La Toya Jackson Memoir "Starting Over" Hits New York Times Best Sellers List Making Her a Two-Time Best Selling Author

Memoir Highlights Her Horrific Domestic Abuse, Complicated Family Life, Her Special Relationship with Her Brother, and the Murder of Her Beloved Michael

LOS ANGELES, July 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In its first two weeks of bookstore sales, La Toya Jackson's explosively candid memoir, "Starting Over," has hit the New York Times Best Sellers List for the week ending July 2, 2011.  The enthralling memoir, published by Simon & Schuster's Gallery Books and Ja-Tail Publishing Company, features La Toya as you've never seen her before, giving a first-hand account of her tumultuous life as she survived life threatening abuse and heartache, only to come back as a survivor, stronger than before.  The memoir also focuses on the loss of her brother, Michael Jackson, and La Toya's role in bringing his killers to justice. Recently featured on NBC's the Today Show, MSNBC, and in the pages of the New York Post, the memoir sheds new light on the dynamics of the Jackson family and discloses the truth behind the curtain of secrecy and intrigue that has surrounded her brother Michael, her siblings, and the rest of the Jackson dynasty.

La Toya Jackson is no stranger to success on the list; in 1991, Jackson penned her first book, "La Toya, Growing Up In The Jackson Family," which made history and remained on the list at the number two position, selling millions of copies worldwide.  This follow-up finds her twenty years later and multiple-times stronger, updating readers and diehard fans alike as she takes them inside for an open and honest account of her past, and an intimate look into her future.
"I'm so excited to have my family of fans updated on my story and to get the truth out there about myself, my family, and my brother," La Toya stated.  "It is very important for me to share with the world the love Michael and I had and how special our relationship was, as well as the promise I've made to keep his spirit and memory alive and pure."
About Gallery Books:
Gallery Books is an imprint dedicated to publishing a wide variety of must-read books on a wide array of topics.  The imprint was designed to showcase established voices and to introduce emerging new ones-in both fiction and nonfiction, and across a variety of genres.   Some of Gallery Books' bestselling titles include Gunn's Golden Rules by Tim Gunn, High on Arrival by Mackenzie Phillips, Are You There, Vodka? It's Me Chelsea by Chelsea Handler, Uncharted TerriTORI by Tori Spelling, Assholes Finish First by Tucker Max and Left Neglected by Lisa Genova. Upcoming titles include The Taker by Alma Katsu, Groundswell by Katie Lee, and Love Story by Jennifer Echols.    
About Simon & Schuster:
Simon & Schuster, a part of CBS Corporation, is a global leader in the field of general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for consumers of all ages, across all printed, electronic, and audio formats. Its divisions include Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, Simon & Schuster Digital, and international companies in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.  For more information, visit http://www.simonandschuster.com.
About Ja-Tail Publishing Company:
Ja-Tail Publishing Company is a division of Ja-Tail Enterprises, LLC. This is the first of several publications to be released by Ja-Tail Publishing. For more information, visit www.jatail.com.

SOURCE Ja-Tail Enterprises, LLC

Kid Rock's "Born Free" tour at Verizon Saturday

 U2 isn't the only big act in town this weekend
Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow are at Verizon

by Scott Kiefer
If you're a music lover in the metro area and aren't satisfied this weekend, you must be hard to please. The U2 concert at Busch Stadium on Sunday has been hyped all week long by print and television media, but that's not the only big tour coming through town. One of the hottest tickets on the circuit this summer is the Kid Rock "Born Free Tour" with special guest Sheryl Crow, hitting the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Friday night.
Kid, Mr. Rock, or Bobby (his given name), or whatever it is that you prefer to use, has had a "coming of age" in the past year with the release of his current album, "Born Free," turning 40 in January, and picking up and moving on with his life. He is Bobby to his family and close friends, sometimes acts like a kid, if you've ever seen him perform live, "Mr. Rock" would be the appropriate title.
Over the years he has made headlines with his much publicized marriage to Pamela Anderson, and for getting into a scuffle at a Waffle House.
Rock told Piers Morgan during and interview last week that aired on CNN, that he has had difficult circumstances "just like anyone else. It only gets blowed out of proportion because of who I am."
Regarding the Waffle House incident, Rock said that it was a matter of principle.
"I was not going to stand by and let someone sue me for a big payday for nothing," Rock said. "I could have paid him off and it would have been a lot cheaper, but it's a matter of principle."
Now, how's that for a rock star oozing with swagger while in reality making sense?
In fact, he and Anderson had a total of three weddings.
"I just like the getting married part," Rock said. "Getting married is a blast."
On a serious side, he is father to 17-year-old Robert James Ritchie III, and continues to live in a suburb outside Detroit. When at home, he takes his son to school, attends functions and is as normal a person as he can be.
 Not only is he involved in his community, he is a true patriot and supporter of the Armed Forces. Routinely doing USO shows in Iraq, Afghanistan, and numerous other locations around the world for US troops, he most often does so with little hype or publicity.
It's a persona that Kid Rock has either worked to perfect, or it has just grown into what it is naturally, no one really knows for sure. Maybe that's why he is one of the most beloved entertainers in America today, the true mystique of a rock 'n roll superstar. You think you know him, and all of a sudden maybe you don't.
Honestly, we do know Kid Rock...what he wants us to, and we're not soon to forget him either.

