Keepin' it Country Media & Radio » Martina McBride

10 songs for Mother’s Day

Lydia Picknell — Sat, 11 May 2013 19:07:20 +0000

Us here at Keepin’ it Country want to wish all the moms out there a happy Mother’s Day! Just in case you’re looking for a playlist of songs to help celebrate the weekend with your Mom, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite country songs about moms. Take a listen to our list below and let us know what YOUR picks are for mother’s day.

MAMA’S SONG – CARRIE UNDERWOOD

A personal song written by Carrie herself to her mom is our first pick for our Mother’s Day playlist. The music video features Carrie and her real life mom, as pictured to the side of this post, on her wedding day as she tells her mom that she doesn’t need to worry about her daughter, because she learned from her. “Mama’s Song” was the fourth single from Carrie’s “Play On” album, which was co-written by Carrie with Luke Laird, Kara DioGuardi, and Marti Frederikson. BONUS: The video also features Carrie’s real-life husband, Mike Fisher.

Check out the rest of our picks below:

THE BEST DAY – TAYLOR SWIFT

Our next pick for our Mother’s Day playlist is a very special song written by superstar Taylor Swift. She wrote “The Best Day” in secret for her mom while out on tour in 2007. She put together a music video featuring actual home videos, and gave it to her mom, Andrea Swift, as a surprise on Christmas Eve. It was included on her “Fearless” album to show her love for her mom. It’s been reported that when Andrea received the DVD of the music video at Christmas from Taylor that she started crying. Check out the music video and let us know if it makes you get emotional, too:

I HOPE YOU DANCE – LEE ANN WOMACK

Our third song in our playlist is the always touching “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack. The crossover smash hit can be used in almost any kind of playlist, but we feel its especially powerful for a song to moms. It was originally released on March 2000, comes from her album of the same name. It was a number one hit for Lee Ann on both the country and adult contemporary charts, and won the 2001 CMA, ACM, BMI NSAI, ASCAP Song of the Year. The song was written by Tia Sillers and Mark D. Sanders. Check out Lee Ann’s “I Hope You Dance” below and let us know if you can relate it to your mom:

MOTHER LIKE MINE – THE BAND PERRY

Our fourth song for our playlist is the soothing “Mother Like Mine” from The Band Perry’s sophomore album “Pioneer.” The song was a co-write by all three siblings, and tells the story about their mom, Marie Perry. In an interview with Billboard, Kimberly Perry explains:

“That was the most honest song we wrote for Pioneer. We were relaxing, and going through some song ideas. Neil had this one line written on his phone, ‘If the world had a mother like mine.’ We are started to think about what the world would look like if our mother had raised it the way she raised us.”

LIKE MY MOTHER DOES - LAUREN ALAINA

Our fifth song is the first single released by former American Idol runner-up Lauren Alaina. “Like My Mother Does” features powerful vocals by the young singer in an obvious tribute to her mom. The song was co-written by Nathan Chapman, Liz Rose, and Nicole Williams. The video shows actual pictures and video clips of Lauren growing up with her mother. It was actually the second time the single was released, which was originally performed and recorded by Jesse Lee, but Lauren’s version was the only one to chart back in 2011. Country fans fell in love with Lauren when she performed an emotional version of the song on American Idol. Check out the music video version below and let us know what traits you have like your mother:

COAT OF MANY COLORS – DOLLY PARTON

How couldn’t we include what country icon Dolly Parton describes her favorite song she’s ever written? “Coat of Many Colors” is just one of over 3,000 songs Dolly has written over her career, but this one is especially special as it’s about her mom and how even without money she still felt beautiful thanks to a hand made coat made by her mother. It was written back in 1971, and had hit number four on the Billboard U.S. Country charts. In 2012, the song was added to the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry list of songs that represent the United States for being culturally or historically important. Shania Twain covered a version on a 2003 Dolly tribute album, but nothing is quite like the original. Listen to Dolly’s tribute to her mother below:

SOMEBODY’S HERO – JAMIE O’NEAL

The next song on our list is a single by Australian country artist Jamie O’Neal about her mom. In the song, co-written by Jamie with Shaye Smith and Ed Hill, she describes how her mother might not be the kind of hero you hear about on the news, but that to her she’s her own superhero. “Somebody’s Hero” is from her second album “Brave,” and peaked at number three on the Hot Country Charts. It was her sixth country top 40 hit. The video, directed by Trey Fanjoy, has a cameo by Jamie’s own daughter. Check out the official music video below:

IT’S YOUR SONG – GARTH BROOKS

The first male singer on our Mother’s Day playlist is the one and only Garth Brooks. Written by Pam Wolfe and Benita Hill, was released back in 1998 as the only single from Garth’s live album. In the single, Garth shares how his career and his life have been influenced and motivated by his mother. It was pitched to Garth after Benita had heard about his mother’s struggles with throat cancer. It’s an emotional song for Garth, who can be heard choking up at the end as he thinks about his mother. Check out the live version below:

IN MY DAUGHTER’S EYES – MARTINA MCBRIDE

With what is perhaps the most-played song for Mother’s Day in country music, Martina McBride‘s pretty single is more from a mother to a daughter, but we had to include it because of how gorgeous and heart felt it is. Released back in November 2003 on RCA Nashville, it was a crossover hit for Martina on both the country and Adult Contemporary charts. The song only had one writer – James T. Slater, but was co-produced by Martina with Paul Worley. It was the third single from her “Martina” album and is still one of her top hits today. Check out the live version below and let us know if you have it playing for Mother’s Day this year:

THE BABY – BLAKE SHELTON

We couldn’t complete our Mother’s Day playlist without the most memorable country tribute to mom. The single was written by Michael White and Harley Allen, was a huge for Blake Shelton back in 2003, becoming his second-ever number one hit. It held its place on top of the charts in the number one spot for three weeks. “The Baby” was the lead-off single from his sophomore album “The Dreamer.” While the music video remains simple – only showing Blake in a blue room with video being projected, its the lyrics that are touching. The story follows the story of a young man growing up and how he will always be his mother’s baby, even until the day she dies. Watch the music video below:

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That’s our list for Mother’s Day for 2013. Do you think we missed something? What’s the most played song on your playlist on Mother’s Day? Let us know here, on Facebook, or on Twitter!

ACM Poll: Female Vocalist of the Year

Jeanna D. — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:51:15 +0000

As you know, the 48th Academy of Country Music Awards are this Sunday, April 7th at 8/7c on CBS.

Blake Shelton & Luke Bryan have hosting duties and the performance line-up is star-studded. It’s sure to be a great show. We can’t wait to tune in!

But first, we want your opinions. We’ll be rolling out polls over the next few days so grab your fellow fans and friends, and vote for your favorites!

We’re starting with the “Female Vocalist of the Year” category. Which country leading lady do you want to take home the trophy? It’s a tough one: reigning Female Vocalist of the Year, Miranda Lambert; country royalty, Martina McBride; rising star and songwriter, Kacey Musgraves; vocal powerhouse, Carrie Underwood; and singer-songwriter phenom, Taylor Swift.

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

Exclusive Interview: Introducing Tiffany Houghton

Nicole Piering — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 18:06:31 +0000

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with country up and comer, Tiffany Houghton, while she was visiting New York. Upon meeting the Texan talent, she apologized profusely for her “messy” hotel room and excitedly told me about her adventures in the big apple.

Although she may be only nineteen, and technically, a Nashville newbie, Tiffany Houghton has always been driven by her love for music. When I asked Tiffany how she got into performing, without skipping a beat, she responded “Oh, I was born. I’ve always loved music. They say that I could sing before I could talk. I’ve always loved to perform,” She tells us. “I’d get on our kitchen counter and sing to the family. But I really got professionally into music when I was 10 and moved to NY, and did some Broadway and musicals and some acting.”

