Americana Fest to Stage 16th Annual Honors & Awards Show at Ryman Auditorium on Sept. 13

     NASHVILLE -- Jim Lauderdale and Buddy Miller will be returning as hosts for the 16th annual Americana Fest Honors & Awards Show at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 13 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.

     The Americana All-Star Band will feature Larry Campbell, Robbie Crowell, Jim Hoke, Jerry Pentecost, Chris Wood and the McCrary Sisters.

     Check out the entire festival schedule at http://americanamusic.org/2017-schedule 

     Here's a list of this year's awards show performers:

Billy Bragg
Brent Cobb
Robert Cray & Hi Rhythm
Rodney Crowell
Iris DeMent
Drive-By Truckers
Rhiannon Giddens
Joe Henry
Hurray for the Riff Raff
Jason Isbell
The Lumineers
Lori McKenna
Van Morrison
Graham Nash
Old Crow Medicine Show
Sam Outlaw
Margo Price
John Prine
Amanda Shires
Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives
Aaron Lee Tasjan
 
     A live video stream of the 2017 Honors & Awards show will be webcast via www.NPRMusic.org starting at 6:30pm. A live audio simulcast of the show will also be available via SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country, and on Nashville area terrestrial radio stations: WRLT (100.1 FM), WSM (650 AM) and WMOT (89.5 FM).

     Individuals can catch performance highlights on Austin City Limits for a special broadcast to air on Nov. 19 on PBS.

     Tickets for the 16th annual Americana Honors & Awards are made available for purchase with an AMERICANAFEST℠ conference registration. To buy tickets or learn more about the festival, visit http://americanamusic.org/buy-your-pass.

 

More than 400 Songwriters to Take Stage at Tin Pan South from March 28-April 1

            NASHVILLE - Organizers of the 25th annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival presented by Regions Bank pulled out all the stops for the Silver Anniversary, and the 100 shows and more than 400 writers have been announced and are now available at TinPanSouth.com.

            Set for March 28-April 1, 2017, writers representing virtually every genre will perform at 10 of Nashville's top music venues.

            CMA Vocal Duo of the Year winners Brothers Osborne will entertain at 3rd & Lindsley, and "Nashville" television show stars Charles Esten, Sam Palladio and Clare Bowen will appear at the Hard Rock Cafe and The Listening Room Cafe, respectively. Grammy Award-winner Keb' Mo' will bring his unique Blues style to The Country, and Rock legend Jim Peterik returns to perform at Whiskey Rhythm.

            Country hit-makers Jake Owen, Craig Campbell, Maddie & Tae, Danielle Bradbery, Mo Pitney, Kristian Bush, Love and Theft, Mickey Guyton, Luke Combs and others will hit various stages, and legends like Larry Gatlin, Lee Roy Parnell and Mac Davis will tell fascinating stories behind their biggest hits.

            After a two-year absence, BMI Pop Songwriter of the Year, producer, music publisher, author, Broadway performer and TV personality Kara DioGuardi is set to perform. Dove and Emmy Award winner Brandon Heath will delight with his story telling, and former Sixpence leader Leigh Nash returns to Tin Pan.

            To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the opening of The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on April 1, 1967, the museum is offering Fast Access Pass holders free admission on Saturday, April 1. 2017. The Tin Pan South Fast Access Passes permit patrons to bypass the cover charge at the door and allow advance entrance, space permitting. Most venues offer cash admission for individual shows not already at the posted capacity, and single show tickets will be available at the door and range from $10 to $20.   

            The free Tin Pan South Festival App is now available for IOS and Android devices and features:

            * The ability to add individual events to a personal schedule.

            * News and social media feeds to stay informed of festival happenings.

            * Real-time notifications on the status of show changes.

            * Festival map and venue information.

            * Explore Music City with a list of landmark recommendations.

            Tin Pan South is set to run March 28-April 1, 2017 at 10 of Nashville's top music venues. Produced by Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), Regions Bank returns for the 10th year as the presenting partner of the Festival.

            For up-to-date lineups, tickets, venues, schedules and other festival information, download the Festival App or visit tinpansouth.com. Updates can also be found on the Tin Pan South Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram. The Tin Pan South program will be published in the March 22, 2017 issue of the "Nashville Scene."

            Organizers of the 25th Annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival would like to thank the following Platinum and Gold Corporate Partners: Regions Bank - Presenting Partner; Southwest Airlines - Official Airline Partner; News Channel 5 - Official Broadcast Partner; Vident Financial; Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.; ASCAP; BMI; SESAC; Ford; Jack Daniel's; ole.

