You are currently browsing Mike's articles.
The List of Country Music Association Award Winners:
Musical Event of the Year: “Start A Band “ Brad Paisley and Keith Urban
Musician of the Year: Mac McAnally
Music Video of the Year: “Love Story“ Taylor Swift - directed by Trey Fanjoy
Single of the Year: “I Run to You” Lady Antebellum
Song of the Year: “In Color” Jamey Johnson
Group of the Year: Lady Antebellum
New Artist of the Year: Darius Rucker
Album of the Year: “Fearless“ Taylor Swift
Vocal Duo of the Year: Sugarland
Male Vocalist of the Year: Brad Paisley
Female Vocalist of the Year: Taylor Swift
Entertainer of the Year: Taylor Swift
By Brian Mansfield, Special for USA TODAY See complete article w/ Taylor photo here.
Could a teenager really win country music’s biggest honor?
That’s the key question at the Country Music Association Awards Wednesday night (ABC, 8 ET/PT) as Taylor Swift, 19, competes for entertainer of the year against a group of guys twice her age: George Strait (57), Brad Paisley (37), Keith Urban (42) and current award-holder Kenny Chesney (41). Many members of the country music industry like Swift’s chances.
“She is pretty much the biggest ambassador of country music that we have right now,” says Marci Braun, music director at Chicago radio station WUSN.
If Swift wins, she will be the award’s youngest recipient by several years: Garth Brooks was 29 when he first won entertainer of the year in 1991, and Natalie Maines and Emily Robison of the Dixie Chicks were 26 and 28, respectively, when the trio took the honor in 2000.
Swift has certainly earned her stripes at retail. Her Fearless album joins Michael Jackson’s Number Ones as the only two albums to sell 2 million copies this year, according to Nielsen SoundScan, far outpacing the four other nominees’ album sales. The gap is even more pronounced among downloads, where Swift’s 9.78 million digital tracks exceed the combined total of the other nominees by more than 1 million.
On country radio, the pop-leaning Swift has received the least airplay of all the contenders, according to Mediabase. Factor in airplay from other formats, though, and she jumps far ahead. Her Love Story and You Belong With Me are among 2009’s 10 most-played singles – no other entertainer nominee makes the top 75.
She may be at a disadvantage, however, when it comes to touring, which usually factors heavily into CMA members’ decisions, says Pollstar editor Gary Bongiovanni.
“Kenny Chesney’s going to be the biggest ticket-seller, by far,” he says. “He’s going to have sold more than a million tickets in 2009, and he’s done a number of stadiums.”
Swift, on the other hand, just wrapped her first headlining tour last month and opened for Urban as recently as this summer.
“Taylor’s definitely the newcomer on the touring scene, compared to the guys in the group,” says David Ross, who publishes trade magazine Music Row. “However, when you add that to the record sales she’s experienced this year and all the media attention she’s getting, you’d have to say she’s a viable candidate.”
For her part, Swift is taking the speculation calmly – at least more calmly than she did the news of her nomination, which she celebrated by jumping on her mother’s bed. Noting that she has opened for every other act in the category, she says, “I just can’t believe I get to sit in the front row this year!”
I got into the music business because I was passionate about artists and music. I had a heart for it and wanted it to be all around me. That dream came true and has moved me into places I could have never imagined. Despite the positive aspects of working in the radio and music industries for 20+ years, there is inevitable fallout. Music that may have reached me as a fan now may be met with a shrug. Artists that I idolized as a fan now are just normal people who I may still respect, but they don’t lift me to another plane.
It’s easy to reason why. Being immersed by the music, artists, and inner workings of the business for a long period of time has tinkered with the emotional mechanism in some way. The lines can blur between what is genuine passion and what is just part of your job. Call it jaded, over saturated, or being more critical – it happens to all of us for better or worse. Plus the aspect of just growing up and having less and less free time.
There is no doubt I still love and am passionate about music and artists (I should find another career if not), but it takes more to move me to a purchase of music or tickets to a show. It requires something extra special to make me commit my time, energy, and resources. When I find those artists and music that rock my world it reminds me of why I wanted to work in the music industry in the first place. It rejuvenates me and like some retroactive switch causes me to become the fan I was before, again.
That’s where I am currently with several artists in various genres, with the pinnacle being MuteMath. This band had me at the first listen of a sample EP back in 2002 and then after seeing their unbelievable shows at the Exit Inn and SXSW. Boom, done!
Sometimes these musical highs cool down to earth and I move on to the next one, but this trip continues after purchasing their first three projects and catching a few more shows. Now they are coming back to town this Sunday and I am absolutely going. I purchased the MuteMath VIP package via their website. Not only was it a great idea for the band to market, but it was priced right. All of you artists and labels pay attention now……..in the package was a CD, full album download w/ exclusive bonus tracks, t-shirt, invitation to a local mobile listening party of album prior to release, signed lithograph, and a “first in line” pass. All bundled up for $49. Totally worth the price because I am a fan.
I am a freaking fan and it feels good.
Responding to Ethiopia’s ongoing famine and the government’s urgent appeal for emergency aid to help 6.2 million people facing starvation, Compassion International is sending $1.4 million to the beleaguered nation.
Since March, Compassion has sent funds to the people of Ethiopia to address the acute issues of food source insecurity; the distribution of more funding is planned before year’s end. While the money will be used for direct food relief and medical supplies, a portion of the funds will also be used to help develop small businesses in the Ethiopian communities hardest hit by the food crisis.
“In these communities that are continuously dealing with food source issues, we are helping individuals to withstand and perhaps even avoid food crises in the long term – not just by helping them in the short term but also by supporting small business enterprises,” said Mark Hanlon, senior vice president of Compassion International, USA.
Compassion began its work in Ethiopia in 1993 and today serves 77,544 children at 321 child development centers. Compassion’s work in Ethiopia is part of its global effort to tackle the unforeseen barriers to a child’s healthy development. In some areas of Ethiopia where Compassion works, the food that registered children receive at the child development centers is all that sustains them.
“More than 25,000 children under the age of 5 in the developing world die every day of preventable causes such as dehydration and malnutrition,” said Hanlon. “Compassion’s mission is to release these children from poverty through a holistic approach that teaches them and their families to thrive, not just survive. This is what we’ve been doing in Ethiopia for the past 16 years.”
Compassion International is the world’s largest Christian child development organization that permanently releases children from poverty. Founded in 1952, Compassion successfully tackles global poverty one child at a time, serving more than 1 million children in 25 of the world’s poorest countries. Recognizing that poverty is more than a lack of money, Compassion works holistically through local churches to address the individual physical, economic, educational and spiritual needs of children, enabling them to thrive, not just survive. Charity Navigator, America’s largest charity evaluator, has awarded Compassion its highest rating – four stars – for eight consecutive years.
Hank Williams Jr and Waylon Jennings on TNN’s Nashville Now in late 1988. They sing “Mind Your Own Business” and “The Conversation”. A very cool sit down and performance. Songwriter and music business legend Merle Kilgore is also featured. Don’t you kind of miss TNN?
By David Lieberman, USA TODAY
Google is about to give beleaguered record companies a potentially powerful boost by offering people who search for information about musicians the tools to listen to songs — and buy them.
The new capabilities will be unveiled next week as part of a service tentatively called Google OneBox, according to five executives who have been briefed on the matter but declined to be identified because they are not authorized to disclose the information.
Although Internet users already have lots of ways to access music, Google’s (GOOG) involvement could make the initiative important.
“Radio has lost its mojo” for promoting songs, says Phil Leigh, president of market research firm Inside Digital Media. “When new releases come out, people do a Google search.”
But that’s been a frustrating experience for some fans — and for record companies, which have been lobbying the No. 1 search company to change the way results are displayed when people want to track a favorite performer or song.
The current arrangement just offers links to other destinations and often features a grab bag of fan sites, without a clear way to find the music itself.
Under the new system, the No. 1 search company will put at the top of its own page a box with information, photos and, possibly, song lyrics.
Visitors who want to listen to a song can click on a link that generates a pop-up screen connected to music services Lala or iLike. Lala can stream an entire song from its catalog of about 8 million tunes, while iLike primarily offers clips.
People can buy songs from Lala or jump to Amazon or iTunes.
Google’s also talking to music subscription services, although one, eMusic, says that it’s been difficult to figure out how to integrate them.
Programs such as Google’s are mostly aimed at consumers who only want to purchase a single song, says eMusic CEO Daniel Stein. But he says that while details about his talks with Google are confidential, “perhaps we’ll participate in this type of program in the future.”
Google isn’t the only company trying to beef up its music offerings.