Who: Kid Rock with special guest Sheryl Crow
When: Saturday, July 16
Where: Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
Tickets: www.livenation.com

RASCAL FLATTS “I WON’T LET GO” CERTIFIED GOLD

 

OVER 500,000 DIGITAL DOWNLOADS OF THEIR 13^th #1 SMASH SOLD
                                                                         

Nashville, TN (July 11, 2011) – Rascal Flatts current single, “I Won’t Let Go,” has earned Digital Gold certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000. This accolade comes on the heels of the song’s recent ascent to the #1 spot on the USA Today/Country AirCheck powered by Mediabase chart, becoming the 13^th career #1 for the most awarded country vocal group of the past decade. The song, written by Steve Robson and Jason Sellers, is the second consecutive #1 single from their current Big Machine Records album NOTHING LIKE THIS.

 

Currently, Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney are bringing their high-energy show and a few surprises to fans across the country as part of “Flatts Fest,” visiting 23 cities with opening acts Sara Evans, Easton Corbin and Justin Moore. The tour runs through September 18 and includes several interactive pre-show festivities such as the Karaoke Challenge, presented by Starkey; the “Why Wait” Chapel, hosted by David’s Bridal and Men’s Wearhouse; a “Flatts Fest” Scavenger Hunt and a “Flatts Fest” Fan Zone, sponsored by Mossy Oak.

 

Rascal Flatts debuted their first album on Big Machine Records, NOTHING LIKE THIS, last November at #1 on the country album sales chart and became one of only four country acts to debut six consecutive studio albums at #1. Since their musical debut in 2000, the band has sold 20 million albums and 25 million digital downloads and delivered 13 #1 singles to the top of the chart. Rascal Flatts is the most awarded country group of the past decade with nearly 40 trophies from the American Country Awards, Academy of Country Music, American Music Awards, Country Music Association, People’s Choice Awards and more. Since their touring career began, they have sold over 6 million concert tickets.

 

For additional information on Rascal Flatts and the “Flatts Fest” tour, visit www.rascalflatts.com.

 

About Big Machine Records: Scott Borchetta founded independent label Big Machine Records in September 2005 and serves as its President/CEO. In its first year Big Machine scored its first #1 single (Jack Ingram’s “Wherever You Are”), placed five singles in the Country Top 30, received a nomination for Record Label of the Year, and placed all of the label's new artist releases in the Top 10 Most-Played New Artists of 2006 (as monitored by Mediabase and reported by USA Today and Country Aircheck). In 2010 Big Machine was named Country Label of the Year by Country Aircheck Magazine/Powered by USA Today for the second consecutive year. Also in 2010, Big Machine’s signature artist Taylor Swift’s third album, SPEAK NOW, became the best-selling Country studio album debut of all time with over 1 million units sold in its first week. With the release, Taylor became the 4th female artist in history (across all genres) to debut with more than 1 million first-week units sold. Big Machine Records’ current artist roster includes Multi-Platinum superstars Taylor Swift and Rascal Flatts as well established act Jack Ingram and hot newcomers Steel Magnolia, Edens Edge and comedienne Melissa Peterman.  In 2009, Big Machine partnered with Universal Republic to create Republic Nashville, signing Superstar Martina McBride, breakout group The Band Perry, critically acclaimed Eli Young Band and one-to-watch Sunny Sweeney.  In 5 years, Big Machine Records artists have received multiple GRAMMY, CMA, ACM, American Music Awards, CMT Music Awards, Teen Choice Awards, MTV Video Music Award and People’s Choice Award accolades as well as Brit Award and JUNO Award nominations.

 

BILL ANDERSON TO CELEBRATE 50^TH ANNINVERSARY

AS OPRY MEMBER SATURDAY, JULY 16

 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (July 11, 2011) The Grand Ole Opry_® presented by Humana_® will honor one of its longest tenured members, Bill Anderson, on his 50^th anniversary as an Opry member on Sat., July 16, 7:00 p.m.  The Country Music Hall of Fame member made his Opry debut just a few weeks before his 21^st birthday and became a member less than three years later.

