June Birthdays

Maurice Hardy About To Release A Brand New DVD

Below is the spoken introduction on the DVD

“The purpose of this DVD is to share with you, some of the places and stories behind the songs that have been such a part of this incredible journey. My wife and I have travelled from Hobart to Darwin and many places in between, performing in every venue imaginable, from grand auditoriums to outback halls, from huge shopping centres to small country markets.

Maurice Hardy

Maurice tells me this is about a month away from release. I bet there's is a lot of people waiting on this one.

Joy

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

One of the earliest memories I have is sitting on my great grandfather's knee and hearing him sing, in a deep, rich voice, "I was born under a wandrin' star..." He was a grand old Irishman with the name of Foley. Today, as I was busy preparing for my upcoming tour, I was reminded of him, and this song, and found myself swept into a moment of deep reflection. I hadn't thought of him in years. Sadly, he died before I ever really got to know him. And yet, part of him and his wanderlust, seems to live on in me. I wondered, if somehow I could reach back in time and tell him of the man I had become, of all the places I'd seen, the love, pain, joy and sorrow, would he be proud of me? Would he smile, secretly knowing, that I, too, had been born under that same star?

“Not all those who wander are lost.” – J. R. R. Tolkien

Like the troubadours and minstrels of old, it seems that some are simply born to travel. Perhaps it is that mysterious thing called wanderlust, a desire to discover something unknown, the lure of a destiny unfulfilled, Whatever the reason, there is but one unmistakable conclusion: One can never return from any journey without being touched by the people and places that one encounters, sometimes profoundly.

This is doubly true for an entertainer, for we are not just casual observers on this journey. Instead, we are proactive agents of inspiration. Every time we take the stage, we enter a timeless dance with the audience. With every song we sing, we share a living moment and live a shared memory.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine

I have been profoundly fortunate to have spent much of my life travelling the globe. As such, I have long since shed any nationalist identity, accepting the simple truth that we are all, ultimately, global citizens. It has been said that the depth of any artist is often based upon the wealth of experience they have lived and the hardships they have endured. Certainly my travels have indelibly shaped who I have become.

While living in Paris, I learned to appreciate fine wine and beautiful art, great beers and castles in Germany, fine coffee and sheer passion for life in Italy. Vienna is literally steeped in music history and the spirits of Mozart, Strauss and so many others still live on. If you walk the lonely streets at night and listen very carefully, with your heart instead of your ears, you might just hear their songs, floating across time.

In Scotland and England, I learned that there is some mysterious genetic memory. The medieval towns and fairy tale villages seem so familiar, like out of some long-forgotten dream. The lochs and glens, even the scent of highland heather, somehow, just feel like home.

And it was in a crusty old pub in southwest Ireland, along the Ring of Kerry, that I happened to mention that my great grandfather was a Foley. A man turned to me, surprised. In a broad Irish accent, I was cheerfully told that the Foley's came from the village just over the hill, and, with that, I was instantly welcomed as a long lost member of the family.

“Adventure is a path. Real adventure – self-determined, self-motivated, often risky – forces you to have firsthand encounters with the world. The world the way it is, not the way you imagine it. Your body will collide with the earth and you will bear witness. In this way you will be compelled to grapple with the limitless kindness and bottomless cruelty of humankind – and perhaps realize that you yourself are capable of both. This will change you. Nothing will ever again be black-and-white.” – Mark Jenkins

Three years ago, this same wanderlust brought me to my new home in Australia. Here, I have not only made some great new friends, but have discovered the incredible musical heritage that this unique country has to offer. Names like Slim Dusty, John Williamson and Lee Kernaghan are all now woven into my ever growing tapestry of life and music. And it is these names and their songs that I will now proudly carry around the world on my future travels. 

It is with that thought in mind that I'm packing up my trusty Rainsong guitars and embarking upon the first of this year's tours. In the US, I'll be presenting a number of shows in Branson, Missouri. From there, it's down to the lone star state to join Lou Nelson and friends at the Independent Country Stampede. Back in Oz, there's the annual "Shindig" in Wauchope, with my good mate, Joy Lewis.
One of this year's biggest events is the Canberra Country Music Festival, where I'll be taking charge of the "True Blue" stage. Director, Kelvin Fahey has just sent me the advance line-up for the Festival and it promises to be a fantastic weekend of country entertainment.

