Keepin' it Country Media & Radio » Dierks Bentley

Dierks Bentley to release personal album Riser

Lydia Picknell — Mon, 13 May 2013 17:18:28 +0000

Dierks Bentley is getting ready to release what he believes will be a defining new album this Fall. “Riser,” his brand new record, will be his most personal yet – written and recorded the year after his father’s death.

The title for his new album comes from the song “I’m A Riser,” a song about spiritual, personal and societal commentary on re-commitment, but he also can relate it to the battlefield of the music industry.

On why he believes this album will be his most personal yet, Dierks says:

“Life in general has a way of knocking you down. It’s different reasons for different folks – could be personal reasons, could be family reasons, your job, drugs, alcohol. That song really applies to anybody that’s lived. There have always been those moments when we have to get back up and get on our feet. They are defining moments…breakthrough moments.”

The theme throughout Dierks’ brand new album is accepting change and learning to grow and learn from it. “Riser” will showcase Dierks’ artistic depth and a new intensity that country fans may not have expected from him previously.

Dierks teamed up once again with Arthur Buenahora Jr. (who was executive producer on his first two albums), and producer Ross Copperman (writer of “Tip It On Back”).

Some tracks on the album were recorded live with Dierks’ band, and others at some less-than-traditional locales – including one track on his own tour bus! Other tracks were recorded at Ross Copperman’s home studio, who stood beside Dierks and pushed him to what they are calling his most emotional levels.

Dierks had this to say about Ross’ studio:

“It’s not even really a studio. It’s just kind of a corner of the house he’s taken over, so there was a kind of intimacy to the vocal process. It was important to get out of the studio and sing in different places, and to do it with other people in the room. That way, you have an audience and you get a sense of what’s working, what’s not working, when it’s feeling good, not feeling good. It brings a little more emotion and energy out of your voice.”

Dierks’ new album “Riser” will be released sometime this Fall. Stay tuned to Keepin’ it Country for the latest news on Dierks’ exciting new project.

Dierks Bentley to open Whiskey Row

Lydia Picknell — Fri, 10 May 2013 18:53:44 +0000

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

Lydia Picknell — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 13:56:05 +0000

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

A Recap of our ACM Performance Announcements

Lydia Picknell — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:21:40 +0000

Yesterday we were part of a teleconference with CBS and Academy of Country Music producers for the upcoming ACM awards this weekend. We got to know quite a few exciting secrets for the award show this weekend, and of course we couldn’t wait to tell our fans and readers on Twitter! If you’re following us on Twitter (@keepinitblog) you will have already heard these really cool performances, but we are recapping them now so everyone can keep track of what might be the most-fun Academy of Country Music Award show ever.

Unfortunately, we were unable to make it to the ACMs this year because of budgetary reasons, so we’ll be live-tweeting them from home along with you! Make sure you join us Sunday afternoon for our exclusive KEEPIN’ IT COUNTRY PRESENTS… Jason Charles Miller stageit show at 3 pm EST, before the ACMs kick off live from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas at 8 pm EST. Use hashtag #KIC to join in our fun!

The ACMs will kick off with a big opening performance of “Boys ‘Round Here” with Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, Pistol Annies, Sheryl Crow, and Brad Paisley.

Jewel will perform a special Lifting Lives segment with a mash-up of her hit single “Hands Clean” and “Fill A Heart,” an original song by singer-songwriter Tori Kelly.

Hunter Hayes will get two pretty cool performances – he’ll be debuting his new single “I Want Crazy” with Stevie Wonder, and will mix in one of Stevie’s big hits. Hunter will return later in the show with Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley live from the ACM Fan Jam. How did Stevie and Hunter get together? Turns out Hunter covers Stevie’s songs on tour, and Stevie discovered them and became a fan of Hunter.

Taylor Swift will have country superstars Keith Urban and Tim McGraw joining her for “Highway Don’t Care.”

Luke Bryan will be debuting a brand new single “Crash My Party” during the award show..

Kelly Clarkson will be performing her country single “Don’t Rush” with a special, announced guest. Is it Vince Gill? We don’t know, but we know he was approached along with someone else.

Reba will introduce a very special duet performance from Garth Brooks and George Strait who will be paying tribute to the late Dick Clark. It’s going to be a pretty emotional performance, so make sure you tune in for this one.

Do you have any questions about the ACMs? We’ll answer what we can on Facebook and Twitter!

Brad Paisley Prepares for Album Release

Tia — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:32:59 +0000

This Monday (04/01), Brad Paisley will be testing out his anchor skills as he joins the anchors of Good Morning America as a special guest. This appearance is undoubtedly going to get fans even more excited for the April 9th release of his new album, Wheelhouse, as well as his Building A Wheelhouse Interactive Book.

