Monday, November 22, 2010

Wishful Packaging

Is it presumtous to put not yet released songs on a "Greatest Hits" or "Number One's" package?  I think it is. If the song or songs are then released to radio and are not hits or do not make number one, what then?  I suppose all releases are hits with someone.  Just askin'.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

CMA Awards 2010

Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood did a great job hosting again this year, teasing Nashville's royalty and keeping the show moving. Funny line: (paraphrasing) "After the night Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert are having ... expect a baby in 9 months."

Kelly Clarkson performed a powerful song with Jason Aldean, "Don't You Want To Stay Here A Little While".  No surprise that the song was released today to Country radio.

Gwyneth Paltrow sang the title song from her new movie, "Country Strong". Vince Gill sang with her to lend support. She got a standing ovation (in spite of looking nervous during the performance). 

Blake Shelton wins Male Vocalist of the Year, beating out a bunch of heavyweights.  Well deserved.

Blake's fiance Miranda Lambert wins Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, and sings the Song of the Year for "House That Built Me".   2010 is the Year of Miranda.

Sissy Spacek introduced a tribute to Loretta Lynn. There wasn't a dry eye in house as Loretta came out to sing "Coal Miner's Daughter" with Miranda Lambert and Sheryl Crow.  I had the privalege of interviewing Loretta (and Sissy) when Coal Miner's Daughter was released, and can tell you that there is no one more genuine and deserving of everything she's received than Loretta Lynn.  She is truly a national treasure.

Why did Taylor Swift utter the word "What?" after her performance.  We may never know.  We do know that after her incredible 2009, the woman who just sold a million albums got shut out of winning any awards last night.

Finally, Brad Paisley gets the well deserved Entertainer of the Year award, giving a heartfelt acceptance speech.   Glad to know that men are now allowed to cry in Country Music.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Is Gwyneth Overshadowing the CMA Awards?

Have you noticed that TV promos for tonight's CMA awards focus mostly on Gwyneth Paltrow's debut singing performance?  Don't get me wrong, I'm happy that her spot on the show will no doubt attract viewers who might not otherwise watch.  But I can't help feeling that some of our biggest stars are getting the short shrift.  At least promotionally.  Let's hope her performance on the show is a big hit.  It would be even better if her new movie, Country Strong, is a bigger hit.