Alright this one's not a night-by-night account of the last week or more, but if you read my blog musings and stories of my musical adventures, you know who I'm talking about in that title. Or at least you've seen the name! One of my favorite people and (I'm so proud to say this) best friends in the music business, LAUREN LUCAS, is doing something very special right now. Yes, RIGHT now! She has begun a pre-hearing of her songs on her upcoming CD/EP to be released at the end of the next month. TODAY she put the first of the songs up on her MySpace page. The song is called "RIVERSTONE" and is just out-of-this-world good. I encourage you to go check it out. Of course Lauren's on my Top Friends list at my home page but if you want to go right to it now, go to http://www.myspace.com/laurenlucas. She's got more songs on there, plus a way to preorder the EP itself, or a photo. It's packed full of good stuff. You absolutely will not be sorry if you go to it.  I'd even consider it a personal favor. Until the EP release date, she'll be putting a new song from it on the page every Friday. I'll be checking it out. Won't you?  hahaha.

Thanks y'all.

The "Tell us what you're listening to" function doesn't have a Lauren CD to choose, so I'm just writing in here that I'm listening to Lauren Lucas right now!

It just occured to me the other day how I hadn't blogged my latest musical adventures and notes in over a month. Once my cancer surgery was over with a brief recovery time while family was still in town, I hit it out there to check out my favorites and friends pretty quickly. I may break this into 2 entries, we'll see, ha. But here we go, starting with:

Monday, October 23, 2 shows: 1) Lisa Torres on a round at Lyrix. Lisa is always a bunch of fun to see sing, even on a round like this where she sits and sings and plays. When she can move, she's got moves! Ha. But she has fun with her songs and has quite the voice. Her family is really cool too. I'd met her mom a few shows of hers back and this time I finally introduced myself to her brother, who plays in her band when she needs a backing one. 2) Lauren Lucas, Derek George, & Rob McNelly, 12th & Porter. 3 sets in one here, wow, and all intense! Lauren did her usual awesome job. It was cool to meet a fellow Lauren fan at the next table, singer/songwriter Stephanie Chapman, who I'd seen play her own set the week or so before. Derek and Rob play in Lauren's band when they can, and each do a mean solo set! Derek's written several songs others have cut ("Imagine That", "So Much For Pretending"{in fact he sounds a little like Bryan White when singing it!}) and plays his own good stuff too. Rob is probably one of the baddest-ass slide guitar players I've ever seen. Lauren said I should stay for the rest of this show after she was done and man, am I glad I did! It also the hugest pleasure to be seated next to and then with, after they invited me over, Rachel Proctor and her man Jon Lancaster. They're two of the sweetest and coolest people I've been fortunate enough to get to know. Lisa Torres came from her own round over to this show too and sat with us for awhile too as she's a friend of theirs. Awesome, awesome night! It would tide me over until after surgery very well.

Wed., Nov. 1- Casey Kessel, more, Bluebird Cafe- if I didn't feel on top of the world due to the clean-from-cancer surgery results that I'd gotten the day or so before, then this show put me over the edge! Casey recently won a Nashville Scene "Best of Nashville" poll as best unsigned female artist in town. That is really a deserving title for her (though she deserves to be SIGNED!) . Her ease in singing and playing beautifully just floors me. She did some new stuff that I hadn't heard, a couple from her CD, plus her versions of the recently recorded "Findin' a Good Man" (Danielle Peck) and "Too Damn Young" (Julie Roberts), as she is a cowriter on each. I hadn't heard her versions before, they were kick-ass and beautiful respectively!

Thurs., Nov. 2, 2 shows: 1) Sarah Majors, Corrine Chapman, more, Bluebird Cafe. Sarah is really a favorite writer and person to me. I got there just when her first song, the Trisha Yearwood song "Standing Out in a Crowd", was starting thanks to difficult traffic. Before the night was over she managed to call attention to me to by A) dedicating her song "Happy" to me and prompting me to get up and demonstrate the dance to it at the right time (my friend Robin was a good sport and got up with me to do it) and B) calling attention to my MySpace page here, saying she couldn't believe how many beautiful babes were on it, to which I had to specify they were all friends and many of them wonderful singers! Corrine Chapman was also excellent and funny. Everyone in the round brought up a guest or two. Corrine had Jenny Gill come sing on one, and Sarah had Aly Cutter, a truly great singer herself. SECOND SHOW: Richard Marx, Matt Scannel, Gary Burr & Jim Photoglo, also at the Bluebird. Fortunately I got to stay inside between shows as it was a little cold out. I really looked forward to this one as I'm a huge Richard Marx fan from back in the day! He was great, did a couple new ones plus standards "Endless Summer Nights" and "Right Here Waiting".  Matt is the lead singer of Vertical Horizon and I was pleased to hear him do their hits "You're A  God" and "Everything You Want", plus his version of the their song that Gary Allan did, "Best I Ever Had". Gary Burr did some of his great written hits ("In a Week or Two" still hits me hard from an experience that made it relatable a few years ago) and Jim was good too. He has big songs but the biggie had to be "Fishing in the Dark". After the show Richard was cool, kind and gracious enough to sign my CD cover/sleeves, all 4 that I had, though I only asked for him to do one as I realize he has a life and didn't want to overextend his generosity with his time. He said "I'll sign all of those, I'm just thankful you bought and have them." Class act! To see him on a show like this is yet another reason I'm glad I live near Nashville. He doesn't do this everywhere! Also I got to sit with a good singer/songwriter from Seattle named Jonathan Kingham. Check him out at www.jonathankingham.com sometime.

Fri., Nov. 3- Natalie Stovall, Sam Hill's- Another fun evening of 3 sets of Natalie down in Columbia. Every show has similarities, I mean, there is a basic set list, they do vary from time to time. Tonight I realized she could more than do justice to "Livin' On a Prayer" and "Sweet Child O' Mine". For the latter I had to stand to see, and was right by one of the main speakers. I was asking people "what?" for the rest of the weekend!

Sat., Nov. 4- Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium- the "raison d'etre" there was Julie Roberts, for whom there were 2 or 3 shows last month that I would've gone to if hadn't been for that blasted cancer. But oh well, I got to this performance at least. Wasn't gonna miss it! She was absolutely fantastic in both sound and appearance, doing "First to Never Know" and "Men and Mascara" in a beautiful light blue dress. She was the last one to perform on the show, which was not a real problem thanks to great performers before her. David Ball was on, as were Collin Raye and Josh Turner. Collin's "Love, Me" brought a tear almost, and Josh debuted a startling new short haircut. After the show I met up and talked with friends Robin B., Scott and Brad for a couple minutes and then Tiffany a bit later, waiting for Julie outside the artist entrance. She was out shortly to leave for an interview between shows and it was terrific to get to talk to and see her once again.

Sun., Nov. 5- Danielle Peck, after-road-game-party at the Gibson Theater- this was a last minute deal as I didn't know about this one until 2 days prior (I think it was Melissa who posted a bulletin about it on MySpace, thank you girl!) and I didn't completely decide to go until the day of. It was a quick 3-song acoustic gig, but it was certainly worth it for the incredible Danielle. Her emotion is so evident, I feel it so much in everything she sings. I'll look forward to the next longer show of hers I get to see!

Thurs., Nov. 9- Wendy Newcomer, Franklin Elks Lodge- this was a close-to-homer for me so I really couldn't miss it. My friend Wendy was part of one of 3 writers rounds playing as a benefit for a local school's wrestling team. She got to do 3 songs, all from her newest awesome CD, the self-titled "Wendy Newcomer" that I finally got to pick up that night. Her voice just fills and engulfs a room, which if you look at her, it's surprising because she's relatively small! But she's got the power, and an easy delivery too.

Fri., Nov. 10- Heather Morgan, Caffeine. This was a weird night because I initially thought Heather, a friend I've known for a couple years now, was part of a round at Douglas Corner. Then our friend Angelique let me know Heather was part of this show and didn't anything about the other show when I said "hey, wait!" So I came to this show when it started at 7:00. There was about 5 artists on it including Heather. Turns out Heather WAS part of the Douglas Corner round and this one, playing DC first, and then Caffeine as the last of this show. Now if I'd known that, I would've been a Heather groupie and seen her on both shows. Not a lot of harm done though, as I was exposed to the talents of Amy Courts and Faith Gilmore, among others, before Heather arrived and played. Angelique, who'd helped put the whole thing together, appreciated my being there, and Heather was well worth the wait. It had been a bit since the last time seeing her, and I'd missed her a lot! Unfortunately it ended too late for me to get to any part of my friend Tracey Janelle's gig in Franklin that I hoped to stop at on the way home.

Sat., Nov. 11- Gary Nicholson birthday show, Douglas Corner. Now I like Gary all well and good, but it was the extra talent and guests that screamed to me to be at this show. The two favorites were Jessi Alexander and Lauren Lucas. They were both on the last of his three rounds. There were some great writers on before them too, like John Scott Sherril, Kent Blazy, Jonell Mosser, and more. It was good gig and terrific to see Jessi and Lauren, all be it briefly. Both were sweet to chat with quickly after too. I also enjoyed seeing my friends Emily, Shawna and Jessie there.

Mon., Nov. 13- 2 shows- 1) Corrine Chapman, McGuiness Pub- after seeing Corrine at the Bluebird that short time ago mentioned plus for part of a show at McGuiness with her band a couple months back, I wanted to see a full show by her, and this was a good opportunity. Corrine does a really good job! All original material and sung angelically. It was great to see Jenny Gill singing background for her, and a friend to both of us, great writer/singer Jamie Floyd there to cheer Corrine on. Once this show ended I headed over for show 2) Chalee Tennison, Lyrix. This one was a long time coming! It was great too that Chalee actually had her husband Mark home off the road with Trace Adkins to play guitar for her. She did a couple of album tracks and newer songs, 5 total. It was really fun to catch up with them and many of the other fans and friends there who have followed Chalee since the get-go. My buddy Rob came all the way from Indiana for Chalee. Rock on! Overall, a great night!

Wed., Nov. 15- Queensryche, Ryman Auditorium- Yes, among all of these country gigs and little songwriter shows, whenever one of my old favorite rock or metal bands comes to town, you know I've got to be there! This was a really special night and tour for Queensryche too. They were performing both of the Operation: Mindcrime albums in their entirity, with stage actors and props where necessary. While the instrumentalists play, Geoff Tate takes on the lead parts in what he is singing, and is incredibly dramatic. Musical theater on Broadway is beckoning this guy if Queensryche ever breaks up. They did the first "Mindcrime" (which they also did on last year's tour so I knew what to expect), took a break, and came back with the second one. Because that's new it's gotten mixed reviews, from what I've read. I thought it was tremendous and fit right along to the first one. Obviously I didn't know the songs as well. I mean, one CD's been out and repeatedly listened to for almost 20 years, the other 1 year. But I enjoyed it a lot. And again, Geoff amazed me! They did come back for an encore, which I didn't really expect, but it was above awesome to hear "Empire" and "Jet City Woman". The crowd was just berserk for it, which I could tell really took Geoff aback. It took me aback and I was amonng those in the audiences, screaming the chorus' at the top of my lungs! LOL. At least he, along with guitarists Michael Wilton and Mike Stone and drummer Scott Rockenfeld, reacted. No disrespect to bassist Eddie Jackson, but I don't think I've ever seen anyone look more bored, pissed and miserable playing on stage. Maybe it's just his persona on stage or it's been a long tour and he's sick of the same material, I don't know. But I say cheer up Eddie, you're in Queensryche, it's 2006 and you're still able to tour and blow the roof off places like this! Tremendous show and a real treat provided by the guys here.

Thurs., Nov. 16- 2 shows, 3 performers- 1) Janine LeClair and more followed by Jamie Floyd and more, Lyrix. Janine started on time to the few of us in Lyrix at her scheduled time, and thankfully more came as her round went on. Janine is really a terrific singer with a beautiful voice and broad range to it. I'm happy I came across her several months ago and I always keep track of where I can see her next. Jamie Floyd played on a round a little bit later, running late thanks to previous rounds, but she was great! I'll catch her and her soulfulness whenever I can. Truly a sweetheart too! 2) Natalie Stovall, Jack Daniels Saloon. I got there a little late thanks to the previous things running late (and I would never walk out on Jamie's round without saying goodbye), but Natalie certainly had the place rocking by the time I arrived. I guess it was a teachers' convention at the Opryland Hotel and these people were just insane! I was lucky to get spots to stand and then sit where I could see at all. But it was fun. Natalie's got this little dance to do in the instrumental break of "Play that Funky Music" that I finally got up and did for her!