Facebook this week will introduce an arrangement with Lala that makes it possible for people to buy songs and give them to friends without leaving the social-networking site. Transactions will be simple to initiate via an icon on user pages that “is as prominent as the icons for photo and video,” says Lala founder Bill Nguyen.
Dave Ramsey is an incredibly successful broadcast personality and is on over 400 radio stations. In addition, Dave is a prominent author, speaker, businessman, and culture shaper. He’s also a heck of a nice guy. I should know since my wife Amy works for him. Dave and his company do amazing things in helping people live a life of financial freedom and I’m very glad to see he is keynoting Country Radio Seminar in Nashville this February.
mike severson photography 2009
In honor of his coming out of retirement to play shows in Las Vegas (did you happen to hear about that?) here is Garth’s very first single from 1989, “Much Too Young To Feel This Damn Old”, captured with some nifty effects. I do remember playing this on the radio when it was a current. Still one of his best songs.
If ever there was an industry show I was glad I went to, this one was it. I caught myself smiling at times because of the pure talent that graced the stage and the quality of the music. The production and sound was solid as far as I could tell too. The award shows should have been taking notes. As a matter of fact, I have an idea for them – use Vince Gill’s band for all non group performances. They can play anything and knock it out of the park.
Keith and Vince announced there will be a “All For The Hall” show in October 2010 and I will be back to not only see a fantastic show, but to support the Country Music Hall of Fame.
As for individual performances, here is a brief rundown:
Keith Urban: Hands down is the most entertaining act in country music. No need for gimmicks, this guy is a master on stage, with a guitar, and with a crowd. He seems so comfortable and genuine as well.
Vince Gill: I love this guy and always have. As he sang I reminisced at when I was fortunate to work hit after hit after hit including “Whenever You Come Around” which he performed and his voice sounded exactly the same. He has not lost an ounce of his talent and we are all the poorer not hearing him on the radio.
Brad Paisley: Would have liked to hear another song, but enjoyed the guitar duel with Urban. Obvious talent.
Little Big Town: Each time I see this act, the more I believe they are stars. Sounded great.
Lady Antebellum: This is a trio that should be welcomed as an A artist. They are unbelievably versatile and talented. I can’t wait to hear more.
Jason Aldean: I know he has sold a load of albums, but I have not seen Jason in a big venue. His ovation was eye opening. The guy has a coolness factor and carves out his own edgy country niche.
Faith Hill: Honestly I wasn’t expecting much just based on not seeing her for a long time, but she surprised me at how strong her vocals were. I was reminded of why I initially fell for her back in 1993. All she needs is some solid and relevant country songs. I’d be glad to welcome her back into the fold.
Dierks Bentley: He wasn’t on the bill and showed up as a special guest, and honestly it felt like he just showed up to the venue 5 minutes before and decided to go on stage. He was good however and has such an original voice in a sea of sameness when it comes to male artists.
Taylor Swift: I was looking forward to seeing her and I think she and her three backup singers should have probably been featured earlier in the show. She shined and all the kids loved her, but going last on this particular show was a tough spot to be in.
From The Tennessean Tune In Music City blog by Lucas Hendrickson
Diamond Rio (photo: Russ Harrington)
The silence didn’t last all that long.
Guitarist Jimmy Olander was outlining his vision for the next Diamond Rio project to the group’s lead singer, Marty Roe. Rather than just another album, Olander thought, perhaps the story of Roe’s struggles with vocal problems and their simultaneous impact on the band needed to be fleshed out in book form.
“I went to (Roe) early because if he didn’t agree to it, I wasn’t about to go force one of my partners to leak this information or do something that was going to put him in an uncomfortable situation,” Olander says. “There was a bit of a pregnant pause on the phone when I hit him up with what my plan was. But there wasn’t any backpedaling, and in a real somber tone he said, ‘OK, what would you like me to do?’
“Within that pregnant pause, I think he saw that this was not going to be fun often, but I see him go back into that story again and again, and it’s courageous and I commend him for doing that.”
The entire band partnered with writer (and former Tennessean staffer) Tom Roland to craft the book Beautiful Mess: The Story of Diamond Rio, a combination biography/redemption story that used Diamond Rio’s disastrous 2005 Fourth of July performance at Riverfront Park as the jumping-off point.
“I think everybody realized, right off the bat, that this was a real story that all of us had gone through together, even though it was my personal problem,” Roe says. “But we’re not disconnected and they all went through it with me, actually suffering some tough stuff that I didn’t go through.
“The feeling of the lack of control had to be much greater with them than it was for me, especially at first when I was going through some denial,” he continues. “I was at least working on it, they had to be in the bleachers watching and hoping that it works out OK. That may be a tougher place to be than actually being in the problem.”
Band finds ‘Reason’ for excitement
The book emerges simultaneously with Diamond Rio’s latest recorded project: an album titled The Reason, the band’s first for Christian music label Word Entertainment. The record marks another first for Diamond Rio: releasing an album for which the band’s members wrote most of the tracks.
The end result of both projects is a revelatory period for a band that has played things pretty close to the vest over its 25-year career.
“There have been a lot of different things that have made what we’re doing on this record completely new for us, even though we’ve been doing this for a long time,” Olander says. “We’ve kinda always been a little nondescript; we’ve always gone through a very laborious song-selection process, turned over every rock looking for the best possible material that other writers have written.
“We’ve had a career of that, and I’m not going to say Diamond Rio is soulless or has been, but we were kinda technicians in that and there wasn’t as much heart in those projects as there is in this one.”
Roe agrees that it’s easier for him to get excited about this new material, because of its origins and purpose.
“I have loved almost everything we cut (over the band’s career), and had an emotional connection, but it was not our words and there’s a difference,” he says. “But there’s a difference between doing an ‘I Believe’ that someone else wrote and doing ‘God Is There,’ which we wrote. You have a little more personal story to tell of how that song got created.”
I had the opportunity to sit down with they guys from OneRepublic at their show in Charlotte last night. It was cool to be able to enter the current pop world for a moment and catch a glimpse of a band that has had huge international success and seeing mountains more on the horizon. The guys (Ryan, Zach, Drew, Eddie, and Brent) are the real deal, both in artistry and personality. They were so accommodating, friendly, and displayed an impressive character.
The new single “All the Right Moves” just went to radio and the release date for the new album “Waking Up” is due out on November 17, 2009. From the 4 or 5 songs I heard, it is a knockout and will be a very impressive follow up to their debut platinum release “Dreaming Out Loud”. The biggest single “Apologize” sold an astounding 9 million digital copies worldwide and was the biggest radio airplay hit in the history of Top 40 radio in the U.S., accumulating 10,331 spins in one week. The single sat on top of the Top 40 chart for five months.
You would think with that kind of success and world wide acclaim that the members of OneRepublic would be arrogant and unapproachable. Nothing could be further from the truth. These guys are personable, funny, and authentic – plus they care about things that truly matter in the world. Seems to me like they and Bono would get along famously.
Check out the new single and mark down the date of the album release. Also see them out on the road if you can. And might I add that Former Matchbox 20 front-man and now solo artist Rob Thomas sounded great during his show as well.
The Statler Brothers introduce a new act called The Judds at the Music City News Awards. You may have heard of them. “Love Is Alive” in 1985.
So I showed up early to meet a friend for lunch at one of my favorite places in Nashville. I was sitting at the table ordering my drink when I noticed three of the biggest names in the music business arriving for lunch. A mighty power lunch was about to convene, which is not uncommon in Nashville. Before they took their seat one of the men, a label President who will remain anonymous, came up to my table to say hello. We don’t know each other extremely well, so it was quite unexpected. The other two industry professionals, who I did know from the business, waved from the table they had just secured.
I know several individuals who work for this particular record label head and they speak very highly of him. I mentioned to a couple of them about my lunch encounter and they were not the least bit surprised. Each of them said he is a classy and genuine guy who has little ego and pretense. That’s saying a lot for anyone in the upper stratum of record labels.
I frequently see another label head out and about who I know fairly well. Anytime that we notice one another he has never once took it upon himself to come over and say hello. It is either a distant wave or I make the conciliatory move. Now if I were one of the other three gentlemen from the previous scenario I mentioned I’m sure he would knock down wait staff to say hello…..or would he? I’m not offended, bitter, and don’t feel like I am owed anything. Quite the contrary. I sort of expect status and ego to prevail over relationships in the music business because that’s the way it generally likes to work. There are a lot of incredibly friendly people in Music City and I’m glad to call some of them my friends, but rarely does a top prominent figure take the time to move across a room to shake hands with someone he recognizes, but doesn’t know very well. And might I add has nothing particular to gain from.