Tamworth bound, the program for the Atrium Stage is shaping up quite nicely and will certainly keep me busy during the 10 day Festival. It looks like I'll be heading across to Jake's place for evening shows as well. If that's not enough, I've just been brought in by Joe McManamon as co-producer of The Australian Country Buskers Championships, which will be held at the 2011 Festival. He's also added me onto the "Tamworth on Parade" show in November, both as performer and assistant-producer.
With additional stops in Mexico, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, China, Singapore, The Philippines, Indonesia  and Taiwan, this year certainly promises to be another grand adventure.

Please visit my website below for photos, links and more details.
Thank you to all the DJs for your continued support. A very special thanks to Rhon and her wonderful team at Rhonbob Promotions.

"When I get to heaven, tie me to a tree. For I'll begin to roam and soon you'll know where I will be.
I was born under a wandrin' star ...A wandrin', wandrin' star"

Cheers,
Jay
www.JSBmusic.com

Not Forty On It‘s Way Up

Tracy Coster‘s humorous take on getting older is making its way up the Country Tracks Top 30 Chart for radio airplay at number 19 this week.The single Not Forty from Tracy‘s latest album, Moving On is resonating with fans, especially the girls!

Not Forty‘s quirky observation about getting older is receiving requests from unexpected places and looks like converting a whole new bunch of fans to the Tracy Coster creed. Written by her album producer and songwriter, Roger Corbett, Not Forty is relevant and contemporary and the combined efforts of radio airplay and a film clip on CMC is proving successful at getting the message out there – Tracy Coster is ’Moving On‘.

Meanwhile Tracy recently travelled her annual journey to the Tenthill Turnout. Held every year in May at the Ma Ma Creek Hall via Gatton in Queensland, the festival celebrates and pays tribute to the music and the man, her father, Stan Coster.

Support for the Tenthill Turnout festivals continues to grow with both last year and this year boosting sell-out crowds. This year Tracy recorded a song written by Ian Quinn especially for the festival, Tenthill Turnout and made it available for sale as a limited edition.

Amanda O’Bryan

Allan Caswell

I have just received the figures from NFS for Behind Bars. Out of 97 stations surveyed 92 played the single ... 82 played it on medium or high rotation. It was the equal second most played track on NFS 138. I'm delighted.

The fact that the record did not chart on the Country Tracks top 30 is expected, especially given the comments I have made previously about the relevance and accuracy of this chart. The single is currently 29 on the HOT FM chart.

Thank you everyone for your support. The Behind Bars album should be out July/ August.

Allan

Hello From Fibber

Hi Joy and all who had concerns re the future of our great festival.

Congratulations to all those fans, artists and  festival participants who had the guts and fortitude to stand up and voice their concerns about where our festival was headed.  Whether or not you were seen as trouble makers, whingers or what ever, it obviously has had the desired effect.  Pat yourselves on the back.

Rebel Thomson has reported the feedback response and recommendations that will (we hope), secure the future of this much treasured  Tamworth Country Music Festival.   I have not had enough

time as yet to fully disect and envelop the entire contents of the extensive report.  On face value it all looks positive.   I will report back in the near future after further deliberation and investigation.

At this time congratulations to Rebel Thomson, Councilor Treloar, Steve Keogh and others that have taken the time to finally listen to the voices of Country Music and address their concerns.

Finally thanks to all you fine Country Music lovers for your contribution.

Cheers and Beers .....
Yours,......
Fibber

The Valley Studio Sings The Praises Of Artists

The Valley Studio with record producer Roger Corbett at the helm is singing the praises of his artists. Committed to taking artists to the next level of their country music career, Roger is quietly proud of all the artists who have recorded albums at The Valley Studio.

In the spotlight are four who are successfully forging careers. Gaining places on the Australian Country Tracks Top 30 Airplay Chart this week are family band The Lees who continue their outstanding run with It Ain’t Me Babe from the album Welcome Road at number 4. Country favourite Tracy Coster is making her way toward the top with Not Forty from the album Moving On at number 19. Newcomer Natalie Brandt has entered the chart for the first time with a single from her debut self titled Ep with the track , The End Of The World  and New Zealand’s duo sensation The Heartleys have entered the charts at number 29 with Leaving Home from their self titled album.

‘This is the age of independence’ says Roger. ‘Everything we do at the Valley is designed to support independent artists take their career to the next level’.  It’s a philosophy that has seen the studio deliver consistent results with an ‘A Team’ of Australian songwriters, musicians and industry professionals  for over 10 years, more than 60 albums, Golden Guitar wins and nominations.
An imminent re-launch of The Valley Studio website, new branding and an extended list of services and  innovations has is designed to propel artists on the roadmap of their country music careers.

The new look website will be launched early next month at www.thevalleystudio.com.au

Amanda O’Bryan

Adam Harvey And Wendy Matthews To Appear On Hey Hey It’s Saturday!