Fri., Nov. 17, 2 shows- 1) Anna Wilson, Sean O'Bryan Smith and Rich Eckhardt, Gibson Theatre- Talk about variety in shows. From rock and country and party shows to a cool jazz and instrumental show like this. That's the way I love to do it! I was really honored too as while the first acts were on prior to those three, upon my going to say hi to Anna she welcomed me to sit with her, her husband Monty Powell and her manager Lisa. Monty plays in Anna's band as well so Lisa and I moved a little closer to the stage with Anna's CD's in tow for her set. If you appreciate good jazz and a really, astounding, unique voice, Anna's the one! I cannot say enough great things about it. Lisa and I sold most of the CD's we had afterward too. Sean and Rich rounded out the show, sharing the same band and playing several instrumentals. The first few songs were guitar-based and led by Rich, and the last few by Sean on the bass. Both are virtuosos on their instruments, in my book at least. That type of talent is just awesome to see. Upon the show's end after saying goodbye to Anna and Monty, I headed back home. Past home actually, for the 3rd set of the show 2 of the night, Natalie Stovall at Sam Hill's. It was different in that it was "unplugged", with the drummer of the band, James, being out sick. It was really cool to see as a change though. The friends I typically hang with at Natalie's shows at Sam Hill's, Debbie and Kenny, were out of town, so I sat with Natalie's parents who I'd met several shows of hers ago. I also bought, on its 2nd night of availability, the Natalie Stovall hoodie!

Sat., Nov. 18- Suzanne Karr, Edgehill Studios- yes, just one single show and entertainer tonight, but a great one at that. Suzanne is probably one of the funnier people on a stage, saying whatever comes to mind between songs, maybe going off on a tangent or two sometimes. But it's all good and just an extension of her personality. She really can write and sing a good song too! She also did a tremendous job of Don Henley's "The Heart of the Matter" too. My friend Robin and I, both big Suzanne fans and supporters, really enjoyed this one! And might I add, Edgehill Studios makes one hell of a brownie. Robin and I each got one. Suzanne commented on how good they looked so Robin saved her a bite for after the show. Suzanne proceeded to clean the crumbs off of each our plates she enjoyed the one bite so much. Yet another indication of the hilarious personality that belongs to Ms. Suzanne Karr.

Sun., Nov. 19- Rachel Proctor and Emily West, The Rutledge- the Rutledge recently opened I think, having once been Blue Sky Court or something like that. It was a rathole of a venue before, and now is in quite a bit better shape. I got there early to grab a table without many people there at first. It was great to run into friend Lauren Lucas, who's fiance Nick was drumming for Rachel. That dude drums for more people than I can count, he's amazing! Anyway, the show got started 35 minutes late but at least more people were there by then. Rachel played first and was stupendous (I'm trying to vary up some adjectives here, how about that!). I adore her voice and respect her so much. She did almost all newer material, much of which is on a new EP of hers, including one called Better Off Now, on which she brought up its writer, Will Hoge, to sing with her, and my favorite, another called The Noise. She also did one her hits, Me and Emily, the 2nd of verse of which slipped her mind, which I thought was cute! Speaking of Emily's, Emily West rounded out the night and did a great job. I've seen her do two shows now and she's never been anything but impressive. I had the room at my table so Rachel and her man John sat with me for quite a bit of Emily's set. Good company, and a great show!

Tues., Nov. 21- 2 shows, 3 performers again- 1) Amy Courts and more and Janine LeClair and more, both at Lyrix. Amy was among those I'd seen at Caffeine a couple weeks or so ago so I didn't mind seeing her play again. I would've like it if they'd gotten there on time, as it caused everyone else to start and run late, but that's heresay. Amy did a good job. I was so happy to be seeing Janine one last time for the year (she's going back to home country Australia for the holidays through January). The poor woman though had an awful cold. It's awkward giving/getting one of those hugs where you try to stay as far away from someone as possible, LOL. But she made it through her round just fine. 2nd show) Natalie Stovall at Jack Daniels Saloon. Not a ton of people staying at the Opryland Hotel so there were not a ton in the place on this night. I actually got a bar seat close to the stage which is generally unheard of. Natalie did her usual reportoire of covers with an original sprinkled in and was in good form. I love singing along with those originals now too! Ha. A few more people got there by the 2nd set and several came up front and danced, well, okay, more like made idiots of themselves. Actually it was just a couple of them. The rest of the bunch of dancers were fine and just having fun.

Wed., Nov. 22- 2 shows- 1) Stephanie Corbin, Tootsie's- actually it was probably the last 30 minutes of her 4-hour slot there that night which I got to see. I was downtown anyway for the show to be mentioned next, and much as I don't care for the honky-tonk dives of lower Broadway, I'd told Stephanie recently that I'd catch her sing again somewhere soon, so this fit the bill. She can sing a cover well, but I'll be anxious to catch her do a show of originals as she did the first time I saw her at the French Quarter. It was fun to see her again. 2) Tracey Janelle, Whiskey Island- I hadn't seen my good friend Tracey sing in a few months so I had to go this gig, no question about it. She and the band did covers, with her doing most of the vocals. The biggest problem was the sound for this show. I mean, I'm not a soundman, but I just don't see how hard it can be to identify the source of feedback, or mix a vocalist's voice to be higher than the band so you can hear the vocalist. By the second set the sound guy got it a lot better. Actually I almost didn't make it through that, as between working earlier, running around shopping before going downtown, and then running around downtown, I was beat at this show. But I persevered as I didn't want to leave a good friend's show. I'd do the same again for Ms. Tracey Janelle too, as she really is a grade A singer and person!

It's funny, did you see the open dates in that list of shows? With almost all of them, there was something I wanted to be at if it hadn't been for doctor's appointments, surgery rest or working late. Julie Roberts has my apologies for missing some of her shows, plus Little Big Town and Taylor Swift at the Opry. I truly wanted to be there, sorry y'all!

I think that might just about do it for this one, 2.5 hours into the writing. And it all went in one entry! Ha. It's the most I can do for my friends that I go to see and the ones who want to hear about it. It's also a joy for me recount and remember. There's a lot on the schedule coming up before the Christmas holiday, so I'll be telling you about it a few (or several) shows at a time. 'Til then, peace, I'm out.

So I was visiting tons of musical friends myspace pages tonight, jotting down upcoming gig dates to try to make it to, and I figured what the heck, I'd update the blog here on the recent shows, since the last time that is. A little over 2 weeks worth. Here we go:

Thursday, October 5: Two shows: 1) Kelly Archer, French Quarter Cafe. A little acoustic show by my girl Kelly here. I say it every time that this woman is so, so good, in a band or acoustic setting. She's gotten so comfortable and confident too, I love it! I was glad to get to this one as the crowd was a bit sparse but those of us there got a great 30 minute set. 2) Natalie Stovall, Jack Daniels Saloon, "The Jack" as I call it. Nights don't get much better when I can see two of my absolute favorites in the same night. Natalie did her typical great job too. Her voice was in tip-top shape to hit every note she tried and she was up there just having a ball too. I swear that is one of the most fun things about her and her shows, that is her expressiveness when singing. Her fun-loving spirit just illuminates from her! I was arriving just a couple minutes late. As I approached the place, hearing her voice on show-opener "Turn It Up" I just smiled instantly, thinking "that's my Natalie in there" and knowing I was going to be in for a great to what had already started out as a great musical night!

Fri., Oct. 6, Julie Roberts, Fergie's, Lebanon KY. What may be my last Julie roadtrip of the year. This was a fun gig! I say to say first though that this place was in the middle of freakin' nowhere! I'm serious, after getting off I-65 there were so many winding country and even mountain roads, one that was only one lane. Thank God no one came the other direction, I don't know what would've happened! The even bigger miracle is I found my way back out the same way after the show in the middle of the night when it was dark! Anyway I got there a little early and hung out with some fellow fan club members Robin B., Scott, Johnie, Chris, his dad, saw some of the band members and even Julie's mama who'd come up. Us fan club members had dinner for awhile before the show, taking forever due to the service but we had time to kill. I thought the show started at 6:30, meaning an opener, then Jake Owens, then Julie. I figured I'd be on the road home by 10:30. It didn't start until after 8:00 and Julie was not on stage until after 11 pm. She was awesome once she got up there though. She had a lot of fun with this audience too, doing the wide array of songs from each of her CDs plus a few covers. I've been loving the newer material so much! I left a bit after the show ended, missing out saying goodbye to her, but I'd had a meet/greet earlier with the fan club so that was cool. It's always awesome to talk to and then see Julie play live. She couldn't have been sweeter or more supportive either as I was able to tell her of my current medical concern with skin cancer either. God bless Julie Roberts!

Sat., Oct. 7. This was not a concert night but it was musical nonetheless. I saw the musical "Pump Boys & Dinettes", which was costarring Heather Kinley and Deborah Allen. It was a ton of fun! I'd never seen or really pictured Heather to be in something like that, it's a totally new way of seeing someone as an entertainer and performer. Now Deborah I could've pictured doing it, she's got that kind of character in her standard shows. They did great, the guys in the show did fine too. It was overall fun. I'll never forget Heather and Deborah for "acosting" me in the audience at the beginning of the second act either after the intermission. It was terrific to see them, plus Jennifer Kinley and Heather and Jenn's parents in the audience too. Great to talk to them all afterward too. My friend Robin S. and I had a good time at this thing!

Wed., Oct. 11: THREE shows: 1) Candy Coburn, 12th & Porter: this was wild. The first show of the night was SUPPOSED TO BE Katrina Elam at this same location, 12th & Porter, starting at 6 pm, a showcase as it was listed. I got there and there were 4 other people there (friends Jeff, Joe, Joann, plus someone else). There wasn't a trace of Katrina, her band, no one. And none of the employees knew anything either, they were as surprised as we were that Katrina was a no show. This is the 2nd time in 3 months I've tried to see her at a gig that she's inexplicably not shown up at, and that's a little disconcerting. I like her music a lot and loved seeing her sing the one song she did as a guest on a writer's round during Tin Pan South. She was as sweet as anything in chatting after that show. I just hope this not-showing thing now doesn't continue. I really want to hear some of her new music with a CD coming out soon! Anyway, I didn't even realize, but my friend Jeff told me that Candy Coburn was on that night at 7:30. I had already planned my next shows for the night but thought I could squeeze seeing Candy's gig in before anything else. I'm sure glad I did because she rocked the house! She just brings a really high energy and she draws it from her band too. It was fun meeting some of the band before the show as Jeff knew them. Her fiddle player, Andrea, is very nice and equally talented. So then I was on to show 2) Jamie Floyd, Teri Jo Box, Ben Caver at Lyrix. I zipped into this one in a nick of time as Jamie was beginning her first song. She continues to impress me more and more as a singer and writer the more I hear. I said bye to her afterward real quick and was off to the final gig of the night. It was wierd leaving though, as a great friend, Suzanne Karr, was playing later in the night. She'd already arrived too so she had to see me leave though before she played. I explained to her that before I knew of her playing there I'd already made plans to be elsewhere though, and she understood. I'll catch you again another time Suzanne, I promise! And I want to say too that Jamie had some really kind words for me too after reading my last blog about my cancer, remembered it, and then said what she said to me there. I love ya for that, Jamie, thank you! Finally there was show #3) The Wrights, The Station Inn. I wanted to see this gig so bad as I love shows at the Station Inn and I've really grown fond of Shannon and Adam Wright as musicians and people. It's great to be appreciated right back. I'd told them thru Myspace here that I'd be there, I know they check it themselves, and I'd have felt miserable if I'd missed it. It was a really good long show from them too, 2 45-50 minute sets, all different stuff from their sole CD plus a lot of new material. They harmonize well, they play well. Adam is really a hell of a lead guitar player, I'm not sure if he realizes how good he is! Both were great to catch up with after the show. Shannon and I began talking music and she recommended this great newer CD by Solomon Burke to me to get. If you read this Shannon, I got it, and you were right! Thanks for the rec. That wrapped up that great three-show night. No Katrina, but Candy instead unexpectedly, then my timing to getting to see both Jamie's and the Wright's shows couldn't have been much better!