I feel like the first label head represents true leadership, character, and realness and it is no wonder his team admires and respects him so much. I would welcome the opportunity to work with him someday. The second label head is no doubt a leader, but the kind who rules out of ego and control. He’s a brilliant businessman, but it is difficult for me to completely respect him.
So there you have the contrast of two label leaders of stature and power. One doesn’t care much about those things and the other cares a little too much.
I’m reminded that no matter what my position is in the music industry I want to reflect the character and qualities of the first individual. How about you?
Artists Lend A Hand To Good Causes
Pictured on a trip to Guatemala on behalf of Compassion International (l-r): Carter’s Chord’s Joanna and Emily Robertson, recording artist Rob Blackledge, Carter’s Chord’s Becky Robertson and country music artist Megan Mullins.
Carter’s Chord joined fellow artists Megan Mullins and Rob Blackledge, and media professionals on a September trip to Guatemala on behalf of Compassion International, a child development ministry working to release the world’s poorest kids from poverty.
From MUSIC ROW. See the complete article here. Photo: Mike Severson
CALIFORNIA RESIDENT PEDALS MORE THAN 4,200 MILES TO HELP IMPOVERISHED CHILDREN THROUGH COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL
Fulfilling a lifelong dream to cycle across the United States, 57-year-old Debbie Davis rode from coast to coast this summer while raising thousands of dollars for her favorite charity, Compassion International, the world’s largest child development organization that releases children from poverty through one-to-one child sponsorship.
Starting in Anacortes, Wash., with their back tires in the Pacific Ocean, Davis and six others finished the 4,259-mile trek with their front tires in the Atlantic Ocean in Bar Harbor, Maine, 72 days later. Called the Northern Tier, the route took them through 11 states and parts of Canada. The seven cyclists belong to the cycling club Pendleton on Wheels, based in Pendleton, Ore. Davis and her husband, both longtime residents of Linden, Calif., live part time in Pendleton.
Davis, a retired therapist from the Lodi Unified School District, has sponsored children through Compassion for 16 years. She currently sponsors a 12-year-old girl in Ethiopia and a 16-year-old boy in Thailand. To raise funds for Compassion, she sent out letters to everyone she knew telling them about the trip.
“In my letter, I explained the trip for me wouldn’t be complete without raising funds and awareness for my favorite charity — Compassion International,” Davis said. “I wanted everyone to know that Compassion is a trustworthy charity doing wonderful work around the globe.”
Davis, who raised $3,000 for Compassion, plans to donate the funds to community projects where her sponsored children live.
The cyclists averaged 70 to 75 miles per day with only six or seven days for rest. The trip, which began June 7 and ended Aug. 18, wasn’t without a few difficulties.
“During the trip, we encountered harsh riding conditions and rudimentary accommodations as we had no choice but to camp 63 of the days,” said Davis. “While on my bike, I couldn’t stop thinking about the millions of children and their families who live in much worse conditions than this on a daily basis.”
Wess Stafford, president and CEO of Compassion, praised Davis for her efforts.
“Debbie’s dedication is a wonderful example of the passion and spirit of the more than 500,000 Compassion sponsors across America,” Stafford said. “We congratulate her on a job well done and thank her for her dedication to releasing children from poverty in Jesus’ name.”
Although Davis loved the experience, she doubts she will take on such a big endeavor again. She may, however, consider shorter two- to three-week trips to raise funds for Compassion.
Compassion International is the world’s largest Christian child development organization that permanently releases children from poverty. Founded in 1952, Compassion successfully tackles global poverty one child at a time, serving more than 1 million children in 26 of the world’s poorest countries. Recognizing that poverty is more than a lack of money, Compassion works holistically through local churches to address the individual physical, economic, educational and spiritual needs of children, enabling them to thrive, not just survive. Charity Navigator, America’s largest charity evaluator, has awarded Compassion its highest rating — four stars — for eight consecutive years.
Who doesn’t like the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band? A couple of videos for your Throwback Thursday.
Fishin’ In The Dark
Mr. Bojangles
I was at the gym this morning getting a workout on the bicycle. I plugged in my headphones to listen to one of the five television channels available to those in the facility. My choices were a Wall Street news show, the Golf Channel, the Today Show, a country music video channel, and an investment program. What? No ESPN?! Unbelievable! I was too busy peddling to ask the staff to change one of the channels, plus I figured I needed to catch up on my music videos. The decision was made.
While on the stationary bike I saw five videos amongst promos and advertising. All currents and all on the charts at the moment (one may be considered a recurrent). As a fan of music and a radio listener I was incredibly disappointed. Besides each video bringing an element of over dramatization, the songs were below average radio fodder. Each single was from a major label, around mid-tempo, had unoriginal lyrics, overdone themes, and predictable melody. They also had a nice hooks in the chorus and that’s all that really matters because they probably are testing well for radio stations. The lowest common denominator typically wins and real music lovers lose because Nashville will continue to release the songs that they think will test well for radio stations across the board. And then the time will come when radio will say, “Why isn’t Nashville sending us anything extraordinary?” The industry cycle feeds itself.
What happened to edgy? What’s wrong with passion and polarizing? When did going with your gut become so passe’? Taking a chance…..what’s that? Seems like there is less and less of that going on every day for a number of reasons.
Don’t get me wrong, there is still amazing music being released from an array of strong artists by labels. We are also fortunate to have the star power of Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, George Strait, Keith Urban, Darius Rucker, and Kenny Chesney among others. Still, a substantial amount of singles are background music designed to do exactly what radio needs them to do. Be unstylish, non-offending wallpaper. Don’t turn that dial! TSL! PPM! Familiarity! It’s okay if they all sound the same.
Take the new single from Radney Foster for example. Think it’s too out of center? Maybe, but that is exactly where our format gets its energy and relevancy from. Or what about the songs and artists that are “too country”? The heck you say! Perhaps out of center the other direction, but they are the foundation and lifeblood of our format. So thanks to Lee Ann Womack and those like her.
It’s always frustrating to know that the majority of listeners will never hear ground-breaking, original, and beautiful music that is being written, performed, and recorded by immensely talented artists. Unless of course they go to one of the numerous online options that offer discovery and personal playlists. There are, thankfully, exceptions in the radio world who push the musical envelope and you stations know who you are.
I realize this is a battle that has been going on for a long time and will continue to be fought and discussed. Like the exercise bike I ride that doesn’t go anywhere. It does grow tiring to be sure and everyone has an entitled opinion, but at the end of this day I’ll take exceptional music over mass mediocrity any day.
This band was the ultimate for me growing up. From the first album in 1976 until they jumped the pop shark in the mid to late 80’s. My interest lagged from then on, but during my school years in the 70’s and early 80’s there was not another band that defined my musical passion than Heart. I finally got to meet Ann & Nancy Wilson a couple of years ago and I will be posting something soon about that, um…..experience.
“Crazy On You” in 1976
“Barracuda” 1978
The 43rd annual CMA Awards nominees were announced this morning. The live broadcast will be on Wednesday, November 11th at 8p EST from Nashville on ABC.
