The benefit & silent auction at the Nashville Palace www.nashvillepalace.net for Singer, songwriter Mel McDaniel http://www.melmcdaniel.com/ was an extraordinary event.  It isn’t very often that you can see a Dozen Grand Ole Opry stars come together and sing a few songs for one of their peers. Mel McDaniel suffered a heart attack in June and was transferred to a rehabilitation center in July. I don’t know about you, but my family has been touched by illness once or twice.  It can be over whelming both emotionally and financially. I know this to be a fact.  Anyone who has sat in hospital room for days on end know the fatigue that comes with it. The benefit not only showed financial support to Mel’s wife but an emotional support that she might not have known was there.

If you are not familiar with Mel McDaniel’s songs , he wrote and sang Louisiana Saturday Night, Baby’s Got Her Blue Jeans On, & Stand Up, which you can find on the Reload album by Mel McDaniel’s and the Oklahoma Wind.
  The evening started out to be a who’s who of country music.  It was a standing room only and the hosts for the evening were Ralph Emery and Keith Bilbrey. Most of us who are local know Ralph Emery from his morning show. The silent auction had more than 50 items. The usual signed guitars and Titian memorabilia. A variety of DVD’s and Gaylord gave away a couple on hotel rooms complete with dinner. My Favorite item on the silent auction was the Designed “Ole Mel’ logo Guitar and case form cartoonist and country music singer Guy Gilchrist. www.gilchriststudios.com
 With all the excitement I couldn’t keep up with who sang what.  I can tell you who I personally saw. The evening was kicked off with Jim Ed Brown who teamed up with Helen Cornelius. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tcd3KTvJx6o They sang their hit “I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You.” Many of you will remember they set a record in the music industry when “Lying in Love With You” made the largest single county chart leap in history. Helen Cornelius’ biggest accomplishment may be keeping a positive altitude while battling cancer.
I saw them on stage along with Tommy Cash, known for such hits as “I Recall A Gypsy Woman,” “One Song Away,” “Rise and Shine,”  “Six White Horses,” the tribute to the Kennedy brothers and Martin Luther King. Guy Gilchrest, artist/musician maybe best know for the Cartoon “Nancy” but recently known for singing “Jim Beam Me Up Scotty.” Ricky Lynn Greg has been described as a rockin’ country artist with traditional values. His album Careful What You Wish For” Is said to be a reflection of those values in a country rock way.

Buddy Jewel best known for his appearance on the  2003 USA Network’s first ever Nashville Star  A gentleman on stage and off we wish him best of luck with his new c.d. ‘Country Enough’ which has just been released  I saw Charlie Louvin. In 2007 his self-titled album received a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Folk Album.  Jean Shepard, made  appetence. Who is a pioneer for women in the music business and best know for “A Dear John Letter.” She was the 1st female in country music to sell a million records for her first single. When Ricky Skaggs and The Whites preformed the evening was filled with an  over whelming amount of talent. Through out the night I heard not only artist sing their songs, but also their renditions of Mel McDaniel songs.

The two performers that brought the most attention were the youngest, Jet Jurensmeyer, who plays the young Alan Jackson in the video “I Still Like Bologna,” and Little Jimmy Dickens. The most recognized performer of the night, Little Jimmy Dickens is currently the oldest living member of the Grand Ole Opry and I think the most photographed performer of the evening. He has past Legend status and has become an American Icon. Not just an American Icon but a beloved American Icon.  He was the first country music personality to do a World Tour.
The night was filled with performers who  paved the way .

It was an amazing night and I want to give a “SHOUT OUT” to all the performers and the to those who donated time and treasures. If you didn’t get a chance to come or Donate any thing and would still like to make a contribution you can do so by sending a donation to the following address:

Mel McDaniel Productions
PO BOX 140052
Nashville TN 37214
Phone: (615) 972-1121
e-mail:melmcdanielproductions@yahoo.com

SHOUT TO PREFORMERS:
Billy Arr, David Ball, Hank Beach, T-Bell, Rick Blayock, T. Graham Brown,Jim Ed Brown, Helen Counelioul, Candi Apple Red, Tommy Cash, Allison Clements, Little Jimmy Dicken, Guy Gilcrist, Jimmy Fortune, Jack Greene, Ricky Lynn Gregg, Buddy Jewell, Jet Jurgensmeyer, Charlie Louvin, Jimmy C. Newman, Ken Peletier, Jean Shepard Don Wayne and more
A big shout out to Okalahoma Wind.