 

Anderson’s music career started in 1958 when Ray Price recorded his song, “City Lights” and it stayed at the top of Billboard magazine’s country charts for 13 weeks.  Soon after this success, he signed with Decca Records and began to have hits of his own such as “Po’ Folks,” “Mama Sang a Song,” “Still” and “Bright Lights and Country Music.”  By now he had affectionately been nicknamed “Whisperin’ Bill” because of his soft-spoken delivery and recitations.  Through the years Anderson has written hit songs for numerous artists, including Connie Smith’s debut smash “Once A Day,” Lefty Frizzell’s “Saginaw, Michigan,” Conway Twitty’s “I May Never Get to Heaven” and many more through the years up to Kenny Chesney’s “A Lot of Things Different,” George Strait&rsq uo;s “Give It Away” and Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss’ “Whiskey Lullaby,” with the last two hits winning CMA Song of the Year honors.

 

“Beginning with classics sung by Ray Price, Lefty Frizzell, Connie Smith, and more, and continuing today with unforgettable hits by the biggest names in the business, Bill Anderson tunes have hit the country charts in each of the last seven decades,” said Pete Fisher, Opry vice president and general manager. “Of course Bill is also known around the world for his own hit records as well as for blazing country music trails far and wide for others to follow. We look forward to celebrating with one of country music’s very best Saturday night.”

 

The Grand Ole Opry_® is presented by Humana_®. Opry performances are held every weekend of the year, and the Tuesday Night Opry continues through Dec. 13.  To plan an Opry visit, call (800) SEE-OPRY or log on towww.opry.com.

DOLLY PARTON

SET FOR ADDITIONAL U.S. DATES THIS FALL

WORLD TOUR KICKS OFF

JULY 17 IN TENNESSEE BEFORE HEADING

TO EUROPE IN AUGUST

DOLLY TAKES OVER TV AIRWAVES WITH

TONIGHT SHOW, BETTER TV, CMT AND GAC APPEARANCES

LATER THIS MONTH

“Resilience, adaptability, stick-to-itiveness, devotion: they’re her superhero traits, delivered without pretension. And ‘Better Day’ captures them faithfully: it’s Dolly to the bone…she sounds almost ageless: expressive even at a whisper, and glorious at full cry. The songs are all hers, and they cover a lot of ground: falling in and out of love, taking umbrage, carrying on.”

--Nate Chinen, NEW YORK TIMES, June 28, 2011

On the heels of her critically acclaimed new album BETTER DAY (Dolly Records, distributed through Warner Music Nashville) entering the country albums chart at #11, DOLLY PARTON has announced a second leg of U.S. dates in October (see dates below) as part of her world tour that commences July 17 in Knoxville in her home state of Tennessee.The first leg of U.S. dates include two nights at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles (July 22 and 23), marking her first-ever concerts at the historic venue. 

While in Los Angeles, the iconic singer, songwriter, musician, actress and philanthropist will perform BETTER DAY’s first single, the uplifting “Together You And I” on “The Tonight Show” Friday, July 22.  DOLLY will also appear that same day on the syndicated “Better TV” show (check local listings).  Other notable DOLLY TV appearances include GAC (“On The Streets” 7/19:   10:00am, 2:00pm, 7:30pm, 10:30pm ET;  “The Collection” 7/14:  8:00PM, ET); and CMT (“Top 20 Countdown w/Evan Farmer” aired 7/8-7/10. DOLLYalso is CMT’s "Posted Artist of the Month" with new content every posted daily at www.posted.cmt.com).

After wrapping the first leg of U.S. dates August 3, the “Better Day” tour moves overseas for 18 shows in England, Ireland, Denmark and Sweden starting August 20 and will feature a pair of shows (September 7 and 8) at the O2 Arena in London, the venue where DOLLY recorded and filmed Live From London (Dolly Records), her widely praised2009 two-disc DVD/CD set that included songs from her 2008 Backwoods Barbie album alongside her many classic hits.

The fall U.S. dates kick off Friday, October 7 in Cedar Park, TX and will continue through mid-October before she heads to Australia in November for a run of dates. 

BETTER DAY is DOLLY’s much-anticipated album of all-new studio material.  Featuring 12 original DOLLY compositions, BETTER DAY marks the fourth release on the independent label.  The album continues to earn DOLLY huge critical accolades.  Here are some of them beyond the New York Times review cited above.

“Parton is that rare singer who can make optimism seem like a viable philosophy. When country music goes upbeat, it often traffics in cornball novelty tunes, but Dolly plays her album full of love 'n' hope with straight-up sincerity. In the midst of hard economic times, the positive anthems that fill ‘Better Day’ — all new material, no covers — come off as brilliant strategy, with some equally brilliant vocal performances.” Grade: A-

           --Ken Tucker, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY June 22, 2011

"She’s country music’s ultimate can-do gal, a reputation ‘Better Day’ deepens with a dozen bright-eyed originals...Parton’s irrepressible personality is the star attraction, and on ‘Better Day’ it shines."

           --Mikael Wood, LOS ANGELES TIMES, June 28, 2011

"...a collection of positive-minded, good-humored odes to love, faith and endurance...this age-defying country girl, with her resilient soprano and infectious pluck, seems incapable of a truly false note."

