May Birthdays

Country Round-up

Mornington Peninsula country icon, Johnny Chester, has to be one of the industry’s greatest survivors. Chester successfully made the transition from rock and roll to country music.

Johnny has his first hit with his group the Thunderbirds with a catchy song Hokey Pokey in 1961. By 1963 Johnny was a TV personality as compere of country pop show Teen Time on Ten.

Johnny also supported many overseas acts including Connie Francis, Bobby Rydell, Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison and the Beatles.

The multi-skilled Chester also worked as a radio DJ. By 1971 Chester had signed with Fable Records with a new backing band Jigsawandanew single Gwen (Congratulations).

A flood of hit singles followed including Shame and Scandal (1972), Midnight Bus (72), World’s Greatest Mum(73) and I Love You So Rebecca (1980) with Hotspur.

I chatted with Johnny this week about his new album and the new album in the pipeline. “I have made this album Memoriesthat Linger, a bunch of songs that have lasting memories for me and hopefully all my fans.

“There is one song Scarlett Ribbons that I’d not released before and of course a newer version of TheWorld’s Greatest Mum that I recorded in Nashville,” Johnny said.

Johnny has an unfinished, untitled CD that will become his next project. Highlights from Memories that Linger include  Maggie, Cool Water, I Love You So Rebecca, Among MySouvenirs, Jessica, The orld’sGreatest Mum, Smoky and more.

We have some autographed copies of Johnny Chester’s new album “Memories That Linger” to give away.

Send your name and address to Johnny Chester CD, PO Box 1, Mt Eliza, Mornington Peninsula, 3930.

For more information, visit www.johnnychester.com

Gary Turner

Country Superstar Tim McGraw The Hottest Ticket In Town

Tim McGraw sold out the first concert of his Australian Southern Voice Tour at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Thursday September 16 in just 15 minutes when it went on sale on Monday.

A second Brisbane concert, for Friday September 17, was opened for sale and Gold tickets sold out.  Side and rear tickets in that category

were opened and only the rear is still available in blocks of two or more seats together.

Tickets to all four of McGraw’s east coast concerts, including the CMC Rocks North Queensland multi-lineup blockbuster, sold at a rapid-fire pace and put country music front and centre this week.

Reserved seated tickets for McGraw’s North Queensland concert at Townsville’s Reid Park on Saturday September 25 are almost sold-out, proving it an astute call by promoters last Friday to add more.  General Admission standing tickets remain available.

Silver priced and newly-released Gold side and rear tickets are available for his concerts in Melbourne and Sydney at the Rod Laver Arena on Sunday 19 and Acer Arena on Tuesday 21 September. 

Front of stage Gold priced tickets sold-out in 15 minutes in Sydney and by the end of the day in Melbourne. 

“You never know for sure until you go on sale,” said promoter Rob Potts, “but we’ve been quietly confident of this result from the start.

“Ever since we announced Tim’s first tour of Australia the response has been simply staggering.”

Tim McGraw was the most-played artist on US radio for the first decade of the 21st Century and his song Something Like That was the number 1 played song.

Emma Smith

Passing Of Shirley Ware

Hi Joy

I    am    writing    to   you   with   the    sad    news    that  I   lost   mum   on    last   Wednesday   morning    of   a   heart attack,   so   could   you   please   delete   her   name   from   your  mailing   list    but   keep   mind    on    to   pke28968@bigpond.net.au     for    me   as   I   enjoy    it   very    much.

Thank you                                
Paul    Kelly
Country    Music    Collector

I’m truly sorry to hear of your sad news Paul.

For those of you who don’t know Paul is an avid collector of all things country music, especially Slim Dusty items.

Joy

Number One For 3 Weeks

Congratulations to the artists David Pool & Hermann Lammers Meyer, Executive Producer, Dan Tucker, Producer Phil York, and writer Jon Rutherford.  Also to Mr. Rafel Corbi, President of European Country Music Association for his hard work on the ECMA Charts. 

This is our 3rd week to be Number 1.  Lots of great artists and  songs that were also deserving of the number 1 slot. 

Again, thanks for giving me the opportunity to work with such a great group of people....

James Allen Promotions

The King of Country Music, Roy Acuff, Loved More Than Music: He Loved America And Feared That It Was Heading for a Fall...

My all-time favorite country singer was none other than "The King of Country Music: Roy Acuff," whose music I have loved since hearing him on an old Sears' Silvertone radio (which I still have) early on in the 40s over WSM Radio, and The Grand Ole Opry.

Surely it must be a collector's item, and antique supreme, and carries the Number, 42692. On another part is apparently a serial number, which I cannot read at the moment...but while this radio was silenced years ago when the last battery failed, hearing Roy on the Opry is still true to life in my mind and memory.