Sat., Oct. 14, Grand Ole Opry. My Mom and my sister Karin were in town on this weekend and we always enjoy going to the Opry, almost no matter who's on. This time though had one of Karin's favorites, Vince Gill. It was so cool too because he got an hour of the show, the TV portion actually, to do songs from his new CD set "These Days", and he had guests who were on the CDs come out and perform with him. People like Rodney Crowell, his daughter Jenny, Guy Clark and Patty Loveless. We loved it! If that was any indication, this new CD set has to be awesome! I wouldn't know for sure yet because stores have sold OUT of it! That's a good sign. The whole Opry show was great. Patty even got to come back out later in the show for a couple of her own tunes.

Tues., Oct. 17: Lauren Lucas, 12th & Porter, part of Billy Block's Western Beat show. It had been a few months since I'd gotten to see Lauren play and I didn't realized I missed her so much until then. I got there to see a couple people play before she did, a guy name Brandon Ryder and then a gal named Stephanie Chapman. Both very good! Lauren took the stage a little late, as Western Beat tends to run, and just did an outstanding job! She closed with an acoustic cover that just blew me away too. It was fun seeing friends there too like Shanna (who sings with her of course) and John, plus Christina Reckard earlier in the night and Lisa Torres later. Thank you to Lauren for helping make this October 17, which is, for my own reasons, always a very difficult evening for me, much better. I didn't help that I also had to miss Julie Roberts on the Tuesday Night Opry because I had to work late, but ah well, at least Lauren played late enough for me to get to.

Wed., Oct. 18, Philip & Amber White, Lyrix. Strange evening but turned out well! Philip had to start the show on his own as Amber was caught in traffic and on her way from a different venue. But she got there shortly and it was a good 45 minutes or so of great songs one or both of them have written, with each contributing in their own way. Amber does a great job singing Philip's "I'm a Survivor", the Reba song! And I can't get her sound effects provided during his "Billy's Got His Beer Goggles On" out of my head! I didn't necessarily know I would be able to go to this one until after work that day, but I'm glad I did.

Thurs., Oct. 19, Aerosmith & Motley Crue, Starwood Ampitheater: the 3rd of a trilogy of great double-bills at Starwood this season (Poison/Cinderella and Def Leppard/Journey being the others). This show absolutely rocked! I was driving there and thinking "John, do you realize what a great rocking night this is going to be?!". I actually arrived a smidgen late thanks to the blasted traffic getting into the place. It was maybe 3 songs into the Crue, I was ticked, but I got over it quickly. They were something else, as always. Actually it wasn't quite as "tight" as last time, almost like they had to keep getting things set up and on track. But the music rocked. Vince, Nikki, Tommy, Mick, I know it won't go on forever but as long as it can, I'll be there for these guys. Aerosmith was awesome too! Their set was actually much more concentrated on their old music plus newer blusier songs. They jammed a ton! I can count on one hand how many of their hit 80s and 90s songs they did: two ("Cryin'" and "Eat The Rich"). They really threw in some stuff I didn't expect, but it was totally cool and rocking nevertheless. Same story as the Crue. As long as they keep coming back, I'm there! One more note: this was perhaps the coldest concert I've ever been too, with the cold fall air in general and then the wind blowing this steady little mist of rain in. I was pretty wet! I bought an Aerosmith zip-up hoodie in part because it was a better deal than a T-shirt and in part to keep me warmer!

Fri., Oct. 20- Natalie Stovall, Sam Hill's. All Natalie, all night. No running in late after other gigs, she was it, down in Columbia where I first saw her too. I actually made it through all 3 sets too despite the lack of much sleep the night before. This night featured Natalie in all her glory doing a few songs I'd never seen her do (her own "Angel" plus the "Crazy" medley), a drunken dancer falling on the guitar and fiddle rigs, all kinds of stuff. She said it best, "you never know what's going to happen at a Sam Hill's gig". It was fun catching up with her, the band, her parents and hanging with my friends Debbie and Kenny. Columbia is definitely a different gig than Nashville but one things the same: the pure unabashed talent of Miss Natalie Stovall!

That takes us to today where I saw no music. It was Game 1 of the World Series for my Detroit Tigers! Now they lost this game 7-2, but I have faith they'll be back and this will be a heck of a series, even if we lose. I also saw the movie "The Guardian" earlier today. Good stuff! And did I mention I can't find this Vince Gill CD in stores, the ones I've been too have all sold out? Like I said, that's a good thing for Vinnie.

Finally, due to the outpouring of good words and support I got last time when advising of my diagnosis of skin cancer, I do just want to give a quick update as a number of people said they wanted to know. I have surgery this Thursday, Oct. 26, to remove an area of tissue on my arm around where the initial excision was taken that produced the diagnosis. They will also be able to tell me if anything spread beyond that spot. I feel confident that it did not but it will still feel good to find out and be sure it's gone from the spot where it was. I'm a little nervous, yeah, as I've never been on an operating table for anything before, plus, yeah, I want to hear "John, it's gone, there's no more skin cancer on/in you at all" but what if they can't say that, despite my high hopes and the great thoughts from those who are doing such for me? I'll cross that bridge and continue fighting it with all my might, that's what if! Anyway, I'll have my mom and sister back in town to help me out and lend support. It's all going down then, so let's do it, and keep living life as I know and love it after that! So for those who wished to know, that's what's up, and thank you again for the kind thoughts, in some cases across many miles.

If you made it, thanks for reading all that! 'Til next time and further musical adventure stories/descriptions/PR for my friends and favorites, Peace Out...

A night home, wow! That's been a rare thing lately. But here I am on the eve of a road trip to a Julie Roberts show in Knoxville TN followed by a day at Dollywood. I was out and up late the last 2 nights so I needed tonight to catch up on things and rest. So why not catch up here? Since the last musical event, here we go!:

Tuesday, September 12, 2 shows: 1) Kelly Archer, 12th & Porter. This was awesome! A showcase show for my friend Kelly and she really kicked into high gear. First I was worried there would be no one there as I got there about 20 minutes before start time and the crowd was sparse. But by the time she started, it was filling up. Her performance was top notch and I sure hope SOMEONE was there who can sign her up and take her to the top. Excellent to see some good friends there like great singer/songwriters Melissa Cusick, Casey Kessel, Angie Broberg, Danielle Peck (the one performing Kelly's "Sucks to be You" across the land), Jo Dee Messina (the woman performing Kelly's "Biker Chick" around the nation). I also was delighted to run into my friend Natalie Tidwell who was singing background for the guy leading off Billy Block's Western Beat, Jason Hoffman. I stuck around to see him (couldn't leave knowing Natalie would be on the stage, ha!) and he was good! 2) Jamie Floyd, Lyrix. While I was up in Nashville, I had to stop in and see Jamie's set before heading home. Jamie played in a round and did a terrific job. It's impossible to compare her to anyone, her voice is so unique!

Thurs., Sept. 14, 2 shows: 1) the Elle Revue, Gibson Showcase. The aforementioned Natalie Tidwell is one of the feature performances on this, as its described, Vegas meets Nashville show. I've seen it before and definitely wanted to again. Natalie was kind enough to make me feel like a VIP with a ticket at the door and as sheer luck would have it the table right in front of the stage was open! The ladies who sing on the show are all 100% certifiably terrific! I'm partial to Natalie of course, ha! It's well put together and a great mix of oldies, pop, R&B, soul and country. It's choreographed, costumed, everything really. From what Natalie said it's getting its own place soon and this was the last show for a bit, so I'm glad I caught it. So while I was there at the Gibson Showcase at Opry Mills, I slid on over to the Opryland Hotel, Jack Daniels Saloon, and caught show #2 for the evening, a couple of sets from another wonderful friend named Natalie, Natalie Stovall. Terrific job and awesome to see her! The combination of the voice, charisma, talent, fun, it's just something to take in. I don't see how a person could go into a place where she is playing and ignore her, she commands the attention so much. I was very proud to have the cash on me to get my "Team Stovall" shirt finally. I really feel like a part of it and if there's anything I can do to help that "Team", I'm all over it!

Fri., Sept. 15, Suzanne Karr, French Quarter Cafe. This was a fun one taken in with my friend Robin S.  Suzanne's just a free spirit up on stage, not adverse to shaking things up and having fun with her band up there. She writes a hell of a song that can get stuck in your head very easily! Another person that it's great to know!  In getting to this show early I also got to check out a set by Stephanie Corbin. I'd seen her around but never heard her sing. Great job by Ms. Corbin!

Sat., Sept. 16, 2 shows. 1) Natalie Stovall, Wildhorse Saloon. My first gig as a shirt-wearing (as opposed to card-carrying) member of "Team Stovall". I was there ALL afternoon from 12:30-4:30 for my good friend. It was real easy to be. In three sets my girl never repeated a song! It's funny seeing her go from a TINY stage at the Jack on one night to the huge Wildhorse stage two days later. I'm SO excited for Natalie and the success I feel she's going to have. Her originals on her own CD are truly that, original, and wonderfully crafted. And I almost lose to her cover on there of "Maybe I'm Amazed", it's so emotional!  And from these sets, she can cover anything too! I said it before, I'm amazed that I've really only "known" her and been face-to-face friends for not quite 2 months. I feel like we've known each for YEARS!  And I feel lucky to know her now.  I know I've seen a lot of shows and known a lot of people for years now, but right now I wonder what in the world was life like before Natalie Stovall entered my musical world and on top of that became my friend?  It's hard to remember and I don't want to know now!  2) The Kinleys, Sarah Majors, Deborah Allen, Joyce's Coffee & Deli Shop. This was out in Peagram, TN, a benefit for the local park. I go from one recently-made friend in Natalie to friends I've really known for years, Heather and Jennifer Kinley. With all due respect to Vince Gill, I don't of anyone who does more shows of a charitable nature than the Kinleys. They're two of the most special women I've ever met and I'm blown away with the love I feel right back from them. To myself and other fans who've been and stuck around with them, their love and appreciation is almost immeasurable. I honestly feel like an honorary brother to the Kinley family. Anyway, this was just terrific from the job they did to what Sarah and Deborah did as part of the round played. Sarah's truly a terrific lyricist and writer, and becoming a good friend too, and Deb, she was like on a different planet on this show! She was just letting the vocals fly, and in a good way. She never came up flat. It was great to be there to support this cause. My company ruled too, as my friend Robin S. carpooled with me after a nice dinner downtown and my friends Cynthia and Cherie joined in on the fun at the show too. What a DAY! Couldn't have this type of day anywhere else!

Tues., Sept. 19: I did it again! 3 shows! All terrific too! 1) Natasha Borzilova, 3rd & Lindsley. Natasha is really good singer and songwriter, and one of the former lead singers of Bering Strait (I actually didn't realize BS was really history now until Natasha said it at this show, I just thought they were on a hiatus). She can bring it on a fast song and really pack some soul into a ballad. Her effort is so genuine too, when you're there you really WANT to watch the show! 2) Natalie Howard and Janine LeClair (separate acoustic sets), Caffeine. This was Janine's just-about monthly Aussie Spotlight show. I first saw this last month, just going to see Nattie, and I was hooked. Janine's the perfect hostess in that she's such a fan of those who are on the show. She floats around and greets the folks she knows and really appreciates everyone being there. First, seeing Nattie's set was really great! I really love her voice and songs. She's got an essence too that just screams to you to love her up there too, ha. Janine was really something later on too. Fun show! Saw Mr. Gunnar Nelson in the audience too! And finally, show 3) Lisa Torres, The Blue Bar and Tack Room. I didn't hear about this show until earlier in the day, but if Lisa's doing something and I CAN be there, I will be, and this case she was not far up the road after the previous show ended. Lisa's just got IT, from an incredible stage presence to a terrific voice. She's also got some loud friends! LOL. One kept yelling "TOR-RES!" at times through the set and one time got Lisa to just start cracking up mid-line of the song. It was great seeing my friend Karleen Watt there too. And to see a great singer/songwriter named Shannon Mock play before Lisa. If you know Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats", then you know Shannon! What a conclusion to a great night of music!