            About NSAI: The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) celebrates its 50th year as the world's largest not-for-profit songwriters trade organization. Established in 1967, NSAI is dedicated to protecting the rights of and serving aspiring and professional songwriters in all genres of music. Its membership of more than 5,000 spans the United States and 10 foreign countries. For more information, visit nashvillesongwriters.com.

            About Regions Financial Corporation: Regions Financial Corporation (NYSE:RF), with $126 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, mortgage, and insurance products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas, and through its subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates approximately 1,500 banking offices and 1,900 ATMs. Additional information about Regions and its full line of products and services can be found at www.regions.com. 

Scott Coner Teams Up With Hit Songwriter Carol Chase for 'Whiter Shade of Pale'

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 2016) – Country artist Scott Coner and hit singer-songwriter Carol Chase have teamed up for a new single and music video of the classic Procol Harum rock classic, "Whiter Shade of Pale".

            Coner, who has recorded several classic rock covers in the past, says he discovered the song in the early 1980s on the soundtrack for the movie "The Big Chill". It's been a favorite ever since.

            "Procol Harum did a great job with the song," said Coner, who will include the tune on a new EP to be released this summer. "When I first started talking with Carol Chase, I wanted to begin on common ground. We hadn't begun writing together at that point, and I thought it would be good to start with a more established song. I had been considering the song already, and when I mentioned it, she loved the idea."

            To view the "Whiter Shade of Pale" music video, visit Scott Coner's YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/n1AMo4-g7zk. To download the song at iTunes, visit https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/whiter-shade-pale-feat.-carol/id1114887283.

            Scott's wife, Cyndi, shot the video for Cynnamae Media Productions on the Coner family farm in Nancy, Kentucky, and during a recording session at 515 Studio in Nashville. The video was themed with different transition shots using natural shades of white. She added 1960s effects at the beginning after studying the original Procol Harum video.

            "We've all reviewed the video, and everyone is very happy with the results," Scott added. "I like working on our family farm because of the pretty surroundings, the seclusion, and my own memories of the farm itself. We hope people will enjoy it as much as we did while recording and filming the song."

            Scott's goal for the recording was to take a new approach, while respecting the original feel and structure of the original Procol Harum hit. Listeners can still hear the signature Hammond B-3 organ licks and "Beatlesque" percussion made famous in the original.

 'Whiter Shade of Pale' - Scott Coner Featuring Carol Chase

            "We kept the song at the same beats per minute," the artist continued. "My direction to the drummer was to attack it like John Bonham on a very simple, stripped-down set. As things progressed in the studio, the song went a slightly different direction with more of a pop sound. To allow for easier transition, we went with a simple bend in the guitar hook to maintain the contrast of the organ and the original direction of sound."

            "Whiter Shade of Pale" follows the release of a music video for "Maybe She Lied", a hit duet featuring Scott Coner and country singing legend Tanya Tucker. The "Maybe She Lied" video has been downloaded almost 250,000 times at http://www.Facebook.com/ScottConerMusic. The song hit number one on the United Kingdom's Hot Disk Top 40. "Maybe She Lied" and other song selections can be downloaded on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/scott-coner/id333235738.

            Scott also has recorded with country legends T. Graham Brown and Charlie Daniels. Other songs, including "Sanibel" (a duet with Brown) and "Reedy's Dream" (with vocal and instrumental contributions from Daniels), have been heard on terrestrial and online radio stations around the world. Also an emerging author, Scott recently penned the book "Lynyrd Skynyrd: Ronnie Van Zant and Me" with Gene Odom, a survivor of the Lynyrd Skynyrd plane crash.

            To learn more about Scott Coner or to download his songs and videos, visit www.ScottConer.com. Follow Scott at www.Twitter.com/ScottConer. Subscribe to the artist's YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCepl18iQT9-j_GX8eYZHrVA?sub_confirmation=1 .

Booking Expert To Offer Course for Performing Singers, Songwriters and Musicians Starting April 27

 
         NASHVILLE -- Hit singer/songwriter/educator Nancy Moran will offer her "Ultimate Booking and Touring" online training program for five weeks starting April 27.

         Moran's popular, four-week, in-depth program is aimed at performing musicians who want to have more (and better-quality) gigs through expert booking techniques. It’s very detailed and hands-on, and she walks artists through the entire process of professionally booking gigs and tours. Students have reported career-altering results from what they learned in the program.

         "In my five-week-long, in-depth online program, I'm going to walk performing musicians through the entire process of booking gigs and planning tours," said Moran, a former member of the popular group The Bitchin' Babes. "I'm truly going to share everything I can think of to help artists book better gigs and to get them out on the road sharing their music with the world."

