Graham Rodger Interview

Graham Rodger is well known in Autralian country music circles as a song writer & Bush Balladeer. As you will see in his interview he spends a great deal of time "on the road". It is always lovely to catch up with Graham & Deidre.

Q: Where were you born and where did you grow up?
A: I was born in Gympie and grew up around south east Qld.

Q: Was there anyone in particular who played an influential part in shaping your career?

A: Slim Dusty

Q: It’s been awhile now since you first got started in the industry?

A: I started writing full time in 1991, released our first album in 1998, and have been living “on the road” taking my music around the country for the past six years.

Q: You’ve been a pretty prolific song writer, do you get much time for anything else, or do the songs just keep coming to you?

A: Writing has always been a passion with me. When I get the chance to write, I go in boots and all and concentrate solely on that one task. I need to keep in that frame of mind and I can’t do other tasks as well. Yes ideas come to me al the time and I wish I could just sit down and start to write, but these days I’m pretty busy with other things, although I’m over half way through writing a song at the moment.

Q: There’s quite a list of impressive names who have recorded your material, want to tell me about them?

A: Yes. It all started in the early 90’s with a phone call from the late Slim Dusty, asking if he could record a song I’d sent him on a tape. The song ‘You Can’t Take Australia From Me’ was recorded and released on the album ‘Ringer From The Top End’. The second artist to record my songs was bush balladeer Dean Perrett, following Dean came Tom Maxwell, Bob Easter, Jeff Brown, Brian Letton, Nathan Charlton, Brad Lee, Melissa Bajric, Charmaine Pout and Laura Downing.

Q: What year did you do your first recording?

A: 1998, The album was called ‘Steering Wheel Drovers’

Q: What was it that made you decide to go into the recording industry?

A: Although I loved writing, I yearned to be back on the stage performing. I believed in myself and my music, so I took the punt and rang Lindsay Butler who as it happened was looking for a new artist to record on hi sthen bush ballad series of cds. The rest is history as they say.

Q: You weren’t always a Bush Balladeer, what did you do for a living before you became a recording artist?

A: I was an ambulance officer in Brisbane.

Q: In total, how many cds have you recorded?

A: I have recorded seven cds and three dvds

Q: Your new album, “The Fire Within Me” has some great tracks on it. At the bottom of the interview there is room for you to comment about any or all of them if you wish

A: Thank you. I feel that this album is the closest to what I have been aiming for over the past ten years. I think all of the tracks have some special significance. “A Saddle For A Throne” has already taken out “The National Songwriting Contest Of Australia” 2008

Q: “Battle Of Long Tan” created a lot of interest, there was talk of it being used in a movie, did they end up using it in the movie?

A: Yes there is hope that the song will be included in a major film about Long Tan. Negotiations have been underway for 18 months now, with the song being presented to the film company and advisers to the movie, who happen to be several of the commanders who actually took part in the battle. We have re recorded the song with a small change in lyrics, and added some more music to make it more movie friendly. We are now in the waiting process on the final outcome.

Q: Any other tracks / albums you’d specifically like to mention?

A: The album “A Gypsy’s Life” hold special memories a sit was the first album that Deidre and I worked on together and had a fair bit of input into the final product.

Q: You also have a couple of DVD’s as well, how are they going?

A: The dvds are continuing to sell in increasing numbers. Images as well as the music seems to be the future in recording, although cd’s will always continue to be in demand

Q: Your most memorable occasion?

A: Singing “The Battle Of Long Tan” live to television at he 2007 Golden Guitar Awards

Q: Your most embarrassing moment?

A: Singing on stage at the Widgee balladeers festival when I wasn’t supposed to be up there, and the other artists whispering to me “what are you doing up here this is only for the people who sang at the first festival”. Everyone knew I’d made a mistake, but it was too late to walk off so I joined in and tried to cover my embarrassment as best I could.

Q: You have been awarded some pretty special awards & special recognitions, would you like to tell me about them.

A: Yes, I have managed to pick up thirty major awards in country music, with fifteen of them being TSA songwriter awards. Others include ‘The Gordon Parsons Memorial Award’ two TIARA Awards, The award for heritage song of the year in the Australian Independent Country Awards at Mildura.

Q: You are “on the road” a lot, and Deidre seems to play a role in that?

A: Yes to both parts of the question. We spend most of the year on the road, and in fact spent only four and a half weeks home during the whole of 2007. Deidre is with me most times and keeps me on the straight and narrow so to speak. I myself would like to spend more time at home, Deidre handles life on the road better than I do

Q: You are pretty busy traveling this big country of ours, no chance of you retiring from “life on the road” any time soon?

A: Not as yet. We have to keep on traveling this big country of ours, no chance of retiring from “life on the road” any time soon.

Q: Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t already mentioned?

A: We work hard at what we do, but so do a lot of other cm artists. Our aim is to keep on furthering my career in every way possible. We have won just about every award except the golden guitar, although we’ve been in the finals five times. Our aim is to win the gold, it will  give us a great boost career wise, and help us to hopefully go on to even greater things.

