Keepin' it Country Media & Radio » Oak Ridge Boys

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

The Oak Ridge Boys release statement on Margaret Thatcher

Lydia Picknell — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 02:55:36 +0000

Legendary country music group The Oak Ridge Boys have released a statement regarding the passing of former United Kingdom Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The Prime Minister passed away earlier today from a stroke. She was 87 years old.

Joe Bonsall released the following statement on the tragic news:

“The Oak Ridge Boys were in attendance when Baroness Margaret Thatcher gave her last public speech. We there at the invitation of then President George W. Bush. As I recall, it was a dinner honoring Ronald Reagan and we sang several songs that evening and got to spend a bit of quality time with Lady Thatcher. It was a great honor and a very memorable event for all of us.”

Margaret Thatcher was the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and her policies lead the country on a rightward economic course, eventually leading the world out of the Cold War. Leaders and celebrities from all political spectrums from around the world are mourning the loss this week.

The Oak Ridge Boys &
Margaret Thatcher.

Country stars react to Mindy McCready’s suicide

Lydia Picknell — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 15:57:32 +0000

It’s been a tragic twenty-four hours for the country music community after learning about the passing of singer Mindy McCready. The “Ten Thousand Angels” artist was found dead from an apparent suicide last night in Arkansas. Mindy was 37 years old and leaves behind a six year old and a nine-year old son.

See what some of country’s brightest stars had to share about the sad news:

Oak Ridge Boys: We sang “Farther Along” last night in honor of Mindy McCready. One day we will know!!!!!

John Rich: Very sad to hear about Mindy McCready. When I was in Lonestar she was our label mate and we were friends. A tragic end to a talented life.

Jana Kramer: So sad to hear about the loss of Mindy. What an insanely talented woman.

Michelle Wright: As you may know Mindy McCready has passed on. She was a young promising country music artist in the mid ’90′s but faced a number of challenges and I’m so sad that she lost the battle with addiction and mental illness which can also cause depression. I’ve been sober now for several years and I know how hard it can be sometimes. RIP Mindy.

Jimmy Wayne: RIP @mindymccready We met 14 years ago @ Acuff & Rose. Who’d thought 14 years later on this day…. #why

Jason Blaine: Sad to hear about the passing of Mindy McCready. Thoughts & prayers for her young children. Tragic situation.

Carrie Underwood: I grew up listening to Mindy McCready… so sad for her family tonight. Many prayers are going out to them…

See more reactions below:

THE FARM‘s Damien Horne: Prayers go out to Mindy McCready’s family and friends.. She will live on thru her family, friends, fans, and her music~ dh#gonetoosoon

Darius Rucker: My love and prayers go out to Mindy Mccreedy’s family

George Canyon: Sad to hear about the passing of Mindy McCready. My heart goes out to her dear children, family and friends. She made beautiful music and will be missed.

Whitney Duncan: I just saw the news of Mindy McCready. So so tragic. She had a song of mine on her last record “by her side”. Loved her music growing up.

Jason Aldean: Just heard about Mindy McCready. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.

Wynonna Judd: Oh my! Mindy. Dear sweet girl. This is so sad. It just breaks my heart what addiction continues to take from this life.

Jerrod Niemann: Hate hearing about anyone committing suicide. May Mindy McCready rest in peace… #sosad

Oak Ridge Boys Named Official National Anthem Singers

Lydia Picknell — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 18:28:20 +0000

The prestigious National Music Council has appointed the Oak Ridge Boys as the official leading singers of the American National Anthem. The title recognizes the group’s love for the patriotism of the country, to honor their advancement of American music culture, and their celebration of global diversity in music traditions. The announcement was made last night during their performance at the Grand Ole Opry when WSM’s Eddie Stubbs introduced the Opry members.

Oak Ridge Boys member Duane Allen describes the appointment as a reflection of the group’s American pride:

“Just reading the proclamation gives me chills. The National Music Council represents all of the major music organizations in America. The Oak Ridge Boys enjoy the privilege of leading in the singing of our National Anthem. We love to hear an entire football stadium singing it with gusto with us. Being designated is a huge honor, and we are humbled to be selected by the NMC.”

The Oak Ridge Boys are currently out on the road, with their next stop tomorrow night at the Franklin County Fair in Hampton, IA, followed by Saturday night in Parsons, KS. For more information, or to see when they’ll be hitting a town near you, visit oakridgeboys.com.