Adam Harvey and Wendy Matthews are set to appear on Australia’s #1 hit variety TV show ‘Hey Hey It’s Saturday!’. Appearing this Wednesday night (June 2) at 7.30pm on Channel 9! Adam and Wendy are to perform the Johnny Cash and June Carter classic Jackson, upon the news, a very excited Adam said “I have always wanted to sing on that show, it’s very cool!”

Earlier this month Adam and Wendy’s single Easy from Adam’s duets album Both Sides Now hit #1 on the CMC Chart, his second #1 single, and third top 10 result from this album! With 7 Golden Guitars and 7 ARIA Awards between them, Adam and Wendy are teaming up together to hit the road next month for some very special dates.

Tickets are available from venues. Visit www.adamharvey.com.au for further details.

Emma Smith

Country Music Underdog Loved By Australian Radio

Of all the nominations for this year's prestigious APRA Awards one name stands out for what is glaringly obvious. Brad Cole is one of the only finalists with no publishing or record label who in 2009 has managed to become one of this country’smost played country music artists on Australian radio with his works.

The Independent contemporary country singer/songwriter from Bundeena in Sydney’s southern outskirts has been making a mark for himself with three consecutive hit songs under his belt off his debut Icebreaker album. Cole with his self penned single Come Homehasbeen recognised by APRA as a finalist for ‘The Most Played Country Work on Australian Radio & TV’. He stands alongside Troy Cassar Daley, Adam Brand, The McClymonts and Steve Forde as being the most played Australian country singer/songwriters on radio.

Cole’s APRA nominated single Come Home debuted on Australian country radio charts at #2 behind Taylor Swift and her worldwide smash hit Love Story. Come Home maintained its #2 position behind Love Story for 8 weeks. During the first month of its release, Come Home was reported as being the 6th most added song on Australian radio in ‘all’ music genres. The song made gains crossing over and was 3rd most added song on adult contemporary charts during the first month of its release. The music video charted on Foxtel’s CMC as well as Cole performing the single live on national TV.

 “It is a privilege to be recognised by APRA, my peers and the greater music industry for my country music contributions,” he said.

Cole who is a 2009 Australian Country Music Peoples Choice Award winner for Australia’s Most Promising Artist, describes his contemporary country pop sound as sitting somewhere between Shania Twain and Keith Urban.

 “The challenges of being an independent country singer/songwriter and getting your tunes added and played on Australian commercial radio can be very daunting when up against some of the world’s best contemporary country artists like Taylor Swift and Keith Urban and their song releases. Regardless of whether I am signed or not, I always felt that the task of cutting through as a contemporary country artist on radio would come down to well written, quality produced songs that are capable of appealing to a large audience. I am very thankful to radio and the music community for embracing my brand of country music,” said Cole.

Cole is also credited for releasing Australia’s 1st locally produced and manufactured 1080P Full HD Blu-ray music video, a significant industry milestone and a 1st by any Australian artist in any genre. His Blu-ray music video has been archived by the National Film and Sound Archives in Canberra. 

APRA winners will be announced on Monday 21st June at The Parkside Ballroom - Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Darling Drive, Darling Harbour, Sydney

Bonnie Toussaint

Happy Birthday John Williamson… and your Emu – 40 Years of being True Blue

Friday 28th May 2010: A week from today, John Williamson, songwriter, poet and true blue pioneer will celebrate a remarkable 40 Years in the music industry.

Call him what you want, ‘Mallee Boy’, ‘True Blue’ or just plain ‘Fair Dinkum, there is no denying that after 40 years in the music industry, John Williamson is an Australian icon. 3 ARIA Awards, 24 Golden Guitars, MO Awards, APRA Awards, Platinum and Gold albums, over 4 million album sales and the list goes on… he has earnt the title whether he likes it or not.

John Williamson will celebrate a milestone regarded as a significant achievement in the entertainment industry, 40 Years of success, four decades of hits, of celebrity and of sharing his love of Australia and poetry in song with its people.

It was June 4th, 1970 that John Williamson made his name. On the talent quest TV show, New Faces, Williamson competed with his self-penned and still much loved “silly song” Old Man Emu. He won, and since then has inspired pride in country, love of land and touched millions regardless of age, sex or creed.

This is the man famous for stirring classics such as Cootamundra Wattle, Raining On The Rock, Salibury Street, Galleries Of Pink Galah’s and public outcries like Rip Rip Woodchip, A Bushman Can’t Survive and let’s not forget his anthemic deliveries such as of True Blue, Glory To Australia and romantic ballads like Winter Green, Hawkesbury River Lovin’ to name but a few.