The Fire Within Me

1) A Saddle For A Throne - The opening track was modeled around Deidre’s father. He was a bushman of the old school, and fitted the subject of the song perfectly. Deidre also helped with her input and the end product.
2) Manabadgerrie Run
3) Carra Barra Wirra Canna - Carra Barra Wirra Canna is a beautiful duet with the lovely Jeantte Wormald
4) Diamantina - is the story of a man’s love for the famous outback river.
5) Pack Saddle Drover
6) The Land Of Ringer Trumby
7) Rough Country Ringer
8) Water From The Devil
9) She’s My Rig
10) The Kin Kin Hotel - tells the story of the legendary tough Grady family, who lived near the small town outside of Gympie when I was very young
11) Give This Hug To Daddy - is based on a true event that happened recently in Melbourne Airport, when a young girl ran up to a group of soldiers waiting to board a plane to Afghanistan as well
12) The Battle Of Coral - written and recorded especially for the Vietnam Vets. This famous battle took place in Vietnam in 1968, two years after Long Tan, and was a significant victory for Australia. I was privileged to have performed the song at the 40th reunion in Townsville recently, with a large number of the audience being the men who actually fought in the battle.
13) You Can’t Take Australia From Me

This is the back ground to some of the tracks but they all hold meaning

Available from:
http://www.grahamrodger.com.au
http://www.joysmusicworld.com/Artists/GrahamRodger.html

2YYY Is Under Threat

Our local community radio station, FM 92.3 2YYY is under threat.

Another organisation, the Young District Arts Council, has applied for a radio license and as there is only one frequency available in this area, ACMA has proposed that they share with 2YYY. The proposal is for 2YYY to operate from July 2008 to 3rd January 2009 and the YDAC will operate from 4th January 2009 to 3rd July 2009. If this was to eventuate it would mean 2YYY would have to close as ít is not financially viable.

The Young District Arts Council has also started their own theatre company which opposes the The Young Theatre Company that has been running for many years.

What is 2YYY doing about this?

Contact has been made to many high profile politicians, etc and there has been fantastic support from the local community of Young and district.

There is also a petition where at least 5,000 signatures are required before it will have any affect. There are petitions at the Wallendbeen Hotel, Supa Sub Store in Cootamundra, Grenfell, Harden, and in Young at 2YYY studios. (63827200)

2YYY has been operating for over 4 years and has promoted Australian country music since its inception. What would be great if the Australian country music industry could support them. We all know how hard it is to get support in Australia. The Arts Council will not support country music and we will lose an outlet which is invaluable. So if anyone could help in anyway, write a letter of support, sign a petition, anything it would be much appreciated.

This support is urgent as 2YYY has 'til 27 June 2008 to reply.

Contact can be made to Wayne Nolan, President, 2YYY Board of Management on 63827200 or PO Box 1438, Young 2594. or check out their website www.freewebs.com/cherrycapitalmusicsport

thank you
Kerry

Bush Poets & Balladeers Show
For Hats Off At Tamworth.

Sam Smyth's Bush Poets & Balladeers will again feature at the Tamworth City Bowling Club during the Hats Off festival July 5th & 6th.

Two shows only, Sat 5th and Sun 6th from 9am to 12n and will feature Sam Smyth, Bill Kearns, Maggi Daley, John Lloyd, Emily Breckell-Smyth and guests.
Featured Balladeer will be Ken "Chainsaw" Lindsay.

This is a variety show of Bush Poets and Country singers portraying a light-hearted look at Australia, it's people and our unique lifestyle. Loaded with Aussie Bush Humour, sometimes cheeky but never crude great family entertainment so don't miss it.

Bookings at Tourism Tamworth
Sam Smyth

Ann Pascoe Newsletter

Greetings to you, nearly half the year gone already! Goodness me, where does the time go. I trust you are all keeping warm; it is a bit of a shock to the system after the nice warm summer.

Local Entertaining

Another busy time for Ann with more requests for her appearance at local places, as well as running her TLC Radio station, doing her websites (And for others).

With Dennis Marsh being invited to a local Resthome one Saturday, he invited Ann to come along, which led to another invite for Ann to entertain at this home in future.

Another busy time for Ann with more requests for her appearance at local places, as well as running her TLC Radio station, doing her websites (And for others).

With Dennis Marsh being invited to a local Resthome one Saturday, he invited Ann to come along, which led to another invite for Ann to entertain at this home in future.

Norfolk Island

In the past Ann has received emails from quite a few people and artists, both in New Zealand and overseas, who have expressed a desire to meet with her and get to know 'The Ann Pascoe' that they have been in touch with via email and sending albums for TLC Radio that Ann does all the editing for.

So only a few days back from the Bay of Islands Festival with OLDOGS it was time to pack again, to join the Dennis Marsh Tour to Norfolk Island to listen to a week of country music, including the Trans-Tasman Awards where the best of Australia and the best of New Zealand sing off.

NZ Winner !

The New Zealand girls did very well again, with Annette Hawkins from Whangarei taking out the award, and the other NZers also being placed as well.