To get fans revved up, Brad is holding a Wheelhouse Scavenger Hunt for his fans. This interactive contest aims to provide fans with a look into the making of Wheelhouse. Each day during the contest, the artist will post clues to the location of a hidden icon, photo or video via Twitter or Facebook. The first person to locate the hidden item will then win a prize after returning to the promotion site. All participants are eligible to win the grand prize – a flyaway for the winner and a guest to a Brad Paisley contest, as well as a meet and greet and accommodations.

Paisley’s second single off the upcoming album, “Beat This Summer,” is already #17 on the Billboard national airplay charts. The lead single, “Southern Comfort Zone,” recently became a number one hit, the 21st for the artist. “Beat This Summer” is available instantly when you pre-order Wheelhouse.The album includes special guests Dierks Bentley, Roger Miller, Hunter Hayes, Matt Kearney, Charlie Daniels and LL Cool J.

Fans can also pre-order Building A Wheelhouse, which offers an interactive look at the songwriting and production aspects of the album.

Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley & Luke Bryan are Faster Horses

Lydia Picknell — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 16:13:06 +0000

Get ready country music fans in Michigan! A brand new festival is about to take off in Brooklyn, MI with some huge country stars. The Faster Horses Festival, which is being organized by Live Nation’s ACM Promoter of the Year Brian O’Connell, will feature headlining performances by Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, and Luke Bryan. The three-day festival will run from July 19th to the 21st and will also feature performances by Jerrod Niemann, Thompson Square, Kix Brooks, Chris Young, Colt Ford, and more to be announced.

Three-day festival passes are $170 and will go on-sale on Monday, February 25th at fasterhorsesfestival.com.

Following the success of the inaugural Watershed Festival at the famed Gorge Amphitheatre last year, O’Connell selected a wide-open field in the secluded Irish Hills in Michigan for his next country camping festival. Surrounded by lakes and rolling hills, this area of Michigan is a summer hot spot, attracting vacationers far and wide. The Faster Horses Festival is set to be a prime summer event featuring 2 stages, 9 campgrounds, late night jam sessions, food trucks, bonfires and more to highlight the unique summer lifestyle experience in the area.

Are you excited for the new festival? Will you be picking up your tickets on Monday? Who else do you want to see added to the festival lineup?

Grammy Recap: Our Favorite Moments

Nicole Piering — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:23:12 +0000

The 55th Annual Grammy’s took place on Sunday, February 10th and our favorite country artists were well-represented with performances and more. It was impossible to pick a favorite moment, so we picked a few of the best…

Taylor Swift Brings in the Clowns: We’ve never been asked to open the Grammys (or much more than our own mail), but we’d assume it’s a big responsibility that comes with a ton of pressure. With her genre-bending, Alice-in-Wonderland-themed opener, Taylor Swift set the tone for a night of unforgettable performances with her hit about never, ever, ever, EVER getting back together. Although she nabbed a Grammy in the pre-telecast for her collaboration with the Civil Wars, it was her performance that had everyone buzzing. Most notably, there was that moment when she pulled her best Madonna, suddenly acquiring a British accent. Although much has been made about what that meant, we here at Keepin’ It Country have decided it could’ve only been aimed in one direction…

Dierks Bentley & Miranda Lambert Rep for Country Music: In what was the only true country performance of the night, country’s reigning Queen Supreme Miranda Lambert was joined by tour mate Dierks Bentley on a mash-up of their Grammy-nominated songs, “Over” and “Home.” Although, in the words of the great Randy Jackson, Dierks was a bit pitchy at times, he and Miranda proved great ambassadors for country music with their heartfelt collaboration. Dierks should probably watch out though, Miranda totally outsang him on his own song. We wouldn’t complain if she stole “Home” and re-cut it as her own.

Zac Brown & Band Escape Breaking Amish: Although the Zac Brown Band almost lost out on their Grammy for Best Country Album to Zach Braff (more on that later), the facial-hair-band of country music nabbed their third career trophy. Zac looked especially dapper in his fedora, but it was soon beanie business as usual for his performance. Zac joined greats like Mavis Staples, Brittany Howard of the Alabama Shakes and Elton John in a rousing tribute to the great Levon Helm. Personally, I’d like to thank them for this performance, as I spent my entire life thinking that the lyrics to “The Weight” were “Take a load of granny.” Apparently, it’s Annie.

Carrie Underwood and the Technicolor Dream-Dress: We’ll admit it, our immediate though when Carrie took the stage to perform her “Blown Away”/ “Two Black Cadillacs” mash-up was that she looked like she was was wearing her best Miss America gown. While her vocals shone at the beginning of the performance, she was quickly upstaged…by her dress. It made a fashion statement, literally as it took on a life of its own. Frankly, if it wasn’t for the rewind button on my DVR, I’d have no idea what she sang. That performance was all about the dress, which took on various colors, designs and images quicker than Walt Disney World’s Cinderella Castle at the park’s closing. There were swirls and colors and butterflies, and although we have no idea what that has to do with either of her songs about death, we were impressed.