William Lee Golden Set To Unveil New Painting

Nicole Piering — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 03:25:57 +0000

William Lee Golden may be best known as a country music star and member of the Oak Ridge Boys, but he is set to unveil his latest painting this Wednesday, July 27th. The painting, entitled Smoky Mountain Spring, will be unveiled during a VIP Reception with Governor Bill Haslam at the Tennessee State Museum.

“Music is a large part of my life, but painting holds a special place in my heart,” says Golden. I’m more than excited that the museum will be accepting my painting, Smoky Mountain Spring, in its permanent collection.”

The unveiling will take place on June 27th from 5-7pm, with doors to the museum opening at 4:30.

For more information about William Lee Golden, please visit www.williamleegolden.com.

PHOTO: William Lee Golden at Tennessee State Exhibit

Lydia Picknell — Tue, 08 May 2012 18:54:06 +0000

Country music legend and critically renowned artist William Lee Golden with wife, Brenda, and son, Solomon, along with artist David Wright and wife, Jane, attended the reception for the Tennessee State Museum exhibit, Becoming the Volunteer State: Tennessee in the War of 1812. Check out the picture below:

(click image to see the full-size picture).

Pictured from left to right: Jane Wright, David Wright, Solomon Golden, William Lee Golden, Brenda Golden

Image courtesy of Denny Adcock Photography.

Oak Ridge Boys Added to CMA Fest Lineup

Lydia Picknell — Tue, 08 May 2012 14:31:17 +0000

The nightly concerts at LP Field during CMA Fest is getting even bigger! Country music greats, and Grand Ole Opry members, The Oak Ridge Boys have been added to the star-studded line-up. They’ll be performing the national anthem on Friday, June 8th at 7:45 pm CST. The country music group was named the official “Singers of the Anthem” by the National Association of Music Educators National Anthem Project from 2005-2010.

It’s a pretty big deal for the group, who can’t wait to kick off the concerts:

“It is an honor to be invited by the CMA Music Festival to sing the National Anthem at LP Field. The Boys are very active in the Festival this year, and have been part of every Festival and Fan Fair since the very first one,” says lead singer Duane Allen.

Joe Bonsall adds:

“The CMA Music Festival has not only become Nashville’s biggest yearly event, but country music is now bigger and stronger than it has ever been. We feel like we have placed some stones on the mountain, but the artists of today have reached higher than ever before to take country music to amazing heights of artistry and performance. We are all thrilled to stand with them at CMA Music Fest once again.”

The 2012 edition is a 4-day event which starts Thursday, June 7th and lasts until Sunday, June 10th in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. The group will be featured all throughout the week with performances and autograph signings all over Nashville. Their appearances will include Fan Fair Hall, and a special signing at the Country Music Hall of Fame. See where you can catch the legendary group below and let us know if you’re heading to CMA Fest this year:

The Oak Ridge Boys
2012 CMA Music Festival Week Performances & Events

Tuesday, June 5th
Opry Performances
Grand Ole Opry House
7:00 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, June 6th
In-store Signing Session
Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
3:00 p.m.

Friday, June 8th
Riverfront Performance
Chevrolet Riverfront Stage
11:45 a.m.

Signing Session
AT&T U-verse Fan Fair Hall with Cisco Technology
(Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® Booth)
Nashville Convention Center
2:00 p.m.

National Anthem Performance
LP Field
7:45 p.m.

Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town Added To CMA Fest LP Field Lineup

Ted Efron — Thu, 03 May 2012 18:36:39 +0000

CMA Fest has announced the addition of two more big names to the lineup for LP Field: Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town.

Lambert, a three-time winner of the ACM Female Vocalist of the Year, has been added to the lineup for Thursday, June 7.

Little Big Town will take to the LP Field stage on Saturday, June 9.

The CMA has also announced the singers selected to perform the national anthem before the start of each night’s concerts. They are: Nashville School of the Arts Madrigal Singers (June 7), The Oak Ridge Boys (June 8), Julie Roberts (June 9) and Sarah Darling (June 10).

The 2012 CMA Fest takes place June 7-10 in Nashville. Select tickets are still available. For more information visit the CMA Fest website HERE.

2012 Artist To Watch: Mary Sarah

Ted Efron — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 19:00:39 +0000

Mary Sarah is slowly carving out a place for herself in country’s future. What sets her apart is that she’s doing it by honoring country’s past.

The Richmond, Texas resident is only 16 years old, but she’s already accomplished more than many artists twice her age. When she was 12 she landed a spot as a feature singer with KidzBop, which had her touring the nation performing before thousands of fans each night.