Meeting The Stars

Organised around the awards night were concerts including some top line artists, and it was good to meet up with Marian Burns in person, The Darlings (Jackie Clarke, Callie Blood and Wayne Bell), Kylie Austin and Jenny Blackadder, Steve Passfield from Australia, and Camille and Stuie French. And travel home sitting beside Annette, and Kim Copedo.

The Galley Slaves from Auckland were the backing band for the festival, and it was good to catch up with Mike McCarthy, Rob Galley, and Chet O'Connell, too.

Radio & DJ's

Being interviewed by the local radio station and having music played was another plus, and meeting Australian DJ Merilyn Henderson from Kangaroo Island was nice for Ann, too after knowing Merilyn by email contact.

Bouquets To Dennis!

But travelling with Dennis (who is so well known in Norfolk Island after all his years of taking tours there) had extra benefits for Ann. Due to Dennis's generous nature, he included Ann whenever he was asked to sing - at the local RSL Club (RSA in NZ) and singing up the one main street. Dennis is the only artist to do this, and he and Ann sold albums, putting their music in front of people this way.

Laid Back Norfolk Island

Ann said it was so novel to see borrowed sound gear, used for the street singing being delivered on the street, set and used, then when it was time to go, just packing it all up tidily and leaving it on the street to be picked up "later". Such is the honesty and friendliness of the people of Norfolk Island.

Ann says Norfolk is a beautiful island, with lots of historic interest and she thanks Mike and Sonia Crossley for their company when they all went exploring the island.

New Projects

The Best of Ann Pascoe is with Jayrem Records, and we're looking forward to that being released in the near future. That's a 12 track album with some of Ann's songs from past albums, and the addition of two new songs, as well.

And after being asked by so many people for her to do a covers album, Ann has taken that on board and is working on a new 13 track album, of well known songs. At this stage the album is called "Country Sunshine" after the Dottie West song, but knowing women and their change of mind, Ann may change that yet!!

Hillcrest Release

The track "San Antonio Stroll", from Ann's latest album, "Somewhere Between Memories and Dreams" has been released with Hillcrest in Canada.

And the feed back from DJs around the world has been positive, with DJs asking for albums for their shows. Ann says it's great to be back on Hillcrest again. She shares the Kiwi honours with Sheryl Higgs from the South Island, with her great debut on Hillcrest.

New Place On The Web

Terikia Jazhara, in the United States is smitten with Ann Pascoe's talent and has taken on promoting her over there in many different forms. She has started up a place on Ustream that people can sign up and go into and promotes artists this way. It is in the form of instant messaging. Here Ann's songs can be heard and you can discuss music with Terikia and various DJs and people who are in there. Quite fun. http://www.ustream.tv/terikiajazhara

Next stop - Hokianga Festival - September 2008~!

If you think you'd like to have Ann sing at your club or on your show, let Ann know annpascoe@clear.net.nz or contact me, bdyer@clear.net.nz and we'll see what we can arrange.www.annpascoe.com

PS. Ann has another email address annpascoe@orcon.net.nz and will dispense with the @xtra address soon - but keeping the annpascoe@clear.net.nz

www.nzcountryscene.notlong.com
http://cdbaby.com/cd/pascoe2
www.soundclick.com/annpascoe
http://honkytonkinmusic.bizland.com/store/pascoe_ann_all.html

Bob Dyer bdyer@clear.net.nz

News From Peter (Dusty) Field

Hi Joy. Just a line to let you know that I'll be going into the studio on Thursday, and I'll keep you informed as to how things are going.

Cheers
Dusty

Third Single From John O’Dea Simply Child’s Play

A little boy’s love of Tonka toys and piles of dirt forms the basis for the third single to be lifted from John O’Dea’s Old Rusty Ute album.

A follow-up to the title track and to the beautifully descriptive Parachilna Sunset, which both charted well, Old Man In Little Boy’s Shoes will tug at your heartstrings – and perhaps even your shoe laces – as you are enveloped in John O’Dea’s cleverly crafted composition.

He’s always wand’rin’ round the place with his Akubra hat shoes draggin’ a lace
Swears a bit, where did he hear that, around the sheep the dog wouldn’t come back
He knows what words to use, this old man in little boy’s shoes …

Inspired by his nephews at play, this observer of life has put into words what most parents of sons feel as they watch their boys grow into manhood, wanting to be “just like dad”.

“Whenever I play Old Man In Little Boy’s Shoes live, I always get a great reaction from people, no matter who or where they are,” John said. “I think most people connect strongly with the innocence of children at play.”

The news has all been good of late for John O’Dea, and he has much to look forward to in coming months. Young balladeer Matt Manning has included The Saddle, one of John’s new songs, on his new album, Borderline, and it’s being lauded as one of the standout tracks on the disc.

“I’m really astounded that John has never had a cut on a record before,” Matt said. “He’s a great songwriter and everyone is raving about The Saddle. He sure has a way with words.”

A collaborative songwriting effort with 2008 Toyota Star Maker Talia Wittman means John will now have his second cut on someone else’s recording, although John said he only helped tweak a few lines here and there on Talia’s song, Take Me Away, which is due for August release on her Star Maker album.