          --Elysa Gardner, USA TODAY, June 28, 2011

“..Parton displays her signature sass throughout this excellent set of self-written odes to optimism. Uplifting tunes such as the bluesy title track and the upbeat ‘In The Meantime,’ a call to ‘drop this doomsday attitude and get on with the show,’ offer the kind of straight talk that has endeared her to fans since the 1960s. Other standouts include the rock-tinged ‘Shine Like The Sun’ and the hoedown-ready ‘Country Is As Country Does.’ The milder moments are equally engrossing, especially the kiss-off ballad ‘Get Out and Stay Out’ and the piano-laced ‘I Just Might,’ both showing that an artist can keep getting better with time…”

           --Ivory Jeff Clinton, PEOPLE, July 18, 2011

“With things being tough all over, count on Dolly Parton to grab a handful of sparkle and let it shine…the undisputed heavyweight champ of modern country returns to the mainstream with a collection that reflects her unsinkable tenacity and charm. Downhome but polished, Parton and producer Kent Wells create an often pop-country gem that empowers as it punches country radio’s clichés with a freshness that says “real country is more engaging than warmed over AC and AOR with fiddles on it.”

          --Holly Gleason, PASTEMAGAZINE.COM, June 28, 2011

"...she returns with a sun-dappled romp through fields of dazzling musical flowers. The ever-irrepressible Dolly Parton is back with Better Day, a portfolio of feel-better, lift-yourself-up, rejoicing sermons....Country music's Sister Sunshine marches on indefatigably, preaching an uplifting message of love and happiness and cheer and faith, along with an honest work ethic."

          --Chet Flippo, CMT.COM, July 7, 2011

“…with tight production, accessible melodies and expressive songs, Better Day accomplishes being an uplifting collection that celebrates today while managing to continue looking to an even brighter tomorrow.”

          --Daryl Addison, GACTV.COM, July 5, 2011

DOLLY’s updated U.S. tour dates are as follows.  **Indicates new date.

DATE           CITY                      VENUE
Sun    7/17  Knoxville, TN          U. of Tennessee/Thompson Boling Arena      
Tue    7/19  Dallas, TX             Verizon Theatre Grand Prairie   
Wed   7/20  Albuquerque, NM   Sandia Casino       
Fri      7/22  Los Angeles, CA    Hollywood Bowl    
Sat     7/23  Los Angeles, CA    Hollywood Bowl    
Sun    7/24  Concord, CA         Concord Pavilion   
Wed   7/27  Prior Lake, MN       Mystic Lake Casino
Thu    7/28  Chicago, IL            Rosemont Theater
Sat     7/30  Wallingford, CT     Toyota Presents Oakdale Theatre       
Sun    7/31  Vienna, VA           Wolf Trap    
Tue    8/2    Durham, NC         Durham Performing Arts Center
Wed   8/3    Alpharetta, GA     Verizon Wireless Amp @ Encore Park  
** Fri 10/7  Cedar Park, TX     Cedar Park Center
** Sat 10/8 Tulsa, OK            BOK Center
** Tue 10/11 Biloxi, MS          Mississippi Coast Coliseum 
** Fri 10/14 Valdosta, GA       Wild Adventures Theme Park
** Sat 10/15 Clearwater, FL    Ruth Eckerd Hall
** Sun 10/16 Sarasota, FL     Van Wezel PAH

Hollywood Records to Release Greatest Hits Collection for Multi-Platinum Artist Breaking Benjamin

DELUXE SET TO CONTAIN 'RARITIES' DISC

1ST SINGLE "BLOW ME AWAY" FEATURES SYD DURAN OF VALORA

"SHALLOW BAY: THE BEST OF BREAKING BENJAMIN" SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST RELEASE

BURBANK, Calif., July 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hollywood Records has announced a Greatest Hits collection titled Shallow Bay: The Best of Breaking Benjamin from their multi-platinum rock band BREAKING BENJAMIN to be released on August 16, 2011. The two-disc release will feature the band's chart-topping hits including "Breath," "So Cold," "Sooner Or Later," "The Diary of Jane" and "I Will Not Bow," as well as an entire disc of rare recordings including never-before-released songs, live performances, rare acoustic recordings and remixes.
A remixed version of "Blow Me Away," the lead track from the two-disc set, features the soaring vocals of Syd Duran of the band Valora and is already heating up the rock radio charts.
The songs on Shallow Bay are culled from the band's catalog:  2002's Saturate , 2004's We Are Not Alone , 2006's Phobia , and 2009's Dear Agony .  The second two - We Are Not Alone and Phobia - yielded spectacular results with each being certified Platinum.   We Are Not Alone spawned a pair of No. 1 radio hits ("So Cold" and "Sooner Or Later") and sold 2.3 million units (albums and digital tracks). Phobia debuted at No. 2 on Billboard's Top 200, hit No. 1 on the Rock Album Chart and was one of the top 50 selling rock albums of 2006. It featured one No. 1 and two Top Five rock radio hits ("Breath," "Diary of Jane" and "Until The End") and sold 2.8 million units (albums and digital tracks). 2009's Dear Agony debuted #4 on the Billboard Top 200 chart on one of the busiest release days of the year and #1 on the iTunes Rock Album Chart.   Dear Agony also spun off a #1 song at Active Rock with "I Will Not Bow" where it stayed #1 for five weeks straight.
Over the past decade Breaking Benjamin has amassed a sizeable and loyal diehard fanbase both through their music as well as their electrifying live performances.  For those fans, old and new alike, Shallow Bay will be a must-have collection.