Entertainer Of The Year
KENNY CHESNEY
BRAD PAISLEY
TAYLOR SWIFT
GEORGE STRAIT
KEITH URBAN
Male Vocalist Of The Year
KENNY CHESNEY
BRAD PAISLEY
GEORGE STRAIT
DARIUS RUCKER
KEITH URBAN
Female Vocalist Of The Year
TAYLOR SWIFT
MIRANDA LAMBERT
MARTINA McBRIDE
REBA McENTIRE
CARRIE UNDERWOOD
New Artist Award
DARIUS RUCKER
JAMEY JOHNSON
RANDY HOUSER
JAKE OWEN
ZAC BROWN BAND
Vocal Duo Of The Year
BIG & RICH
BROOKS & DUNN
MONTGOMERY GENTRY
SUGARLAND
JOEY + RORY
Vocal Group Of The Year
EAGLES
LADY ANTEBELLUM
ZAC BROWN BAND
LITTLE BIG TOWN
RASCAL FLATTS
Album Of The Year (awarded to artist/producers)
BRAD PAISLEY – American Saturday Night – producers CHRIS DUBOIS and FRANK ROGERS – ARISTA RECORDS
KEITH URBAN – Defying Gravity – producers DANN HUFF and KEITH URBAN – CAPITOL RECORDS
TAYLOR SWIFT – Fearless – producers NATHAN CHAPMAN and TAYLOR SWIFT – BIG MACHINE RECORDS
SUGARLAND – Love On The Inside – producers BYRON GALLIMORE, KRISTIAN BUSH and JENNIFER NETTLES – MERCURY RECORDS
JAMEY JOHNSON – That Lonesome Song – producers THE KENT HARDLY PLAYBOYS – MERCURY RECORDS
Single Of The Year (awarded to the artist/producer)
“Chicken Fried” – ZAC BROWN BAND – produced by KEITH STEGALL
“I Run To You” – LADY ANTEBELLUM – produced by VICTORIA SHAW and PAUL WORLEY
“In Color” – JAMEY JOHNSON – produced by THE KENT HARDLY PLAYBOYS
“Then” – BRAD PAISLEY – produced by CHRIS DUBOIS and FRANK ROGERS
“People Are Crazy” -BILLY CURRINGTON – produced by CARSON CHAMBERLAIN and BILLY CURRINGTON
Song Of The Year (awarded to songwriter)
“Chicken Fried” – ZAC BROWN and WYATT DURRETTE
“I Told You So” – RANDY TRAVIS
“In Color” – JAMEY JOHNSON, JAMES OTTO and LEE THOMAS MILLER
“People Are Crazy” – BOBBY BRADDOCK and TROY JONES
“Then” – BRAD PAISLEY, CHRIS DuBOIS and ASHLEY GORLEY
Musical Event Of The Year
“Cowgirls Don’t Cry” – BROOKS & DUNN with REBA McENTIRE
“Down The Road” – KENNY CHESNEY with MAC McANALLY
“Everything But Quits” -LEE ANN WOMACK with GEORGE STRAIT
“I Told You So” – CARRIE UNDERWOOD with RANDY TRAVIS
“Old Enough” – THE RACONTEURS with RICKY SKAGGS and ASHLEY MONROE
Video Of The Year (awarded to artist and director)
“Boots On” – RANDY HOUSER – directed by ERIC WELCH
“Love Story” – TAYLOR SWIFT – directed by TREY FANJOY
“People Are Crazy” – BILLY CURRINGTON — directed by THE BRADS
“Start A Band” – BRAD PAISLEY (duet with KEITH URBAN) – directed by JIM SHEA
“Troubadour” – GEORGE STRAIT – directed by TREY FANJOY
Musician Of The Year
EDDIE BAYERS, JR. – drums
PAUL FRANKLIN – steel guitar
DANN HUFF – guitar
BRENT MASON – guitar
MAC MACANALLY – guitar
CMA Radio Station of the Year
Major Market: KMPS/Seattle, KYGO/Denver, WPOC/Baltimore, WUSN/Chicago, WYCD/Detroit.
Large Market: KAJA/San Antonio, KASE/Austin, WQDR/Raleigh, WTQR/Greensboro-Winston Salem, WUBE/Cincinnati.
Medium Market: KSSN/Little Rock, KUZZ/Bakersfield, KXKT/Omaha, WBBS/Syracuse, WGNA/Albany.Small Market: WAXX/Eau Claire, WI; WBKR/Owensboro, KY; WKSF/Asheville, NC; WUSY/Chattanooga, TN; WYCT/Pensacola, FL.
CMA Personality Of The Year
National
- American Country Countdown, Kix Brooks
- Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40, Bob Kingsley
- The Lia Show, Lia Knight
Major Market
- The All New Dr. Don Morning Show with Doc, Grunwald, Rachael, and Jason, Don Carpenter, Steve Grunwald, Rachael Hunter, Jason “The 300 Pound Cowboy” Raithel, WYCD/Detroit.
- Cliff and Company: Cliff, Morgan, Tanner, and Tori, Cliff Dumas, Morgan Thomas, Bill Tanner, Tori Peck, KSON/San Diego.
- The Cornbread Morning Show featuring Cornbread, Pat James, Producer Annie, Father Harry and Captain Mac, Cornbread, Pat James, Annie Henson, Harry Schroeder, Mac “Captain Mac” Douglas, WIL/St. Louis.
- The Laurie De Young Morning Show, Laurie De Young, WPOC/Baltimore.
- Paul Schadt and Sarah in the Morning, Paul Schadt, Sarah Waters, WKKT/Charlotte.
Large Market
- Bucky & Bob: The Talk of Austin, Bucky Godbolt, Bob Cole, KVET/Austin.
- Chris Carr & Company, Chris Carr, Jeffrey “Maverick” Bolen, Jason Statt, WUBE, Cincinnati.
- Jeff Roper in the Morning, Jeff Roper, Angie Ward, Adam “Flash” Dellinger, WTQR/Greensboro-Winston-Salem-High Point.
- Jim Denny and Friends, Jim Denny, Deborah Honeycutt, Kevin Freeman, WFMS/Indianapolis.
- Karen, Scott and Radar…The Moo Crew, Karen Dalessandro, Scott Dolphin, Tony “Radar” Hess, WMIL/Milwaukee.
Medium Market
- The 97 Country Breakfast Club with Roger, Tom, and Melissa, Roger Todd, Tom O’Brien, Melissa Moran, WPCV/Lakeland, FL.
- Brian and Kellie Morning Show, Brian Pierce, Kellie Michaels, KFDI/Wichita.
- The Kat 103 Morning Show with Steve Lundy, Gina, and Craig, Steve Lundy, Gina Melton, Craig Allen, KXKT, Omaha.
- Tom & Becky in the Morning, Tom Owens, Becky Palmer, WBBS/Syracuse.
- WIVK at Night with Jack Ryan, Jack Ryan, WIVK/Knoxville.
Small Market
- Barrett, Fox & Berry, Bill Barrett, Tim Fox, Tracy Berry, KKNU/Eugene, OR.
- Bearman and Ken in the Morning, Benny “Bearman” Martin, Ken Hicks, WUSY/Chattanooga, TN.
- Gator & The StyckMan, Gator Harrison, Greg “StyckMan” Owens, WGSQ/Cookeville, TN.
- Mee in the Morning, Kevin Mee, Brenda Mee, KIZN/Boise, ID.
- Middays with Philip Gibbons, Philip Gibbons, WGSQ/Cookeville, TN.
I’m quite excited about the trip we are departing on today. A Compassion trip to Guatemala to visit child development programs and see first hand how children and families are being rescued from their dire circumstances. I already know what to expect having been on a few of trips, but the impact nevertheless will always be the same no matter how many I eventually journey on. Heartbreak, joy, hunger, hope, poverty, faithfulness, weakness, courage, and a multitude of emotions and sensations. Brutal poverty will punch you in the gut and things change. Change for the good in you, in me, and in the lives of these children.
Just tonight I was talking with our adoptive daughter about her life in Ethiopia. She tells us random stories and we have been trying to weave them together in some sort of time frame and context. The better she speaks English, the more we are understanding and putting the pieces into place. So tonight’s story was about how her and her Ethiopian mother didn’t have any food to eat and were hungry all the time. She said that they both would ask for money along side the road so they could go buy food. They were begging. A common sight in Ethiopia, but to imagine our daughter in dirty clothes from the dusty roads, holding her mother’s hand and just looking for their next meal, well…….how that will hit me when I see it in Guatemala I just don’t know. But that’s reality and that’s life in these poverty stricken countries.
It will impact everyone on our trip differently depending on their own story and what touches their heart. I look forward to telling you stories from this adventure and have even more anticipation of hearing what our artist, radio, and industry guests have to tell.
I’m proud and excited to have Megan Mullins, Carter’s Chord, Rob Blackledge and John Bollinger as our artist guests. Musical artists have so much influence to inform and encourage people to act. Radio obviously does as well and it will be great to finally travel with KKGO PD and Compassion advocate Tonya Campos. I’m also thrilled to have industry pros like Megan Smith and Denise Roberts, who have already been supporters of Compassion, join in the mix.
I don’t know who will be blogging, twittering, or updating Facebook, but I will certainly try along the way. In the meantime check out more about Compassion and intentionally look up the children from Guatemala that are needing a sponsor. We may very well be hugging on their neck and playing games with them.
Today is the beginning of my preparation for the trip to Guatemala. An important part of that prep before setting a foot on the ground is getting more familiar with the country and their culture. All of us taking this journey have in our possession a guide book that goes into detail about all the pertinent things we should know about Guatemala and the child development programs we will be visiting. We must prepare our heart AND our mind.