Growing up, one of her first gigs was a “dream come true” and involved performing for both the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers. “I must’ve been 11 and one of the first times I performed, this sweet old man chased me down to get my autograph, and I thought I made it. It was so fun, I LOVED that.”

Only weeks after her eighteenth birthday, the pint-sized powerhouse packed up her life and headed for Nashville. While such a decision would be hard for anyone, Tiffany knew it was what she needed to do. “I have a deep rudder. I knew no matter what happened that I always wanted to do this. I don’t think I knew that it was going to be as hard as it was those first few weeks, but I knew that it was the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do with my life.“

Today, Tiffany has called Nashville home for about 14 months, and has placed her focus squarely on country music. Since moving to Nashville, she’s been introduced to the world of co-writing, and she tells us, “I write because I can’t not write.” For such a young artist, her lyrics have an uncanny depth and power, which she says she’s drawn from real life experiences. “I’ve written in a journal since I was 7 years old, I’ve always just pulled lyrics from my stories. And I tend to be a little dramatic so it works perfectly for song writing.”

Although each song on her EP is unique and a favorite in its own right, Tiffany named “Different” as the one song people should listen to if they’re only going to pick one. “Out of all my songs, I think that’s the one people need to hear. They need to know that our differences make us beautiful and I think it’s hard to remember that all the time.”

Also on her EP, her first single “Only One.” She recalls that the song was inspired by a devastating “little high school breakup.” However, that boy (who is surely kicking himself now) proved to be a great muse and led to quite the epiphany. “I looked at the clock and it was 4:38…I came to this realization where I was like ‘he was the only one,’ and then I was like what if I said that differently like ‘wait, he’s only one.’ And I like freaked out and sped home…that song kinda wrote itself to be honest; it all spilled out.”

One highlight of the EP is the touching ballad, “Like He Treats her,” inspired by none other than Tiffany’s own parents. Now, prepare to “Awww” outloud. “My parents have always been such an inspiration to me and…my mom was 18 years old when they got married.” Tiffany says about the track. “Today, they’re so in love and they’ve been such a great example to me of what true love is. And so I wrote that song when they were leaving to go on their little Sunday walk and they were holding hands and I was just like ‘Awwww!’ I wrote it for them for their 25^th anniversary.”

Tiffany lists artists like Shania Twain, Martina McBride, Faith Hill and the Dixie Chicks as her inspiration, and we can completely hear the influences. If she could tour with anyone, she doesn’t hesitate in naming Hunter Hayes. She’s also a big fan of Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, and Luke Bryan. (Ed. Note: Who isn’t?!) “I looooooooove me some Luke Bryan.” She smiles. “He is so cute”

Tiffany has one simple message for her fans. “I love them. This year has been so wonderful to see my fans and watch my fan base grow, and see how engaged they are.” She continues, “They legitimately care about the things I have to say and my music. It’s so uplifting and they help me every day to continue pursuing this.”

As she kicks off 2013, Tiffany plans to continue to write and record music. She’ll also be releasing music and videos online while performing around Nashville. Right now she’s focusing on recording and releasing individual singles that she can’t help but share, and we can’t wait.

“When I was a kid, on weekends, my Dad and I would go pick up a new CD at Barnes & Nobles and listen to it for the next few weeks on the way to school.” Tiffany tells us. “I decided I want to be that for some little girl.” And, we think she’s well on her way.

Lightning Round:

All-time favorite country song: “Black Eyes, Blue Tears” by Shania Twain

Guilty Pleasure: Nutella

Celebrity Crush: Channing Tatum

Last Song Listened To: The new Fall Out Boy (her manager is a HUGE fan) song – “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark”

Favorite American Idol Judge: Paula Abdul…Oh, and Keith Urban!

Favorite Broadway Show: Wicked

We’d like to thank Tiffany for taking the time to talk with us! For more information on Tiffany Houghton, check out her official website, ‘like’ her on Facebook, follow her on Twitter and check out her Youtube page.

