Search Results for: The Farm

EXCLUSIVE: Interview with Krystal Keith

Krystal Keith.

It’s been a pretty big last few weeks for Krystal Keith. The Show Dog Universal artist released her self-titled EP, and debut music video “Daddy Dance With Me.” We had the chance to speak to Krystal earlier this month about the release of her EP, music video, and the best advice she’s ever gotten for the industry, her upcoming full-length album “Whiskey & Lace,” surprising her dad, Toby Keith, at her wedding, crashing the stage as a child at her dad’s show, why she thinks Miranda Lambert is so bad-ass, and much more.

Make sure to pick up your copy of her self-titled EP, which is available now on iTunes or other digital music retailers, and get to know Krystal in our exclusive interview below:

Dierks Bentley to open Whiskey Row

Dierks Bentley. Photo credit: The Greenroom PR

Multi-Platinum singer/songwriter Dierks Bentley will open a bar in his home state of Arizona this summer, with the grand opening of Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row set for July 4. Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale’s entertainment district, Bentley teamed up with Ryan Hibbert, Mike Troyan and Jon Wright, owners of Riot Hospitality Group (RHG) and operators of El Hefe Super Macho Taqueria for the throwback 1920′s style saloon with a modern country vibe.

It’s a pretty exciting new project for Dierks, who explains:

“Opening a bar in my hometown is something I’ve always wanted to do. These guys have spent a lot of time and put a lot of thought into really cool details that will make it the perfect place to watch a game or listen to music or just get a few drinks with friends.  I’m looking forward to helping break it in.”

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row will be the first of its kind to enter Scottsdale; it will have an old school country flare with a Scottsdale twist. With warm wood surroundings, the venue features a 360-degree stage and massive 24 ft. TV. Being the most technologically advanced bar in the state, Whiskey Row boasts a state of the art HDMI video system managed by iPad technology which can control the video and sound from anywhere in the room. As an added benefit to guests, Whiskey Row will offer iPhone and USB charging stations available at the bar. Each premiere booth will feature three different beer taps and never before seen in Arizona, a liquor tap. These hi-tech taps will allow guests to pour their own beer and shots right at the table with no waiting.

The venue will serve a familiar American Gastropub Fare cuisine with a modern twist. All menu items will be made from scratch in house, using organic meats and locally farmed produce. Not only will the menu offer mouth-watering entrees but will feature sweet tooth-curbing desserts such as bourbon vanilla bean ice cream and a signature Arizona honey pecan ice cream topped on a warm apple fritter. The drink menu is just as unique with a new version of a boilermaker, which is a shot of whiskey dropped into a glass of beer. The bar is also set to offer 40 different types of whiskey. Reservations can be made by visiting the website at DierksWhiskeyRow.com and the venue will be located at 4420 N. Saddlebag Trail in Scottsdale, AZ.

Will you be making the trip to check it out? What country artist do you think should have their own bar next?

 

 

Country stars react to George Jones’ passing

george jones

It’s been a tragic few days for country music stars and country fans. The legendary George Jones passed away in a Nashville hospital, and country stars have reacted in shock and sadness over the loss of an icon. See what some of your favorite stars have said about the great George Jones:

 

Brad Paisley:

“George Jones’ life is an example of so many wonderful things. How someone’s God-given gifts can make this a richer, better place.  How one human being can overcome adversity, addiction, and life threatening obstacles time and time again.  That it is not the stumble or fall that counts, but the willingness to stand again. How a keen sense of humor and a twinkle in a person’s eye can still prevail even after all of life’s hard knocks.  How mistakes, missteps, and bad choices are not the end of the world if a person chooses to turn them into something good. And George’s life is above all the strongest example of how the love of a great woman can get a man through anything. All of this made its way beautifully into every note of the greatest voice country music will ever know.  And one of the greatest friends you could ever have.

We miss you already, George.

Brad”

Dolly Parton:

“My heart is absolutely broken.  George Jones was my all time favorite singer and one of my favorite people in the world.  My heart goes out to Nancy and all his family and friends.”

Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts:

“He was the greatest country vocalist that ever lived! Through the years we have all tried to emulate the passion in his voice, but no one can fill his shoes.”