         The "Ultimate Booking and Touring" training process will show artists how to

         * Prepare for their first on-the-road gig.

         * Expand into new towns, new venues or even brand new music markets.

         * Land bigger, better and more lucrative gigs (to be able to quit their day jobs).

         *  Overcome the self-booking blues.

 SIGN UP BY CLICKING HERE

         Participants will receive five weeks of step-by-step guidance and in-depth instruction. Video, audio and written lessons will be delivered online and available for Mp3 download onto iPods, Mp3 players and other mobile devices. Artists can also download a host of worksheets, sample scripts, and sample contracts. They will receive personal attention during live group Q&A phone calls. Conference calls will be recorded for 24-hour access. A private group Facebook forum will provide additional insights and student interaction. Participants will have lifetime access to all educational materials.

         Tuition for the "Ultimate Touring and Booking" class is only $397. To sign up, click here.

         Moran is a working indie recording artist who performs at notable venues such as The Bluebird Cafe, house concerts such as Rouse House, and festivals such Kerrville Folk Festival. Declared "Songwriter of the Year" by the Virginia Sound Achievement awards and WXGI-FM Radio, she has released four solo albums, including her most recent "Something Old, Something New".

         The artist's CDs have garnered her public and commercial radio airplay on stations coast-to-coast and have landed her on the Gavin Americana charts alongside Delbert McClinton and Joan Baez. She also has been featured internationally on radio stations in Australia, Canada and Europe. 

         The Richmond (VA) Times-Dispatch called Moran "nothing short of a [modern-day] Joni Mitchell". Dirty Linen Magazine says Nancy has "a powerful, expressive voice...stunning."

         Moran is a former member of the acclaimed all-female folk troupe, The Four Bitchin' Babes. She also is a frequent keynote speaker at music conferences and events, an NSAI-endorsed music business instructor, a SongU.com online instructor, the former assistant editor of American Songwriter Magazine and the author of several books, audio series, and live or online courses including, “The Songwriter’s Survival Kit,” “The Professional Songwriter’s Code of Conduct,” "Ultimate Booking and Touring", and “Making and Releasing Your Own CD.”

        
        

Nancy Moran's 'Ultimate Booking and Touring' Training Program to Begin June 10

 
         NASHVILLE -- Hit singer/songwriter/educator Nancy Moran will offer her "Ultimate Booking and Touring" online training program starting June 10.  

         Moran's popular, four-week, in-depth program is aimed at performing musicians who want to have more (and better-quality) gigs through expert booking techniques. It’s very detailed and hands-on, and she walks artists through the entire process of professionally booking gigs and tours. Students have reported career-altering results from what they learned in the program.

         "In my five-week-long, in-depth online program, I'm going to walk performing musicians through the entire process of booking gigs and planning tours," said Moran, a former member of the popular group The Bitchin' Babes. "I'm truly going to share everything I can think of to help artists book better gigs and to get them out on the road sharing their music with the world."

         The "Ultimate Booking and Touring" training process will show artists how to

         * Prepare for their first on-the-road gig.

         * Expand into new towns, new venues or even brand new music markets.

         * Land bigger, better and more lucrative gigs (to be able to quit their day jobs).

         *  Overcome the self-booking blues.

         Participants will receive five weeks of step-by-step guidance and in-depth instruction. Video, audio and written lessons will be delivered online and available for Mp3 download onto iPods, Mp3 players and other mobile devices. Artists can also download a host of worksheets, sample scripts, and sample contracts. They will receive personal attention during live group Q&A phone calls. Conference calls will be recorded for 24-hour access. A private group Facebook forum will provide additional insights and student interaction. Participants will have lifetime access to all educational materials.

         Tuition for the "Ultimate Touring and Booking" class is only $397. To sign up, click here.

         Moran is a working indie recording artist who performs at notable venues such as The Bluebird Cafe, house concerts such as Rouse House, and festivals such Kerrville Folk Festival. Declared "Songwriter of the Year" by the Virginia Sound Achievement awards and WXGI-FM Radio, she has released four solo albums, including her most recent "Something Old, Something New".

         The artist's CDs have garnered her public and commercial radio airplay on stations coast-to-coast and have landed her on the Gavin Americana charts alongside Delbert McClinton and Joan Baez. She also has been featured internationally on radio stations in Australia, Canada and Europe. 

         The Richmond (VA) Times-Dispatch called Moran "nothing short of a [modern-day] Joni Mitchell". Dirty Linen Magazine says Nancy has "a powerful, expressive voice...stunning."