Here’s Tiffany’s first single “Only One”:

CELEBRITY DEATH MATCH: Kelly Clarkson v. Clive Davis

Jennifer Swirsky — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 17:57:38 +0000

As you have likely heard, Clive Davis used nineteen pages of his memoir to share “stories” about Kelly Clarkson and his “experiences” working with her during her time under his wing. Mind you, we use the words “stories” and “experiences” loosely here, as Kelly rebutted the allegations Clive made in his book, explaining that his recollection contained “lapses and misinformation”.

You probably know that Clive Davis is a huge music mogul (and egomaniac?) who has been credited for many artists’ careers, including Aretha Franklin, Barry Manilow, Christina Aguilera, Carlos Santana, Jennifer Hudson, and the late great Whitney Houston. Clive has also been credited for his hand in Kelly’s career, before she parted ways after some artistic differences. Kelly, as you very well are aware, won Season 1 of American Idol and was catapulted into fame, never allowing anybody to change her or tell her there was something she could not do. And, not surprisingly at all, Kelly’s hunches have never served her wrong, as she continues to be a hitmaking, album selling, touring, award-winning artist over ten years after we first met her on the Idol stage.

Several artists have spoken out since yesterday when Clive’s memoir was released and Kelly spoke up about his “memories” of their encounters and working relationship. Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles, and Chely Wright have all declared their membership on Team Kelly. So, we ask you — whose team are you on (Team Kelly or Team Clive) and which musicians have you seen vocalize where their loyalties lie? Help us figure out who will win this celebrity death match! Our money is on our girl, Kelly!

Here are just a few of our fave country celeb tweets:

‏@martinamcbride @kelly_clarkson YOU GO GIRL!!!!! Love it.

@chelywright: I just listened to @Kelly_Clarkson sing the Anthem again.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfu… She’s IT! I believe her account over Clive’s any day

@JenniferNettles: @kelly_clarkson You could sing the phone book and it would be brilliant! Proud of you for speaking your truth. Solidarity sistah!

@LynnAshow (Lynn Anderson)
Team @kelly_clarkson ! “Because of you” was a beautiful song and u continue to compose and use those huge pipes to the top of the charts.

@blairgarner KELLY IS A ROCKSTAR RT @kelly_clarkson: Clive Davis is releasing a memoir and spreading false info about me http://say.ly/GLO5cY7

@leannrimes @blairgarner @kelly_clarkson love this girl!

@chantalkreviaz @kelly_clarkson loving your courage and truth!!! wow…inspired. xx chantal http://marquee.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/19/dont-mess-with-texas-kelly-clarkson-has-a-few-words-for-clive-davis/ …

And just to be fair, here are some of our faves that support Clive:

And that’s that!

Martina McBride raises over $35,000 for charity

Lydia Picknell — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 21:13:40 +0000

Republic Nashville superstar Martina McBride has raised over $35,000 in one sold-out charity concert for Musicians on Call. The event, which was held on November 16th at Nashville’s Hard Rock Cafe, was held in support of MOC (Musicians on Call)’s Music City chapter. MOC is a non-profit organization that brings music to the bedsides of patients in six hospitals across the United States.

The funds raised were a big deal to Martina, who shares:

“I was so happy to be a part of the fifth anniversary of Musicians on Call in Nashville! We put together an eclectic set list of hits mixed with some of our favorite album cuts for a show that was one-of-a-kind. It’s a great organization doing important work and I was proud to be a part of that very special evening.

MOC runs on volunteers and financial donations. For more information on the organization visit musiciansoncall.com.

Martina McBride’s Fan Club Raises $25,000

Lydia Picknell — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 15:26:36 +0000

Martina McBride has always been pretty vocal about her support of breast cancer research funding. She released single “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” on Republic Nashville as a way of showing her support to cancer victims and their families. That’s why her fan club decided to raise $25,000 for a grant in Martina’s name over the month of October – which has been titled Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Several of her own fan club members are breast cancer survivors and took this challenge to heart, alongside the “Team Martina” fans.

“Team Martina” has been actively pr0moting and raising funds through multiple fundraisers for this grant, which will be named after Martina with the T.J. Martell Foundation. The grant has been chosen to benefit the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville.