Guatemala Facts
| Guatemala | United States | |
| Capital | Guatemala City | Washington, D.C. |
| Population | 13,002,206 (July 2008 estimate) | 303,824,640 (July 2008 estimate) |
| Languages | Spanish 60%, Amerindian languages 40% (23 officially recognized Amerindian languages, including Quiche, Cakchiquel, Kekchi, Mam, Garifuna and Xinca) | English 82.1%, Spanish 10.7%, other Indo-European 3.8%, Asian and Pacific island 2.7%, other 0.7% (2000 census) |
| Religions | Christian (Roman Catholic, Protestant), indigenous Mayan beliefs | Christian 78.5% (Protestant 51.3%, Roman Catholic 23.9%, other Christian 2.3%), Jewish 1.7%, Buddhist 0.7%, Muslim 0.6%, other or unspecified 2.5%, unaffiliated 12.1%, none 4% (2007 est.) |
| Literacy rate
Definition: Age 15 and over can read and write. |
Male: 75.4%
Female: 63.3% (2002 estimate) |
Male: 99%
Female: 99% (2003 estimate) |
| Percentage of population using improved drinking water sources | Urban: 99%
Rural: 92% |
Urban: 100%
Rural: 100% |
| Percentage of population using adequate sanitation facilities | Urban: 90%
Rural: 82% |
Urban: 100%
Rural: 100% |
| Climate | Tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands | Mostly temperate but tropical in Hawaii and Florida, arctic in Alaska, semiarid in the great plains west of the Mississippi River and arid in the Great Basin of the southwest; low winter temperatures in the northwest are warmed occasionally in January and February by chinook winds from the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. |
| Percentage of population urbanized | 48% (2006 estimate) |
81% (2006 estimate) |
| Life expectancy | Male: 68.22 years
Female: 71.86 years (2008 estimate) |
Male: 75.29 years
Female: 81.13 years (2008 estimate) |
| Under-5 mortality rate | 41/1,000 (2006 estimate) |
8/1,000 (2006 estimate) |
| GDP per capita | $5,100 (2007 estimate) | $45,800 (2007 estimate) |
| Monetary unit | quetzal (GTQ), U.S. dollar (USD), others allowed | U.S. dollar (USD) |
| Number of people living with HIV/AIDS | 78,000 (2003 estimate) | 950,000 (2003 estimate) |
| Percentage of population living below $1 a day | 14% (1995-2005 study) | Data not available |
Sources for facts: The World Factbook, 2008; The State of the World’s Children, 2008
The Mayan civilization flourished throughout much of Guatemala and the surrounding region long before the Spanish arrived. There are temple ruins, courtyards and steles, which record events from A.D. 771 and A.D. 810. Tikal, located in Peten, north of Guatemala City, has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. The Mayan culture was already in decline when the Mayans were defeated by Pedro de Alvarado in 1523-24. During Spanish colonial rule, most of Central America came under the control of the Captaincy General of Guatemala.
The first Spanish settlement in Guatemala was in Iximché (the city of Santiago), but was destroyed by an earthquake. The second colonial capital, Almolonga, flooded in 1542. Survivors left the city and founded Antigua, located near Almolonga, which became the second capital in 1543. In the 17th century, Antigua became one of the richest capitals in the new world with many baroque churches and the first Central American university, Universidad de San Carlos, which is now the nation’s most prestigious university, known for medicine and social expertise. Always vulnerable to earthquakes, Antigua was destroyed by two earthquakes in 1773. The remnants of its Spanish colonial architecture have been preserved and declared a world monument and heritage site by UNESCO. The third capital, Guatemala City, was founded in La Hermita Valley in 1776, after Antigua was abandoned.
Guatemala gained independence from Spain on Sept. 15, 1821, but was officially established as a Republic in 1847 after a brief annexation with Mexico. From the mid-19th century until the mid-1980s, the country passed through a series of dictatorships, insurgencies (particularly beginning in the 1960s), coups and stretches of military rule, with only occasional periods of representative government.
Several attempts have been made to end the decades-old dispute in Guatemala, and the most recent was the 1996 signing of a series of peace accords by the government, leftist guerrillas and various other feuding factions.
A high crime rate and a serious and worsening public corruption problem were cause for concern for the government of Guatemala. These problems, in addition to issues related to the often violent harassment and intimidation by unknown assailants of human rights activists, judicial workers, journalists and witnesses in human rights trials, led the government to begin serious attempts in 2001 to open a national dialogue to discuss the considerable challenges facing the country.
National elections were held in November 2003. Oscar Berger Perdomo won the election. The new government assumed office in January 2004. This new government has made a great deal of advancement toward national security and education, which has given Guatemala a new hope for the future and has raised national solidarity within the population.
Education
The typical school year runs from January through October. Guatemalans go to preschool four years, primary school six years, secondary school three years and high school two to three years, depending on technical training.
Recent statistics compiled by Guatemala’s National Statistic Institute and the major universities of the country indicate that only 2 percent of Guatemalans attend universities and only half of those who do graduate.
Many Guatemalans do not attend school, but instead start working at a young age to sustain their families. Many don’t see the long-term benefits of schooling, and many others get married or get involved in gangs.
The educational structure is in need of an overhaul. Schools sometimes don’t have enough supplies to give children and some don’t even have chairs or desks. In some areas, there are not even schools. Low teacher salaries have also contributed to a shortage of teachers.
Despite these struggles, the government’s new initiatives have helped the Guatemala’s education system. But the needs are so great that it will take time to see significant improvements.
Guatemalans’ attitudes toward education depend on their social level in society. Many parents think girls should not attend school since they should be preparing for motherhood. In other cases, parents feel their children will improve through work, not academic study. Others would like to attend but do not have the money to pay the school fees. Guatemalans who are wealthier value education, but still find it to be a financial burden.
Art
Guatemalans make hand-woven Indian textiles, pottery, clay and wood carvings.
Music
Music is made with many instruments, including the marimba, an instrument made from different sized gourds, resembling the xylophone. Indian music is made using flutes and drums.
Holy Week, March or April: The week before Easter. Guatemalans make intricately patterned designs on their streets, sometimes made of flowers and leaves but most often of colored sawdust.
Labor Day, May 1
Independence Day, Sept. 15
Revolution Day, Oct. 20: The anniversary of the 1944 revolution that resulted in a liberal government.
Saints Day, Nov. 1: Families get together to give thanks and eat.
Christmas, Dec. 24, 25: Guatemalans decorate their homes with life-size replicas of nativity scenes, pine wreaths, poinsettias and fruit. Tamales are served on Christmas Eve.
Guatemalans are passionate about soccer. They also enjoy basketball and bicycling. Children enjoy ball games, such as volleyball and dodge ball.
Guatemalans eat frijoles (black beans), maize (corn), chicken, eggs, white cheese, tamales, tostadas and hard, rolled tacos with meat. Guatemalans also make a unique array of soups and seed and vegetable sauces.
Guatemalan Tostadas
To present and eat your tostadas in Guatemalan style, top each one with only salsa, guacamole or beans. Use blanched onion rings, parmesan cheese and parsley to garnish them.
Fried Corn Tortillas
Place tortillas in oil and fry them until toasted. Pat with napkins to take out the extra oil and let them dry.
Salsa
Ingredients:
1/2 onion
1 pepper
1 16 oz. can tomatoes
1 Tb. butter
Salt to taste
Boil half the pepper and one quarter of the onion until soft. Add canned tomatoes then blend in a blender. Next sauté the rest of the onion and pepper with the butter until softened, then stir the blended mixture with the sautéed mixture. Add a small amount of salt to taste.
Guacamole
Ingredients:
2 avocados, peeled
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1 tsp. salt and pepper
1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp. chicken powder or more to taste
Mash avocadoes (leave the seed in the bowl to keep them from getting dark) and mix with all other ingredients.
Beans
Ingredients:
1 Tb. butter
1/4 cup onion
1/4 cup red or green bell pepper
1 16 oz. can black beans
2 Tb. water
chicken broth to taste
salt to taste
Fry the onions, pepper, beans and water in the butter. Add a small amount of chicken broth and salt to taste. Stir constantly until most of excess water evaporates.
Compassion’s work in Guatemala began in 1976. Currently, more than 33,300 children participate in 140 child development centers. Compassion partners with churches around the country to help them provide Guatemalan children with the opportunity to rise above their circumstances and become all God has created them to be.
Next Thursday an amazing crew of artists and radio folks will be traveling to Guatemala with Compassion International. We will be in the country for 3 days visiting with local staff, volunteers, families, and children in the program.
Compassion’s work in Guatemala began in 1976. Currently, more than 33,300 children participate in 140 child development centers.
The following map shows the location on those centers.
Next week I will be documenting the preparation for the trip and facts that you may not know about Guatemala.
We’re going way back today with the Eagles. Farewell tour footage just wasn’t good enough. It’s the original slam daddy super group from the early 70’s.
This song kills most of the singles currently on the country chart. I would like nothing more than to hear radio pick this one up nationwide, but I am doubting it will happen. Would love to be proved wrong. Radney has been an exceptional artist for a long time and deserves any recognition and success that comes his way.