SHALLOW BAY TRACK LISTING
DISC ONE
Polyamorous   Saturate
Skin Saturate
Medicate Saturate
So Cold We Are Not Alone
Sooner Or Later We Are Not Alone
Rain We Are Not Alone
The Diary Of Jane Phobia
Breath Phobia
Until The End Phobia
I Will Not Bow Dear Agony
Lights Out Dear Agony
Give Me A Sign Dear Agony
Blow Me Away (w/ Syd Duran of Valora)
RARITIES'
DISC TWO
Ordinary Man (previously unreleased)
Water (remix version of indy EP track)
Who Wants To Live Forever (2011 remix of Queen tribute song)
I Will Not Bow (acoustic mix)
Better Days (previously unreleased)
Polyamorous (acoustic mix)
Lie To Me (previously unreleased)
Lady Bug (2011 remix)
Enjoy The Silence (2011 remix)
Until The End (live acoustic)
Breath (live acoustic)

SOURCE Hollywood Records

Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood Return to Host "The 45th Annual CMA Awards" Live From Nashville on ABC Television Network November 9

NASHVILLE, Tenn., July 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Country superstars Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood , went directly to the fans today via Facebook to announce that they would be returning to host "Country Music's Biggest Night™" for a fourth time in 2011. "The 45th Annual CMA Awards" airs live from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Wednesday, Nov. 9 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network.  
"We couldn't ask for better hosts than Carrie and Brad," said Steve Moore , CMA Chief Executive Officer. "They have the unique qualities of humor, talent, credibility, and natural rapport that makes them a hit with the fans and the industry audience. The CMA Awards are in great hands with Brad and Carrie at the podium."
"Hosting the CMA Awards the past three years has been an incredible experience –I love it," said Underwood. "I'm so honored to be asked back with my friend, Brad. The creative process of getting ready for the show is a blast, and I look forward to sharing Country Music's Biggest Night with all the fans!"
"It's hard to believe this will be our fourth year to host the CMA Awards – it's such an honor to be invited back," Brad added. "I love working with Carrie, she's a class act and a complete balance to my non-class act. I'll try my best to not mess it up."
Paisley is the reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year. He has won 14 CMA Awards since receiving the Horizon Award (now the New Artist Award) in 2000, including Male Vocalist (2007, 2008, 2009) and Album (2006 for Time Well Wasted). He won Musical Event of the Year three times, first in 2004 with Alison Krauss for "Whiskey Lullaby," second in 2006 for "When I Get Where I'm Going" with Dolly Parton, and a third time in 2009 for "Start a Band" with Keith Urban. He claimed the Vocal Event of the Year trophy in 2001 for "Too Country" with Bill Anderson, George Jones, and Buck Owens and  won Music Video of the Year three times, first in 2002 for "I'm Gonna Miss Her (The Fishin' Song)," second in 2004 for "Whiskey Lullaby" (again with Krauss), and third in 2007 for "Online." He is No. 5 on the list of top CMA Award winners of all time.    
Brad Paisley – a consummate singer, songwriter, guitarist, and entertainer – has sold more than 12 million albums and has earned 19 No. 1 singles since debuting in 1999. A member of the Grand Ole Opry, Paisley's innovative and entertaining 2010 "H20 World Tour" was ranked No. 1 Country tour for attendance by Pollstar. His 2011 tour, "H2O II: Wetter & Wilder," continues the success with tour dates across the US, Canada, and also an international trek that includes London's O2 Arena, Dublin, Stockholm, Oslo, and more.
Underwood has received five CMA Awards in her career, including three consecutive wins as Female Vocalist (2006, 2007, 2008), as well as Single of the Year (2007 for "Before He Cheats"), and the Horizon Award (2006). Underwood, who has also won five Grammy Awards, adds hosting the CMA Awards to a jam-packed year which has seen so far her big screen debut in the motion picture "Soul Surfer" and a promotional trip to Australia for the release of PLAY ON: DELUXE EDITION.
Carrie Underwood is one of music's most powerful vocalists and has amassed more than 13 million in US album sales and has achieved 13 No. 1 hits since her debut CD in 2005. Six of the No. 1 singles were co-written by Underwood. In 2010, she was the top-ranked female Country touring artist of the year for her "Play On Tour," which performed in over 100 cities for one million fans throughout the US and Canada. Her career achievements include nearly 60 award trophies, including a membership in the Grand Ole Opry.
The CMA Awards nominees and winners are determined by the 6,000 industry professional members of CMA, which was the first trade organization formed to promote an individual genre of music in 1958. Winners of "The 45th Annual CMA Awards" will be determined in a final round of voting by eligible voting members of the Country Music Association. CMA Awards balloting is officiated by the international accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
The eligibility period for the 2011 CMA Awards is July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011. All voting for "The 45th Annual CMA Awards" will be conducted online. The first ballot and instructions will be e-mailed June 27 to CMA members in good standing who are eligible to vote. Voting for the first ballot closes at 5:00 PM/CT, July 13.
The second ballot will be e-mailed to CMA members Aug. 9. Voting for the second ballot closes at 5:00 PM/CT, Aug. 23. The final nominees in each of the 12 categories will be announced in early September. The third and final ballot will be e-mailed to CMA members Oct. 14. Voting for the CMA Awards final ballot ends at 5:00 PM/CT, Nov. 1.
"The 45th Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Paul Miller is the Director. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.
The first "CMA Awards Banquet and Show" was held in 1967. The following year, the CMA Awards was broadcast on NBC Television for the first time – making it the longest running, annual music awards program on network television. The Awards aired on NBC through 1971, on the CBS Television Network from 1972 through 2005, and has aired on ABC since 2006.
Premiere Radio Networks is the Official Radio Broadcaster. Chevrolet™ is the Official Ride of Country Music.
SOURCE Country Music Association