Wed., Sept. 20. Elizabeth Cook, The Station Inn. This was part of night #1 of showcases everywhere for the American Music Awards and week. There were 5 people playing so the sets weren't long. Elizabeth's was about 45 minutes. That was still fine with me because she was awesome! I'm glad I got there early to get a seat too, as a) I did get a seat and b) I got to see most of a set by this little Irish guy named Kieran Goss. I'd never heard of him, but he was cool! Elizabeth brought it all though and I loved seeing her again. I'll see her any time I can! It was great running into my friend Kylie Harris there too and seeing Chely Wright make a quick run in and out of the place. Rodney Crowell was in the house too.

That takes it today where I stayed home. There's some good stuff coming up too that I can't wait to report on. The Alice Cooper marathon (his show is in 9 days) has begun, and there's plenty of stuff between now and then. To get the best taken care of first, it'll be Julie Roberts tomorrow night. You'll read more about that one, believe me!

Figured I'd write about September's events so far before things spiraled out of control. It's been relatively busy! Starting off with:

Friday, September 1, Hometown News and Sarah Majors, Puckett's Grocery in Leipers Fork, TN - yes another trip out to the grocery/deli/little concert venue out in the charming Leipers Fork. I led friends Cynthia and Cherie out in the dark to get to this one, thank God I didn't get us all lost. Ironically I was the one who drove right past the place while they stopped, LOL... Anyway the show was a lot of fun. The dudes of Hometown News, my buds, were cool as always. They even brought guests like Kevin Sharp and Karen Keeley up to sing a song or two. And Sarah Majors is just one major talent in the craft of songwriting. I think I'm getting to know her TOO well though. She knows I know the "H-A-P-P-Y" dance and she made Cynth and I get up and do it in front of everyone when it came during that song of hers. She didn't have to prod too hard, admittedly. Overall a fun night with friends on stage and in audience.

Sat., Sept. 2, Anna Owens, French Quarter Cafe - I'm glad I went to this for the lovely Anna who I'm growing to like more and more each time I see her and hear her sing. What the hell am I saying, I loved her the 1st time I saw her! LOL. When the show was supposed to start at 6 pm, there were a whole 3 of us sitting up front to see her. Waiting until 6:30 allowed a few more people to arrive. This was a little acoustic round and Anna even let her friend K sing a few songs. I missed Anna's fiddling as she'd broken a string that couldn't be replaced before the show, but her voice was just excellent. Way to be Anna!  This was the only show tonight though in retrospect there should have been another.  My friend Tracey Janelle was playing out at Bud's Place in Columbia. After I'd gone all the way up to Anna's show in Nashville and come back home, I felt tired out and backed out of then driving out to the middle of nowhere that Bud's Place is located. Not that I'd told T.J. I was coming or anything, but seeing as right now I'm not sure when her next gig is at which I'll be able to hear her kick a$$ again, I should've sucked it up and gotten my a$$ out to see her gig. Sorry about that Tracey, I'll make it up to ya!

Mon., Sept. 4 - Lisa Torres, Karleen Watt and later Angie Broberg, Lyrix. I was lucky enough to have Lisa and Karleen on the same set and then took in some more music at Lyrix waiting for Angie's round about an hour later. I didn't even realize she was going to be there when I went, it was just to see Lisa and Karleen. Lisa is, well, Lisa. The most important discovery I made this time about her is she can play with a round of people sitting around on chairs and do it beautifully. Previous performances were either with a band or just her on the stage acoustically, either way with her being able to be up and moving or dancing as she does so well. But this showed me, not that I doubted it, but that she could do it all. And man did she sound great! Karleen's an old friend who actually I met in a class a few years at MTSU. She's come a long way and I'm proud of her! And as I said, seeing Angie a little later on was a total bonus. I said it the last time I saw her and I'll say it again, man can she write a deep, beautiful song! Killer pipes too, what a voice!

Tues., Sept. 5, 2 shows: 1) Natalie Stovall, 12th & Porter. My friend Natalie was on Billy Block's Western Beat Show and there was not a chance in this world I was going to miss it! She really did a bang-up job too. I was proud to be part of her crowd from Columbia (the other part being her parents) to be there to support her. I think the most killer thing of all was being able to hear all original songs! Due to the nature of the shows and audiences she'd done mostly covers at previous shows I've seen. I'd heard all of the originals on her CD but it was really terrific to see her bring some of them to life on the stage now. 2) Alecia Nugent, Station Inn - I didn't know about this gig until about 2 days before it. Alecia delivered as she always does, a beautiful blend of bluegrass which a pinch of traditional country. I've previously said that I call her the next queen of bluegrass and I totally stand by that. She's got that classic voice for it, an absolutely great band that totally compliments her, and an appreciation for the tradition that is involved in the genre. I remembered to take my copy of her 2nd CD with me and she was more than happy to sign it for me.

Fri., Sept. 8 - Grand Ole Opry. It was another Julie Roberts performance night there for me! She was tremendous doing "First to Never Know" and "Men and Mascara". Gots to love seeing my Julie up there on the big stage! The rest of the show was good too, including Buddy Jewell and Andy Griggs, plus some of my favorite Opry stars like John Conlee and Connie Smith. Little Jimmy was in rare form too with his same ol' jokes, plus Bill Anderson doing his version of "Whiskey Lullabye". It was a great night there at a place I feel so at home, the Opry, and nothing beats seeing Julie!

Sat. Sept. 9 - Amy Chappell, Wildhorse Saloon - this was an odd one in that I very much felt like being out, even if not for long, just a bit, after staying home in the afternoon to watch my hometown Detroit Shock on TV win the WNBA championship (that may get another mention in a minute...). But everything I would've considered attending was either too far away, sold out or cancelled. Ah, but my memory came back to me and I remembered it was Amy Chappell week at the Wildhorse! Yes my friend Amy was the house act so I decided after running an errand up in that direction I'd drop in on her just to see a low-key couple of sets and hit it on home. She was great as always! Actually the first set was acoustic to ease through the dinner crowd there and then she rocked it. Amy is a terrific talent who, if there's any justice, will strike it big. She certainly knows how to entertain. In the meantime of her making it big, I'm excited for her next independent CD to be coming out very soon! I do want to say that I am sorry I missed my friend Natalie Stovall's performance there at the Wildhorse that afternoon. No doubt she brought the house down. I'll see you there and elsewhere again soon Natalie!

That's September so far in music. There's a lot more to come, this week and beyond.

I've gotta expound on something I mentioned a minute ago, my hometown Detroit Shock winning the WNBA championship yesterday. I know a person may say "John? Women's basketball?" to which I would say "yeah!" To me it's competitive basketball which I love, and I don't give a **** what sex is playing it. Plus these ladies can play! I am 100% comfortable with the fact that ANY one of them would absolutely kick my a$$ in a one-on-one game out on the court and I couldn't run with them in a team game if I tried! I so totally respect their abilities. I got to see the Shock a couple of times when I was in Michigan last month as my mom and sister are season ticket holders so I went too to the games. And I'd been to see them in previous years when visiting there and when I lived up there. It's great stuff! So way to go Shock, way to go Series MVP Deanna Nolan, way to Katie Smith on her first WNBA championship! Thanks for a great year.

And on the sports edge I spent ALL DAY today happy as a pig in mud watching NFL football. Week one. It kicked off last Thurs. night actually and I watched then as the Steelers started their Super Bowl defense with a win. Yeah! Anyway today was not as great results-wise as my current town Titans lost and my hometown Lions lost. Both competitive games though (after the Titans came back) and I was proud of each teams' efforts. I'm not sure how many wins there will be for either this season, but I'll keep rooting on and keeping the faith. I also watched Dallas/Jacksonville and Indianapolis/NY Giants tonight. This is my Sunday, all day NFL football marathons, for every Sunday I possibly can for the next 5 months. It's a ritual, man!

 Lastly I'm reflective tonight as tomorrow, 5 years ago, I was at work doing my job as it was at the time when leadership started walking around telling people the World Trade Center had planes fly into both towers. Slightly later came the news about the Pentagon getting crashed into and the plane going down in PA, Lord knows where it was supposed to hit. I think back on how that day was and how the world has changed since. My heart is still out to the families of the victims of these tragedies. It infuriates me that justice has been brought to those responsible for planning and masterminding it, and I hate to say it, I'm not sure if or when it ever will be. Not with the current level of priority it seems to be being given by the powers that be that, well, I'm not going there. Point is that at this time especially (not that I EVER forget), I remember what happened and I feel so much for those directly affected with the loss of family and friends who were either on the planes, in the buildings or trying to help those who were. My heart aches with you.

That's a depressing note to go out on but it's late. It'll be back to the musical (and sports if I can't help myself) blog exclusively next time. Later.

Oh, and the only reason you see nothing that I'm presently listening to, it's because the person has no music in the database. It's the music of my friend Kelly Archer. Love ya Kelly!

In the spirit of doing this a little more, and thus not having quite such long blog entries, I figured I'd wrap up the month of August from the time of the last post. Here's where my desire and efforts to be entertained by this wonderful thing called music have taken me lately:

Friday, August 25, 2006, for I believe the first time ever, three, count 'em 3, shows- 1) Grand Ole Opry. The day before this, I looked at the Opry's lineup for the weekend, and who should suddenly be on it but the wonderful, the fantastic, Jennifer Hanson! My mind raced as I already had plans for this night. I noticed her on the first portion, 8-8:30. My plans weren't 'til later so by the grace of Pete Fisher (for scheduling her early in the show), I was able to catch my Jennifer on stage. She did an awesome job too, doing her version of what is the #1 song in country music right now, "Leave the Pieces". As the writer, she has a great take on it. She also covered the standard "What a Wonderful World". I was so glad to be there and by the time she came on, up front on the floor for taking pictures. She saw me before she was introduced and gave me that beautiful smile and a cheery wave hello. It was soooo worth it to go, even if for only part of the show. I did stay for the next portion too that featured Rockie Lynne. I'm getting to like that dude better and better! I then left to get to 2) Danielle Peck - Wildhorse Saloon. I'd looked forward to this one for a long time and Danielle did not disappoint a bit! She's got a way and a delivery that reminds a person of many but adds up to being something just hers. In the hour and 15 minutes or so she hit most of the songs on her CD plus several covers, plus "Findin' A Good Man" twice. It was cool to see a number of friends there, from the musical side (Casey Kessel, Kelly Archer, Jesse Lee scouting out the place, Suzanne Alexander) and elsewhere (Blake and the Alabama troop, my Little Big Town friend Emily, John, and Jayme and Angela). Danielle signed autographs afterward too so I had to stick around to say hi, get and give hugs. I was BEAT after this show, really sore in the shoulders and head for some reason, but I had to get myself to show #3 for the night, Tracey Janelle at Whiskey Island, right behind the Red Iguana. Why, you ask, when I was that tired and would doubtlessly see her again soon? Well, by the time I was getting there, it was just after midnight and thus HER BIRTHDAY! I can sacrifice a little sleep and bring up just a little more energy if it means seeing a friend on her birthday. It was cool to see her in this place. I shouldn't have given her the birthday card I gave her though when I first got there. She was by the bar, and you can guess what happens when she got excited and went to hug me. Over goes the drink she had! All over the floor and worse, all over her! It was hardly visible though on stage and dried quickly. No harm done. I'm happy I summoned up the energy to get there, though until I went back to the car after Danielle's show, I didn't know if I'd do it or not. Overall, a really fun night!