Then when she was only 14, she recorded her first album, “Crazy Good,” which came out last year. The album not only showcases her singing, but also her skill as a songwriter. She co-wrote six of the album’s nine tracks.

On most weekends you can find her performing at one the many Oprys or Squares in the Houston area. It’s there that she not only sings songs that are inline with today’s pop-country, but also tips her hat to traditional country by singing the songs of Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and the like.

She loves the small stages, but Mary Sarah is no stranger to the area’s big arenas. She’s performed the National Anthem for both the Houston Astros and the Houston Texans. But her most noticeable stage performance (at least for now) came in 2011 when the Oak Ridge Boys invited her onstage to sing. The then 15-year-old brought the crowd to its feet with her a cappella version of Connie Francis’ “Where The Boys Are.” (See a video of that performance below.)

It’s clear that the Oak Ridge Boys see a bright future for her. They’re not alone. The fast lane may be calling, but for now Mary Sarah is taking it slow and enjoying her high school years. Yes, she’s dreaming of serving up hits, but she’s also dreaming about perfecting her serve as a member of the varsity tennis team. Plus, like every other high school student, she’s waiting to finally get her driver’s license and first car. (She’s hoping for a VW Beetle!)

No matter what comes of her career, she knows she wants to help others. As she puts it, “I want to be a voice for those who need one.” She’s heavily involved with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. It’s a very personal project for her as her brother has been living with the disease for ten years and even needed a liver transplant.

Mary Sarah took time out her busy schedule for an interview via email. Just what every high school student wants: a writing assignment! But in this case, I don’t think she minded the extra work. As you will read, it’s evident she has a passion for music, an extraordinary love of family and a deep respect and appreciation for those who have come before her.

When did you first know that you wanted to be a singer and has country music always been your passion?

I was around 8 years old playing piano and my teacher brought it to my parents’ attention that I was constantly singing with the song and that I had really good pitch. I started lessons around 10 and then landed the KidzBop Tour…on stage was when I had “that moment” that I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. I started out thinking POP music…but I fell in love with story telling in a country song.

As you just mentioned, you spent time on tour with the KidzBop concert series. That was when you were 12. What did you take from that experience that you still use today?

SO MUCH FUN and hard work. Life on the road was not easy but I loved every minute of it…the afternoon practices before the show and meeting all the kids after the show. I learned that I could do more than I thought and that all I needed to do was try…when you try and do your best you can never fail!

Right now you’re still in high school. How hard is it juggling school, extra-curricular activities and your singing?

My life is busy but I don’t think any busier than a lot of motivated high school students. I probably travel more than most but everyone around me helps me keep my schedule straight! When I feel overwhelmed I just take a deep breath, pray and tell myself I can handle it.

Family seems to be a large part of not just you as a performer, but you as a person. How important is your family in everything that you do?

Mega. They are my top priority. I think sharing my gift with the ones I love is the best. My family is blessed….we love to hang out together and we can make each other laugh and we help each other stay focused.

You’ve mentioned that Carrie Underwood is one of your idols. Have you considered trying to literally follow in her footsteps and audition for American Idol or The Voice?

Yes, I have been approached to audition, but when it comes down to it I want to finish high school and have all the experiences that you only get once in your life. I have my whole life to use my gift and I have been given the opportunities to not be in a hurry! I am learning a lot! If I remember correctly Carrie was 18 when she tried out…so if doors that I currently am walking through begin to close I may talk about it again with my parents.

Speaking of the The Voice, I have a pair of questions for you from Team Blake’s RaeLynn, another talented Texan teen who actually lives very near you. First: What was it like writing with her cousin, Leeland Mooring of the progressive worship band Leeland?

Oh my gosh…please let her know that we are rooting for her and that she is doing an awesome job! Writing with Leeland was overwhelming. He is amazing and the evening flew by so quickly because you can listen to him sing and preach all night! He is a fantastic person and an unbelievable songwriter and performer. We first fell in love with LeeLand (the band) when we attended a worship gathering years ago.

Second, RaeLynn asks: Would you ever write with her?

First I would love to meet her face to face! I have had dinner with her Aunt’s family and cousins but she was in L.A. at the time. I think two sassy Texans like us could work out some great lyrics!! It would be an honor!

Your song “New Crush,” which you wrote with your sister Emilee, took 2nd place in the Teen Division of the 2010 International Songwriting Competition. How did that add to your confidence as a songwriter?