Incubus Releases Highly Anticipated New Album If Not Now, When?

"Incubus HQ Live" Enables Global Fan Participation

 

Band Kicks Off World Tour August 17th

NEW YORK,  Leading up to their long-awaited, sixth studio album, multi-platinum rock band Incubus has been asking their fans If Not Now, When?, and on July 12th fans got the answers they have been patiently waiting for. The 11-track album produced by Brendan O'Brien (Pearl Jam, Rage Against The Machine, Bob Dylan), features hit singles "Adolescents" and "Promises, Promises." Incubus kicked off release week with a performance July 11th on the Late Show with David Letterman as well as a "Live On Letterman" webcast for the fans. Fans can watch the Incubus' "Live On Letterman" webcast live or on-demand at http://www.cbs.com/late_night/liveonletterman/.
Leading up to the release of their new album, Incubus set-up shop at a secret location in Los Angeles to launch "Incubus HQ Live," giving fans 24 hours of streaming content for an unprecedented, seven days. Nearly two million participants watched and interacted with the band throughout the week with 1.2 million active Facebook participants and nearly 50,000 Twitter mentions creating a global conversation among Incubus fans. Each day the band treated fans to the most unique, personal and up-close experience imaginable, capped off by performances of the bands multi-platinum albums Morning View and Make Yourself, culminating with a preview of the new album, If Not Now, When? in its entirety on the final night.
The "Incubus HQ Live" space was fully equipped with cameras and other technology contributed by numerous technology supporters, including Sony, Livestream, Teradek, Viddy, Anvato, HD Cinema, YouTube, Tweetbeam, Simplynew, Schedulicity and VER. Cameras were live capturing all of the action and streaming it as it happened for fans around the world.
After spanning the globe playing thousands of sold-out shows on five continents, multi-platinum rock band, Incubus, hits the road again this summer kicking off at Red Rocks in Denver on August 17th. For full tour itinerary visit www.enjoyincubus.com.
To celebrate the release of their new album, Incubus will be taking over MTV and Fuel TV. The band will be enjoying a month long run as MTV's Posted artist, which means they'll be sharing videos, photos and real-time updates with fans all throughout July at Posted.MTV.com. Their latest video "Promises, Promises" is in rotation on MTV, MTV2 and MTVu. For a weeklong take-over, beginning July 11th, Incubus will be featuring one song, each day, on Fuel TV's "The Daily Habit" (11pm ET/PT). The show will feature a combination of old and new songs from the bands "HQ Live" performances.
Track listing:

1. If Not Now, When?
2. Promises, Promises
3. Friends and Lovers
4. Thieves
5. Isadore
6. The Original
7. Defiance
8. In The Company of Wolves
9. Switchblade
10. Adolescents
11. Tomorrow's Food

