Country Music Fest

Dwight Yoakam: New Album in 2010

Dwight Yoakam is my favorite country singer. And it's not because of those tight jeans, either. Well, OK, somewhat.

The real reason is because of his singing and his songwriting ability. Chris Isaak said, "...Dwight Yoakam is about as good a songwriter that ever put a pen to a paper. I think he is someone who years from now will still be remembered, like a Hank Williams or Buck Owens." Indeed. Dwight is the best... [Read more.]

Unforgettable Conway Twitty

The music of the great Conway Twitty (September 1, 1933 - June 5, 1993) was a fixture in our lives back in the 70s. He made hit after hit. In fact, he had the most number-one hits of anyone in country music until George Strait took the lead.

It's Only Make Believe was his first number-one song -- on the pop charts! Yes, his first hit was rock and roll. The song has been covered by artists such as Connie... [Read more.]

Miranda: Watch Out For This Star

I first noticed Miranda Lambert on TV, probably the Country Music Channel or an awards show, and her voice, of course, is what caused me to pause and take notice. Next, the song choice. Gunpowder and Lead is a passionate song about a girl who is taking control. She won't be a victim. She's bad, and she's gonna show someone the equalizer.

I love the spunk and the life of the song. Guess that's my...[Read more.]

Charlie Rich — Superstar!

At sixteen, I liked the music my peers liked. Three Dog Night, The Rolling Stones, and my favorite of all of those peer-related groups, Alice Cooper. But what stopped me in my own individual, teenage tracks was the music of Charlie Rich.

I would listen to his music for hours. My old eight-track player played his cassettes over and over as I lay on my stomach looking out our ...[Read more.]

Carl Smith: Mr Country

Carl Smith passed away on January 16, 2010 at age 82.

When I heard this, I couldn't quite picture Carl Smith or remember his work. But, once I started looking around, I found the song, Before I Met You, on YouTube. I remember him now.

Though I didn't realize it back then, he was "big time." The ladies loved him and thought he was handsome. He had a strong and confident voice which I'm sure added greatly to...[Read more.]