Merle Haggard:

“The world has lost the greatest country singer of all time. Amen.” 

Easton Corbin:

“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of one of my all time heroes, George Jones. Georges’ music was real and he was able to touch thousands through his songs. Not only was he a great singer, but he also had the ability to make you relate to every one of his songs, no matter who you are. He and his music will remain timeless in the world of country music. My thoughts and prayers are with his family through this difficult time.”

Blake Shelton (via Twitter):

Just landed in LA. Listened to “The King Is Gone” and “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” over and over again just like always. Can’t accept it. Really REALLY bad news. We’ve lost a country music legend. And I’ve lost a hero and a friend. Goodbye George Jones…

Kelly Clarkson (via Twitter):

Sad to hear about George Jones passing. That man touched a lot of lives with his music. Thanks for setting the bar for the rest of us. #RIPGeorgeJones

Read more reactions and quotes below:

CMT to celebrate Willie Nelson’s 80th birthday

Willie Nelson.

Here’s one special you won’t want to miss. CMT is planning on celebrating country icon Willie Nelson‘s 80th birthday with a very special taping of “CMT Crossroads: Willie Nelson & Friends From Third Man Records.”Announced to be part of the big birthday celebration will be performers Ashley Monroe, Jamey Johnson, Sheryl Crow, Neil Young, and Leon Russell. The episode will air in May, but we don’t have an exact date yet.

Fans are also asked to take part in Willie’s 80th birthday celebrations by visiting birthday.willienelson.com/ and submitting a video talking about why you’re a fan of the country legend. The birthday submissions are being put together by Farm Aid,who is gathering up good wishes for Willie Nelson from America’s family farmers, and artists. They’ll round up your funniest, most heartwarming testimonials to make a video for Willie on his big day on April 30, 2013.

One of the artists helping to celebrate with a video message is Kenny Chesney. Check out his special birthday message for the icon:

James Otto to play at Billy Dean’s Birthday Bash

James Otto. photo credit: EB Media

Country music star James Otto will be on hand to celebrate a pretty special birthday for a fellow artist. He’s been asked by Billy Dean to perform at his annual Birthday Bash held on the Dean Acres. The best part? The event is open to fans who purchase tickets in advance! Billy’s Birthday Bash will be held on April 27th at 5 pm just outside Nashville in Liberty, Tennessee.

To celebrate his 51st birthday, Billy will once again open the Dean Acres to country fans. It’s become an annual event since 2011, which has sold-out every year since. Dean Acres recently went under renovations with their 100-year old barn for a stage that can fit up to 200 fans.

Ticket holders will be treated to a special Brunch with the Dean family the morning after the party back on the farm. You can’t get more country than that. Tickets are on-sale now at deanacres.com.

What’s the most unique event you’ve ever been to for a country concert?

Angie Johnson to release debut EP

Angie Johnson.

New Sony Music Nashville recording artist Angie Johnson is set to release her debut EP, “Sing For You,” on May 21st. The four-song EP will include her co-written title track “Sing For You,” a moving, true-to-life ballad that showcases Angie’s powerhouse vocals and emotional range. Produced by Josh Leo (Love and Theft, Alabama) the EP will be available digitally and at select retailers.

It’s a big step for the former The Voice contestant, who shares:

“I’m fired up about getting new music out to folks. So many talented people contributed to this project and the experience was humbling and inspiring for me. A lot of heart and personality went into this music and the result is really special, and REALLY fun. It’s a little bit of spit and a lot of shine, and I’m proud of that.”

Angie Johnson Sing For You EP official album cover.

Angie Johnson Sing For You EP official album cover.

Angie Johnson Sing For You EP track listing:

1. Sing For You  Angie Johnson/Catt Gravitt/Josh Leo (BMI/SESAC)

2. Grandpa’s Farm Brent Cobb/Adam Hood/Jason Saenz (BMI)

3. Runaway Cary Barlowe/Sara Haze/Catt Gravitt (SESAC/ASCAP)

4. Swagger Angie Johnson/Josh Leo/Phoenix Mendoza (BMI)

Angie’s announcement comes on the heels of her first trip to the Academy of Country Music Awards, where she announced her debut EP on the awards show red carpet. Highlights of her ACM trip included an impromptu acapella performance of “Heartbreaker” during ACM FanJam at The Orleans Arena, a performance of the national anthem at the ACM Party for a Cause, and time with several of her musical influences and fellow upcoming artists during Cabela’s Great Outdoors Archery Event as part of The ACM.