         Moran is a former member of the acclaimed all-female folk troupe, The Four Bitchin' Babes. She also is a frequent keynote speaker at music conferences and events, an NSAI-endorsed music business instructor, a SongU.com online instructor, the former assistant editor of American Songwriter Magazine and the author of several books, audio series, and live or online courses including, “The Songwriter’s Survival Kit,” “The Professional Songwriter’s Code of Conduct,” "Ultimate Booking and Touring", and “Making and Releasing Your Own CD.”

        
        

Folk-Americana Artist Mary Beth Cross Releases Techno-Pop-Dance Version of 'Babes in the Wood'

            DENVER (December 2014) – Award-winning folk-Americana artist Mary Beth Cross is exploring new musical territory by releasing a techno-pop-dance version of the late Irish songwriter Noel Brazil's classic song, "Babes in the Wood".

             Cross's new single features re-mixed vocals from an existing recording with the electronic wizardry of Nashville producer/arranger/keyboardist Matt Stanfield. Her smooth soprano vocals are energized with vocal echoes, drifting synthesizers, electronic pulses, and heavy percussion. The atmospheric, rhythmic recording is a sharp contrast to the popular folk version she recorded for her last album, "Beyond Good and Evil". She describes the newer dance version as darker and more moody, creating an atmosphere of mystery and evoking the imagination of the listener -- a full departure that reaches a new audience.

            "You might call my techno-pop recording of 'Babes in the Wood' a creative endeavor," said Cross, who recently received the "2014 Folk-Country CD of the Year Award" from the National Traditional Country Music Association. "There are times when we need to step out of our comfort zone. In this case, I wanted to help listeners experience the deeper subconscious meaning of the battle between Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. The latest version of the song is both beautiful and haunting."

            In the lyric, Brazil paints a striking picture of the battle between good and evil. For Cross, his message is both troubling and reassuring. Predatory wolves are lurking about to sabotage one's dreams. Families fall apart, criminals do harm, and the innocent become prey.

            "There's a Big Bad Wolf lurking inside all of us," the artist continued. "The song brings to light the process of our childhood innocence maturing into adulthood and the choice of becoming the predator or prey, and finding a balance of the two within ourselves. By bringing this to one's consciousness, we can make the choice to allow others to co-exist without a ruthless battle, living in peace and harmony. I believe that the hope for the planet lies in the balance of progress and thoughtful living."

            "Babes in the Wood" is available for download at CD Baby and iTunes. To download the song at iTunes, visit https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/babes-in-the-wood-single/id943666599 .

            Cross is already hard at work on a new "Babes in the Wood" song video. The elaborate production is set for release in February 2015.

            "I plan to release the video just before heading to 'Folk Alliance International'," said Cross, who also is staying busy with live performances. "It will be a visual story of the wolf in nature at Yellowstone and mankind's living in harmony with the Earth, nature, one another and ourselves."

            Cross received national exposure in 2013 with the release of her fourth CD, "Beyond Good and Evil". The project, which was produced by Dave Bechtel, landed a top-five ranking on Airplay Direct. Critics around the world praised the album, with Country Music News International calling it worthy of "Americana CD of the Year". In 2014, she received the "Folk-Country CD of the Year Award" at the Old-Time Music Festival and Convention.

            The CD gives voice to the pioneer spirit of the American frontier with original songs and cover tunes. Cross spent more than a year penning songs reflecting the grit and determination of the adventurers who blazed a trail from the East to the West in search of what they treasured most: beauty, adventure, land, new opportunities for work, and freedom from oppression. Although she didn't write it, her folk-Americana rendition of "Babes in the Wood" remains a favorite.

            The artist has also performed extensively across the U.S. and Canada. Highlights include Folk Alliance International in Kansas City and Toronto; the Black Rose Acoustic Society in Colorado Springs and Black Forest, Colo.; radio station KRFC-FM’s “Live @ Lunch” show at Colorado State University; the “Colorado Performing Arts Jamboree” in Golden, Colo.; Swallow Hill Music in Denver; Metropolitan State College in Denver; the Delta Chelsea Hotel in Toronto; the Denver Coliseum; the Colorado Association of School Nurses in Breckenridge, Colo.; the Fall Out Urban Arts Center in Minneapolis; the "Summer Concert Series" in Arvada, Colo.; and the Musicians United to Protect Bristol Bay Concert in Raleigh, N.C. In 2015, She will visit Paris for a performance at the "European Independent Film Festival".