I would stay up until usually midnight, and fall asleep, finally, after listening to Roy late into the night. In fact, I have a Grand Ole Opry program before me at this momenty, perhaps dated 1940, showing him on the 11 to 11:15 p. m. show, sponsored by a songbook of his. Incidentally, the Opry opened at 8 p. m. with Eddy Arnold and Bill Monroe performing. Roy also performed on the 9:30 and 10:30 shows. The 9:30 segment was the Prince Albert Smoking Tobacco's Grande Ole Opry, which may have been on the network...it was at least later on, and for many years.

Before I proceed further, let me inject here the fact that I interviewed Roy Acuff on 2 different occasions: the the  Music City News edition of March 1968, and for my book: Storm Over Nashville:  A Case Against Modern Country Music (1980). For MCN, I did an opening feature on page one, in which I reported the fact that the Grand Ole Opry was honoring Roy for his 30 years on the show at that time. Inside, I did a more detailed feature on the "King's" sojourn on the most famous country music show of them all!

At the time, I was no longer editor of MCN, as the publisher's son, James E. Charlet Jr., had come home from the Army  and was put in charge of editing. I was at the time "associate editor," along with Dixie Deen, who later married the celebrated songwriter and singer, Tom T. Hall. I was first named  to the staff of the paper in 1965, and did my tour as editor during the period, 1966-67.

If I recall correctly, Faron Young had founded  Music City News in 1963, and at that time I was editor of a large weekly down in Florida (for some 4-plus years). Even then, I wrote a country music column, entitled:  THE MUSIC WORLD, and I am  SURE that I did at least one feature on Roy while I was there. I do have before me a copy of a column I wrote for The Donelson News Diary (a suburb of Nashville) which I called  The Nashville Beat, dated April 26, 1978. In fact, I compared Roy to entertainers such as Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley, because, again,  IN FACT, Roy Acuff was  MORE than a singer: he was a music personality with charm and poise, yet, one not afraid to cry a tear or two when the song called for it. In another feature, I had stated that "I cried" when Hank Williams died; on the other hand, Roy Acuff sometimes "cried" in singing, and I'd cry along with him...

In my interview for the book, I had written down some 10  questions which I thought  might be of interest to the fans, and at that time, there was  GREAT controversy about the direction country music was taking. Roy, true to form, wasn't shy about giving a reply, telling me that "They don't play my records anymore over WSM Radio!"

And how did that make him feel? He felt that there was a place for the old-timers still, just as Ernest Tubb stated. Ernest felt tht "I have had my share of hits"..but he was saddened that "modern" country music was leaving very little room for the older singers and songs of distinction, such as  Walking The Flor Over You, and Roy's  Wabash Cannonbnall.

But those knowing anything at all about Roy Acuff, also know that he was a politican of sorts, more the republican than the democrat, and ran for governor of Tennessee in 1948, although losing, though some think that he would have won if he had been on the democratic ticket.

Now, this is getting me closer to the theme for this feature, when I mentioned in the headline about how Roy Acuff felt about his fellowman...and  how America was "drifting" even then, Down, Down, Down!

Roy was careful to be kind to all peoples, and he was also careful not to be against any race of people; yet, he had a keen sense about the direction this nation was taking, especially as to morals and our spiraling out of control as a nation of power and prestige.

Elizabeth Schlappi, a former school teacher (if I recall rightly), first published a biography on the life of Roy Acuff in 1978 (with a subsequent update), and in the chapter on "Politicking" (see page 213, if you have the book), the author delved into Roy's true feelings in the matter of what his thoughts  on the future were, with this key paragraph hitting home:

In his concern about the future of the United States of America, Roy points to the debasement of our coinage and draws an analogy with the Roman Empire. One time, not long ago, while addressing a younger person, Roy Drew into a pessimestic mood, typical of conservatives. 'This country  WILL FALL  (emphasis mine),' he said. 'I won't see it, but you probably will. They'll keep it secret until the very end.'"

That statement was made sometime  before 1978. Now, looking at today's America in decline, we can see what he means. In other words, "in the end" it (our fall) will come quickly!

Nothing explains it more precisely than the Bible in Daniel, Chapter 5, and that famous "handwriting on the wall," which King Belshazzar saw, sealing his fate in one night--the fate of  ALL his kingdom and its peoples, with still another empire rising on the ashes of this corrupt and evil regime, denying God.

The  Handwriting is already on the wall for/in America, and we don't seem to know its
meaning--but we will...only  too late!

Everett Corbin

Will Taylor

Will Taylor's "She Needs Romance" has just hit the top 20 on th Nashville Gateway International Playlist at number 19. 
 
Our thanks to Aage for such a great board, and his hard work on creating and maintaining such vital information for us promoters and artists.  