Everything Kelly Clarkson: From photo-bombing Ellen & Portia (take that Bill Clinton!) to bringing down the house with one of the best vocal performances of the night, Kelly was one of the night’s biggest unintentional stars. Upon winning Best Pop Vocal album, she slalomed through the celeb audience, stopping briefly to pet John Mayer, slap Katy Perry and get stuck to Miranda Lambert – literally. She than gave one of the most scattered and endearing acceptance speeches of the night, shouting out Adele, Miguel, Pink & her “sexy fiance.” Moments later, she returned to the stage, poised and professional. Honoring Patti Page & Carole King, Clarkson effortlessly crooned her way through “The Tennessee Waltz” & “Natural Woman” before slipping back into her dorky and unassuming manner as she accidentally announced that Zach Braff, not Zac Brown, had won the Grammy for Best Country Album.

Honorable Mention – Little Big Town Nabs a Little Big Grammy: It may not have happened on the live telecast, but it’s about dang time Little Big Town won a Grammy. The quartet nabbed their first Grammy for Best Country Duo/ Group Performance for “Pontoon.” Turns out, even the Grammy voters can’ts resist a little mmmmmmotorboatin.’

POLL: Grammy Best Country Solo Performance

Jeanna D. — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 04:12:26 +0000

Music’s biggest night (and a personal favorite) is almost here… The Grammy Awards!

The show will air this Sunday, February 10th at 8 p.m. EST. on CBS.

But before the Grammys kick off, we want to hear from you! We’ll be rolling out polls for the country music categories the rest of the week.

First up… Best Country Solo Performance!

Vote and let us know who you would like to take the trophy home.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Randy Houser celebrates first-ever RIAA gold single

Lydia Picknell — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 21:32:11 +0000

Country star Randy Houser may sing about getting “some of this slow-down fast” in “How Country Feels,” but right now his career begs to differ as the song, his first-ever No. 1 hit, also becomes his first RIAA® Gold® certified single, selling over half a million downloads and climbing. “How Country Feels” is the title track off of his new album which hit stores last week and debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Country Albums chart. The album has also received praise from AP, CBS New York, The Washington Post, Billboard and many more.

In the midst of the barreling momentum, Houser performed for the nation last week on FOX News Channel’s Fox & Friends, Walmart Soundcheck, AOL Sessions, Yahoo! Ram Country and Better TV, and interviewed on GAC’s Headline Country, and CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown where he was challenged to see how country feels truly feels by hilariously having to identify different obscure “country” objects while blindfolded.

Chris Talbott of the Associated Press writes How Country Feels is “stuffed with country soul-inflected mid-tempo arrangements that highlight Houser’s rich voice, there’s likely a few more hits among its 15 tracks.” Rhapsody’s Linda Ryan adds, “How County Feels is a polished collection whose other gems include feel-good ‘Growin’ Younger’ and frivolous charmer ‘Absolutely Nothing.’ But Houser’s soulful voice shines brightest on the straight and sincere songs, like ‘The Singer,’ ‘Power of a Song’ and ‘Route 3 Box 250 D.’”

Annie Reuter, online reviewer for CBS New York, who attended his sold-out show in New York City at Mercury Lounge which was broadcast live on Sirius XM’s “The Highway” notes, “Randy segued effortlessly from the high energy numbers to the slower ones but just because he got quieter didn’t mean the crowd ever would. No doubt excited for his show, fans screamed requests and compliments throughout his set. ‘You play like there’s 18,000 of us. We love it!’ one fan screamed.’”

Houser will make yet another national appearance on CONAN on Tuesday, February 5 at 11 p.m. EST / 10 p.m. CST, where he will perform “How Country Feels.” Tune in to TBS to watch.

With a relentless tour schedule this year across the U.S., Houser will appear with Miranda Lambert and Dierks Bentley on the Locked and Reloaded Tour, A full list of tour dates can be found at randyhouser.com. Follow Houser on Facebook and Twitter @RandyHouser.

Miami Has Gone Country

Jennifer Swirsky — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:51:53 +0000

As many of you know, we are just moments away from kickoff at the BCS National Championship game between Number 1 Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Number 2 University of Alabama Crimson Tide. As you also know (if you are avid readers of our blog — and we know you are!), the Zac Brown Band will be leading the crowd in the National Anthem just prior to the beginning of this highly-coveted event. However, the boys of the Zac Brown Band aren’t the only country boys helping celebrate the big game! Dierks Bentley lent his talents to last night’s fan experience, along side Flo Rida, while Luke Bryan entertained the game-goers today at SunLife Stadium (home of the Miami Dolphins) at the Bud Light Game Day Fan Zone!

Miami, Florida is buzzing with excitement and some of our favorite country boys are there to enjoy the fun! Don’t forget to tune in to catch the Zac Brown Band … you may catch a glimpse of some other country music spectators as well! The game begins at 8:00 p.m. EST on ESPN. Tune in now! And, have I said “Roll Tide” lately? Oh yeah, I think I have …