            When she isn't on the road performing, Cross is busy writing songs for her fifth album. The project, which is set for release in 2015, will reflect on what it feels like to be home. Like her other albums, including "Beyond Good and Evil", her songs will offer "thoughtful, soothing music for thoughtful living".

            “I’ve discovered that people are yearning to find acceptance and solace in a dizzying world of pressure-filled expectations,” Cross added. “People long for an authentic, non-formula approach.

            An accomplished vocalist and tunesmith, Cross moved to Denver in the 1980s to pursue a nursing career. Her music is influenced by the rural farmland and forests of her Wisconsin upbringing and the Rocky Mountains where she currently resides. She carefully chooses acoustic instrumentation to bring her story-driven songs to life. Her music represents a few of the cultures that have contributed to what has become American music today, including the banjos of African immigrants; the pipes, whistles and percussion of Celtic music makers in the British Isles; and the horns, accordions and fiddles of French cafes. Cross's recordings spotlight her soaring, pure-tone soprano vocals.

            "Through the sweet purity of her voice, Mary Beth has captured the underlying haunting story in 'Babes in the Wood'," said artist Dierdre Keohane, partner of the late Irish songwriter Noel Brazil. "I know Noel would be proud of this version."

            Matt Stanfield is known around the world for his beautiful, strange, evolving and hauntingly addictive arrangements featuring forward-thinking piano. He has worked with artists such as Norah Jones, Kelly Clarkson, Natalie Grant, Jonas Brothers, Newsboys, and Chris Thomlin.

            To learn more about Mary Beth Cross or her music, call (303) 842-1587, send an email message to MaryBeth@MaryBethCross.com, or visit www.MaryBethCross.com or www.reverbnation.com/marybethcross.

Amy Allen's Single 'Josie Rae' Climbs Music Row Country Breakout Chart

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

           NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 2014) – Country-blues-Americana artist Amy Allen's new single, "Josie Rae", continues to climb the Music Row Country Breakout Chart, hitting number 101 on April 17.

            Allen also learned that the single is climbing other charts, reaching number 12 on Roots Music Report's Top 50 Pop Country Song Chart (just below Luke Bryan, Big & Rich, and The Band Perry) and number 44 on RMR's Top 50 Country Chart. "Josie Rae" is airing on hundreds of terrestrial and online radio stations around the world.

            "Josie Rae", a mid-tempo country/pop song about motherhood, is being promoted to radio stations across the United States by Nashville-based Bill Wence Promotions. The song is the second single from her "Someday Is Today" CD.

            "Response to 'Josie Rae' and other songs from the CD has been wonderful," said Allen, who will launch her "Blue Ridge Mountains" tour later this year. "My new single expresses a mother's love for a daughter. The song prompts tearful reactions from mothers of all ages everywhere I perform. It's a reflection of what I've experienced raising my children."

            The "Someday Is Today" CD features 11 original songs inspired by real-life experiences. The artist describes her sound as a versatile mix of blues-accented country, pop and Americana with hints of Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Elton John, and Patsy Cline. The online retailer iTunes named the album "New and Noteworthy" shortly after it was released. "Josie Rae" and other selections from the album can be heard at http://www.TheAmyAllen.com and purchased from iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/someday-is-today/id710800873?ign-mpt=uo%3D4.

            In the song "Josie Rae", the singer-songwriter writes: "You make my world such a wonderful place to stay... Thanks for making everyday for me Mother's Day." Allen penned the song for her daughter, drawing inspiration from the unforgettable, life-changing experiences mothers have while raising children.

           

          According to a reviewer for Skope Magazine, the artist has an "irresistible, bubbly personality backed by powerful vocals that evoke real emotion. She sings loud and proud in the song "Josie Rae" about her daughter. When she is describing her [daughter's] smile, you can't help but grin ear-to-ear yourself."

            Produced and recorded in Nashville by Denny Martin Productions, "Someday Is Today" offers heartfelt ballads, mid-tempo crowd pleasers, and rock-accented dance numbers. Allen is joined by an all-star cast of Nashville session musicians, including guitarist Scott Neubert, background vocalists Jaimee Paul and Vickie Carrico, electric guitarist Jason Roller, and keyboardist Steve Peffer. The album, which retails for $15 (USD) and $9.99 (USD) for digital sales at iTunes, is distributed by Wormwood Records.

            "I produce a lot of artists in my studio, and Amy is truly an original," said Denny Martin, who co-wrote her bluesy ballad, "Cryin' Time". "Her natural-given voice is stunning in its clarity and expressiveness. Her sense of humor and joyful personality come through in her writing and her singing. I consider myself extremely fortunate to know her, to write with her, and to produce her. The world is about to hear what I've been hearing for more than two years."

