Die Young"
• Zac Brown Band, "Colder Weather"

DUO VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Steel Magnolia, "Last Night Again"
• Sugarland, "Stuck Like Glue"
• The Civil Wars, "Barton Hollow"
• The JaneDear girls, "Wildflower"
• Thompson Square, "Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not"

USA WEEKEND BREAKTHROUGH VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Lee Brice, "Love Like Crazy"
• Aaron Lewis, "Country Boy"
• Jerrod Niemann, "Lover, Lover"
• The Band Perry, "If I Die Young"
• Thompson Square, "Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not"

COLLABORATIVE VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson, "Don't You Wanna Stay"
• Justin Bieber feat. Rascal Flatts, "That Should Be Me"
• Kid Rock feat. Sheryl Crow, "Collide"
• Aaron Lewis featuring George Jones and Charlie Daniels, "Country Boy"
• Loretta Lynn, Miranda Lambert and Sheryl Crow, "Coal Miner's Daughter"'

CMT PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR

• Martina McBride and Train, "A Broken Wing" from "CMT Crossroads: Train and Martina McBride"
• Reba, "If I Were A Boy" from "Unplugged: Reba"
• Darius Rucker and Adele, "Need You Now" from "2010 CMT Artists of the Year"
• Keith Urban and John Mayer, "Sweet Thing" from "CMT Crossroads: John Mayer and Keith Urban"
• Zac Brown Band and Jimmy Buffett, "Margaritaville" from "CMT Crossroads: Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band"

BEST WEB VIDEO OF THE YEAR (New for 2011; Best video created primarily for internet streaming)

• Jason Aldean, "My Kinda Party" (Live From The CMT Webcast)
• Luke Bryan, "It's A Shore Thing"
• Lady Antebellum, "Stars Tonight"
• Blake Shelton, "Kiss My Country Ass"
• Taylor Swift, "Mine" (Live from the Speak Now Album Release Party)

VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

• Deaton Flanigen (award eligible videos include Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow's "Collide" and the JaneDear girl's "Wildflower")
• Trey Fanjoy (award eligible videos include Miranda Lambert's "The House That Built Me" and Blake Shelton's "Who Are You When I'm Not Looking")
• Chris Hicky (award eligible videos include Carrie Underwood's "Undo It" and Keith Urban's "Without You")
• David McClister (award eligible videos include The Band Perry's "If I Die Young" and LeAnn Rimes' "Swingin'")
• Roman White (award eligible videos include Lady Antebellum's "Hello World" and Kellie Pickler's "Makin' Me Fall In Love Again")