One of the greatest country bands ever. “Fast Moving Train” and “Bluest Eyes in Texas” for your Throwback Thursday pleasure. This is a weekly feature so be sure and check back every week. You never know what may be coming next!
According to The NPD Group, a leading market research company, while CDs remain the most popular format for paid music purchases, digital music sales are making up an ever-greater share of U.S. music sales. CDs comprised 65 percent of all music sold in the first half of 2009 compared to paid digital downloads, which comprised 35 percent of music sales. By comparison, paid digital music downloads comprised just 20 percent of sales in 2007 – growing to 30 percent of the music market last year.
“Many people are surprised that the CD is still the dominant music delivery format, given the attention to digital music and the shrinking retail footprint for physical products,” said Russ Crupnick, vice president of entertainment industry analysis “But with digital music sales growing at 15 to 20 percent, and CDs falling by an equal proportion, digital music sales will nearly equal CD sales by the end of 2010.”
According to NPD MusicWatch, when it comes to the unit-sales volume of music sold at retail – including paid digital music downloads and CDs – Apple iTunes leads in the U.S. with 25 percent of music units sold, which is up from 21 percent in 2008 and 14 percent in 2007. Walmart (including Walmart, Walmart.com, Walmart Music Downloads) remains in second position with 14 percent of music volume sold at their stores and Web sites with Best Buy ranked third.
iTunes also continued to solidify its lead in the digital music arena, as consumer downloads from iTunes comprised 69 percent of the digital music market in the first half of 2009, followed by AmazonMP3 at 8 percent. Walmart leads all sellers of CDs with a 20 percent share of the physical music market, followed by Best Buy at 16 percent and Target and Amazon tied at 10 percent each.
“The growth of legal digital music downloads, and Apple’s success in holding that market, has increased iTunes’s overall strength in the retail music category,” said Russ Crupnick, entertainment industry analyst for The NPD Group. “But the importance of the big box retailers shouldn’t be dismissed, as long as the majority of music consumers continue to buy CDs.”
Having an instant 5 year old has obviously been a major adjustment to our lives at home. It can be very easy to get distracted by all of the frustrations that come attached with it, but along the way I have noticed improvements in my life that have come with parenthood. Besides actually being a parent of course and all the ways that will change me for the better.
By no means is this an exhaustive list, but rather ordinary observations and revelations. I’m sure I will discover more as this journey continues.
I now:
- Floss more often
- Wear my seat belt at all times now
- Don’t waste evenings watching bad television
- Read more
- Drink more wine (in a good way)
- Garden and plant more
- Savor better the quiet times
- Hike more often
- Am getting significantly more swimming pool action
- Have more awareness
- Am better tanned
- Relearning how to draw and color
- Hear a wider variety of music
- Make more sandcastles
- Get to swing and slide on the playground without getting strange looks
- Fly kites again
- Clean the house more often
- Can loosen up and act stupid with no repercussions
- Drink much more chocolate milk
- Cook on the grill more often
- Play soccer again
- Have the opportunity to work out in the morning, which I haven’t yet taken fully advantage of but plan to soon.
- Empathize with other parents
Vince Gill “When I Call Your Name” 1990
Inside Music Media has a piece on entitled “A Fix for the Music Industry”. A taste:
“The problem is that the labels only know one way to do things — their way — and their way went bye-bye about ten years ago.
They don’t know what to do today.
That’s why they sue listeners and illegal downloaders. And no matter how moronic the downloaders they snag are, it is a failed strategy for turning the music industry around.
But cooperating with the inevitable — now that’s a fix for the ills of the record labels.
Actually promoting viral use of their artists’ material and work to find ways to legally sell downloads, merch, and ancillary types of income.
Isn’t that the lesson of radio — MTV — concerts — magazine and media promotion in days gone by?
You increase legal demand for the product the more ways you find to expose it — even and maybe because of free viral distribution.”
See the entire post HERE.
www.seversonphotography.com
A reading from C.S. Lewis “The Problem of Pain”:
“Even in your hobbies, has there not always been some secret attraction which the others are curiously ignorant of – something, not to be identified with, but always on the verge of breaking through, the smell of cut wood in the workshop or the clap – clap of water against the boat’s side? Are not lifelong friendships born at the moment when at last you meet another human being who has some inkling (but faint and uncertain even in the best) of that something which you were born desiring, and which, beneath the flux of other desires and in all the momentary silences between the louder passions, night and day, year by year, from childhood to old age, you are looking for, watching for, listening for? You have never had it. All the things that have ever deeply possessed your soul have been but hints of it – tantalizing glimpses, promises never quite fulfilled, echoes that died away just as they caught your ear.
But if it should really become manifest – if there ever came an echo that did not die away but swelled into the sound itself – you would know it. Beyond all possibility of doubt you would say, ‘Here at last is the thing I was made for.’
We cannot tell each other about it. It is the secret signature of each soul, the incommunicable and unappeasable want, the thing we desired before we met our wives or made our friends, or chose our work, and which we shall still desire on our deathbeds, when the mind no longer knows wife or friend or work.
While we are this is. If we lose this, we lose all.”
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: How can Keith Urban not be Entertainer of the Year? Seeing him long ago fronting The Ranch and several times as a solo artist, no one can touch his show. The charisma, energy, musicianship, voice, and overall performance is pure entertainment. He is a welcomed combination of artistry and commerce in a world where talent typically falls on one side or the other.
And let’s not forget the songs, which Bob Lefsetz writes about in his recent blog post. He was at the show in L.A. and shares the experience. I love this line: “The Nashville market is the last bastion of real music. Actual songs played on real instruments. And that’s what you got with Keith Urban, real music.”
Check out the entire post HERE.
In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, building your brain power gives you an edge in the job market as well as other aspects of life. These tips will teach you how to boost your brain and memory to increase productivity and make you a superstar at trivia.
Check out the list HERE.
From Dan Miller:
This week a 36 yr old MBA in an executive position in an exciting industry shared this concern in her coaching profile: “I have a vague sense that my life is too small.”
Living large does not necessarily mean a bigger salary, house, cars or retirement fund. It has nothing to do with fancy vacations or the latest fashions. Rather, it means having a life that is full of meaning and purpose. And that can occur – or be absent – at any place on the continuum of the traditional parameters of “success.” I’ve seen millionaires who are living life “small” and those with scarce financial resources who are living “large.”
Let me ask you this: What is your life saying to the world? Are you living your life too small? Is it so full of meaningless tasks that there’s no room left for the things that make your heart sing? Are you pushing so hard in doing more that you’ve lost the sense of being more? Does more activity really equal greater accomplishment, or does it at some point tip the scale and begin to diminish the meaning of your life? Are you creating the legacy you want to leave for your loved ones?
Reflect back on last month – yes, just this last month. What did you do to keep your life from being too small?
Can you identify:
- 4-5 ideas you had for a better job or starting your own business?
- 3 things that you did just to help someone out with no expectation of payback?
- The books you read or listened to that enlightened your spirit, confidence, knowledge and wisdom?
- The number of hours you spent in quiet contemplation?
- The 2 or 3 things you did that you had never done before? The concerts, art shows, seminars, workshops or other enriching experiences you had?
- 2 or 3 specific things you did to strengthen the relationships that mean the most to you?
If you have no responses to these seven questions, chances are strong that you are living your life too small.
Make it a regular practice to embrace living large times in your life. Wisdom, peace, contentment, and insight about investing your life in fulfilling work will grow in those times. Take a walk, give thanks for simple things, take a bath with music playing and candles burning, turn off the telephones, TV, and computer. Carve out those times for restoration and spiritual breathing. Don’t confuse activity with accomplishment. Even Jesus got away from the crowds periodically. Don’t let your life be too small.
From Seth Godin:
The risk/reward confusion
It’s easy to to adopt the policy of avoiding risk at all costs, that whenever possible, the products you launch or the engagements you have should be flawless and without downside.
Here’s the problem: in most endeavors, a small increase in risk can double the reward. It’s the second doubling of reward that brings serious risk with it. But the first leap is relatively painless.
In the chart above, notice that going from point A to point B brings almost no incremental risk. It might feel scary, but rationally, it’s not. Doubling reward again from B to C, though, brings significant incremental risk. It’s this second doubling that gets you through the Dip, that leads to a breakthrough, that makes you remarkable.
But I’m not even talking about that. I’m just hoping you’ll warm up by making the tiny leap of avoiding all risk. Riskless is hardly worth your effort.
From Compassion Blog:
Giving back to the community has become chic for many who are in the public eye and have the resources to do so, but for St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols, it isn’t about what’s fashionable or what looks good. It’s about being faithful to a God, Who has given him much, and helping the children he loves in his native Dominican Republic.