His resume and catalogue would make any songwriter envious, not bad for a kid from Quambatook in Victoria’s Mallee country.

Look at some of the most significant events in Australia in the past few decades and he has been there. The 2000 Sydney Olympics, Steve Irwin’s memorial, the Bledlisloe Cup, Sir Donald Bradman’s memorial, the Rugby World Cup, the Bali Bombing’s memorial and the list goes on. He is ingrained is Australia’s history as much as its future.

But accolades and awards have never been a huge deal to John Williamson; it has always been about the fans to the ever humble farmer. Even after what he has achieved or what he has been invited to be a part of he remains nonchalant about it all.

2010 is a year to celebrate John Williamson and his 40 years of contribution.

In March 2010 he released his ultimate BEST OF album, aptly titled “John Williamson: 40 Years True Blue”. The CD contains his biggest hits and most requested songs, along with a new track recorded with Shannon Noll, Island Of Oceans could be Williamson’s ultimate gift yet. Inspiring, stirring and as patriotic as you can, this is two loved Aussies singing for their country.

Accompanying the “John Williamson: 40 Years True Blue” is a special Tribute Album making the 2-disc pack a must have product. Some of Williamson’s friends and fans can be found singing his songs, in their style as they honour his fortieth year. Kasey Chambers, James Reyne, Tommy Emmanuel, The Waifs, Russell Crowe are just some of the artists whom volunteered to appear on the 13 track special addition.

In 2010, John Williamson’s music turns 40. He and his EMU can both celebrate. In one of the toughest industries and businesses, he has not only survived but soared.

As he say is one of his songs, “There's all the colours of the rainbow in the garden woman, and symphonies of music in the sky. Heaven's all around us if you're looking, But how can you see it if you cry”. Whilst his optimism has no doubt helped, coupled by determination and will, his words alone give you an insight into the passion this True Blue, Fair Dinkum Mallee Boy has.

As part of his 40 Year celebration, John Williamson released his Ultimate Best Of album and Tribute CD in March this year. To continue the festivities, a special tour and concert announcement will be made soon. For more information log onto www.johnwilliamson.com.au or contact David Woodward on 0413748167.

For interview, images or promotional opportunities, please contact David Woodward on details below.

David Woodward

The Alan & Miller Band - Broken Hearted Way

Released in 2009 this album has only just come to my attention, but it's certainly a good album. All then tracks written by Barney Miller.

List of tracks are Broken Hearted Way, Brandy, Cross THe Line, Don't Do Today, To Say I'm Sorry, Linda, She's On Her Own, Old Man (Ode To Legends Past) I'm Not Staying This Time, Wild O.T.

I'm not making any selections out of this lot as they are all good tracks, so you just keep your eye out for it.

Joy

How Lee Brice Made Microsoft's Steve Ballmer A Country Music Fan!

A couple weeks ago Lee Brice’s hit country song "Love Like Crazy" hit Australian radio. The song features a great reference to Microsoft:

They called him crazy when he quit his job
Said them home computers, boy, they'll never take off
Well, he sold his one-man shop to Microsoft
And they paid like crazy

As it turns out, there's more to the story. We spoke via phone this week with country star Lee Brice, who confirmed that Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer was in the crowd when he sang "Love Like Crazy" at an event in Nashville earlier this year. So how did Ballmer react?

Was it just because the name Microsoft rhymed?
Brice: In his mind, when Doug was writing the song, first of all, he likes to be different. New technology and things like that isn't usually in a country song. Other than maybe Brad Paisley. So it stands out, number one. Number two, Microsoft is obviously one of the biggest brands that you can think of. It's like Coca-Cola. I'm sure that when his brain thought about computers, he thought about Microsoft, and that was just his thing, and he went with it. I think it's turned out to be a great thing, because every time I sing the line, it makes so much sense, it works so well with the song.

Well, we loved the part where it said Microsoft paid like crazy.
Brice: Paid like crazy, that's right!

We end up talking a lot to their finance folks, and of course, they're always trying to keep the valuations on these acquisitions down. I actually heard that you sang the song at an event in January where Steve Ballmer was there, in Nashville.
Brice: Yes, I did.

Do you remember how he reacted?
Yeah, it was kinda funny, because we were coming out to do our thing, and basically it was after he spoke, and he was actually scheduled to have left the building by the time I got on stage. I was the first act to go up. And so, he was still lingering, talking to some kids, kind of out in the crowd, and I remember some of the guys there were like, man, we would just love it if he was there to hear you sing that part of the song.