Having sold over 13 million albums worldwide, Incubus' extraordinary career has spanned over a decade, and includes six studio albums, which have spawned a total of thirteen Top 10 Rock hits with four singles debuting at #1 upon their release. The multi-platinum quintet's last studio album Light Grenades debuted at #1 on Billboard's Top 200 (highest charting album debut of band's career) and has sold over 800k copies to-date in the US.
Hailing from Calabasas, California, Brandon Boyd, Mike Einziger and Jose Pasillas formed Incubus in 1991 while they were in high school with Chris Kilmore joining in 1998 and Ben Kenney joining in 2003. The band's break came in 1999 with the singles, "Pardon Me," "Stellar" and "Drive," from their second full-length, double-platinum selling disc Make Yourself. The group's third album, Morning View, released in 2001, debuted at #2 on the album chart and included the radio hits "Wish You Were Here," "Nice to Know You" and "Warning." In 2004 Incubus released A Crow Left of the Murder which achieved platinum status on the strength of the #1 hit "Megalomanic."
www.enjoyincubus.com
SOURCE Epic Records

Web Site: http://www.enjoyincubus.com

New shows at Old Rock House

Kevin Devine
w/ The Features
Saturday, September 10th
Doors 7pm Show 8pm
$12 Flat  All Ages
*On-Sale Thurs. 7/7 @ 12pm

With a musical repertoire that spans the spectrum from hushed finger-picked narratives to bombastic rockers, Kevin Devine is one of those rare talents who straddles a multitude of genres and feels equally at home in each. Whether he's playing solo to hundreds of his devotees in a cramped NYC club, joining friends on stage at Lollapalooza or touring with artists varying from Rachel Yamagata to Brand New, Devine's songs enrapture a diverse set of ears like few musicians. Whether he's joined in a duet, backed by his Goddamn Band, or singing quiet ruminations into his microphone alone with just his acoustic guitar, Devine deftly illustrates his unique versatility and breadth with each note. Brother's Blood not only serves as a reminder of this but as the next step in his exciting evolution.

Larkin Poe
Wednesday, September 7th
Doors 7pm Show 8pm
$8 Advance $10 Day of Show
All Ages
*On-Sale Fri. 7/8 @ 5pm

We are sisters. We are music lovers. We are storytellers. Our musical journey, which began for us as children playing classical violin and piano at the ages of 5 and 6, continued through our teenage years as we toured internationally from 2005 to 2010 as The Lovell Sisters. Joined by Knoxville-based musicians, Daniel Kimbro (bass), Chad Melton (drums), and Mike Seal (electric guitar), Larkin Poe released its debut EP, Spring, on February 17, 2010. As a brand new band, we were looking for a way to bring our friends, family and fans along with us on our musical journey as we discover who we are as Larkin Poe.

Michael Tolcher
Wednesday, July 27th
Doors 7pm Show 8pm
$10 Advance $12 Day of Show
All Ages
*On-Sale Fri. 7/8 @ 5pm

A gifted artist in every sense of the word - writer, singer, musician and performer - Michael Tolcher deftly blends unfailing melodic and organic pop sensibilities with a deep understanding of soul and urban grooves drawn from his Southern upbringing. His debut album, I AM, is an inspired collection of songs and melodies that muse on life, love and social consciousness.

Old Rock House
1200 S. 7th St.
St. Louis, MO 63104

www.oldrockhouse.com
www.facebook.com/oldrockhouse
www.twitter.com/oldrockhousestl

TAYLOR SWIFT

SPEAK NOW WORLD TOUR 2011

2010’S HOTTEST TOURING ARTIST TAYLOR SWIFT
TAKES SCOTTRADE CENTER BY STORM
AUGUST 13^TH & 14^TH

WITH SPECIAL GUEST NEEDTOBREATHE!

GREAT SEATS BEING RELEASED FOR BOTH SHOWS AT 5PM THIS FRIDAY, JULY 8th!

DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO SEE ACM ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR, TAYLOR SWIFT!

Tickets are available online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone 800-745-3000.

Get Ready for Country Music’s Rowdiest Summer Party

TOBY KEITH’S

Locked & Loaded Tour

Presented by Ford F-Series

 

Special Guest:

ERIC CHURCH

 

And Introducing:

JT HODGES

 

* * * * * *

VERIZON WIRELESS AMPHITHEATER

September 23^rd | 7:00pm

 

Tickets On Sale Saturday, July 16 at 10am

$76.00*, $45*and $24.25* Reserved Pavilion,

$22.50* Lawn and $75.00* Lawn 4-pack

 

SPECIAL OFFERS:

  

 

*ticket prices do not include applicable fees

 

GET NO SERVICE CHARGE AT THE BOX OFFICE FIRST WEEK OF SALES!

 

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT WWW.TICKETMASTER.COM , WWW.LIVENATION.COM, VERIZON WIRELESS AMPHITHEATER BOX OFFICE

 AND TICKETMASTER OUTLET- ST. LOUIS MILLS, CHARGE BY PHONE TO 800-745-3000.  

 

All dates, acts, and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.

 

#  #  #

ON SALE FRIDAY, JULY 8 AT 10 AM!



Fox Concerts & AEG Live

STRAIGHT NO CHASER

Presented by The Nine Network



Saturday, October 22 at 8 pm

Live at The Fox Theatre!

$45.50, $39.50, & $29.50



On-Sale Information:

Tickets on sale Friday, July 8 at 10 am!