In between giving guitar lessons, mentoring young artists and performing in and around his home turf in South Australia, John also ventures interstate with Dave Prior on short tours. He will be in Tamworth for the Hats Off to Country Festival and upon his return will feature in a documentary for Irish television on the Australian outback.

www.johnodea.com.au www.myspace.com/johnodea
For further information or to arrange an interview with John O’Dea, please phone 0429 184 159

Anna Rose Media Solutions, for and on behalf of John O’Dea

Big Stars for Big Party

Friday 13th June 2008: Announced today is the entertainment schedule for the 2008 Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo reflecting the history, present and future – a perfect tie in with the 50th Isa Rodeo Celebrations.

Mental as Anything, Adam Brand, Kirsty Lee Akers, Dianna Corcoran, Amber Lawrence and Aleyce Simmonds make up some of the big names confirmed to perform at the Isa Rodeo in August this year.

Ensuring that there is as much entertainment in and out of the rodeo arena, the Rodeo organisers have secured these acts to cater to all interests and deliver a line-up reflective of the 50th Isa Rodeo celebrations. Completing the entertainment on offer is the inclusion of local artist Tommy Maxwell who will kick off the first show of the event.

Mental as Anything are Aussie rockers famous for hits ‘The Nips are Getting Bigger’, ‘Live it Up’, ‘Mr Natural’ and ‘Too Many Times’ just to name a few. Like the Isa Rodeo, they have successfully survived and exceeded for many years and have become legends within the music industry.

Mental as Anything band member, Greedy Smith said, “We're excited about playing at the Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo. We've even got a song about it on our upcoming album TENTS UP called "Bucking Hard". We've been to the Isa quite a few times over the past 30 years but it’s been a long time between drinks. We've always found a happening crowd up there and I hope the cows are still kind.”

Country superstar Adam Brand is by far one of the hottest acts around – his sell out shows nationally, chart topping hits and string of Golden Guitar and CMC Awards cements his place as a major drawcard entertainer. “Since I started out 10 years ago it's always been my ambition to perform at the Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo.... an iconic event that I'm absolutely excited and proud to be a part of. You'll see me all weekend taking in all the sights & sounds from watching the events. Look out Mount Isa here I come!” said Adam when asked about the event.

Making their mark and garnering attention is Chic Frontier, an all girl group made up of Amber Lawrence (2008 Golden Guitar Best New Talent and Best Female Nominee), Aleyce Simmonds, Dianna Corcoran (2008 Golden Guitar Best Female Winner) and Kirsty Lee Akers (2008 Golden Guitar Best New Talent Winner, 2007 Toyota Star Maker). These ladies of country having been wowing audiences across Australia and it is predicted their stars are set to rise. In between shows, Aleyce Simmonds said, “It’s going to be HUGE!!! We’re looking forward to showcasing our individual styles and also singing some great hits that the crowd will be familiar with”.

The Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo management team are proud to announce the schedule of entertainment for the 2008 Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo is as follows:

Saturday 26 July

• 7pm XXXX Rodeo Ball (Xstrata Entertainment Centre)

Tuesday 5 August

• 6.30pm: Arilla Paper Twilight Markets

Wednesday 6 August

• 6.30am: Zonta Poets Breakfast (The Buffs Club)
• 7.30pm: The Bull Pit “Man Against Beast” (Kalkadoon Arena)

Thursday 7 August

• TBA: CreateitMakeitLiveit.com.au Cowboy & Cowgirls Golf Day (Mount Isa Golf Club)
• 10am: Mount Isa Chamber of Commerce Best Dressed
• Premises Presentation (Venue TBA)
• 7pm: Mailman Express (Buchanan Park Race Club)

Friday 8 August

• 9am: Rodeo & Time Events (Kalkadoon Arena)
• 7pm: Mardi Gras Street Parade (George & Sutton St)
• 7.30pm: Fireworks - time subject to change (George & Sutton St)
• 8pm: The Bull Pit “Man Against Beast” (Kalkadoon Arena)
• 8pm: Tommy Maxwell (Xstrata Entertainment Centre)
• 9pm: Dianna Corcoran & Kirsty Lee Akers (Xstrata Entertainment Centre)
• 10pm: Mental as Anything (Behind Kalkadoon Arena)

Saturday 9 August

• 9am: Rodeo & Time Events (Kalkadoon Arena)
• All day: Bell & Moir Ute Muster (Xstrata Entertainment Centre)
• 10pm: Amber Lawrence & Aleyce Simmonds (Behind Kalkadoon Arena)
• 11pm: Adam Brand (Behind Kalkadoon Arena)

Sunday 10 August

• 8am: Buffs Recovery Breakfast (The Buffs Club)
• 9am: Rodeo & Time Events (Kalkadoon Arena)
• 7pm: Cowboys & Cowgirls Night (Kalkadoon Arena)
• 6.30pm: Chic Frontier (Behind Kalkadoon Arena)

In addition to the above, the glamorous XXXX Angels will return in 2008 and will be provide entertainment at intervals across the 3-day rodeo carnival.

The largest rodeo event in the Southern Hemisphere, the 2008 Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo will be held from Friday 8th to Sunday 10th August 2008. With this year bring the milestone 50th Rodeo coupled with a record bounty on offer to competitors, the event is preparing for what will be its biggest year ever.