So I remember seeing him still sitting in the crowd, kinda doing his thing, and I think somebody might have bumped him a little bit and said, hey, listen to this part. I wanted to get to that part to see what he would think, too, and I remember when I sang that part, he just stopped what he was doing, turned around and just put his hands in the air like, YEAHHH!!! So it was really cool that that guy, of all the guys in the world, got excited hearing something like that in a country song.

So he was totally pumped, and it was totally cool that he was there to hear it, so I'm glad he stuck around.

Lee Brice’s album Love Like Crazy is to be released July 2, 2010 through Sony Music Entertainment Australia

Emma Smith

Tori Darke
Not My Time To Fly
Single & Video Clip Release

Things are getting pretty exciting now! I have just arrived in Nashville to record my first album.

I want to send out a big thank you to all the radio presenters for playing my 3rd single “Not My Time To Fly”, and for supporting me with all the interviews and on air chats we’ve had.

Thanks to you, Not My Time To Fly” debuted on the Australian Country Tracks Top 30 Chart at #29 this week!

In the lead up to going away, I’ve been really busy working on my new music video, so keep am eye out for it and when it comes to CMC (very soon), please get online and request it. I can’t wait to hear what you think of it – I’m so happy with the finished result. It’s amazing what beautiful scenery you can find at your own back door; the setting was perfect and yes, it was raining! We could not have wished for a more perfect day.

I’ll be away for a month, but I’l be keeping everyone up to date with how it’s going through Facebook and MySpace.

I’ll se you all when I get back – wish me luck!

Tori

Ami Williamson Releases Debut Album
 ‘Close To Home’

Ami Williamson has already established an enviable reputation as a singer-songwriter whose unique performances have taken her across Australia and overseas, and now 2010 sees Ami release her much awaited debut album ‘Close to Home’.

All 10 songs on ‘Close to Home’ were penned exclusively by Ami. The

album was independently recorded early 2010 and produced by Matt Fell and co-produced by Ami. Since the start of the year Ami has been spreading the word about ‘Close to Home’ as she continues to tour around the country. 

A trained singer/pianist and a graduate of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Ami has been performing in her own right for many years after her father – country music’s John Williamson – first took her out on the road as a teenager. 

Of the album release Ami said,
“After so many years performing the time felt right to release my own album. Expressing myself through the writing and recording process was such a learning and growing experience as an artist. The songs really are "close to home” - I tried hard to drain them through an anti-bulldust colander."

John Williamson said, "Well, firstly I can say that I wish my first album was of the same quality. Ami’s debut album to me sounds like it’s not her first. I know how hard she has worked, she has dedicated her life to writing, singing, playing piano and entertaining." 

Ami’s experience as a performer has extended far and wide since her graduation from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music – in addition to playing Festivals across Australia, she was invited to entertaintroops in the Solomon Islands, Iraq and Afghanistan. She’s not just a talented singer and songwriter, her incredible talents also extend to playing the piano, drums and dulcimer.

‘Close to Home’ is available to purchase now via Ami’s website and online store : www.amiwilliamson.com or through the above digital outlets.

“There's enough variety in the talents of Ami Williamson to keep milk fresh for centuries!”
The Sydney Morning Herald

Valerie MacIver

Don’t Miss Your Opportunity To Be A Part Of History!
For a tax deductible donation of only $50 you may have your name or message engraved onto a single paver and be a member of Phase 1 of the
Slim Dusty Centre Paver Program
Phase 1 Closes 1st July 2010

Each paver has the space for a 3 line message (12characters/line) to be engraved with your own name, message or personal salute to Slim Dusty.

The much anticipated Slim Dusty Centre will preserve and portray the true essence of our nation, as chronicled through the eyes of Slim Dusty and the vision of the lyrics of his timeless songs. Slim dreamt of building a Centre in which to house the memorabilia collected during his long and illustrious career. Fittingly, the Slim Dusty Centre will be built in Kempsey NSW, Slim’s home town.
For information on how to participate call Brenda on  (02) 6562 6533 or 1800 18 SLIM, or visit our website at www.slimdustycentre.com.au

The Slim Dusty Foundation Ltd is the Trustee of the Slim Dusty Museum Trust Fund which is a deductible gift recipient. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible under Division 30 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

Brenda Fritsch

Australia's First Music Video Clip To Star A Fabric Doll !!!! Lou Bradley

Hi everyone... I hope you are all well!

As you may know I have been doing some work with the indie music label Nulla Records (Slim Dusty & Joy McKean's label distributed by EMI). Anyway the labels' latest signing is the very quirky and totally unique singer/ songwriter from Northern NSW, Lou Bradley. Lou recently got together with a couple of her friends and created (on a tight little budget!!) a new music video for her latest single Cowboy. Regardless of the small budget she had to work with,  I reckon this talented girl has come up with a true gem of a video!