Purchase tickets at the Fox Box Office or by calling 314/534-1111.

Order tickets online at www.metrotix.com.

REBA REVEALS ALL THE WOMEN I AM TOUR DATES

Exclusive Presale Will Be Available Through Reba.com

Named #1 Female Country Touring Artist By Pollstar & Billboard’s Boxscore,

Playing To Over 9 Million Fans Throughout Career

Nashville, Tennessee (July 6, 2011) – Reba will embark on the ALL THE WOMEN I AM tour this fall throughout the US and Canada. The upcoming, 31-city venture kicks off on September 1 in Ft. McMurray, Alberta, Canada with special guests The Band Perry, Steel Magnolia and Edens Edge slated to open select US dates. In conjunction with the tour’s launch, the touring industry’s leading trade outlets have named Reba the #1 female Country touring artist, selling a combined total of over 9 million tickets.

Presales for select shows will begin on Saturday, July 9 at 10am CST. Only RebaNet fan club members will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase up to four tickets maximum of the best seats available via Reba.com. RebaNet membership is free and in addition to presale privileges, benefits include Meet & Greet opportunities, Unique Bonus Content, Fan Forum Accessibility, Download Complimentary Images (wallpapers, buddy icons, Twitter backgrounds) and more!

According to Pollstar, who has been tracking tour revenue and attendance figures since 1981, Reba ranks as the #1 touring female Country artist of all-time. She has sold well in excess of 9 million tickets (including shared bills) since monitoring began three decades ago and has logged more than $274 million dollars in gross revenue. Also of note, 2010 marked Reba’s highest-grossing tour on the road, proving fans still can’t get enough of the superstar! Additionally, Billboard's Boxscore ranks Reba as the #1 touring female Country artist of the past 20 years, tracking tour revenue and attendance figures since 1991. She has played 600 shows for more than 6.7 million fans, with her tours bringing in more than $218 million dollars in gross revenue.

One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 56 million albums worldwide and her previous 13 studio albums have all achieved Gold or Platinum-plus status. As a leading lady in the genre, she was recently inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame for her contributions. She has won 15 American Music Awards; 13 Academy of Country Music Awards; 9 People’s Choice Awards; 6 Country Music Association Awards and 2 GRAMMY Awards throughout her extraordinary career. She is one of only four entertainers in history to be honored with a National Artistic Achievement Award by the U.S. Congress. Reba’s reign of 35 #1 hits spans four decades, prompting Billboard, Country Aircheck and Mediabase to all recognize her as the biggest female hit-maker in Country music history. The multimedia superstar recently earned her 64^th Top 10 hit with “Turn On The Radio” and her 35^th #1 with the lead single from her new album, ALL THE WOMEN I AM.  

Reba’s unprecedented run of sales successes extended the superstar’s lead as the female artist with the most RIAA sales certifications and #1 albums in Country music history. The superstar surpassed the two-million-fan mark on Facebook, propelling her into an elite group of Country artists to achieve the popularity milestone. Also an acclaimed film, TV and Broadway actress, Reba signed with The Valory Music Co. in November 2008. The move reunited the multimedia entertainer with industry leader Scott Borchetta, now President and CEO of the Big Machine Label Group, which includes Big Machine Records, The Valory Music Co. and Republic Nashville.  

For up-to-date information regarding the ALL THE WOMEN I AM tour and public on-sales (as early as Friday, July 15), visit Reba.com.   

2011 ALL THE WOMEN I AM dates: 

* The Band Perry, Steel Magnolia, Edens Edge

** The Band Perry only

September 1 – Ft. McMurray, Alberta

September 4 – Canfield, Ohio

September 17 – Bangor, Maine

September 22 – Niagara Falls, Ontario

September 23 – Niagara Falls, Ontario

September 24 – Gilford, New Hampshire

September 26 – Halifax, Nova Scotia

September 29 – St. John’s, Newfoundland

September 30 – St. John’s, Newfoundland

October 2 – West Springfield, Massachusetts

October 6 – Moline, Illinois*

October 7 – Bloomington, Illinois*

October 8 – Maryville, Tennessee**

October 13 – Green Bay, Wisconsin*

October 14 – Ft. Wayne, Indiana*

October 15 – Huntington, West Virginia*

October 20 – Bozeman, Montana**

October 21 – Casper, Wyoming**

October 22 – Bismarck, North Dakota**

October 27 – Sioux City, Iowa*

October 28 – St. Louis, Missouri*

October 29 – Kansas City, Missouri*

November 3 – Omaha, Nebraska*

November 4 – Tulsa, Oklahoma*

November 5 – Wichita, Kansas*

November 10 – Grand Rapids, Michigan*

November 12 – Atlanta, Georgia*

November 17 – Lafayette, Louisiana*

November 18 – Biloxi, Mississippi*

November 19 – Tupelo, Mississippi*