For further information about the 2008 Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo please contact the Media Unit at RODEO HQ on 07 47432706. Interviews with artists available in July 2008 – please contact Rodeo HQ to register your interest

David Woodward

Bonus For Tamworth Festival-Goers In 2009

Country music fans can look forward to more music, fun and celebrations next year at the Tamworth Country Music Festival following the decision extended the internally-acclaimed event one day.

It will be the first time in the 37 years of the event that it has run for 11 days. What began as a three-day event has grown to be one of the largest festivals of its kind in the world with its annual celebration of Australian country music.

The 2009 Tamworth Country Music Festival presented by Telstra will be held from January 16-26 and is expected to bring together more than 50,000 music lovers to see more than 800 artists at more than 2200 shows, concerts or events at about 80 venues.

Tamworth Regional Council Mayor, James Treloar said, the festival has been extended for 2009 to include the Australia Day public holiday on January 26. "Traditionally the festival winds up on the Sunday, with Tamworth rivalling Sydney as the number one place to be on Australia Day, our best option was to extend the Festival by one day," he said. "Australia Day is historically one of the busiest days of the festival calendar with the Tamworth Regional Council Australia Day Concert one of the major crowd pleasers of the entire event's program."

Tourism Tamworth General Manager, Rebel Thomson said: "Australia Day is just one of the elements that make the Tamworth Country Music Festival presented by Telstra so special, from research conducted this year during the Festival, we know Australia Day in Tamworth is seen as a real celebration" she said.

The research conducted by the University of Queensland asked specific questions about the "feeling" that the Festival evokes in visitors. More than 50 per cent of visitors to the 2008 Festival said the event makes them "feel pride in being Australian".  The Tamworth Country Music Festival presented by Telstra continues to maintain its mantel of being one of Australia's icon events.

Australia Day 2009 is shaping up to be one of the biggest days of entertainment seen in the region. Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre will be the focus of a full schedule of Australia Day celebrations including a citizenship ceremony and awards presentation. The annual Australia Day Concert will combine with the traditional Festival finale - The Last Roundup Concert - in a spectacular show to be staged at the centre. Tamworth Regional Council has confirmed that negotiations are underway to secure a major artist to headline the concert.

For information about the 2009 Festival contact Tourism Tamworth on 02 6767 5300 or visit the official festival website www.tcmf.com.au

Leanie Renton

New Album Out Now
"Keep Safe on the Track"

G'day All

Just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you about my upcoming adventures!

I have a brand new single from my debut album "Keep Safe on the Track" which has been released to radio through Red Rebel Music. "The Good Tones" is a fun, up-tempo duet with the "Singing Truckie", Travis Sinclair.  I'm really excited because it's already getting lots of airplay around Australia.  If you haven't received a copy or if  you'd like to have a yack on air about it sometime, email me lee@leeforster.com.au or get in touch with Kaz 0418 614 359 or karen@redrebelmusic.com

I also have a major Australian Tour about to kick off soon ... it's 11 weeks, covers 5 States, ravelling about 22,000ks ... we're playing at rodeos, BNS  Balls, musters, agricultural shows, pubs, Indigenous communities, clubs, mine sites  ... anywhere you can think of ... we're playing it!! The tour is to celebrate the release of my ?Stuie French? produced debut album "Keep Safe on the Track" which I am really proud of.

I'm taking my band and Australia's best whip cracker on the road with me so it will be a lot of fun! The tour starts in Ballarat, Victoria and then moves into South Australia. The tour will proceed into the Northern Territory and play Ayers Rock, Alice Springs, Katherine and gig the way up the centre into Kakadu and Darwin. Then we're heading west into the Kimberley region, across to the West Coast and into the Pilbara.

Then it's off to Perth and the Goldfields region, including Kalgoorlie. The final leg of the tour entails travelling across the Nullabor to the renowned Mildura Independent Country Music Festival.

During this busy tour schedule, "Team 4Star" will be flying from Western Australia to QLD to
perform at the Gympie Muster for the first time. After our 11 week tour, we're off to Broken Hill for
their wonderful Country Music Festival and also the huge Mud Bulls and Music Festival in QLD. So, as you can see the next 8 months is a very exciting and busy time for me!

It's been said that the Average Australian Travels 15,000ks per year but in the past 14 months we've already travelled over 123,000ks playing country music all over this beautiful country of ours. Hey, I wouldn't have it any other way!

So, look out for "Team 4Star" near you soon ... and make sure you come and say G'day! We have lots of new merchandise from www.allthingscountry.com.au including, polo shirts, bluey and pinky singlets, stubby coolers and keyrings.

Thanks for all your great support ... without people like you I couldnt do what I love – so again, thank you!

Keep Safe on The Track,
Lee

www.leeforster.com.au
www.myspace.com/leeforster1

Kel-Anne Brandt

Have you ever had the feeling life is meant to teach you something?