It was awesome to have that recognition but honestly…I have a long way to go when writing. I have been around so many wonderful writers that I am very intimidated. I think there will always be a part of me that thinks that…I feel like singing and performing comes much more naturally. So needless to say I wanna write with the best in the business!

You released your first album, Crazy Good, last year. For the most part, the songs speak about the life of a 14-year-old girl, which you were at the time you recorded it. Due to your age and the subject matter, the comparisons to Taylor Swift are inevitable. What’s your reaction when people compare you and your music to Taylor?

It’s a great honor. She has told some amazing stories through her songs. They captivate you and you lose yourself in them. That is what I want to do with my music. She has also been a great role model for young women like me getting in to country music. She is simple with a very big heart towards her fans…and she loves putting on a great performance. I imagine myself on the stage whenever I see her in concert! I just want to affect people in a positive way and I believe she has done that.

The songs on Crazy Good are country, pop-country and a bit of rock. But you’re a huge fan of traditional country. How did someone so young fall in love with old school country?

After KidzBop I was in LA for a while and decided it just wasn’t the thing for me. I wrote some songs and had them produced but the lifestyle and everything that goes along with it just didn’t work for our family. I came back to Texas wondering what I was going to do next…my dad mentioned the Opry’s and some of the songs that I would need to sing. I was reminded that the first song I sang on a stage was “The Yellow Rose of Texas,” so I said I would give it a shot. I started with “Crazy” by Patsy Cline and the rest was history.

I learned so much researching the traditional country and I learned a lot about my voice and what I could make it do. I also fell in love with the Opry audience…it’s like I have so many grandma and grandpa’s cheering me on in my career. I hope to bring back the old traditional and add some new that just says “Mary Sarah”! My all time favorite to perform of course is “Where The Boys Are” by Connie Francis. But I love “Jolene” by Dolly and so many others. I think if I could add that dueting with my dad and our friend Moses has been lots of fun too!

What is your reaction when encounter younger people (and some older ones) who have never listened to the likes of Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline or Merle Haggard?

I start to sing a song or two for them and tell them they are missing out on some of the best country music ever written. They think I am a little crazy till they hear me sing them! I hope it has that effect on my generation.

How important is it for the next generation of country performers to carry on the tradition that was established by those who came before them?

Very…honoring those that have gone before me is soooooo important. My parents taught me that and the more I realize they are right the more blessed I am. There is a part of those songs that just touch your soul in a way that other music does not. Very simple lyrics with deep, deep meaning!

Do you have any projects coming up that we should be on the lookout for?

Yes, I do but unfortunately I can not tell you much about the current project. I can tell you it is the greatest thing I have ever done to date and I am overwhelmed at the opportunities I have had this past year. I believe I will always look back at this time in my life and pinch myself because what I am doing will last forever!!! I promise that when I get to tell…you will be one of the first!

Finally, I’d like to give you an open forum to say anything you would like for people to know about you, your music or whatever’s on your mind. The floor is yours:

I would like to tell people it is very important to just be yourself, NEVER compromise who you are and be true to yourself. Everyone may not like you but you will always like yourself!

Never chase after popularity or fame just focus on your strengths and not your weaknesses. Also, don’t be in a hurry. You only go around one time! (lol, that’s from my song “One Time Around”)

*******

Mary Sarah’s “Crazy Good” is available on iTunes HERE. You can keep up with her at her website, on Facebook and on Twitter @MarySarahMusic. Plus, check out her music channel on YouTube.

All For The Hall: A Night To Remember

Tia — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:01:53 +0000

Last night (04/10), some of the biggest names in country music gathered at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville in front of a crowd of 16,000 to raise money for the Country Music Hall of Hame and Museum.

This is the third year Keith Urban and Vince Gill have put on the All For The Hall show. Following suit with giving themes to each of the past shows, Keith made this year’s theme duos, vocal groups and bands. And some of the best acts were in attendance: Rascal Flatts, The Oak Ridge Boys, Diamond Rio, Pistol Annies, Lady Antebellum, The Band Perry, Thompson Square, Little Big Town and Alabama.

If that set list wasn’t enough, Keith added to the excitement by bringing out some special guests including Merle Haggard and Don Williams.

Both Keith and Vince acted as co-musical directors and house band leaders. They sat in on most songs and brought their bands together throughout the night.

The best moment of the night, of course, was Keith’s surprise: Rascal Flatts brought out a black duffel bag for Keith for him to find an Opry microphone stand inside. Read more about Keith’s surprise here.

(Photo courtesy of George Walker IV/The Tennessean)