I would really appreciate if firstly you have a look at the clip for yourself (see the You Tube link below) and   if you feel so inclined, then I ask if you would help spread the word by emailing the You Tube link onto some other people you know.

It would be fantastic to have this great little video seen by as many people as possible!

Take care everyone
Leon

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woWS7gFuKZU

“The New Willie”

I Will Miss The Braids, But Willie’s New Doo Looks Great And He Is Willie No Matter-Whether His Hair Is Long Or Short.  I Remember Willie In Mohair Suits, Silk Ties, Patent Leather Shoes And Slick Hair, And Still He Was One Of The Greatest Artists Of All Time Back Then.  That Is When He Did The Unexpected, He Told Nashville To Go To H---, And Isn’t It Funny How Time Has Slipped Away. 

That Was An Era When Faron Young, Ferlin Husky, Ray Price And Other Just Quit The Opry And I Wonder Why?????

Marty Matell

Jack Blanchard

I'm sending out this slightly used story today by popular demand (two readers), and also because I've been experiencing computer insubordination.
About a dozen times a day my Compaq just freezes up, stares at me with a smug look, and says "Byte me". It doesn't know yet that it's been replaced.

The Optimist.
Denver Omlit was an optimist through and through.  He and his neighbor Ed were admiring Ed's new Corvette convertible.
"I knew you could do it", said Denver, "because you set your goal, pictured it, believed it, and went after it."
Ed said, "I won it in a lottery."
Not to be dismissed so easily, Denver said "You believed in your heart that you had the winning ticket."

Ed said,
"With all the crime in this city, I'm scared something will happen to it. I never owned anything this expensive before."
"Think only positive thoughts", Denver said,  "and nothing bad can happen to your car."

Ed said, "You think you can do anything if you believe it?"
Omlit said, "You're reality is a product of your thoughts."
Ed was thinking a violent thought about Denver right then."OK. Let's see you fly", said Ed.
"I don't want to fly", said Denver.
"But you could, if you set your mind to it, right?"
"Yes, definitely. You are what you think", said Denver.
"Then prove it, bigmouth!” said Ed.

The optimist wasn't around for several days, and then he was seen on the roof of their seventeen storey building, carrying out several large items toward the Forty-seventh Street side. The items were: two light-weight balsa surfboards, a large cardboard carton, and a garbage bag with something lumpy in it.

He took a can of quick drying spray glue from the bag, and sprayed both sides of the boards. Then he dipped the boards into the box one-by-one, and brought them out covered with feathers. He leaned the boards on the foot high wall at the roof's edge, and while they dried he got some other equipment from the box... a football helmet, goggles, and two rolls of industrial duct tape. He put on the helmet and goggles first, because according to his plan it would be difficult later. A crowd was gathering down on the street.

He turned back toward the roof entrance door and clapped his hands twice. Three musicians came out, carrying a bass drum, and accordion, and a police whistle. They gave a raggedy fanfare as a young lady in a bathing suit twirled out, did a circus curtsey like a magician's assistant, and began duct taping the feathery wings to Denver's arms. The bass drum beat slowly to raise the suspense.
From the garbage bag, the assistant retrieved a bullhorn, and held it to Denver Omlit's mouth as he spoke to the crowd below. "If a bird can do it with a brain the size of a pea, I can do it with my wonderful pineapple of a brain. I believe with all my heart that I can fly.” He spread his wings with a flourish and stepped of the roof. As he fell straight down he pep-talked himself. "I can do it! I can soar like a mink!"

He looked down and saw the flagpole on the 14th floor. It was coming at him right between the legs. He hit it like a wishbone and the flag staff broke off and started falling with him. "Embrace the pain", he shouted! "The pain is our friend!"

At the tenth floor his pants caught on a window air conditioner, ripped off, and flew away. "Ah, that breeze feels good", he yelled! The flagpole and the air conditioner had slowed his descent slightly, and he imagined he had planned it that way.

At the fifth floor, the optimist said "So far, so good." The updraft was gathering under his football helmet, causing a slight parachute effect. He hit a small window awning on the third floor, and then the big awning at the street entrance to the building. It became a trampoline that bounced him toward the street, where Ed's Corvette convertible was parked... with the top up. The convertible top crushed nicely, affording Denver a comfortable landing in the red leather upholstery.

The above account is reported here exactly as it was presented at Ed's trial for killing the optimist.