Martina shared with NBC:

“I’ve got a group called ‘Team Martina’ which I’m really proud of, and they have a grant for T.J. Martell in my name!”

“Team Martina” isn’t done yet! They’re continuing their fundraising in their favorite superstar’s name.

Our Keepin’ It Country CMA Predictions

Nicole Piering — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 17:23:02 +0000

With the CMA’s coming up on Thursday night, country fans everywhere are buzzing with anticipation over who will claim the biggest awards. Will Taylor repeat as Entertainer of the Year or could someone else finally upset her shocked face? Could Kelly Clarkson score a major upset for female vocalist? Is there really any other choice besides “Red Solo Cup” for music video of the year?!

Even OUR staff couldn’t agree, so read on and let us know who you think will score big on Thursday night!

Entertainer of the Year
Jason Aldean
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Taylor Swift

Jennifer: I predict Jason will win this one. He is practically taking over the world. Sold out shows, stadium tours in 2013, record after record being broken. If I was a gambling girl, I’d put all my money on Jason for this year’s big winner.

Nicole: I’m torn between Taylor & Jason. Had “Red” come out a few months earlier, I’d say she was a shoo-in for this win, but I think in the last year, Jason may have just edged her out. I’m going with Aldean.

Tia: Jason.

Jessica: Taylor Swift.

Female Vocalist of the Year
Kelly Clarkson
Miranda Lambert
Martina McBride
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

Tia: Taylor Swift

Jennifer: I love all the ladies in this category, but I think Carrie has this one in the bag. “Blown Away” has done exceptionally well and has topped the charts and, while I know Taylor is being nominated for President in 2016, I still think Carrie will edge her out here.

Nicole: I agree with Jen – Taylor for President in 2016! For this category though, despite most leaning towards Carrie, I’m going with Miranda. You can’t deny the impact of “Over You.”

Jessica: Carrie

Male Vocalist of the Year
Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Blake Shelton
Keith Urban

Tia: Keith Urban

Jessica: Jason Aldean

Nicole: This is another tough one. I’m going to go with a bit of an underdog here and say that this one is Eric Church’s to steal. He gets a ton of critical acclaim and people seem to like his renegade ‘tude.

Jennifer: Huge year for Luke. Huge. Hit after hit … all of which have been outstanding songs, and he seems to have quite the enthusiastic following now. I think Luke will edge the other guys out here, while Jason takes home Entertainer.

Vocal Group of the Year
The Band Perry
Eli Young Band
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Zac Brown Band

Jennifer: I’m going out on a limb here and guessing the newbies (Eli Young Band) will win this one. The other groups have been solid, as always, but I think these guys have the most hype surrounding them (of these nominees) at this point in time.

Nicole: Lady Antebellum – They’re still one of the biggest acts in music, and what other country act cam say they went on a WORLD tour? I’d be shocked if anyone other than Lady A wins this.

Jessica & Tia: Lady Antebellum

Vocal Duo of the Year
Big & Rich
Love and Theft
Sugarland
The Civil Wars
Thompson Square

Jennifer: Thompson Square – They’re hot, they’re current, they’re adorably in love.

Tia: Love and Theft

Jess: Sugarland

Nicole: Our crew is all over the place on this one. The Civil Wars nabbed a Grammy last year and have the indie cred, while Sugarland is the long-running fave, but in this “what have you done with me lately?” industry, I’m going to go with Thompson Square.

New Artist of the Year
Lee Brice
Brantley Gilbert
Hunter Hayes
Love and Theft
Thompson Square

Jessica: Hunter Hayes

Jennifer: Lee Brice - Another one I would almost put money on – almost. Hit songs of his own, hit songs that he’s written (Eli Young Band, don’t forget to thank Lee for “Crazy Girl” when you win Vocal Group of the Year).

Tia: Hunter Hayes

Nicole: Hunter Hayes – He may sounds like Gary LeVox’s son, but Hunter Hayes has girls swooning as he opens for Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away” tour. With songs like “Storm Warning” and “Wanted” already under his belt, the momentum around Hunter seems to be growing.