As Albert steps off one of Major League Baseball’s many well-manicured baseball diamonds, he often finds himself stepping onto the dusty streets of the Dominican Republic. But he’s not coming to play baseball, nor is he coming to instill in the children who live the way he once lived a love of the game he is now famous for.
His mission is to provide to those who are less fortunate something we in the United States take for granted – rectangular mattresses to sleep on.
For many of the world’s poor in places such as the Dominican Republic, a mattress isn’t a necessity: It’s a luxury. For Albert, this is a tangible and lasting way to use baseball as a ministry in his homeland. Through his partnership with Compassion, he is able to provide to those less fortunate something that will last for months and years to come.
But it’s not just mattresses that Albert is providing to the people of the Dominican Republic. To find out what else he’s doing, read his story in the summer issue of Compassion Magazine.
From Vintage Vinyl News:
The National Association of Recording Merchandisers (NARM) has released a report in association with Nielsen SoundScan on the current state of the recording industry.
Highlights from the report:
Digital music is now 40% of the total music purchases compared to just 8% in 2005. It is projected that it will hit 50% by the end of 2010.- Purchases are being made less at mass and chain/electronic stores and more at value oriented outlets (dollar, mass merchandisers, clubs) and on-line. Between 2001 and 2009, chains like Best Buy’s share of the market has gone from 54% to 32%, independent music stores from 14% to 7%, mass merchandisers like Wal-Mart from 28% to 33% and non-traditional sources such as iTunes, Amazon and Starbucks from 3% to 29%.
- In 2008, the biggest percentage jump in sales was for vinyl albums, which were up 89% over 2007. The biggest drop was in current CD albums (compared to catalog) which was down 23%.
- Since 2004, CD sales are down 45% while digital sales are up 490% and video game sales up 115%.
- Between 2006 and 2008, rap music had the biggest drop in album sales, dropping 44% with country down 36% and R&B down 34%. On the other end of the scale, rock and hard rock are only down 18%.
- Digital music buying was done most by fans of rock music, with 41% of all purchases coming from an on-line source. That’s compared to only 6% of sales for country albums.
- New physical formats are not doing well. Slot Music sales are averaging 1,500 albums per week while digital album cards are only moving 590 albums. Both formats are seriously declining.
- Through the first five months of this year, rock and alternative vinyl album sales have led the way, growing between 60% and 70% from last year. The real genre gains, percentage wise, has been in country and gospel where sales are up 200% from a year ago.
There is a ton more of interesting statistics over in the NARM presentation including the impact of TV on music sales and statistics on big sellers.
www.seversonphotography.com / www.seversonphotography.wordpress.com
A short but important piece from Dan Miller’s weekly newsletter. Find Dan’s blog HERE.
There is a PBS special running right now on the music of David Foster (Hit Man – David Foster and Friends). As the hosts asked him about his early years in music, one response jumped out at me. David said he loved music as a child and his parents allowed him to take lessons in classical music. But David said: “I was good, but not great.” He went on to explain that if he had been a better musician he would likely have ended up as an anonymous face in some orchestra. Not being great forced him to look for other ways to be involved in music. So he writes and produces for other musicians. It has been said that Foster’s songs have made “many famous singers into superstars.” Many of his songs have become well known through the voices of Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Micheal Buble, and Boz Scaggs. And his own fame and fortune has far surpassed what he could have possibly hoped for as a “great” musician.
In The Millionaire Mind author Thomas Stanley looks at the common characteristics of people who have ended up extremely wealthy. Their average GPA is 2.7. Why isn’t it that all 4.0 students become wildly successful? Maybe their “greatness” came too easily and they missed the benefits of the struggle.
If “greatness” has not come easily for you have you given up the pursuit and settled for mediocrity? Or have you looked for alternative approaches for success anyway?
Maybe “greatness” that comes too easily is itself an obstacle. We’ve all seen athletes, musicians, writers, and speakers who were so naturally great they never had to exercise the discipline to survive the hard times – and quickly faded into oblivion.
Maybe not being “great” is your biggest hidden asset.
Dan Miller, President of 48 Days, LLC, in Franklin, TN, and Founder of The 212° Connection, specializes in creative thinking for increased personal and business success.
I recently did a 10 Questions feature with All Access and it is being featured on their site this week. I’m re-posting it here, not to be self serving, but to continue to highlight the amazing work Compassion is doing and the way we are connecting with country artists, radio, and industry partners. This is the time to impact the world.
If you have a question that I did not get asked here, then please feel free to contact me.
 |
|
NAME: Mike Severson
TITLE: Artist & Radio Relations for Country format
COMPANY: Compassion International
BORN: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
RAISED: Inola, Oklahoma
|
Please outline your career so far:
1988 – 1994 Radio (KWEN and KCKI in Tulsa, OK)
1994 – 2002 MCA Nashville
2003 – 2004 All Access Music
2004 – 2005 Rounder Records
2005 – 2008 Midas Records
2008 – present Compassion International & Freelance Consulting/Promotion/Marketing
1. Last time we spoke with you was 2005 and you were working for Rounder Records. Catch us up on what has been going on in your life for the past few years.
Wow, it’s been too long since we have spoken! I went from Rounder directly to being hired by Bob Reeves as we helped launch Midas Records in early 2006. Worked some great music and artists, but the roller coaster ride ended in July 2008. From there I had a short stint at another indie label and most recently was hired by Compassion International this past December as their consultant in the Country format.
2. Tell us what Compassion International is and a little bit about the company’s history and focus.
Compassion International is a Christian child development ministry dedicated to helping children in need around the world through one-on-one sponsorships. Compassion’s programs help release children from poverty and enable them to become responsible, fulfilled adults. They offer educational opportunities, health care and health-related instruction, nutrition, life-skills training, social activity, and spiritual growth. As for the history, Compassion was founded in 1952 and now serves over 1 million children in 26 countries around the world. The organization is also involved in other critical areas of need including, but not limited to, disease prevention, fighting hunger, clean water projects, disaster relief, HIV/AIDS initiatives, and the global food crisis. You can check out more at www.compassion.com.
3. What exactly is your role with Compassion?
I am essentially artist and radio relations for the Country format. I am currently educating and forming relationships with artists and radio stations that are interested in partnering with Compassion on a world-wide basis. I will then be the Country point person for those artists and stations for strategic planning and implementation.
4. Compassion International has been pretty visible in the Christian music format for a while now, correct? What made the company decide to move into the Country format as well?
It just feels like a natural progression. The two formats share an enormous amount of listeners, target demos, and there is a foundational element of Faith in our format. Country artists, radio, listeners, and fans have huge hearts as well and there is incredible opportunity to make an impact on children around the world while letting our format shine beyond our preconceived borders and notions. The bottom line though is that I believe Country music can have a life changing impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of children around the globe.
5. You have been working this job for about six months now, what has the response been from the Country music community?
I am thrilled at the response and the interest. There are so many artists, radio stations, and industry professionals that are looking to connect with an organization who is involved with fighting extreme poverty and where they can make a direct impact on a child in need. Sometimes it is difficult to know what organization to support and identify where the money is actually going. But when they see how Compassion does not indiscriminately throw money at a problem, but through direct one-on-one sponsorships is lifting kids and families out of deep poverty, it gives them an opportunity to see that the monthly contribution from the sponsor is truly helping their specific child. It also is a plus that Compassion has a 30+ year history in the music industry and knows how to build relationships and connect the dots. That’s huge.
6. You recently had the opportunity to visit El Salvador with Valory Music Co. group Emerson Drive. Tell us about that experience.
Compassion actively takes artists and radio folks who are interested in a partnership on actual trips. Typically a 3-4 day journey to Central or South America, although Africa and India are possible for those who want to dive into at least a week-long trip. Spence Smith (Compassion artist rep) and I were excited to take the Emerson Drive guys down to Central America to get a first hand experience of what Compassion is all about and see the work they do. We visited a few of the 150 Compassion programs within the heart of the communities in El Salvador. We met the children, staff, volunteers, and the families of some of the kids. The band also had the opportunity to walk the streets and visit the homes of families in these impoverished communities who live in the midst of brutal circumstances that we in the States cannot imagine. Since I was already friends with the guys in the band, I knew they had big hearts, but seeing all of this with their own eyes really made it hit home. They can now communicate what they have experienced, what Compassion actively does to change lives, and how people can get involved.