Jack Blanchard 

Hermann Lammers Meyer
Yesterday Once More

Europe's king of Texas dance hall music has traveled to Nashville and again recorded another wonderful CD, with co-producer Tom Kawai from Japan.

This one, of mostly western swing and country standards sounds like a sure winner. The CD is comprised of 13 tunes, 12 from this session and

a bonus narration, Hermann's own The Old Bear, from a previous session. All cuts feature the incredible steel guitar of the big E, the great Buddy Emmons.

The album opens up with Bob Wills' San Antonio Rose and then goes on to Fred Rose's Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain which had charted for Roy Acuff, Elton Britt and the Skytoppers and Willie Nelson over the years. Also from Willie is Ed Bruce's Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys. Hermann borrows three from Merle Haggard, Silver Wings, Today I Started Loving You Again and The Bottle Let Me Down, a duet with Marion Mohring. There are also a couple of Texas favorites, the traditional Yellow Rose of Texas and Alabama's venture into western swing, If You're Gonna Play in Texas. Jim Mundy wrote the tribute tune Yesterday Once More and Jambalaya brings back memories of Hank Williams, Jo Stafford or Moon Mullican. The great Hank Thompson song book is remembered with The Wild Side of Life and Terry Fell with Truck Driving Man.

Besides Hermann's vocals and Buddy's steel licks you can enjoy Greg Galbraith playing electric-gut string guitar, Roger Ball doing rhythm guitar and Hargus "Pig Robbins" playing piano. The drums are played by Jerry Kroon while the bass player heard is David Smith. Also heard are Rob Hajacos doing the swinging fiddle licks, Terry McMillan- harmonica and Jack Walker- saxophone.

The CD  received the Award for the Abum of the year a few years ago

This album can be obtained from Desert Kid Records, Drosselweg 15, 26871 Aschendorf, Germany or hermann.l.meyer@freenet.de  The cost of the CD is 16 Euro plus 1,5o Euro in Europe and $18 US plus $2 for shipping and handling in the remainder of the world.

Mike Gross

Judy Lynn Passes Away

Tracy Pitcox was kind enough to send me the following sad news about the passing of another giant in country music, Judy Lynn.  She was a beautiful human being, and when it comes to dressing the part of her entertainment, she was the best dressed woman I have ever know, and her band was equally dressed great.  She was a great singer, and a beautiful lady.  Her records were great and her stage show even greater.  She will be missed by those of us who know how great she was.

Please Keep Judy’s Family In Your Prayers At This Time Of Deep Sadness And Sorrow At Their Loss.

May Her Soul Rest In The Arms Of Our Blessed Lord.

I am saddened to report that Country Music Entertainer Judy Lynn passed away last night after a brief illness.  Judy had been been experiencing difficulties with her health for most of the year, but began to steadily decline during the last two weeks.  She was surrounded by family members and went very peacefully.

Judy was very kind to us at the Heart of Texas Country Music Museum in Brady, allowing us to obtain her last rhinestone stage suit that she had personally kept.  It was created by her mother and is now on display at the museum.

She will be missed but I know where Judy is now

Tracy Pitcox

Judy Lynn was born in Boise, Idaho, in 1936.  She was part of a singing duo back then in school, performing at various functions such as at civic clubs or rodeos. She won several trips in competitions with singers from other schools from around the country. She was also cheerleader for three consecutive years.

She got a bit of a break when some folks from the Grand Ole Opry were doing a tour up in the northwest. The cast included Ernest Tubb, Ferlin Husky, Red Foley, Jean Shepard and T. Texas Tyler. But Jean Shepard got ill during the trip and the show manager, John Kelly had to find a replacement. He had heard Judy sing with a Webb Pierce and Slim Whitman on a show in Boise and called her and asked if she could take Ms. Shepard's place. She said yes and her parents signed their consent to a contract for that part of the tour. As a result of that fill-in, she did appearances with Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Lonzo and Oscar and other stars of the Opry.

Then, she toured five full months in North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota with T. Texas Tyler. Then, in mid-1953, she signed a 21 day contract with KXJB-TV out of Fargo, North Dakota. Right after that, she headed over to Minot, where she was starring on her own radio show over KLPM from 1:00pm to 1:30pm six days a week.

In 1952, Judy was named "Queen of the Big Snake River Jamboree" where she was part of a show with a famous cowboy singer, Gene Autry. And she was all of 16 at the time that happened, which got her a lot of notoriety in the northwest back then. For an encore, she got to perform with Rex Allen at the same rodeo the next year.  

In April 1954, she won the title of "America's Champion Girl Yodeler". And if that wasn't enough, she was chosen "Miss Idaho" in 1955 and went on to Atlantic City to compete for the Miss America crown.