David Pool & Hermann Lammers Meyer's "What Are You In Here For" is still number 1 for the 3rd week on the ECMA Charts.  Our thanks to Rafel Corbi for his hard work on the ECMA Charts and Board. 

For the people that have not visited both of these boards, I encourage you to do so. 
 
Thanks Everyone and have a great weekend...
 
James Allen Promotions

An Impromptu Protestor In Canberra Tamworth Songwriter Continues To Support Caroona Community

Tamworth songwriter Steve Charles, whose catalogue of country and several contemporary tracks is administered by Aussie Independent Music, was in Canberra last week.  Guest of the Sydney based Australian Songwriters’ Association, Charles was invited to perform and showcase his original material at two events, a songwriter evening and a charity fundraiser.

Little did he know on Thursday during a sightseeing visit of the parliamentary circuit, an impromptu but perfect moment would arise to promote an even greater cause closer to the hearts of his local region, the New South Wales Caroona community and their battle against the mining of the Liverpool Plains area.

A grand piano and a chance opportunity which just happened to be in the main ballroom of Parliament House, was all it took for a rousing rendition of several songs, none more appropriate than the theme song championed by Caroona residents and mine protesters, the Caroona Coal Action Group Anthem ‘Bring It On’ penned by the songwriter himself.

Opportune and ironic, given the current political and mining debacle, Charles was quick to seize the moment to illustrate in song, the regional cause which originated in 2008. 

He did however acknowledge the two day commitment was about songwriting and more than anything the charity fundraiser. 

Charles performed at Beyond Q, at an ASA event on the Wednesday night, and on Thursday evening, at a charity fundraiser to raise monies for CP sufferer Hazard girl Allen, where as special guest artist he performed at the Southern Cross Club in Woden. 

‘Helping to raise funds for Hazard girl is a big deal’ he said ‘if it enables a better life for any sufferer of cerebral palsy. And we had fun in the making!’

‘I discovered what a great bunch of people are behind the work achieved down here’

‘This week, being here and performing is about mobility.  Mobility and access to an electric wheel chair.  Now that’s of an even greater significance on a one to one scale.’

Back in Tamworth, Steve and band, the Straydogs appear this coming weekend at the Longyard Hotel.

Rhonda Sinclair

News From Kel-Anne Brandt

Hi Everyone,

 A lot has happened since I last spoke to you. I have had some wonderful shows and  have been to some amazing places.In April I was flown to Papua New Guinea where I embarked on the Sun Princess to perform. We had a traumatic 2 day journey to get to the ship, but once we were on it we had a great time and the shows were fantastic.

I just got back from New Zealand where I performed in the "Bay Of Islands Country Rock Festival". The band that backed me, led by Wendy Thornton was amazing.They learnt all my songs and did the most beautiful harmonies.The shows were fantastic and the crowds were wonderful. I thoroughly recommend going to the festival!

Natalie and I have had a couple of "The Brandts" gigs and have many more to come this year. Natalie is getting a great response from Radio and the Industry for her new EP.

Natalie's new single "Not The End of the World" has enterted the Country tracks TOP 30 Chart as a Hot Track. Click on the link to check it out.

I'm a proud Mum!!
I look forward to seeing you at the shows!!
Love,
Kel-Anne xoxo

"Kel-Anne Brandt might be tiny but her brand new CD I’m A Big Girl Now puts the bubbly performer right up there with the big guns of Australian country Top quality This is a very enjoyable album, sure to win Kel-Anne even more fans. "  — Deborah Minter, Capital News Magazine

Flat River Band

FRB has been slammed this last month., trying to dry out from the flood here in Nashville. We had a blast going back home to the Azalea Festival in Fredericktown. Many thanks to all the Azalea Board members and to the Mayor Mark Tripp for such a great weekend. After our show there was an after party of course… hosted by Jimmy Dean ! Good times buddy thanks again! From there we went back home to Nashville and was in the studio for a few days finishing up our 2nd CD and then went back out on the road and found ourselves in Alexander City, Alabama.

FRB appeared on The Barnyard Jamboree. Which was hosted by none other than Kenny Dean. That night we played the Peerless Saloon in Anniston which is one of the oldest bars in Alabama which used to be a brothel. And the back bar came from the world’s fair in Saint Louis in 1904. How bout that for a history lesson! LOL! After we played there we drove up to Hohenwald, Tn and spent the night arriving there about 3 am but didn’t get to bed until 4am. Thank you Mat, Jill & Brad! You guys really know how to make us feel right at home! From there we went to Jeanette’s in Waynesboro and had a blast! Thanks Kale it was great….we’d love to do it again!