Sat., Aug. 26, Julie Roberts, Renfro Valley Entertainment Center, Renfro Valley, KY - here's the other reason I shouldn't have done all I'd done the night before. I was making a 4-hour road trip the next day! But did that stop me? Noooo! Actually I wouldn't have had to get up early for this one except I had to get my car's oil changed before the trip. I took off from there, got to Renfro Valley and met up with my posse of Julie fans for a pre-show cookout under the pavillion at the hotel/cabin we were staying. After some great food with Robin B., Scott, Emily, Jayme and Chris, plus playing whiffle ball, frisbee and volleyball all at once with J & C, I had to clean up before the show. It was a great one for the lovely Julie, one of the longer ones I'd seen her do in awhile. She hit a big variety of songs from both of her CD's (including "Chasing Whiskey" for my first time hearing it live) plus some covers. My seat was in the front friggin' row! I'm telling you, when you're that close and no one's in front of you, you zone out the people around and behind you and you feel like you're getting your own personal concert! Julie was ever-so-nice in the post-show meet/greet too, signing my CD, photo and set list. She's so gracious and so sweet, I can never get enough of her! When's the next time seeing her? Haha. After the show a number of us cooked out again. I enjoyed a good night's sleep before helping the others who stayed pack up in the morning and taking off for home. Great trip! Different in that it was a solo drive to get to a Julie show the whole gang of us were at, but still great!

Mon., Aug. 28, 2 shows: 1) Jesse Lee, Wildhorse Saloon: this was a showcase my friend Jesse had been working hard for and promoting like crazy. It all paid off too, man, at least I thought so. The whole performance was terrific. She played for about 35-40 minutes and really brought it to the audience well. She had confidence, she had attitude, but a great deal of humbleness and appreciation too. I sure hope the folks at Broken Bow feel that way too and bring her aboard. Great seeing friends Jeff and Cathy there, plus musical friends Casey Kessel and Melissa Cusick. Jesse sang Casey's song "Ripple in the Water". I was shocked! She did it well though. 2) Jaime Fox, Dan McGuiness' Girls' Night. I went specifically to see Jaime but wound up seeing so much more before she came on. Ryan Tyler was a treat. I'd learned earlier from Jeff at the Wildhorse what Jenny Farrell would be playing at McGuiness' too, so that was awesome! And to cover a time slot, Natalie Howard got up there on whim and did a few songs! That all made it even that much better! Jeff joined me from the Wildhorse, plus I saw friends Emily, Shawna and Annie there.

Tues., Apr. 29, 2 shows. 1) Angie Broberg, 3rd & Lindsley. I met Angie at this year's Fan Fair of course, and have seen her once since then on an acoustic round. She had a band with her on this night, and it was terrific! This woman can really carry a tune and write one too! Hard as it is to turn away from her, I looked away sometimes to really listen to what she was singing, and it was deep y'all! I think she's got it all and hopefully got it made! It was cool to sit with my friend Jeff and say hi to my friend and Shannon Brown associate Carolyn too. 2) Natalie Stovall, Jack Daniel's Saloon. This one was perfect as I wanted to see Natalie in the setting of the Jack Daniel's Saloon, and there I was up in Nashville anyway. My friend Robin S. met up with me pre-show to walk the mall (Opry Mills) and we got to the show early. It was early enough that Natalie was still setting up and I got to help a little. We were only staying for her first set as it would not have been funny at work the next day if I'd stayed longer. Natalie was her fun, energetic self, the type you absolutely cannot help enjoy yourself while you're watching. I don't think there's anyone who, if you shut your eyes and listened to, you can just tell when she's smiling when she sings. Her voice just inflects that part of her personality so much! It was a fun set to see, and I can't wait 'til the next time seeing her.

Wed., Aug. 30, Lila McCann & more, Lyrix. Just one show on this night as I was a bit tired. This was a writer's round, also featuring outstanding writer, singer and guitar player Jenn Schott. I was Jenn's round actually. Jenn was really impressive with all that she did. There was no escaping buying her CD before leaving! Lila was terrific as she always is. None of the old hits of hers but I was not surprised as she wrote none of those. Here she concentrated on what she's done laetely and wow, was it ever good! My personal favorite by her is one called "Invisible" and I was so, so happy when she played it. This was really a great little round. And do you know who was in audience? Grand Ole Opry member Jack Greene. I loved it, I thought it was so choice! Thanks to Lila and Jenn for a great show and chatting a minute or so each after the show.

The next string of shows will start up tomorrow night, so I'll be up and a-writin' sometime again soon.

Geez oh man, I thought about it today and was like "what WAS the last date for which I wrote here?", just looked back and saw it was for July 31? Are you kidding me? Where has the month of August gone? That's what happens when you get knocked off of a computer for several days when you get a new one and have to wait for HI-SPEED internet (I love it!), go on vacation for 8 days during which time there's no time to write, and then get sick right afterward during which time there's nothing to write about and no energy to write with. Alright I still haven't had anything for those sick days which I'm just feeling better from, but I've got some stuff from before then, plus during the trip, to tell about before I forget it (which is not unheard of...). So here we go starting with:

Tuesday, August 1- Anna Wilson, Monty Powell, Chuck Wicks, Victoria Shaw, Bluebird Cafe. ANY night at the Bluebird involving my good friend Anna is a GOOOOOD night! Woman's got one of the smoothest most unique voices in the world! She did not disappoint me at all with her way of moving me through her voice and songs and cracking me up her casual, comfortable nature. Her husband Monty pounded the hits he's written out too. Chuck's a cool guy to see, and Victoria is always fun. Bonus time here though, folks... Vic called up the one and only Lila McCann to do her recent single "I'm Amazed", from Jim Brickman's Disney Songbook CD, which Ms. Shaw wrote. It was terrific to see Ms. Lila again, got a real kick out of seeing her walk in the door before the show and getting a hello right away. What a way to start a month! Can it get better? A person can only do more and see....

Wed., Aug. 2 - Kelly Archer, 3rd & Lindsley. Just one show tonight, a quick 30 minutes or so, but Kelly was terrific as she is every time I see her. I see or hear something new in her every time and this time it was a tad more exhuberance (sp.?) than usual. I mean, she's always upbeat, but this time it was just turned up a notch! Anyway, I love this one's music. My mom and sister do to, I've got to tell Kelly that! I took one of her CD's up with me on vacation to visit them, played it for 'em and BOOM! There's two new Kelly Archer fans! It was fun running into friends Melissa Cusick and Casey Kessel there, and always a pleasure to see Lisa Torres, and several other folks I know. Amanda Pearce, I can't forget talking to her! And check it: Amanda Wilkinson was there and even though I haven't seen her in a good year or so, she recognized and waved to me from across on her way out. Meeting at Fan Fair 3 or 4 years in a row, plus other Nashville appearances, will do that for ya, LOL.

Thurs., Aug. 3 - Chely Wright, Anna Owens, Gary Harrison and Peter Cooper, Bluebird Cafe. Yes, I was getting kinda tired from a few nights out with a couple more to go in a row, but this one kept me going, no problem! I must SHOUT to my friends, my lovely ones Cynthia and Cherie for providing me the honor of their company. I love you two! Cool to see my friends Tiffany and Laura too, sitting at the table right next to Chely's seat in the round! The show was a winner, and it felt good to give to NSAI for it, which was the benefit for which it was. Given Chely's recent acoustical meanderings, I didn't expect to hear my favorite song "It Was" or her "hits", and I didn't hear them, but was some deep, well-written, personal Chely songs that made me respect her all the more. And she remembered me from the helping her out at the Wildhorse thing! See my CMA Music fest blog for details on that one. Peter Cooper's growing on me musically. This was the 3rd time seeing him, and honestly, the first time especially, left me so unimpressed I didn't even mention him in the blog of that show so as to not deliberately insult or put down someone. I don't do that. Anyway, I'm getting to like Pete better as I hear more of what he can do. The "Nirvana/Pearl Jam" song still irks me because at the beginning he slams hair metal, which I love, and later he mocks Creed, who I also like, but that's okay because I don't expect everyone to love what I love. I agree with the Nirvana being better than Pearl Jam, though would throw in that I don't really love either one much at all! Anna Owens, I've mentioned her previously from first seeing her at Puckett's several weeks ago, and she's just so good and so sweet! C'mon Warner Brothers, get her out of development, she's ready, let's put a record out and make her famous! And talk about another Bluebird surprise, there was Anna bringing up good friend Sarah Majors from the audience to sing her recent Trisha Yearwood cut. It was Sarah I'd gone to see at the Puckett's gig that introduced me to Anna, so it shouldn't have been a surprise she was there, but it was still. I love it.

Fri., Aug. 4. I was supposed to go see Anita Cochran, Tammy Cochran, Buddy Jewell and Rhet Akins at the Williamson County Fair, opening night of it. But, for the only time in about two weeks, it rained all day, hard for most of it! The threat was still there by evening, and you know what happens to fairgrounds when it rains. Mud and puddle city! The possibility to be sitting outside on a nice summer night and hearing these great people was now vanquished. The show may have still gone on, but I skipped it. Sorry Anita! Next time you know I'm there for you, my fellow Detroit suburb hometowner! But I did have a backup plan. Actually after they were done I was finally, FINALLY, going to see my myspace friend and very local Columbia TN girl Natalie Stovall play. So, I just went to that right away instead! She is indeed THE stuff, wow! One who, by seeing her sing just one song, a person can tell that she absolutely loves what she's doing up there. And she is there to entertain and be sure you have a good time! This was at a bar/grill in Columbia called Sam Hill's. If I can complain, I'd say it's that she has to sing on ground level. No stage whatsoever. I was sitting right up front though thanks to my friend from work, Debbie, and her husband. I just wish she was raised up a bit so people walking by or dancing up front were not literally right beside her (especially drunks who don't realize that they are NOT part of the show that we are there to see! Sorry, that really didn't get me too upset that night, yeah....). Anyway, mostly cover material was performed but done in a truly wonderful way. She's a fiddler too, reminding me of Megan Mullins or the just mentioned Anna Owens, and she brings it equally well there. She can make a Columbia mule sound with it so awesomely during "Orange Blossom Special", LOL. At any rate, it the first time finally seeing her show and I walked away feeling like I'd known her for years. Really sweet girl. It won't be the last time I'm there for her. You'll see.... hahahahaha

Sat., Aug. 5 - Elizabeth Cook, Opry Plaza party. 5 for 5 for August so far, man. I'd been looking forward to this one aaaallll summer long, as the last time, maybe 2 years ago, seeing Eliz on this stage, was one of THE best shows I've ever seen. And she did as well this time! She had 2 sets, the early one playing for the night, to be followed by the Derailers for the night. I arrived early and actually heard her soundchecking while walking there. Said hi to her and her dad (the man rocks! he is without a doubt THE funniest country music dad I know!) and planted myself right up front on the right of the stage. Within the hour she was on for a growing crowd as the time grew closer to the first Opry show of the night. Great set by her and the Model Prisoners, with everything from new stuff to old stuff to covers to free-style barefoot dancing while having her husband Tim Carroll sing a song. They're so great together, it's like, no matter what they ever have to face in this world, as like they have each other, they will always be okay. It's kinda hard to explain that unless you see it or have someone to experience it yourself with. I of course rely seeing it..... Anyway, between sets I got to talk to wonderful singer friends Chelle Rose (who had her husband and kids there who were all great to meet) and Kylie Harris, who's fiance Marko was on drums for Eliz. For the 2nd set I was joined by terrific friend Robin, who I thank very much for coming to hang out after her long day. It was long for us all, so after the equally-entertaining 2nd set and a quick goodbye hug to Eliz, I did not stay for the Derailers, nor did Robin. Some other time, dudes. I heard Eliz on the Opry stage on my way home to complete the night!

Tues., Aug. 8 - 2 shows, well, 1 and part of another: 1) Natalie Howard at Caffeine. This was part of the Aussie singer spotlight night hosted by Janine LeClair. Natalie had just started when I arrived and did 4 or 5 songs, and a great job at them at that, all acoustically on her own. It was great to be there for her. With no reason to be there other than my admiration for this woman's wonderful voice and talent, I was not going to miss this show, but another reason to be there was thrust my way. Mailed is the better term. One of my favorite friends who I would do just about anything in the world for, Jen, mailed me a little package to take to Natalie, if I was going to the show. Well I could not justifiably miss this and have to hold this package another month more, which is how long it would have been until the next chance to see Nattie sing, could I? Heavens no, not when it's Jen who's sent the package. Anyway, I played mail boy (as Nattie playfully called it later on) and gave the package to her immediately post-performance. I stuck around after too, thank God. Sometimes it's good to do that, even after your main purpose in being there is done. Yeah sometimes it's not good but in this case it was, for I got to hear for the first time the beautiful vocals of the equally beautiful Janine LeClair. Yes, it's another person now to watch out for and check out their show every chance I get. I'll do it though! Just watch me! LOL. Janine was certainly terrific to hear and chat with after the show. I also enjoyed the music of Pru Clearwater before it was all over. Oh, and yeah there was part of another show after this next door at the Tin Roof. I caught about 45 minutes of James Dean Hicks and Dillon Dixon's regular Tues. night social. They were putting out tunes, covers and originals, like crazy. I'd met Dillon a couple years ago at a party and he told me about these gigs they do. Sorry it took so long to get there, man. I'll get to another, and be able to stay longer before getting too tired. Scout's honor!