After retiring from the entertainment industry, she devoted her life to the ministry.

Marty Matell

New Single By Jack Greene And George Jones- “Two Old Cats Like Us”- It’s Country

My Comments:

Finally there is a great buzz of excitement going around Nashville, because Jack Greene is back on records and his first release On “Pretty

World Records” is with the Possum-George Jones.  The new release “Two Old Cats Like Us.”  How appropriate for these two legendary super singers of all time, to join together on this duet.   Jack and George singing like it was 30 years ago and sounding just as awesome has I have ever heard them sing.  If this single is an indication of what his 3-CD project, "Precious Friends - Treasured Memories,” is going to sound like, I will be first in line to buy my copy-that’s right, I will buy it.  I don’t spend any money on CD’s anymore because they are few and far between with great country music, But I Will Buy This Cd.

I have booked Jack Greene on as many package shows as I can, and I will continue to book him because I love to watch the faces of the fans when they hear him sing.  It is like the first time he sang “There’s Goes My Everything,” because it sounds just as good now as it did when he first had the hit.  What a joy it is to hear real country music again, and especially with two giants in country music.  I am so proud of Jack and his new project. 

There will be more to come from his new CD project, and I can assure you that country music is going to get the shot in the arm it has been needing-from Jack Greene and George Jones. 

Marty Martel

L & L Management is pleased to announce the signing of Jack Greene, the "Gentleman of Country Music," to the Pretty World record label.  Jack has thrilled millions of traditional country fans around the world for decades with his musical artistry and unparalleled balladeer's voice.  As a distinguished member of the Grand Ole Opry, Jack still performs on that hallowed stage, and continues to tour the country as a headliner.

This exciting new association with Pretty World Records opens the door for some incredible new music from one of Country Music's most revered, accomplished, and best-loved performers.  Jack Greene has  started recording a 3-CD project entitled "Precious Friends - Treasured Memories" which will be a duet compilation with the greatest singers in country music from today and from yesteryear.  The first volume from this collection is scheduled for release August, 2010, and is a collaboration unlike any that has come before it.

The first single from this much-anticipated CD will be released to radio on May 24th, 2010, and  features a duet with none other than country music legend George Jones.  It's a rousing, irreverent, back-alley rendition of the old classic tune "Two Old Cats Like Us."  How appropriate for two of the most accomplished, enduring, and respected country music personalities to get together to tell the world that there's still plenty of music left in those tomcat bones.

Picking an initial release from a CD chock-full of incredible performances is an extremely difficult task, particularly when Jack's duet partners include the likes of:  Lorrie Morgan, Charley Pride, Vince Gill, Merle Haggard, Riders in the Sky, Larry Gatlin, Little Jimmy Dickens, Helen Cornelius and his former duet partner of 12 years, Jeannie Seely.

Beautifully arranged, orchestrated, and produced, this CD features timeless classics done with such style and flair that any number of them are likely to hit the charts as singles in their own right.

The buzz surrounding the initial CD has created such intense interest in Nashville, that a veritable "Who's Who" of the Country Music world are clamoring to be on subsequent volumes.  This is such a rare opportunity to perform with a legend who's work has already guaranteed himself a place among the greatest singers of all time.  Without a doubt, this series of CD duets has "Grammy" written all over it!

This outstanding partnership between Jack Greene, L & L Management, and Pretty World Records only goes to prove - as the Grand Ole Opry crowd and his legion of devoted fans already know - that Jack isn't getting older, he just keeps getting better!

Marty Martel

Johnny Paycheck

Johnny would have been 72 years old today.  Even though his family thinks that I don’t think about John, they really don’t know that Johnny and I had a great friendship, and today I still miss him, but I know this one fact, that when you are listening to your radio, sooner or later in a 24 hr. period, you are going to hear Johnny Paycheck music.  He done it his way, and that was the country way.  You might hear him sing the “Outlaws Prayer,” or around 5 PM on your way home from work, and especially on Friday’s, you will hear him singing his familiar praises of the work force, when he says what we all want to say, “Take This Job

And Shove It.”

I am still writing and talking to people to let them know that Johnny needs to be in the Country Music Hall of Fame.  He was what country music is supposed to be and was at one time.  He defines the word “Honky Tonk.”a

I might not write about Johnny as I did when I managed and booked him, but a day does not go by when I don’t listen to him sing and when I look up on my wall of photo’s, his pix is the largest and easiest to see.  I wish he were still with us, writing great songs and singing the hell out of them.

I know we all miss him, but his music really lives with us.

Marty

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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