Album of the Year
Luke Bryan, Tailgates and Tanlines
Eric Church, Chief
Miranda Lambert, Four the Record
Dierks Bentley, Home
Lady Antebellum, Own the Night

Jennifer: Again, I feel like Luke is unstoppable this year. And this album is incredible.

Tia: Eric Church.

Jessica: Eric.

Nicole: I’m with Jess & Tia. Eric Church’s CD received the most acclaim and I feel like this category is his to lose.

Song of the Year (Award goes to songwriters)
Eli Young Band, “Even if It Breaks Your Heart” – written by Will Hoge and Eric Paslay
Blake Shelton, “God Gave Me You” – written by Dave Barnes
Dierks Bentley, “Home” – written by Dierks Bentley, Dan Wilson and Brett Beavers
Miranda Lambert, “Over You” – written by Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton
Eric Church, “Springsteen” – written by Eric Church, Jeff Hyde and Ryan Tyndell

Jessica, Tia & Nicole: Eric Church – “Springsteen” Personally, I’d rather see Blake & Miranda OR Dave Barnes score this win, but I think it’ll go to Eric.

Jennifer: “Over You” – I am not playing by the rules here. I want this song to win because I just absolutely adore these two. I love all the songs in this category, so I had to come up with a “tie breaker,” and what is better than Miranda AND Blake? And the song is so meaningful to them, which makes it that much better.

Single of the Year (Award goes to artist and producer)
Jason Aldean, “Dirt Road Anthem”
Blake Shelton, “God Gave Me You”
Dierks Bentley, “Home”
Little Big Town, “Pontoon”
Eric Church, “Springsteen”

Jennifer: “Dirt Road Anthem” – It’s country rap. Need I say more?

Jessica & Tia: “Springsteen,” again.

Nicole: “Pontoon” – This song really put Little Big Town in the spotlight, and deservedly so. Everyone was mmmmmmmmmmotorboating all summer long!

Musical Event of the Year
“Dixie Highway,” Alan Jackson and Zac Brown Band
“Feel Like a Rock Star,” Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw
“Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die,” Willie Nelson featuring Snoop Dogg, Kris Kristofferson and Jamey Johnson
“Safe and Sound,” Taylor Swift featuring the Civil Wars
“Stuck on You,” Lionel Richie and Darius Rucker

Jennifer: “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” – I think this one will win because of the diversity. And who could vote against Willie and Snoop singing a song together about smoking? Where is Toby and why isn’t he on this track, singing about smoking weed with Willie Nelson?

Jessica: “Feel Like a Rock Star”

Tia: “Safe and Sound”

Nicole – “Feel Like a Rock Star” – Tim & Kenny, what can beat that epic brotherhood of baldness?

Music Video of the Year
Eric Church, “Springsteen”
Kenny Chesney, “Come Over”
Miranda Lambert, “Over You”
Little Big Town, “Pontoon”
Toby Keith, “Red Solo Cup”

Nicole: “Red Solo Cup” – I can’t even tell you the amount of times we’ve played this video at work…

Tia: “Come Over”

Jessica: “Over You”

Jennifer: “Red Solo Cup” – Party anthem of 2012

How do you feel about our picks? Let us know down below in the comments…and tune in tomorrow night on ABC to catch the show!

Brad Paisley Honored By ASCAP

Jennifer Swirsky — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:35:20 +0000

Last night, to kick off Country Music Association (“CMA”) Awards week, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (“ASCAP”) recognized the most successful songwriters of 2012 during an awards ceremony at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville. During the ceremony, Brad Paisley received one of the biggest nods of the evening, being named ASCAP’s Songwriter/Artist of the Year. Brad was honored for his hit songs “Camouflage,” “Old Alabama,” and “Remind Me.”