7. How can radio stations and Country artists partner with Compassion?
There are a number of ways artists can partner through incentive programs, fan clubs, social networking, live shows, CD inserts, text campaigns, and countless other relevant ways. Radio had the opportunity to partner through special events as KKGO/Los Angeles did last September. Compassion has worked with over 350 radio stations in various campaigns and combined that experience with the passion of PD Tonya Campos to set up a full day event to help find sponsors for waiting children. Tonya took a trip to Nicaragua where she met her own sponsored child and also recorded video and audio content for the event. See some of that here. The results were so successful and powerful that they have booked another event for early 2010. Compassion provides a detailed turn-key tool kit and also is willing to offer extra revenue and compensation opportunities for participating stations. It’s a complete win for everyone involved. It’s also a very flexible model for each individual station based on their market and needs. Other opportunities could involve active web content to not only drive traffic to the site, but also generate non-traditional revenue.
8. I know you have been involved with Compassion for quite some time as a sponsor, but what made you want to take that step and work for the company? You must have had a strong belief in the company and in the people involved in Country music to make the change.
I have sponsored a child from Brazil for 6 years. During that time we have written to one another and sent photos back and forth. She draws and colors pictures for me that I can hang up in our home. When I look at her photo I know that my monthly donation is going to help her get an education, medical attention, nutrition, and social and spiritual development. Things she would never have without my help. I’ve seen so many examples of kids who came into the program with no hope of life to graduating high school and college. I investigated how Compassion operates and how consistently high it is rated with the charity watchdog groups. Plus having artists I know and respect giving their support was a factor as well. When I started talking with the people at Compassion about the potential move into Country I wanted to help out however I could. I believe in this amazing organization more than I have believed in any record I have worked. I love the music industry and this community, but I also was at a place where I desired to make an impact on lives of those in severe poverty and suffering. I’ve never seen an organization do it better than Compassion.
9. What exciting things do you have coming up with Compassion within the Country music community in the near future?
Many ideas and plans are in the works. Obviously taking artists and radio who are interested in partnering with Compassion on trips to see first hand the work Compassion does. We are taking the model that is working successfully for KKGO and calling on other stations to join in this worldwide impact of children and families. There are artists who are excited about partnering with Compassion and we are talking with them about how they want to be involved since the possibilities are endless. Compassion is excellent at the aspect of relationship and helping to design something that works for each music industry partner whether it is in our sponsorship or child development programs or cause specific like HIV/AIDS, malaria, clean water, and global food crisis initiatives.
10. If you could pick any artist in Country music involved with Compassion, who would you chose?
Obviously I would love to have any artist that has a heart for this and is interested in what Compassion is doing. Each and every artist has something special to offer through their music, personality, passion, and experience. For obvious reasons artists like Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts, and Taylor Swift come to mind. Their fan base alone could make an unimaginable impact on the lives of tens of thousands of children in deep poverty. Country radio has that same enormous potential.
Bonus Questions
1. To go from record label promotion person to working for a non-profit Christian agency must be quite a leap. What skills that you learned as a promo guy have come in handy in your new job?
It may appear to be a leap from the surface, but I’m still the same person. I came into this business because I had a passion for artists and music, not necessarily to be a label rep. That passion continues even stronger today as I combine it with a purpose to be involved in something relevant that positively impacts and transforms lives.
2. You have been on two Compassion trips now, right? Where have you been and where are you planning to go next?
I traveled to Honduras in February, El Salvador in March, and Ghana is in the works for August. Guatemala has just been confirmed for September 3-6 with Tonya Campos, Carter’s Chord, Megan Mullins, pop artist Rob Blackledge, and any other radio station or artist that is interested in exploring a partnership. Africa is being tossed around for December or January as well. We are also open to designing trips around artist’s schedules who are sincerely interested in making the journey. Any takers? It will blow you away.
In the music business I’ve heard it said you will see artists at Fan Fair (or visiting radio) on their way up and then on their way down. Rarely in between when they are a superstar or at the top of their game.
One of the few exceptions to that rule is Garth Brooks. He is the true artist for the fan and that was never portrayed more than at Fan Fair 1996 when he signed autographs and took photos with fans for 23 hours straight without a break.
You may call it a brilliant PR or marketing ploy, but the bottom line is that he took care of his fans first and foremost and they rewarded him for it.
Here’s a short video of the master at work:
Radio & Records Closes Doors
It’s The End Of An Era
By R&R Staff
The current state of affairs has left The Nielsen Company with no other alternative but to immediately cease all services, products and events related to Radio & Records. The magazine’s final edition is the June 5 issue. Electronic products end today, the Web site will be taken offline soon.
R&R Editorial Director/Associate Publisher Cyndee Maxwell stated, “Everyone on this team has worked extremely hard to fulfill the vision of Radio & Records, and everyone can hold their heads high on this very sad day. We had a highly talented group of people that always worked hard and gave it their best — especially in the recent past. I deeply regret that this day has come. The good news for some other companies out there is that we have many fantastic people who are now available to put their excellent talents, abilities and skills to work for someone else.”
From Music Row by David Ross:
What do Clear Channel and Terra Firma have in common? They both purchased assets that have declined greatly in value and as a result are struggling to satisfy debt loads that are difficult to support given the current business climate.
Terra Firma, which purchased EMI two years ago for $4.7 billion is under stress to help the music company meet some of its covenant debt obligations. If EMI is unable to meet those obligations, then Citigroup, which controls the $5 billion debt load could move EMI into bankruptcy.
On the other hand, Warner Music Group CEO Edgar Bronfman has just successfully managed to restructure his company’s debt through a very smoothly and successfully orchestrated bond offering which raised $1.1 billion thereby putting WMG in a more flexible position with regard to acquisitions.
According to the New York Post, this important change in WMG’s balance sheet could mean that a merger with EMI, a long talked about marriage—yet to be consumated, might actually have stronger than ever odds of success. “An EMI-WMG merger has always made sense, and with WMG’s newly strengthened balance sheet and the lights dimming on EMI, the stage may finally be set for a merger,” Pali Research analyst Richard Greenfield commented last week.
all photos ©mikeseverson 2009
I’ve taken many images lately of street markers, arrows, signs, and cross walks. It’s interesting the subject matter the eye picks up at different points in life.
The following article from Business Week is a very telling sign. Is there any reason not to believe that artist management is now in the drivers seat for the music industry? A place where 360 deals are a natural part of the entertainment landscape and where the business of touring and sponsorships can thrive. All that will be left for some of them to add is in house promotion/marketing/new media. Then once the current artist deals are fulfilled at labels, look out.
Posted by: Jon Fine
TicketMaster Entertainment CEO Irving Azoff, appearing at News Corp’s annual All Things Digital conference in Carlsbad, California, proved an interesting and free-speaking interviewee. Although, churlish as it may be, he was much more interesting and free-speaking about the macroeconomics of the music industry than on the specifics of his company—and its proposed merger with LiveNation Inc.—and the criticisms lobbed at it. (I’ve hit one such lob myself.)
“Recorded music is more a marketing tool than a revenue source” for acts now, said Azoff, who also still manages the likes of The Eagles, Neil Diamond, and Christina Aguilera. His storied career, and well-earned reputation as one of the fiercest and savviest managers in the business, took flight with the Eagles, back in the Seventies when both Azoff and his artists were significantly more mustachioed and bushy-haired than they are today.
They also had a much easier time making a dollar back then. Today,“recorded music is down to less than 6%” of major musical acts’ revenues, he divulged. To put this in its proper perspective, consider that such income once was such acts’ “biggest revenue source,” he added.
Much of what Azoff said pointed to a view of music revolving around the live music experience. This, obviously, plays into his wheelhouse as one overseeing business interests so dependent on concerts. Still, his logic is convincing, and the examples he cited concerning what he called the “demonetization” of the music business were striking.
Artists walk in to his office, Azoff said, “who used to make $300,000 to $500,000 a year in royalties [from selling recordings]. And now that’s diminished to less than $50,000” a year. This means, unsurprisingly, “the creative side” of the music business is “very anxious” about the changes that have swept this landscape.
His answer, as cringe-inducing is it may be to artistic types uncomfortable with the ways of business, is understanding the branding and promotional value of music. He cited new deals like his client Aguilera working with Procter and Gamble to launch a line of fragrances.
A glimmer of hope for his old-school artists: While Azoff said CD sales have been declining alarmingly, and especially back-catalog CD sales, that business “appears to be bottoming out.” And, he added, “I don’t think the CD will go away totally.”
Compare all this candor to the following exchange regarding TicketMaster and its proposed merger with LiveNation:
Interviewer Kara Swisher: How do you answer criticisms that [the merger] creates this behemoth.
Azoff: We think everything we do revolves around what’s good fir the artist and what’s good for the fan.As Swisher pointed out, songwriter-cum-secular-saint Bruce Springsteen, among others, strongly objects to this view. But Azoff said that Springsteen was “uninformed” about what his company did.