Well we do want to make mention that we did make it through the flood and are very grateful ! Check out the calendar FRB is coming to your town! We are now booking fall dates. KC Fans check out “WORTH STOCK” Performing June 4, 2010 will be country artists Chris Cagle, James Otto, and the Flat River Band. June 5 features Jesse James Dupree and Jackal, Nigel Dupree, and local Kansas City area bands including Stairway to Zeppelin. FRB will also be hosting the after party at O'Dowd's Irish Pub in Kansas City, MO.

FRB

Marcus Holden News

Hi everyone. Well, as it's getting colder here we're trying to avoid busking on the streets....at any cost!

Actually, busking is a noble profession.. some of my best friends are buskers... Anyway, just to let you know of a few performances etc over the coming couple of weeks.

30th May, 6th June and 1st August. Concerts featuring The Larrikins at 2pm Performance Space Cockatoo Island. Admission is $10 at the door

If you live in the Emerald City or passing through Sydney over the next three months be sure to visit 'Damned Souls & Turning Wheels' at Cockatoo Island.

This is a multi-screen sound and image story of the island's 150 year history as convict prison (bushrangers Jackey-Jackey, Thunderbolt and Frank 'The Darkie' Gardiner were all incarcerated there), boy's nautical training ship, female prison (the iprison's name was changed to Biloela) and then, in the twentieth century, its role as naval dock, engineering and shipbuilding works. I devised the 28 minute work to show how folk song, including many field recordings, can tell the emotional story of history. The installation is receiving high praise for its place in the 17th Biennale of Sydney. Many of the features of the soundtrack will be recognisable to folk music enthusiasts including the songs and voices of Phyl Lobl, Sally Sloane, Susan Colley, Simon McDonald, John Dengate, Gary Shearston and Declan Affley, to name a handful of singers who help bring this project to life and beauty. check out www.warrenfahey.com for details.

The latest offering from the Celebrated Knockers and Knackers Band "Rooted In The Country" and "Sing Me Anothery, Dirty As Buggery" out on Rouseabout Records.

"There is a danger that exposure will evoke raucous laughter and have listeners singing along with these hoary old chestnuts." to quote the Australian Arts Section May 22, 2010. Check out the full review!
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/arts/this-weeks-music-reviews/story-e6frg8n6-1225868229343

Fiddlers Feast  QIRKZ @ 103 This is a rare perfromance for us in Sydney, seems we perfrom all over the country but noy much in our home town.

So, please come to see us at this unique venue check out http://www.facebook.com/QIRKZ
Tickets are $25 and $20 Concession ($15 for kids) Show starts 830pm, doors open at 7.30pm www.fiddlersfestival.com

Then we're off to the National Celtic Festival at Portartlington, Vic www.nationalcelticfestival.com  
11- 14 June, where the Golden Fiddle Awards are sponsoring the National Celtic Fiddle Competition.. check out the website for prizes and visit www.goldenfiddleawards.org.au for details of how to enter the GFAs.

Not to be outdone the National Junk Band tours Southern NSW next weekend 
The dates are set out below: also check out www.nationaljunkband.com
Tocumwal Bowls Club 27th May
Theatre Royal, Balranald 28th May
Deniliquin RSL Club Date: 29th May
We're also playing the Adelaide Cabaret Festival June 18th
http://www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/adelaidecabaret/
Mic Conway’s National Junk Band 18th June - 19th June, Fri 7.00pm & Sat 9.00pm
Well actually I should also be playing with DIESEL - Singled Out with Strings 18th June - 19th June, Fri 7.00pm & Sat 9.00pm
But I can't do both.. sorry lads.....
If you like your music Kilted! you can go no further than Scotland the Brave at the Perth Concert Hall, June 4th http://www.perthconcerthall.com.au/eventDisplay.aspx?ID=291 and Queensland Performing Arts Centre , July 3rd
http://www.qpac.com.au/event/Scotland_the_Brave_10.aspx
What fun that is, pipers, singers dancers and orchestra and some old bloke playing the fiddle!

Anyway enough of this seeya all soon!

Marcus

Selling Fast, Get In Early To Avoid Disappointment.

Oz Country Music Festival
Be part of
Fiji’s First Country Music Festival

Featuring
John Williamson, Bill Chambers, Felicity Urquhart & Glen Hannah, Jonah’s Road, Ashleigh Dallas Band and more to be announced.

August 1st – 7th 2010
Cost from $2299.00 per person

Twin Share includes:
Return Airfares from Sydney
Return transfers, 7 nights at a 4 Star Resort in Fiji
All Meals, Country Music Festival Tickets
Nightly entertainment, Firewalking Show
Welcome cocktail party
Canapes every afternoon during happy hour
Free Scuba Lesson, Free Snorkel Hire and more.

For more details call Country Music Holidays 1300 799 987

Michelle Costigan & Jenny Haslem

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