Ben Hayslip was awarded Songwriter of the Year for his co-writing efforts on Blake Shelton‘s “Honey Bee,” Luke Bryan‘s “I Don’t Want This Night to End,” Martina McBride‘s “I’m Gonna Love You Through It,” and Craig Morgan‘s “This Ole Boy.” Other honors also went to Dierks Bentley, David Nail, and Darius Rucker. And, as a surprise, the King of Country, George Strait, showed up to pick up an award as well.

CMA Awards week continues tonight with the Broadcast Music, Inc. (“BMI”) awards. Thursday night is the event everyone is awaiting — the CMA Awards, hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, which airs live from Nashville at 8:00pm ET on ABC.

Congratulations to all the award winners! We can’t wait to see who takes home the highly coveted CMA Awards on Thursday night!

George Strait to Release New Single, “Give It All We Got Tonight”

Nicole Piering — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 18:36:35 +0000

Although we’d never wish the weekend away, we’re anxiously looking forward to Monday! It was just announced that George Strait will release his brand new single on Monday, October 29, at 2PM CST. MCA Nashville will release “Give It All We Got Tonight” to country radio on Play MPE.

The single was written by Tim James, Phil O’Donnell and Mark Bright and is the first from Strait’s forthcoming album. Strait once again collaborated with longtime producer, Tony Brown, on the music.

“The song has a very unusual melody and very cool phrasing, which I’ve always been drawn to,” shared Strait.

We’ve got an exclusive sneak peek at the lyrics:

July moonlight shines

Your pretty little head on my shoulder

Pull over on the side of the road

Oh my God, you’re something

Like nothing I’ve ever seen

If I’m asleep girl, let me dream

Baby fall into my kiss

It should just happen like this

Trust it so much that there’s no one else but us and

This moment that says it’s so right

‘Cause that’s all we have in this life

Drink up this love, baby, give it all we got tonight

Summer honeysuckle

Leaking through a rolled down window

We both know when that seat lays back

Anything can happen

So imagine it’ll never end

Just close your eyes and you can see that we are where we’re meant to be

Baby fall into my kiss

It should just happen like this

Trust it so much that there’s no one else but us and

This moment that says it’s so right

‘Cause that’s all we have in this life

Baby, drink up this love, give it all we got tonight

Give it all we got tonight

Baby fall into my kiss

It should just happen like this

Trust it so much that there’s no one else but us and

This moment that says it’s so right

That’s all we have in this life

Drink up this love, c’mon, give it all we got tonight

Give it all we got tonight

George’s The Cowboy Rides Away Tour will begin Jan. 18, 2013 in Lubbock, Texas with special guest Martina McBride. For a full list of all the tour stops, visit www.georgestrait.com.

Martina McBride Performing for MOC

Lydia Picknell — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 17:09:42 +0000

Country star Martina McBride will be performing a rare, intimate performance at the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Nashville on Nov. 16 to celebrate the five year mark of Musicians On Call’s (MOC) committed service to Music City. Tickets are now available on the MOC website with prices starting at $75 for general admission. Limited VIP packages, which include a meet and greet with McBride, are also available for purchase. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Nashville branch of MOC.

“Musicians On Call is honored and excited to have the acclaimed artist Martina McBride perform on behalf of Musicians On Call’s 5th Anniversary in Nashville,” shares MOC Director of National Expansion and Nashville Program Director, Katy Epley. “We are so grateful for Martina’s participation and support.”

“I’m proud to be able to help raise money for this amazing organization,” adds McBride. “The fact that MOC takes music, with all its healing and uplifting power, directly to the people who need it most is so touching to me.” She explains, “As musicians, all we want to do is have our music heard and used to inspire or bring a smile. MOC has figured out the perfect way to do just that.”

Since the 2007 MOC Nashville launch with a single Bedside Performance Program at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the Nashville branch has expanded into six area healthcare facilities, offering 11 weekly Bedside Performance Programs. With the continued support of the Nashville community and artists like Trace Adkins, McBride, Kellie Pickler, Darius Rucker, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, and many others, MOC Nashville will further its ability to reach patients, caregivers, and families and can expect to celebrate many more milestones to come.