            Allen recently performed to full houses at the South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado, Ark., and the Co-Creators Coffeehouse and The Row in Nashville. Upcoming performances include the Acoustic Coffeehouse in Johnson City, Tenn., on Sept. 19 and the Songwriters Showcase in Fredericksburg, Va., on Sept. 26. The artist is available to perform at concert venues, arts centers, nightclubs, art galleries, hotels, casinos, festivals, assisted living centers, and churches.

            The "Someday Is Today" CD is available through major online retailers such as Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby. The singles "Someday Is Today", "Josie Rae", and "Cryin' Time" are available for download at iTunes. A portion of the proceeds from album and concert ticket sales will benefit local non-profit charities that provide the support and resources people need to discover their dreams.

            "Every note I sing or every note or chord I strum is given with all of the love I have for the song I am performing," the former Warner Music Nashville studio singer said. "My voice is the voice of someone who has been down many different roads, including motherhood."

            Allen is represented in the United States by Bill Wence Promotions, Whiting Publicity and Promotions, and Music City Artist Management, and in Europe by Hemifran.

            For more information about the CD or booking Allen for an upcoming event, call (870) 918-4403, send an email message to info@TheAmyAllen.com, or mail correspondence to Wormwood Records, 736 Bodenhamer Drive, El Dorado, AR 71730. To learn more about the artist, visit www.TheAmyAllen.com. Media and management-related inquiries may be directed to Arts@WhitingPublicity.com or by calling (615) 423-9857.

Photos: Amy Allen Rocks Nashville With Mix of Country, Pop, Americana and Blues

          Blues-accented country/pop/Americana artist Amy Allen took the stage in Nashville on Feb. 7, performing a mix of originals and classic hits with an all-star band. Tony Pratt was on hand to snap unforgettable moments from the concert.

Amy Allen's New Single 'Josie Rae' Celebrates Motherhood

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (January 2014) – Country-pop-Americana artist Amy Allen is releasing the second single from her highly successful new album, "Someday Is Today".

            "Josie Rae", a mid-tempo country/pop song about motherhood, is being promoted to radio stations across the nation by Nashville-based Bill Wence Promotions. The first single (the album's title track) recently hit number 15 on the STS Main Country Chart. Selections from the "Someday Is Today" CD continue to air on country and Americana radio stations around the world.

Amy Allen

            Allen's surprising success follows a long break from the music industry. In the late 1990s, she landed a recording contract and opened for acts such as John Conlee, Patty Loveless, and Brooks & Dunn -- even performing at The White House and the Ryman Auditorium. Health-related issues and the decision to become a mother prompted her to leave Nashville for her hometown of El Dorado, Ark. Her family recently encouraged her to write, sing and record again. She returned to Music City to record the album in 2012 and 2013.

            "Response to 'Josie Rae' and other songs from the CD has been wonderful," said Allen, who will perform a concert in Nashville in early February. "My new single expresses a mother's love for a daughter. The song prompts tearful reactions from mothers of all ages everywhere I perform. It's a reflection of what I've experienced raising my children."

            The "Someday Is Today" CD features 11 original songs inspired by real-life experiences. The artist describes her sound as a versatile mix of blues-accented country, pop and Americana with hints of Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Elton John, and Patsy Cline. The online retailer iTunes named the album "New and Noteworthy" shortly after it was released.

            In the song "Josie Rae", the singer-songwriter writes: "You make my world such a wonderful place to stay... Thanks for making everyday for me Mother's Day." Allen penned the song for her daughter, drawing inspiration from the unforgettable, life-changing experiences mothers have while raising children.

            According to a reviewer for Skope Magazine, the artist has an "irresistible, bubbly personality backed by powerful vocals that evoke real emotion. She sings loud and proud in the song "Josie Rae" about her daughter. When she is describing her [daughter's] smile, you can't help but grin ear-to-ear yourself."

            Produced and recorded in Nashville by Denny Martin Productions, "Someday Is Today" offers heartfelt ballads, mid-tempo crowd pleasers, and rock-accented dance numbers. Allen is joined by an all-star cast of Nashville session musicians, including guitarist Scott Neubert, background vocalists Jaimee Paul and Vickie Carrico, electric guitarist Jason Roller, and keyboardist Steve Peffer. The album, which retails for $15 (USD) and $9.99 (USD) for digital sales at iTunes, is distributed by Wormwood Records.