At 4ft’11 and positively packed full of energy, ‘Pocket Rocket’ entertainer Kel-Anne Brandt has certainly experienced just that.
Kel –Anne puts a positive spin on the bad times with a breezy, contemporary country song called, ‘Sometimes You Win When You Lose’, from her forthcoming new album, ‘I’m A Big Girl Now’.
‘Life is one big lesson, and I have learnt things are never as bad as they

seem. Sometimes the most difficult things in life are the most important lessons to learn’ says Kel-Anne.
True to her conviction Kel-Anne delivers ‘Sometimes You Win When You Lose’ with the confidence and power of someone who knows the feeling.
The album is due for release later this month for the lead up to The Mildura Country Music Festival. In the meantime listen out for the single, ‘Sometimes You Win When You Lose’ on country music radio.
Kel-Anne Brandt is a ‘Little Dynamo’ that will have you feeling good, and in no time wanting to hear more.

or visit www.kel-annebrandt.com

Announcing Melinda Schneider's New Single
‘Be Yourself’

Be yourself, because everyone else is taken.- Oscar Wilde

Multi award-winning and five-time Golden Guitar recipient country music sensation Melinda Schneider releases Be Yourself, the first single and title track from her fifth studio album.

"Be Yourself I wrote back in November 2006, not long after my last album, Stronger came out," says Melinda. It was finished in Nashville with her long-term writing partner, Eric Clapton/ Peter Frampton collaborator, Gordon Kennedy.

"I always felt that that song would be the basis of the whole album," she says. "It's in keeping with my journey, the growth and change that's been happening in my life. It rang very true to me."

The truth is, a singer can’t possibly fake it when she's writing and performing with some of the most experienced hands in America's country music capital. BE YOURSELF was conceived and recorded in Nashville with her hand-picked team which includes veteran country-rock producer Michael Clute (Diamond Rio, Faith Hill, Alabama) and released on her own label, Be Music, distributed through Destra.

"This album feels like I'm taking control of my life for the first time," Melinda says. "I've co-written all the songs, chosen them myself, funded it myself. It was my vision completely."

The emotionally charged video also continues that vision of self awareness and respect and features a guest appearance by Tammy MacIntosh (All Saints).

Be Yourself comes on the heels of Melinda's nomination for Song of the Year with her song Sometimes It Takes Balls To Be A Woman at the Americana Music Awards in Nashville, alongside Lucinda Williams and Patti Griffin. She also has a duet of her song, Courageous, featured on Olivia Newton John's album, “Songs Of Hope And Inspiration." Her own version of ‘Courageous’ and a heartbreaking duet with Paul Kelly on the track ‘Still Here’ appears on Be Yourself the album which is due for release on July 5th.

Album ‘Be Yourself’ in store July 5 on Be Music through DestraMusic
Single ‘Be Yourself’ to video w/c 2nd June and radio w/c 9th June. Available on Music Point
www.myspace.com/melindaschneidermusic www.destra.com

Management: Nicole Hart & Tom Sioris, Revolutions Per Minute – 02 9904 4212
Publicity: Anouk Van Meeuwen, AVM Publicity – 0411 724 598
Bookings: Alex Sinclair, Artist Network Australia - 02 9819 641

PO Box 3302
Putney
NSW, 2112
Australia

Heartache Leads Only To Happiness For
Danny Hooper

Heartache I’ve something to tell you, you can’t live here anymore. I need my life back, I’m headin’ down the right track, so heartache, I’ll show you the door …

With these empowering words, South Australian singer-songwriter Danny Hooper captures your attention and reels you in to listen to his new single, Heartache, the third to come from his highly successful debut album, The Legacy.

That album has already produced two top 40 hits – Every Reason and Already Gone. Now with Heartache you can’t help but be captivated by the catchy banjo riff that starts off the song about that age-old condition that affects all of us at one stage or another.

Before you know it you’ll be tapping your feet as you become enchanted by the rhythm of this infectious new song to hit the Australian radio airwaves.

Things couldn’t be going better for Danny, with the release of his third single and the anticipation of taking his music to two of the biggest country music festivals in Australia – Mildura and the Gympie Muster.

“This has been a huge year for me following a great start at the Tamworth Festival in January,” Danny said. “I’ve had a really positive reaction to the album from so many areas and now I have the chance to expand my reach even further, with shows at Gympie and Mildura – to two totally different audiences. I almost want to pinch myself when I realise I’m actually now doing what I was always destined to do.”

Danny was just 10 years old when his father, Kingsley Hooper, passed down a musical baton in the form of his old Maton guitar. That gift was recognised for posterity when Danny put into words and music The Legacy – the title track of his album.

“So many times people don’t get the chance to say thank you and I love you to the people who mean the most,” Danny said. “I’m very fortunate in that I have been given that chance to pay tribute to my dad while he’s still around. You just never know how long you will be blessed to have your father.”

For the past 13 years Danny has been a professional musician, in conjunction with the role of house dad to his and Lea’s three children – Jace, Courteney and Tom.

“I’ve always believed you have to get out there and have a go at life if you want to make things happen,” Danny said. “My motto has always been to ‘have a crack because you just never know until you have a go. That’s just what I’m doing with this album – getting out there and paddling for all it’s worth.”

www.dannyhooper.com.au www.myspace.com/dannyhooper
If you would like to arrange an interview with Danny, please phone 0417 085 221

Anna Rose Media Solutions for and on behalf of Danny Hooper

The Calhoun Twins

Jack & Jerry (real twins) were born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, their family later moved to Kissimmee, Florida.