Wed., Aug. 9 - Kathy Ashworth and Kelly Archer, Lyrix. This may have been my first visit there since it switched from the name Ga' Dang. Like that matters. The important thing was I loved seeing two great friends, Kathy and Kelly, on the same acoustic round. Kathy even did a song they'd written together! Great stuff! She is another one who's just fun, and makes you enjoy seeing and hearing her, because you can tell she's happy up there to be sharing part of herself with you. Her smile tells it all! And I can't not praise Kelly. NO! Any chance I get, I heap the compliments her way! She will be one of the city's majors, I'm telling you.

Fri., Aug. 11 - 2 shows: Tracey Janelle and Natalie Stovall. I was leaving on vacation the next day. Getting up at 4:15 a.m. to get ready and drive to Michigan. Did that keep me in on this night to pack and get to bed early to get some extra rest? Lord no! I packed the night before and knew I'd get extra sleep once I got to Michigan! I had to be out this night, as Tracey Janelle and Natalie Stovall were the people in who's presence I would be. It would've easier if they were in the same venue. Too easy. But at least they were in same town, Columbia. Technically. This place where Tracey was, Bud's Place, was way out on the other side of  I-65, and in the dark on a windy road, it was the middle of nowhere. Actually in the light it would've also been the middle of nowhere, it just seemed further in the dark and when unfamiliar. I pull up, get out of the car, and there is a BIG dog lying right in front of the door. Oookay. I actually waited a couple seconds as two other patrons came from a different direction, walked to the door at the same time I did, so the dog would have to choose which one us's head he would rip off first. Actually it made him decide which one to get up and approach to be petted by first. He was a friendly doggy, apparently owned by the bar owner. Tracey was sound-checking as I walked in and what a sweet sound it was! The show started pretty quick, just gradually getting into it, and Tracey traded off lead vocals on songs with other band members. I was there for the first set only, but that was long enough for her to do "Cornfed" especially dedicated to me! I considered "Wild Angels" right before it my song too as it was what she did for last time, the first time we met. We talked for a short bit after the set, got a talked-about photo together, and by about 10:30 pm I had to split. I felt bad saying bye but knew I had to get to Natalie's soon to have any prayer of getting home somewhat early. We hugged goodbye after I met the guys in the band, I petted the dog outside goodbye and I was off. It didn't feel nearly as far getting back to familiar territory as it did getting out to Bud's Place! ha. Isn't that the way it always is though. Before moving on Natalie's gig, let me say of Tracey Janelle, in just actually meeting her twice now (with several myspace correspondences before the first time and since), I think I said this last time, but it's worth saying again, she's someone I feel really meant to know and be friends with. A kindred spirit if you will. It's like, here's someone I'm going to see and talk to and hang with and be friends with for a long, long time to come. As your life goes on, all of your best friends are not all people from your past, it's like there's still people you haven't met yet and because they're so like you even in just spirit and character, you were meant to. I've met several people like that since coming to the Nashville area the 6+ years ago it's been and Tracey's one of them. Big time! Okay now I've beat that point to death.... After leaving her gig I went for a set at Natalie Stovall's show. Now normally I would've thought "I'll skip it tonight, I'm leaving very early to drive 10 hours tomorrow, I'll get some rest" but I had to go to Natalie for one very important reason on this night..... it was the release night of her very first CD at this show. This was a big, big special night for her, and liking her as I do and wanting to do whatever I can to support her budding career, I felt I just had to be there for her even if for only part of the show! A first CD release night only happens once, and I could certainly sacrifice a little sleep to be there for a new friend. Nat had finished her first set, which was apparently most of the new CD, before I got there and was steadily signing CD's and pictures and greeting folks upon my arrival at Sam Hill's there. After a few minutes I bought my stuff too, a CD, poster, got them signed plus got a big hug from Natalie herself, and soon it was time for the next set. This was almost all covers but like last week, done with so much fun and energy. I wish I'd been able to stay for set #3 but I knew I had to get home to sleep. So what did I do? I went home and put the CD in the player for the first 10 or so songs on it, that's what! I just had to hear it! And I'll tell ya, it's definitely a keeper, a winner, and something that should be in big-time retail stores with big display racks. Everything about it is tremendous. Fabulous job, Natalie Stovall!

Sun., Aug. 13 - Brooks & Dunn, Sugarland & Jack Ingram, DTE Energy Center, Clarkston MI. The first of 2 concerts I got to attend while on vacation in Michigan. Originally my sister and I were going, my mom giving me her ticket, but it wound up being my mom and I, me using my sister's ticket. She's been having trouble with her back and leg and too much activity is not good right now. We had already all gone to the Detroit Shock game that afternoon so 2 things in a row was just not possible for her to do. Mom and I had a great time. All of the acts were good. Jack Ingram had a decent 20 minute set, Sugarland an outstanding 45-50 minutes (the world NEEDS Jennifer Nettles' energy!), and Brooks and Dunn finished with about an hour and 15 minutes of non-stop hits. I walked away feeling, about Sugarland, that this was why they were one the most successful new acts in country music, and about B&D, that this was why they have been up for Entertainers of the Year and they may well get nominated again along with Kenny, Tim (and Faith if there's any justice), and any one of Keith, Toby, Brad and if there is a God Martina (I know that one won't happen though...). But Brooks & Dunn just bring it all and straight to you. Non-stop. It had been a bit since I'd seen them live and it really brought their talent and showmanship back to me. And to hit one more point, it was the first thing my mom and I had done just together for awhile, this concert. When you live away from family and alot of your friends and loved ones, you appreciate things like that much more. I know I do at least.

Thurs., Aug. 17 - Billy Ray Cyrus, Meadowbrook Music Festival, Rochester Hills, MI.  I was still up in MI on vacation obviously. I went with Mom and my sister to this one. That company alone is just the best to have! We felt bad about my sis missing the previous show and wanted to all do something. I'd actually thought it would be cool to see this when I first saw it scheduled to be when I was up there, but I didn't want to pressure them or tie us to it in case other plans came up. But nothing did so a couple days before it, we got the tickets, and they were great. A local act, the Red Ryder Band, with a great singer named Dani Marine, opened. They had a good # of fans themselves there! Billy Ray came on to rousing round of applause to the sounds of his song "Stand Still". By the time he was really done 1 hour and 40 minutes later, he'd done songs from all throughout his, and this will kill his critics to hear, 15 year career now, including just before the encore, you know it, "Don't tell my heart, my achy breaky heart, I just don't think he'd understand, and if you tell my heart, achy breaky heart, he might blow up and kill this man.....whooo-ooo-WOOO". LOVE IT! Love it, love it, love it! I don't know, I think it's the way that he was just PANNED by some when he first came out with that, but he stuck with it and kept on going, even when the radio stations he helped make rich started ignoring him, and he stayed dedicated to HIS fans, and the true ones, to him. I always respected that, and him overall. I've ALWAYS thought he was cool! He helped bring me back to country with Achy Breaky Heart. (I say helped. The one with the real distinction of bringing me back to country will always be Martina McBride, ask me about that if you don't know that story...) He sings songs I identify with lyrically about things that have happened to me and feelings I've had about them or the people involved. I've listened to ALL that he's done and not pigeonholed him to that one song. I've heard people say 'oh yeah he had one hit'. If you put the words 'number one' in front of 'hit' that would be correct. But if not, then it's not, because I can think two or three handfuls of songs of his that charted big on country radio and video, some not all that long ago (and he did most of them at this show!). He was also on a TV series for 4 years and is on another now. He's doing well no matter what naysayers who hated that one song say. He also did a new song which, oh-ho, do I hope will be a MAJOR hit from his new CD. I'm talkin' 'bout "I Want My Mullet Back". Amen to ya, brother Billy Ray, I hear ya!

Well alright I'm calming down now. That was the last show of this block as after I got back from Michigan 3 days ago, I've been sick and that's kept me around the home every night taking it easy. But there's some good stuff on the horizen and I'm getting better to get to it. So next time won't be so long, both in time until writing and length of blog, or so I say right now... But thanks for reading. I hope it's evident that I have fun writing it and I hope you enjoy the read. SEE ya!

A lot happening in a short time, and barely a chance to talk about it all. But here I have a bit before hitting a gig tonight, so why not take advantage? Pickin' it up where we left off:

Sunday, July 23, Natalie Bradley, The Boro- it's rare I'm friends with someone BEFORE they start up in the musical gig business, but here's one. Nat and I have been friends from the Chalee Tennison Fan Club for 5 or 6 years now. She's a fine songwriter, a skilled guitar player and a better singer than she thinks. I think she'll get a song or two cut before it's all over! LOL. She certainly stood out among any of her compatriots there that evening. Speaking of Chalee Tennison, she and her husband Mark came out to support Nat. It was great to hang out and watch the show with my friend Robin and them.

Tues., July 25, Drew Bennett Celebrity Wheelchair Basketball game with post-game concert by Jo Dee Messina, Allen Arena, Lipscomb University. This was certainly a unique event. Jo Dee wound up being the only musical guest as Trick Pony was unable to come, much to my friend Robin's dismay. The game was fun, featuring several Titans players (Bennett, Keith Bullock, Billy Volek, Pacman Jones, Vince Young, Kyle Vanden Bosch, Reynaldo Hill, Peter Sirmon, Chris Brown, probably more), Jo Dee, and several others. It didn't look it would be close but Jo Dee's team came back to make it interesting. It's fun seeing them play wheelchair basketball. The awe of it all came at 'halftime' though when the folks who were really relegated wheelchairs took the court. They were amazing! The post-game show with Jo Dee, the musical portion of this whole thing, was great. I hadn't really seen her play in a couple years, and she really brings it! My personal moment of pride was seeing her do my friend Kelly Archer's song "Biker Chick", which I'm sure she's going to cut and maybe release. I knew that song would be big the minute I heard it long ago by Kelly. Other points of interest at the event were before the game, there were all these Star Wars characters walking around the sides of the court. Stormtroopers of all varieties, Darth Vader, OB1 Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, Count Dooko, the Emperor, Padme Amidala. Very odd choice, but fun stuff. Also the Tenness Titan cheerleaders were there. I took a number of pictures, also some of the game when it was going, but most of the ones that turned out well if at all were the cheerleader ones. If a person didn't know me better, upon seeing these photos, they'd think that was expressly what I was there to concentrate on.... I swear, I did take other photos, they just didn't turn out that great! And I really did watch the game, not photograph cheerleaders all night! I swear!

Thurs., July 27, 2 shows: 1) Casey Kessel, Caffeine, part of Chicks with Picks. I really needed to see this one, as I love Casey's performance and I also had to get me a Casey CD. Casey is just, I don't, so easygoing on the stage. Her voice is brilliant and her style is just effortless. Well, let me specify. With her, she just loves to sing so much and is so comfortable on the stage and with the music playing and people there, that it doesn't have to be forced at all. It's just so easy going and smooth, and her smile makes you smile. This was an acoustic gig, very good. And I did get me one of her CD's at last! It's outstanding! It was great to see some of Casey's fellow artists and friends who support her that I like a lot too, like Kelly Archer, Melissa Cusick and Emily West. I actually arrived at the same time Emily did and we appeared to be walking in together. Ha, looks CAN be deceiving! It was a pleasure to hang and share a table with Julie Roberts' merch guy Brad too, who came to see Casey sing. Okay, show 2) Charla Beth Corn, Douglas Corner. I JUST added Charla as a friend here on myspace a few days before this show upon her request. She found me! I was up in Nashville anyway to see Casey's show so I figured why not stop at this one on the way out of town as it started later. Based on what I saw and read on Charla's page I really wanted to see her and hear her live. Thank God I did! First of all, on my in, who do I run into but good bud Jennifer Hanson. She was coming to meet up with a friend, not even sure who was playing. It's always a pleasure to see and shoot the sh** with her. The opening guy, Chris Cavanaugh I think the name was, was still playing, and he was really good! Charla didn't waste time to start pretty quick after he finished, and she really did an excellent job. Lo and behold, here's another person I'll see play live whenever I can! It was a pleasure to meet and talk for a couple minutes after the show too.