            "I produce a lot of artists in my studio, and Amy is truly an original," said Denny Martin, who co-wrote her bluesy ballad, "Cryin' Time". "Her natural-given voice is stunning in its clarity and expressiveness. Her sense of humor and joyful personality come through in her writing and her singing. I consider myself extremely fortunate to know her, to write with her, and to produce her. The world is about to hear what I've been hearing for more than two years."

            Allen recently performed to full houses at the South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado, Ark., and The Row in Nashville. Upcoming performances include the Center for Spiritual Living Nashville (Feb. 2 and Feb. 7) and the Songwriters Showcase in Fredericksburg, Va., on Sept. 26. The artist is available to perform at concert venues, arts centers, nightclubs, art galleries, hotels, casinos, festivals, assisted living centers, and churches.

            The "Someday Is Today" CD is available through major online retailers such as Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby. The singles "Someday Is Today", "Josie Rae", and "Cryin' Time" are available for download at iTunes. A portion of the proceeds from album and concert ticket sales will benefit local non-profit charities that provide the support and resources people need to discover their dreams. "Josie Rae" and other selections from the album can be heard at http://www.TheAmyAllen.com and purchased from iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/someday-is-today/id710800873?ign-mpt=uo%3D4 .

            "Every note I sing or every note or chord I strum is given with all of the love I have for the song I am performing," the former Warner Music Nashville studio singer said. "My voice is the voice of someone who has been down many different roads, including motherhood."

            Allen is represented in the United States by Bill Wence Promotions, Whiting Publicity and Promotions, and Music City Artist Management, and in Europe by Hemifran.

            For more information about the CD or booking Allen for an upcoming event, call (870) 918-4403, send an email message to info@TheAmyAllen.com, or mail correspondence to Wormwood Records, 736 Bodenhamer Drive, El Dorado, AR 71730. To learn more about the artist, visit http://www.TheAmyAllen.com . Media and management-related inquiries may be directed to Arts@WhitingPublicity.com or by calling (615) 423-9857.

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Amy Allen Documentary Named Semi-Finalist in 'Artlightenment' Film Competition

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (November 2013) – Country-pop-Americana artist Amy Allen's new documentary video, "Amy Allen's Someday Is Today", has been selected for judging and screening at the "Artlightenment" art and film festival on Nov. 15 (Friday) at Celebrity Centre Nashville (Old Fall School Building), 1130 Eighth Ave. S.

            The video, which is listed as a semi-finalist in the "Film About An Artist" category, tells how a life-changing experience prompted the singer-songwriter and mother to write and sing again. The title track of Allen's new album, "Someday Is Today," has risen to the Top 15 of the STS Main Country Chart and the Top 10 of the STS Indie Country Chart. This is a "dream come true" for Allen, who left the music industry in the 1990s after suffering a mild heart attack. Festival attendees can view Allen's film sometime between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. on Friday. The video can be viewed online at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DkiCeCz73Y.

            "I'm delighted to see my documentary chosen for the prestigious 'Artlightenment' festival," said Allen, who will perform at "Tunesmithing" near Music Row on Dec. 17. "My goal was to help others believe that no matter the circumstances, anything is possible."

            Allen tells her story with heartfelt interviews; scenes from Nashville and her hometown of El Dorado, Ark.; and performances of her songs, "Putting The Music Back In Me" and "Someday Is Today". The video was directed by Frank Green, shot in Nashville by videographer Sean Green, and co-produced by Tracy Fort and Chuck Whiting. The project includes footage from W.O. Smith Community Music School, the Center for Spiritual Living Nashville, Music Row, and the Pedestrian Bridge crossing the Cumberland River. The artist's supporting cast includes Grammy-nominated The WannaBeatles, Nashville producer Denny Martin, and Nashville stylist Joel Green.

             The singer-songwriter was only 20 years old when she was first "discovered" in an Arkansas honky-tonk by a music industry executive. Her rendition of Tina Turner's "Proud Mary" led her to the footsteps of Shoney's on Music Row and eventually a contract with an independent record label. With stars in her eyes, she recorded her first album with some of Nashville's top musicians.

            Then came heartbreak. At age 22, Allen experienced a mild heart attack after going on a strict diet and losing more than 100 pounds. Although the artist was her ideal weight, she was told she must have plastic surgery to keep her contract. She faced a hard decision. She could continue to pursue her dreams under very difficult circumstances or return home to marry and raise a family. As her car climbed the ramp onto Interstate 40, she thought her days as a songwriter and singer in Nashville were over.

            Some years later, while going through a very difficult divorce, Allen heard a 12-year-old girl singing songs from her first album, "Night Vision".