The Calhouns started their brother singing act at the age of eleven and have been singing ever since.

In addition to many personal appearances which include frequent guest

spots on the famous Grand Ole Opry. It wouldn't be surprising any day of the week to find the Calhouns in Europe, South America, the Virgin Islands or wherever music takes them.

Shot Jackson found them and brought them to Music City, USA. The late Shot Jackson and Pete Drake produced their first release which did extreamly well entitled "Going To The Dogs". "Starting New Memories" may well be the best CD of the year.

Curtis Andrews of Ready Records

John Stephan; Tagged 'The Voice From Down Under!

On the 8th June 2008 John Stephan performed to 48 000 country music loving fans from all over the world.

The event held at the LP Field/Coliseum Nashville TN during the highly respected CMA Festival, brought in artists of only the highest Calibre. These artists included Faith Hill, Kenny Rogers, Keith Urban, Allan Jackson, Carrie Underwood, Sarah Evans, Rascal Flatts, Jewel and Australia's very own John Stephan, now known to the USA as "The Voice From Down Under."

The adoring crowd could not get enough of John as he performed his set. Whilst performing his hit single Crying a cappella, the crowd responded with a thunderous applause many times over throughout the song. The producer of the event, Tony Conway said. "the crowds reaction to John Stephan's performance is highly unusual considering John is virtually unknown to the US market. John Stephan has one of the most amazing voices I've ever heard.  I can't wait to get him on the road..."

John also performed with Vince Gill at the prestigious "Vinnie" a pro gulf event held annually by Vince Gill and Amy Grant. He once again brought the house to it's feet and received a standing ovation.

Performing at the famous and legendary Blue Bird Cafe showcased John's highly acclaimed writing skills to a packed house. John has and will continue to work with some of the world’s greatest songwriters including Wayland Holyfield (Could I Have This Dance), and Don Schlitz The Gambler, The Greatest).

Dann Huff, one of the most successful and sought after producers in the USA has taken a huge interest in John Stephan and is currently recording with John for his upcoming album.

Dann Huff said "I took one listen to this guy and decided I wanted to do everything in my power to help catapult John Stephan to the top!"

John will be relocating to the USA later this year. In the mean time he will return to Australia later this month to prepare for his National Australian Tour kicking off in early August.

"Becoming a star is difficult, but I've listened to John Stephan's CD and find his voice to be remarkable.  Not only that, but I've met John. I feel that he has in his make-up all the ingredients to become a star. He has composure, charisma, and likeability, plus Hollywood handsome good looks." Ralph Emery (Hall Of Fame, Revered TV/Radio personality, Country Music Legend)

Contact Info
Crystal or Carmen
JCS Media
Ph: 02 8003 3502
Email: info@jcsmedia.net
Web: www.johnstephan.com

Interview With Derek Sivers Of www.CDBABY.com

Land of the Free
CD Baby’s Derek Sivers lets us in on a little secret… CD sales by indie artists are still growing.
By Andre Calilhanna | January 2008

“CD Baby is a little online record store that sells albums by independent musicians.” At least that’s how the CD Baby website describes it. Founded by Derek Sivers in 1997, the “little online record store” currently has over 200,000 artists selling music through the site, has sold nearly four million albums, and has paid close to $65 million directly to independent artists. The company began as a hobby for Sivers, who was a full-time musician at the time. Soon, he was selling CDs of friends and fellow musicians, and before long, CD Baby blossomed into a full-fledged online enterprise.

Today, Sivers is regarded as an icon in the indie music community, and in 2003, he was awarded the World Technology Award for Entertainment (the same was awarded to Napster founder Shawn Fanning in 2001). In 2004, CD Baby added digital download sales to its growing list of online offerings, and Sivers has long been a regular fixture on the music conference/speaker circuit. FastForward caught up with Derek to get his take on the state on independent music as we head into the new year.

How have you stayed relevant? As more and more players enter the online marketplace, how have you maintained your status as the #1 independent CD retailer?
Are we #1? Really? Cool! WHOO-HOO! We're #1!!

No really, we just stay focused on selling music. That's all. No advertising. No investors. No distractions. And we've been around for 10 years now, and have paid over $50 million directly to musicians. We're getting good at this.

What do you see as the most interesting developments in music over the last six to 12 months? Particularly as they relate to independent music.
The more things change, the more they stay the same, y'know?

Companies everywhere are experimenting with "what's the new model of the music industry?" But of course, musicians making great music with an interesting angle are still getting attention, and people are still buying more music than ever, but through lots of different sources now, which works in the independent musician's favor.

It's dizzying to think you have to stay on top of all of it, but honestly I don't think you do. Just focus on your music, make as much music as you can, and let the less-creative mouse-clickers of the world stay on top of the new companies launching every week.

What about in the music industry? What strikes you as most interesting or most telling about what's happening in the industry these days?
Working at a label is the most insecure job on earth right now. Being signed to a label is the next-most-insecure thing. Being a completely independent musician has more job security than either of them.