Friday, July 28, Grand Ole Opry: great show on this one! I have one complaint though: why is a 2-hour Friday night Opry ticket the same cost as a 2.5-hour Saturday night ticket? Shouldn't it be less by oh, say 20%? Same goes for Tuesday night shows. Anyway, I had a ball! Ate dinner at the Opry Mills food court pre-show with friend Robin Black. We got to show as it was starting but hung out in the lobby during the first portion, other than going to get pictures of Josh Gracin. During portion #2, my bud Chris Young was playing, only his 2nd appearance. I'd missed the debut during Fan Fair week. Grrrr. He was terrific though I was very proud of him up there. I've known him about 3 years now and see him getting the success he's getting with the Nashville Star win is very gratifying. He's a great guy and I really see him being a star. Anyway, the reason I was really there though, was in portion number three, in the person of JULIE ROBERTS. I got up front to position myself for photos, as did just about every young female (who were also up there when Chris and Josh were on). Julie did current single "Girl Next Door" (REQUEST THE SONG, DAMNIT!) and a cover of "Amazing Grace". It had been awhile since hearing that one from her. I'm always in awe, man. Julie never disappoints and sure didn't here. Last portion of the show's highlight was seeing Johnny Lee, who, long as he's been around, I've never seen live. Fun, fun Opry show.

Sat., July 29, 2 shows: 1) Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, Soul2Soul II tour, Gaylord Entertainment Center. I think they each secured themselves nominations for Entertainer of the Year with this show and tour, I am serious! It was brilliant, better than I even expected. The stage set up and the technology for it to be changing colors and schemes and designs was outstanding! And then of course there was the music. Its presentation was top notch. They both start the show to Faith's "Like We Never Loved at All". Faith then does her set. Now it's been a good 7 or 8 years since I've seen her. I think she's really grown into a good stage presence. Her voice was strong! She was very gracious, interacted with the crowd. She did a lot of the new "Fireflies" CD. My only complaint would be the virtual ignoring of her first two CD's, only represented with show-ender "Piece of my Heart". She finished up and Tim came back for a song with her, his "Angry All the Time" to lead into his set. I LOVE THAT SONG!! His set was tight, complete, varied from old songs to newer songs, just terrific. You can he's had the Dancehall Doctors band behind him for a long time now! He has SO many hits it's hard to complain that something's missing because he'd have to do that 1-band show he did a couple of years ago to hit them all. I see him sing and it's little wonder to me why, outside of Alan Jackson and Vince Gill, that he's my favorite male country vocalist and performer out there. Tim and Faith ended the show as they began, together. Fantastic show and night! But it wasn't quite over as I went and saw show 2) the last hour of Chalee Tennison at Ga Dang. I felt bad missing any of it, but what's a poor boy to do?! Chalee was just playing acoustically but did a fine job. She can pull out a cover she hasn't heard in years or played before, like "Somebody's Knockin'" or "Walkin' after Midnight". It was great to hear some of her originals again too. Scott Neubert did a fine job playing guitar for her. Awesome to see friends Robin, Natalie, Dwan, Ashley and Alexis close to the end of the night, and from a long ways away, Mandy and Leslie. I hadn't seen them actually in years! So the whole night was a blast!

Mon., July 31- Dan McGuiness' Pub Girls Night featuring a TON of great lady writers I know, including Melissa Cusick, Christy Long Hoskins, Jamie Floyd, Kelly Archer and Lisa Torres. I'm not even sure how they could get any more from that little gang of writers I've fallen in with as friends on one night, outside of having Casey Kessel on too. She was there! Ha. This was a terribly fun time, plus Melissa's birthday to boot! Every one of them just entertained me to death! Ha. Melissa gets better on stage every time I see her. It was the most I'd heard Christy sing before, and she was great! I hadn't seen Jamie in awhile, since first seeing her at a Chick Singer Night last year I think, and it will not be that long again! She was really good, with no wardrobe malfunctions this time (that's a story in itself! ha). Kelly just KILLED! Bless the day I first saw her by accident opening a Lauren Lucas show! That's how I've discovered so many of my favorites and now friends that I could not imagine life without now. That describes Kelly to a "T". And Lisa Torres just mesmorized me! Her voice is so beautiful, and her stage presence is amazing. She's a real deal to me, yet another accidental discovery who I actually met in the audience at a Casey Kessel show a few months back. It's amazing how you can think you know EVERYONE talented, but then someone like Lisa, or Charla Beth Corn from those few days ago, just comes from nowhere out of the woodwork. It's like, there was a life before this, what was it? LOL. Overall, this was a fun night and I'd looked forward to seeing all of this talent all of these friends together for a long time. It was cool also to see friends there like Blake and his friends up from Alabama, and my friend Sally from Red Band Anna. Meeting Alyssa from said band was great too! Really a fun night, plus I got my hands on some Kelly Archer music I hadn't heard before!

It's all kickin' right in again tonight through the end of the week, and I'll be back to write about that as it happens when time permits! Thanks for reading. Let music be the staff of life!

I know it hasn't been forever between bloggings this time, but I'm trying to do better so they all aren't so long. Plus I was thinking about and there have been a good number of things going on since the last one. I guess it'll be long anyway! LOL. Here we go!

Friday, July 14, 2 shows. 1: Amber Leigh White, Judge Bean's BBQ: this one kinda came up at the last minute. It was all worth it upon walking in the door and getting a "hey John!" from the stage from her, mid-song. It was the first time I got to see Amber play with a band. She did a good combination of covers and songs from her 2 CD's. I hoped she'd have her 2nd one with her but she said she's out of them right now! That's a good sign. Amber's a really good singer! It was cool seeing her family there, between her husband Philip there and their little boy. Plus, if you read my last blog, just a few days earlier Mac Davis had showed up at Philip's gig at the Bluebird and sang a song. He was here too, and Amber got him up for a few songs. He did the chorus at least of "It's Hard to be Humble". I sat there thinking 'I'm in a BBQ joint singing "Lord it's hard to be humble, when you're perfect in every way..." along with Mac freakin' Davis.' That's choice, man! LOL. Show 2: Stacie Collins, The Pond. This was at a small place closer to home for me in Franklin TN. Stacie was the headline act and played almost 90 minutes again, maybe a little more, I lost track. She rocked the place! They should definitely want her back! Thanks to Stacie and the band for helping take care of me with a drink and seat.

Sat., July 15, Julie Roberts, Memorial Stadium, Charlotte, NC. Yep, I drove all the way to Charlotte to see Julie this time! It was supposed to be a joint road trip with friend Robin Black but with her deciding to hit a Julie show the previous day instead, I went to this one anyway. It was a TRIP too! Getting there was not easy. It was smooth until getting to NC where I hit construction, followed by a major rainstorm. I barely to go to Julie's performance on time, but all's well that ends well. I'd missed the fan club meet/greet but Brad, the merch guy, hooked me up to go after her show. I found my friend Shealyn and her boyfriend Josh, and we really enjoyed Julie's set. It was more focused on the new CD, which was great! She saw me up there up front for the show, and then the meet/greet after was just fine. I always love talking to Julie. Before leaving to go home, I found her mama to say hi to as well. I could've stayed to see Pat Green and Montgomery Gentry play, but I've never been a huge fan of either as live acts. So I took off and did make it home, at 3:30 a.m. I had an overnight bag packed in case a stop was necessary, but I never really got tired until I was about 45 min from home. Great road trip for Julie!

Sun., July 15, Def Leppard/Journey, Starwood Ampitheater. I went with my buddy Tim to this rockin' show. I'd never seen Journey, not once. They were really great! They're very tight, and even with replacement singer Jeff Scott Soto, put on a fine show. The crowd loved it! Def Leppard put on a CLASSIC set! Hit after hit after hit, with only one break for songs from the new CD. Last time they did some more obscure stuff, so I like seeing them vary things up. Here's another band I'll go see over and over until they stop doing what they do someday. It was great to see a sold-out show like this!

Tues., July 18, 2 shows: 1) Suzanne Karr, John Wiggins, Thom Sheperd, Steve Williams, The Bluebird Cafe. I saw Suzanne perform here on Chick Singer Night a few months ago and loved her, so I was waiting to get to see her again. She's just got a tremendous voice and great talent for songs. I was proud for her for hosting such a good round too. I really can see nothing but good things for her in the future. Attended with friends Robin and Natalie, saw friend Jeff and his wife Kathy there. Great little show! 2) Emily West with openers Kelly Archer, Leigh Nash and Kate York, The Mercy Lounge. First of all, I'm always excited to see my friend Kelly sing. But then to finally get to see Emily West do a full set, I was primed! LOL. Kelly didn't disappoint with her few songs (once they FINALLY started the show, ha) and then Emily certainly did a great job as well. She's one of those that when she takes the stage, watch out! Ha. She just has a commanding presence that you have to pay attention to. She cannot be the background while you talk about something else, LOL. I'd seen her out at Kelly's gigs and heard her sing once when called on stage. It was great to see her do her own show finally and to officially meet her afterward.

Thurs., July 20, Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives & Alecia Nugent, Ryman Auditorium. This was such a wild one because I'd been debating between this and other shows all day. I wasn't what I was going to do when I left the house, only knowing I'd finally make up my mind on the way up to Nashville! I decided on this one because I LOVED the show that Marty did on Bluegrass Night two years ago. (sorry to Kelly Archer, Amy Chappell and Chris Young, I'll see you all at things soon!) This was again part of that series so I knew it'd be something special. It was indeed! Plus I've gotten to be such an Alecia Nugent fan. She was fantastic, drawing a response that required an encore. Marty does a set where you just never know what you'll hear, whether it be an old bluegrass song, a gospel song, a bluegrass-style version of one of his old songs or even one of the Bee Gee's "Stayin' Alive", which he and the Superlatives did! His wife Connie Smith was there too. They all did meet/greets afterward, which was really fun. Alecia too, after her set. I had nothing to get signed, as like I said, I didn't know for sure I was doing this show, but it still made for a great photo-op. Plus before the show, I was in the upstairs lobby talking on my phone, and who should walk by but Sharon White of The Whites. I got a nice smile of recognition from her. Again, it's the little things that get me off, ha.

Fri., July 21, Bonnie Baker & friends, Douglas Corner. I say the "& friends" because that's how it had been advertised on the venue's website and given that, I didn't really plan on going to this. I mean I like Bonnie, but I'd planned to finally see a myspace friend Natalie Stovall play in Columbia. But, I'd picked up a copy of The Rage the previous night, and they listed the "& friends" to be Amy Dalley, Trey Johnson and Katrina Elam. Amy? Katrina? Um, I'm sorry to Natalie, but I had to be at THIS show now! LOL. Natalie didn't know I'd planned on being at her show, plus she's got a lot more gigs coming up at which I'll catch her (I swear! ha). Anyway, I got to this one and quickly noticed Katrina was not present. I'm not sure what happened. But it was still worth it to be there as Amy was terrific. One of her songs was a more recent favorite I love, "I Built that Wall, I Can Tear it Down". Everyone was great. Bonnie's first song choice was a Kinley's favorite of mine, "I Will" (Billy Ray Cyrus once put his heart into this song too!), plus she did Katrina's new song last. And the two Johnson's, Trey and fill-in Kenny, were equally talented and great to hear. Plus, I wound up joined at my table by Trey's cousin, the unequalable Suzanne Karr, who I'd just seen and loved singing a few days earlier at the Bluebird. You just never know what'll happen in Nashville!

That's been about it lately. Not much going on, right? LOL. Actually it makes me enjoy days off like yesterday when I could finally go see "Pirates of the Caribbean 2" and watch ALF episodes on DVD all night and lazy afternoons like this that much more.

The next 2 weeks will have a lot of things going and no doubt more memories to document. Stay tuned! Thanks for reading.