Rascal Flatts launch brand new Summer tour

Rascal Flatts. Photo credit: Randee St Nicholas

Rascal Flatts, one of the top selling touring acts in country music today having sold over seven million concert tickets in the last 10 years, will embark on a brand new tour this summer, Farmers Insurance Presents Rascal Flatts “Live & Loud.” The 34-city run will launch on Friday, May 31 in Jones Beach, New York at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre with special guests The Band Perry and 2012’s The Voice winner Cassadee Pope.

Rascal Flatts wrapped their “Changed Tour” earlier this month and ended 2012 having played before one million fans.  They are the best-selling country vocal group of the past decade and with the #1 debut of their latest album, CHANGED, they have the distinction of being one of only four acts to have seven consecutive studio albums debut in the top spot on the Billboard Country Albums chart during the Soundscan era.  Since their musical debut in 2000, the band has sold over 21 million albums, 25 million digital downloads and delivered 14 #1 singles to the top of the charts.  Rascal Flatts is the most awarded Country group of the past decade, earning over 40 trophies from the ACAs, ACMs, AMAs, CMAs, People’s Choice Awards and more.

The Band Perry – comprised of siblings Kimberly, Reid and Neil Perry –combines classic Country with an eclectic infusion of Rock and Soul that is rounded out by perfect three-part harmonies. The sibling trio’s latest offering “Better Dig Two,” garnered the family band a multi-week #1 and their third ascend to the top of the charts. The lead single has been certified platinum for sales of over one million copies and marks the fastest-rising of their career. They will release their sophomore album, PIONEER, on April 2.
At just 23, Cassadee Pope’s unique vocals and powerful performances stole the national spotlight during Season 3 of “The Voice.”  The reigning star of the NBC hit primetime show wowed from the start with offers from all four judges during the blind auditions before accepting with Team Blake (Shelton). The talented singer/songwriter has already appeared on Today, Live! With Kelly & Michael, The Tonight Show With Jay Leno and performed with Train on New Year’s Eve With Carson Daily. She will release new, original music later this spring.
2013 Farmers Insurance Presents Rascal Flatts “Live & Loud” dates:
5-31     Jones Beach, NY         Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre
6-2       Holmdel, NJ                PNC Bank Arts Center
6-6       Atlanta, GA                 Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood
6-7       Tampa, FL                   Live Nation Amphitheatre Tampa
6-8       West Palm Beach, FL  Cruzan Amphitheatre
6-14     Boston, MA                 Comcast Center
6-15     Hartford, CT                Comcast Theatre
6-16     Saratoga Springs, NY   Saratoga Performing Arts Center
6-23     Grand Junction, CO     Country Jam USA
6-27     Detroit, MI                   DTE Energy Music Theatre
6-28     Cleveland, OH             Blossom Music Center
6-29     Indianapolis, IN           Klipsch Music Center
7-18     Eau Claire, WI             Country Jam USA
7-19     Stateline, NV               Harvey’s Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena
7-23     Paso Robles, CA          California Mid State Fair
7-25     Cheyenne, WY            Cheyenne Frontier Days
8-2       Gilford, NH                  Meadowbrook
8-3       Bomanville, ON           Mosport Park Raceway/Boots & Hearts Festival
8-9       Wichita, KS                 INTRUST Bank Arena
8-10     Tulsa, OK                    BOK Center
8-16     St. Louis, MO              Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
8-17     Chicago, IL                  First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
8-18     Sioux City, IA              Tyson Events Center
9-5       Cincinnati, OH             Riverbend Music Center
9-6       Pittsburgh, PA              First Niagara Pavilion
9-7       Darien Center, NY       Darien Lakes Performing Arts Center
9-12     Phoenix, AZ                 Desert Sky Pavilion
9-13     San Diego, CA             Sleep Train Amphitheatre
9-14     Irvine, CA                    Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
9-26     Virginia Beach, VA     Farm Bureau Live at Virginia Beach
9-27     Raleigh, NC                 Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion
9-28     Washington, DC          Jiffy Lube Live
10-3     Las Cruces, NM           Pam American Center/ New Mexico State University
10-4     Lubbock, TX               United Spirit Arena
*dates are subject to change