With the ascendance of digital downloads, are CDs still relevant for indie artists?
Despite what you hear in big media about CD sales dropping for big artists like Beyoncé and Eminem, CD sales down here on the indie level are actually UP 35% over last year!

Yes, even physical CDs. (Downloads are up, too.) So next time you hear someone moaning about how "nobody's buying CDs anymore," remind them that's just the big-media-star artists. The displaced sales are spreading out to the indies, who are doing better than ever.

Disc Makers clients are smart to keep manufacturing CDs! Especially at live performances, if people love your music, a great CD is still the most convenient way to go. Then if they want it on their iPod as well, they can just stick it in their computer and transfer it, but having the CD gives them that choice to play your music everywhere.

It's a shame when someone says, "Oh we're not going to make CDs anymore. It's too expensive." But by saying that, they've just excluded 90% of their potential audience who is not the always-online broadband iTunes-purchasing iPod types.

What tips do you have for someone signing up for CD Baby for the first time?
Words matter. Read my articles at http://www.cdbaby.net/words. It's important to describe your music in an enticing way that makes strangers want to hear it. People see the words before they hear the music.

Other than that, make sure to go proudly announce your CD is for sale, as soon as it's up! Most musicians get too shy to ask people to buy.

Catering exclusively to artists who are basically unknown, who have no marketing or publicity budget, trying to reach buyers in a marketplace teeming with options... it just doesn't sound like a recipe for success. Were you thinking these thoughts as CD Baby was getting off the ground?
Nah. I never meant to start a company. It was never about CD Baby. I don't care about CD Baby. I care about my fellow musicians, and always will do whatever I can to help them, whether it's profitable or not.

And now? What's the breadth of CD Baby? How do HostBaby and PromoBaby fit in?
Same thing: just doing whatever I can to help. A lot of my musician clients had out-of-date websites, so as I was helping them with that, and it accidentally became HostBaby. Now I've noticed that most of my musician clients need help promoting, so I've set up PromoBaby to try to help them with that.

What has surprised you most about the success of CD Baby?
This was supposed to be a hobby! The whole thing is a surprise!

Can you give us any insight as to new/future developments happening at CD Baby?
More international. By the time you read this, the CD Baby site will be in 9 languages, and we're going to be setting up offices in a few countries around the world. This will help Disc Makers clients get their music out to more places, easier. Already 30% of our orders go overseas, but this should definitely double it.

What do you find most disappointing, or most encouraging about the independent music scene?
What's encouraging is that musicians are in a better place than ever. Think back only 10 years ago where if you had recorded an album, there was nowhere to sell it but your shows! Unless you were going to have a "send a check or money order to..." instructions on your mailing list flyers.

Now dozens of companies around the world want to sell your music, no matter who you are, no questions asked, no judgment passed. Independent artists on a level playing field with the majors at Apple iTunes, Amazon, and many other outlets. It's amazing!

The only disappointing thing is the moaning: the artists who try to blame anyone but themselves for their lack of success, and don't realize the incredible power they have at their fingers. Their creativity is their greatest strength, and creativity doesn't cost a thing.

Lonnie Ratliff

New Shows On TwangTown USA

Well Hi there
Our new shows on TwangTown USA have just come up and I'd love for you to join me in some good music.
Hour # 3 is "Sunday Down South with Don Powell" you'll hear some great gospel music and then hour #11 is "the Don Powell show" and we have a lot of new country music for you.
Please join us anytime 24 / 7 for our shows.
You can just log in  www.twangtownusa.com , then click on the hour you want to listen to.
Please join us.
Thank you
Don Powell

Max Merritt To Fly Home

Rock legend Max Merritt will return to Australia on Saturday 28 June for a brief visit enabling him to be in Melbourne to be inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame on Tuesday 1 July.

In April 2007 Max discovered he was suffering from the rare autoimmune disorder called Goodpastures Syndrome and has been left with total kidney failure.

Max was given the all clear confirming that he was medically stable to travel. Max’s long time friend and Manager, Wal Bishop, said “The ARIA people jumped at the chance to have Max here and booked business class tickets to get him home for the award in total comfort”.

Max fell on hard times after he fell ill and the Australian entertainment industry rallied to stage a fundraising concert at the Palais Theatre on 21 October 2007 that raised over $200,000.00 to sustain him. “His spirits are sky high at the moment and he has been building up his strength every day” Bishop said “Being here will also give him a chance to thank all those people that donated their time, talent, services and money for him”

A function is being arranged so Max can thank everybody involved in the concert. “The 3DVD Concert For Max set will be released by destraMusic and be in the shops June 21 but we will hold off having an official launch until after the ARIA induction” Bishop added. "My best guess is we will head down to the Palais Theatre for an industry gathering on 2 July because Max wants to thank everybody in person"

While in Australia Max Merritt will be available for interviews.

If you have any further questions or would like to arrange an interview please contact:

Domenica La Macchia
Email: Domenica.LaMacchia@destra.com
Phone: 02 9433 4840
Cell: 0401 520 219

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