Was Fan Fair really the last time I wrote anything here? I knew it had been a bit, but wow! Well, on the cusp of not having MySpace for a bit (i.e. I'm hopefully getting a new computer in a day or so and won't know how long before things will be hooked up to new internet), I'll update the musical life I've had since then. Off we go, into the wild blue yonder:

Friday, June 16- 2 gigs. 1) Casey Kessel at the French Quarter Cafe. Excellent time! Casey's got a new CD coming out that's gonna kick! She's terrific. Went alone but wound up sitting with my friend Melissa and her boyfriend, M's friend Lisa and her gent. I'd see Lisa sing herself in several days! Also discovered new myspace friends Jenn Weber and Anadara Arnold as part of a set before Casey's. Very inspiring! 2) Chalee Tennison at Ga'Dang. I was late, but better late than not showing at all. Chalee was great as she always is with her mini band of Scott Neubert and Rich Eckhardt. Sat with friends Robin and Corey, later joined by Amanda, Ashley and Sid. Natalie and Dwan ran sound, quite a sight, ha!

Sat., June 17- Jessica Dean with Perpetual Motion, Sidetracks right here in Spring Hill. This was interesting. I was thrilled I finally got to meet my myspace friend Jessica, who I'd been writing messages and comments with back and forth for months. This was not her own gig though, as she filled in with this band. It was all covers, and they traded off on songs with male and female lead vocals. They were pretty good, though I thought Jess stood out! The venue was a little place, though right here in town, I'd never been to. I just don't frequent the local joints. Not really my kinda place. I thought "oh Lord, how did my friend Paula used to wait tables here?!?" Ha. But if Jess or anyone else is ever back there performing, sure, I'd be there again.

Tues., June 20- Julie Roberts on the Grand Ole Opry. I saw exactly the first 30 min of this show, featuring Little Jimmy Dickens and then Julie. Julie was terrific, doing "Break Down Here", "Men and Mascara" and "Smile". This was a week before her CD release, to promote which she did an instore autograph signing in the Opry gift shop before the show. Try as I did, leaving immediately after work, no stopping at home, I could not make it to get in line on time for that. But I caught her as she exited that to say hi and wish her a good show. After her set, my friends Scott and Robin and I went out to eat at Opry Mills mall.

Thurs., June 22- Angie Broberg at a Starbucks in Nashville. I met Angie at an autograph signing during Fan Fair and was determined to see her sing live, much like I am any singer I meet live or online or wherever. This was an acoustic gig, and Angie was awesome! Not only can this girl sing beautifully, but these songs she did, wow! I can't wait to catch her with a band. Ran into my friend Jeff there, of course, I see him at every other thing I go to as we have almost the same musical tastes. Also ran into Billy Block, which was cool as he recognizes me for coming to his shows! Ha.

Fri., June 23, Stacie Collins, 3rd & Lindsley- a 90 minute set for my girl on this night! Stacie did such a kick-ass job, she really knows how to tear it up, throw it down and cut it loose! I heard just about every song I've ever heard her do (just still no "Do You Miss He", hint, Stacie, hint, LOL) plus more. She's rockin', the band is happening, it's all there. Warner Hodges is really getting it on guitar now (not that he ever didn't "get it", but he's just getting more and more comfy with the songs), and Stacie's husband Allen plus the drummer David are such a solid rhythm section. I'm so proud of this woman. Honestly I see what she does, see that it would translate well to a 15,000 seat arena, and think "why not?"

Sat., June 24, 2 shows. 1) benefit at 3rd  & L writer's round with Karyn Rochelle, Hillary Lindsey, Sherrie Austin and more. I would've stayed the rest of the night for James Slater and Kristi Neumann had other plans not arisen. But with this one, I'd say Hillary really blew me away the most, and Karyn certainly enough to find to be a new myspace friend! lol. Is that a new classification of how good someone is, if you haven't seen them before, are we thinking now, "well, I liked them, I'll find them on myspace" or "I won't bother finding them out there"? I think it is. Anyway, Sherrie was something too, doing some brand new stuff plus more. I don't think I've ever heard 2 sadder songs in a row than Hillary doing "Jesus Take the Wheel" and Sherrie then doing "Streets of Heaven". 2) The Grand Ole Opry. I went to the 2nd of the 2 shows. Tonight's purpose was Jennifer Hanson, who had just been added to the show 2 days earlier (thus that was the time I got my ticket! ha). It was a great show before Jennifer came on too, featuring the likes of Alecia Nugent, Moutain Heart and Rodney Atkins, among more of course. Jennifer was awesome, doing "A Different Life" and "This Far Gone". I moved from my pretty good seat to a better one, right down front plopped on the floor, to make sure she knew I was there and get some good pictures. I wish to apologize to John Griffin, Philip Kyle, Kimberley Dahme, Cindy Kalmenson and Sammy Hagar, all of whom I would not have hesitated to come see had this not been an already full night of entertainment.

Tues., June 27, Danielle Peck, Hard Rock Cafe. This was a free show put on by 99.5 the Wolf as a listener appreciation show to the first 300 people there. I made it with time to spare. This was the first fairly full concert I'd seen by Danielle. I did see her once on the Opry several months ago. But I was so excited to get to see this show and hear her live. Danielle really proved to me she's the real deal, as a great singer and entertainer of the audience. She did quite a few of the songs on her CD and a couple covers. It was great to see a few friends there too, Kelly Archer, Christy Long Hoskins, Jo Dee Messina, who all got called up on stage for "Findin' a Good Man", plus Melissa, Blake, John. Also Suzanne Alexander and Lisa Koniky from GAC and Country Weekly. This was such a fun night! Sorry to the Black Crowes for having to miss their show for this one. Also to my friend Jean Cash who'd put together a benefit with many former Nashville Star contestants performing elsewhere. I meant to come after this one but just didn't get out on time.

Wed., June 28, 2 shows. 1) Red Band Anna, 3rd & Lindsley. I met Sally of the group at Coyote Ugly where she bartends while meeting my myspace friend Jenn there who does the same. So I added Sally and learned of this band she's in. I finally made it to this show. They're a vocal trio with a backing band. I was really impressed overall. The songs were good, their presence was good, even with a group clog near the end. I hope their image, which is very bright, doesn't overshadow the group. They've got a chance! 2) 5 Girls for 5 Bucks, including Lauren Lucas, Sara Beck, Lisa Torres, Nicole Witt and Victoria Banks, at 12th & Porter. This was a GREAT gig I was looking forward too. I've always liked Nicole and recently got into Sara, and of course am a MAJOR, MAJOR L-Train rider, thinking the world of Lauren Lucas. I'd just met Lisa at the French Quarter a week or so ago (remember? LOL). Victoria I'd never heard of, but I'm willing to give anyone a listen in an environment like this. Nicole was terrific, doing the multi-instrument switch and great songs. Lisa really really impressed me with her immediate stage presence. Lauren was tremendous as she always is. Victoria's songs were well-crafted. Sara proved to me she could bring it with a band, as it was acoustically which I had previously seen her. Though it was 3 songs each, plus a song with all of them at the end (cover of "Witchy Woman", LOL), which wasn't long per person, it was a great evening. Friends like Jeff and Blake were there, plus Stacie was hanging out in the bar area before the show.

Fri., June 30- Sarah Majors, Anna Owens and Gary Harrison, Puckett's Grocery in Leiper's Fork. Wow, talk about getting to an original place to see a show! The drive out, while not that far, was on these winding country roads, one of which was not marked so I'm lucky I didn't miss it entirely. The town was like one that time forgot, so charming and quaint. The show was quite fun too. I went for Sarah and certainly enjoyed the others too. Sarah's gotten to be a friend through the Kinley's and Adam Hughes. She was quite the blast to hear. Anna really impressed me too as a singer and fiddler. Gary's catalog of hits shocked me! Wrong Side of Memphis, Strawberry Wine, Everybody Knows. Great show! I'd go to this place again too. Sarah left with idea of trying to get Adam and the twins (Kinley's) to do a gig here someday. Fairytales, can come true, they can happen to you....

Sat., July 1, 2 shows, both at the Bluebird: 1) early show featured friend Amy Chappell. She did lots of new stuff she was fixing to record the next week, plus one off the current CD. For all the times now I've gotten to see her really kick into high gear at the Wildhorse as a house act, it was awesome to see her back how I got into her music, acoustically, doing orginal, beautiful songs. 2) Jessi Alexander, Jon Randall, Gary Nicholson and John Scott Sherril (sp.?). This is one that I really wanted to see anyway but if something happened where I missed it, my friend Emily would've killed me! Ha. She so wanted to be there but was still in FL for the summer. Anyway, I called live from the site to her, and also determined for myself not to leave without a pic with Jessi, since I could not do that during Fan Fair despite meeting her. Anyway, this was one special evening. What killed me was the skill of Gary and J.R. as guitar players to jam on one another's songs, instantly! It truly was more like a jam than an in-the-round. Jessi was FABULOUS! WOW can that woman sing!! I really hope the record company dropping her comes back to bite them in the rear. I truly believe she's got greatness coming. Terrific show! And yes, at the end, I got the photo before leaving...

Mon., July 3, Hootie & the Blowfish, Cowboy Mouth and Danielle Peck, Starwood Ampitheatre. On the eve of leaving town for 5 days, with having to get up at 5 the next morning to get ready and get to the airport, any normal person would have been home that night relaxing, packing, going to bed early. Not me! I said any normal person! I had to, just HAD TO, see Danielle on this show. She was terrific! It was a brief set, maybe 25 minutes, but still she got the crowd into it, that which was there yet. It was very worth it to go. I could've left after her set, as I'd only spent $10 on the lawn ticket, but I decided I wanted to stay for H&tB. I wish Cowboy Mouth would've NOT been there. Totally unimpressive, trying too hard, being idiots. Anyway, H&tB made it worth it. All and all, very good show! Only reason I really went was for Danielle though.

Tues., July 11- Poison & Cinderella, Starwood. Yes, there was a week with no shows while I was in NY with friends. But this was THE one to come back to! It was cool in that it was only 2 days away after returning. Cinderella was very tight musically, which was always a forte with them, and they just rocked! Tom Keifer is pretty much a musical genius in my eyes, being able to write great songs, play lead and rhythm guitar, piano, saxophone, everything. Problem is he can't sing anymore! I'm not sure whether this was a bad night for his voice or if he's always sounding like this now, but he was not good. NOT good. Just like his voice couldn't do what he wanted it to do, that's all. Poison on the other hand, these guys have always been and continue to be just awesome! Bret Michaels is the consumate showman and leader up there. His excitement is definitely real! CC Deville seemed clean and I thought his playing was superb, unlike a couple previous tours. Bobby Dahl, hair growing back and all, just provides a great rhythm line and presence on stage, and there aren't many better drummers than steady Rikki Rockett. And this really pleased me: on my way from the car to the venue entrance, Rikki passed me on his motorcycle, nodding to me as I walked past in my Poison shirt and cowboy hat. It's a simple gesture but just meant the world. Their set was flawless and yet another reminder of why, no matter what anyone in the world wants to say about them or me for it, I will always be a Poison fan, and I'll come see them as long as they're doing what they're doing.

Wed., July 12, Kevin Denney, Mark Nesler and Phillip White, Bluebird Cafe. This was actually the early show! And it was tonight! Usually I never write on the same night I go. Aw well, why stop now? I love all of these guys' songwriting, Mark especially. Of course through his marriage to Jennifer Hanson, I also consider him a friend. He did plenty of the songs that make him famous. He also told a story about the success of his huge hit that Tim McGraw did, "Just to See You Smile", that really touched me. Kevin was quite cool, doing some new stuff plus hit "That's Just Jessie". He's a cool kat! Phil was great with his catalog of hits too. After the show I was happy to get a photo with Kevin, plus catch up with Jennifer, who had arrived mid-set to watch and hear Mark, and Phil's wife Amber Leigh, who I've gotten to know through a few meetings too. Great show night!

Oh wow, that's a long bugger of a blog! I can't say I will write again real soon  as I'm not sure when I'll be getting a new 'puter that will require hook-up and all and aggravation. It will still be better than this thing is now. Anyway, thanks for reading. To quote the title of the movie I watched while on vacation last week, "good night and good luck"....