Country Music Hits the Sands of Sunny South Florida

tortuga-festival-logo

When you think country music, you typically envision open fields, farms, little green tractors, cowboy boots, and ten-gallon hats. When you think Kenny Chesney, you think all of those things – plus a little blue chair. Now take all of those things and add in the warm, beautiful beaches of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and a great cause and you have the incredibly exciting inaugural Tortuga Music Festival!

Kenny Chesney, along with pop, rock, and other country artists (20+ artists, mind you) you will be participating in Rock the Ocean’s first ever beach concert event on April 13-14. The artists will perform on three stages, each of which is directly on the beach. The lineup includes Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, The Avett Brothers, Ben Harper & Charlie Musselwhite, Gary Allan, Jake Owen, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Gary Clark, Jr., Eli Young Band, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Grace Potter, Kip Moore, Gloriana, G. Love & Special Sauce, Donavon Frankenreiter, Mac McAnally, The Wailers, Sister Hazel, Dangermuffin, Rayland Baxter, and The Bright Light Social Hour.

Brad Paisley to Beat This Summer with Chris Young & Lee Brice

brad_paisley

On the heels of the release of his new single “Beat this Summer,” Brad Paisley has announced the first leg of his 2013 Beat This Summer Tour presented by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®. The tour will hit 29 cities across the United States and Canada, starting on May 9 in St. Louis, Mo. Additionally, Brad will be joined on the road by Chris Young and Lee Brice.

“Teaming up with Brad Paisley for this tour is exciting for everyone at Cracker Barrel because he is one of the most highly-regarded modern-day entertainers, and his connection with country music fans, our brand, and our guests is such a phenomenal fit,” says Cracker Barrel Marketing Manager Julie Craig. “The tour integration itself is the largest we’ve ever launched as a brand, and we’re thrilled that the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® exclusive music program is helping to bring this amazing tour experience to thousands of fans.”

The Bobby Bones Show is now in Nashville!

Last Tuesday, February 19th, we here at Keepin’ It Country had the pleasure of welcoming Mr. Bobby Bones to Nashville! The press conference took place at the Ford Theater in the Country Music Hall of Fame, where Bobby and his radio crew answered questions and took photos with some of Bobby’s favorite country stars, who were invited to help welcome him to his new city.

To start off the conference, Brad Paisley (although he couldn’t be there in attendance) shared a special video message announcing that he would be Bobby’s first guest on Monday, February 25th. The Big 98′s AntMan and Amy Paige then hosted a question & answer session with Bobby, opening up questions to anyone in attendance. Some of the country stars in attendance at the conference were Brett Eldridge, Charlie Worsham, Chris Janson, Craig Campbell, Dustin Lynch, Eric Paslay, The Farm, Gloriana, Greg Bates, Jake Owen, Jana Kramer, Joe Nichols, Joel Crouse, Josh Thompson, Jon Pardi, Kristin Kelly, and Parmalee.

“Thank you guys all for coming, it really means a lot to me and I’m gonna play your records a whole lot more since you’re here” Bobby joked, to all the artists who took their time to attend.

Bobby informed us that he grew up on country and he already feels at home in the transition from hosting on Top 40 radio to Country. ”To entertain and be with country music, it just feels so natural, and I feel like there is a big wide open avenue for a show like ours that makes people laugh, that relates and identifies with the new generation of country. I think that’s our goal and that’s what we’re set here to do.”

The Bobby Bones Show first started in Austin, TX in 2003. It debuted in Nashville on February 18th, 2013 and is now syndicated on Country radio stations nationwide. You can tune in Monday through Friday from 5 to 10am central time.

We’re glad to have you here in Nashville, Bobby! You can check out our photos from the event below!