            "It was as simple as that," the singer-songwriter added. "Somehow, every emotion flooded through my body at that very moment, as well as the first realization that my musical story was not over. I wrote 'Putting The Music Back In Me' for that teenager. That experience is what led me back to Nashville."

            Allen has performed at venues ranging from the White House to the Ryman Auditorium. Her new album, "Someday Is Today", features 11 original songs inspired by real-life experiences. The artist describes her sound as a versatile mix of blues-accented country, pop and Americana with hints of Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Elton John, and Patsy Cline. She has opened for country acts such as John Conlee, Patty Loveless, and Brooks & Dunn. The album was named "New and Noteworthy" on the iTunes country music page when it was released in late September.

            Recorded in Nashville, "Someday Is Today" offers heartfelt ballads, mid-tempo crowd pleasers, and rock-accented dance numbers. Allen is joined by an all-star cast of Nashville session musicians, including guitarist Scott Neubert, background vocalists Jaimee Paul and Vickie Carrico, electric guitarist Jason Roller, and keyboardist Steve Peffer. The album, which retails for $15, is distributed by Wormwood Records. Selections from the album are available at iTunes and other online retailers. To learn more Allen and her music, visit http://www.TheAmyAllen.com.

            "Artlightenment" will run from Nov. 14-16 with movie showings, a visual art exhibition, seminars and live music. Attendees will enjoy presentations by landmark photographer Raeanne Rubenstein, award-winning film composer Greg Simms, documentary filmmaker Tom Neff, and the band Sherry Carlisle and the Impalers. To learn more, visit http://www.Artlightenment.com.

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Amy Allen to Perform Song at 'Singing Their Stories Concert' for Soldiers on Nov. 8

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (November 2013) – Country-pop-Americana artist Amy Allen will help honor U.S. Army soldiers when she performs an original song at the "Singing Their Stories Concert" at Austin Peay State University on Nov. 8 (Friday).

            Allen co-wrote the touching tribute, "I'll Win Mine", with former soldier Alicia Khim in September during the "Songwriters for Soldiers Retreat" hosted by Soldiers and Families Embraced and The Beat of Life. The song shares some of the challenging experiences Alicia and her two kids have faced in Fort Campbell, Ky., while waiting for husband/father Sak Khim to return from overseas deployments.

            "Alicia is a remarkable wife, mother and veteran who has chosen to serve her fellow soldiers with a degree in counseling," said Allen, whose latest single, "Someday Is Today", is currently in the top 30 of the STS Main Country Chart. "I was honored to have the opportunity to write with her and to hear her story. I admire both non-profit organizations for bringing us all together."

            Allen praised Alicia and Sak Khim as dedicated parents who are proud to serve their country. Sak has been deployed to Iraq seven times. The couple's children, Campbelle and Rileigh, are named after bases where the soldiers were stationed. Alicia was forced to leave the military prematurely because of early onset Rheumatoid Arthritis. Now a student at APSU, she is helping soldiers recover from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury as an intern for SAFE.

            "Writing the song with Alicia was a wonderful experience," Allen added. "After lunch, we began narrowing down and focusing on the outcome. It was a very emotional process that continued to build throughout the day as Alicia's words became a musical tribute to her life. The tune has gone through many re-writes because we realized we had a great hook and wanted to make it accessible for radio. Everyone needs to hear it."

            Allen will share the stage with more than a dozen hit songwriters who participated in the "Songwriters for Solders" project. The concert, which will be emceed by singer-songwriter David Bradley, will occur from 7-9 p.m. at APSU's Sharon Mabry Concert Hall (Mass Communication Building), 266 Marion St. in Clarksville. Tickets are $15 for the public and $5 for students, military personnel and veterans. Proceeds from the concert will help SAFE provide free counseling and support for the active duty, veterans and their families. To order tickets, visit http://www.singingtheirstories.charityhappenings.org/ .

            "The song 'I'll Win Mine' is special because the retreat was so special," noted Allen, who has performed at venues ranging from the White House to the Ryman Auditorium. "I have always known that music is one of the greatest healers for so many issues we face. Many soldiers shared experiences and horrific instances for the first time. Their songs began their healing process. Many could not share their story with their spouses and loved ones, so they kept them bottled up. That was what was torturing them and causing the PTSD symptoms. I think the songwriters walked away with so much knowledge and gratitude we would have never known or experienced on such a personal level."

            Allen's new album, "Someday Is Today", features 11 original songs inspired by real-life experiences. To learn more about the artist and hear music from the CD, visit http://www.TheAmyAllen.com.

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