Benefit organizers report that thus far more than 50 items have been
donated for auction, including the following:
• One-week stay in Gatlinburg (three stays up for auction)
• Two guitars autographed by Opry Members
• One “Ole Mel” logo guitar with Mel’s likeness painted by artist Guy Gilchrist
• Larry Black Family Reunion DVD sets (three sets)
• Dinner at Blue Moon Lagoon ($75)
• Three-day Stays at Two Rivers Campground (two stays valued at 110 each)
• Golfing at Gaylord Springs Golf Links (two)
• Electronic/digital fire-proof safe ($339 value)
• Dewalt radio ($140 value)
• Tours from Tommy’s Tours for two people (two tours for auction)
• Guitar autographed by Carrie Underwood
• Two-night stay at Gaylord Opryland with dinner for two at Volare (694 value)
• Bob Evans gift certificates
• CDs, T-shirts, pictures of many artists
•Autographed Titans football
the door only, are $10 per person. (No presale tickets available for
this event.) For additional admission or ticket information, please
contact the venue at 615-889-1540 or visit www.nashvillepalace.net.

www.nashvillepalace.net
Alan Jackson’s “I Still Like Bologna,”
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Jean-Shepard-Biography
http://www.eaglevilletimes.com
http://www.TommyCash.com
www.helencornelius.net
http://www.jimedbrown.com/
http://www.buddyjewell.com/news/
http://www.rickylynngregg.com/news.htm
www.myspace.com/officialcharlielouvin
http://www.rickyskaggs.com/

http://www.rickylynngregg.com/

Where will I be next:
I have been ask to come out to see
August 22, 2009
Randy Owens@Franklin County Fair
Winchester, TN
Showtime 8:00 pm
For ticket information call 1-877-834-HERO (4376)
unsungheroesbf.com
A benefit for the multi county cancer society
August 22,2009
Lynchburg TN for the Horse show

September,
Jamboree by the Lake www.jamboree-by-the-lake.com
Sep 4, 5,6th staring at 6:00 p.m.
3 Day Independent Music Festival

Project Graduation 2010 & Moore County Fire Department
Spotted Saddle Horse Show
Wiseman Park- Lynchburg , TN
Saturday, August 22, 2009
5:00 P. M.

http://sshbea.org/Class%20Sheets%20and%20Show%20Results/2009/08-22-09projectgraduation2009spottedsaddlehorseshow.htm

If you have an event that you think I would like me to know about
e-mail; me   Jayne@Tennesseetourist.com

I have been very fortunate to meet so many people in the Music industry these past few years. One of the Record Labels I have met and written about many times is Stardust Records, Nashville, TN  owned by the late Buster Doss and now owned by Barbara Doss-Brewer.

 The 29^th of this month Stardust Records asked me to accompany them to the Limelight in Nashville and see “The Traditional Country Opry on Tour”  with “The Louisiana Hayride Band.”  

Buster Doss & The Louisana Hayride - 1948

KWKH first broadcast The Louisiana Hay Ride on April 3^rd 1948 from Municipal Auditorium in downtown Shreveport, LA.

I spoke with Bud Christian the music director of the Louisiana Hayride about the history and future plans of the Hayride.

Modeled after radio barn dances like the “The Grand Ol’ Opry” in Nashville and “WLS” out of Chicago, The Louisiana Hay Ride soon became a hit, not only across our nation and but to the armed forces over seas. A number of our most famous country stars got their start at The Louisiana Hayride. Jonny Cash, Hank Williams, Jim Reeves, The Wilburn Brothers, etc. There are so many you need to go to the web site and check out the history. “Louisiana Hayride”® was also known as the “Cradle of the Stars”® because it has made so many artist stars. 

Donna Ray - photo by Jayne

One of the newest artists is Ms Donna Ray a native of Massachusetts who moved to Louisiana when she was 17. 

Donna is currently signed with Echota Recording Studio, Ed Gowen – owner and producer.

Miss Donna Ray, a member of the Louisiana Hayride, was voted Artist of the Year 2007 for her C.D. “Broken Dreams.” Donna started performing at age 7 and later recorded songs that her mother had written for a demo. From a musical family, when Donna was young her father played with a band named Alabama Ray and the Goat Hill Rambler.

To see more of Donna’s music and find out where you can catch a show go to:  http://www.donnaraymusic.biz/id12.html . Donna Ray will be appearing in person at the up coming Jamboree By theLake in Winchester TN  Good music from about 35 Independent Musicians from all over the country Come out to this free event Labor – Day Weekend September 4^rd thru September 6^th. 

Jamboree by the Lake - Winchester City Park

Hey Artists – Listen Up!

There will be a drawing each day during Jamboree.

One lucky artist each day will get a chance to win a Guitar signed by different county artist who have preformed on stage at the Grand Old Opry.

Can anyone guess who’s names are on this prize?

I want to give a special thanks to:

Director Bud Christian – Louisiana Hayride

Ed Gowen – owner and producer and all those at Echota Record

Barbara Doss-Brewer and Monta Porter – Stardust Records Nashville ,TN

Donna Ray – http://www.donnaraymusic.biz/id12.html

A special shout out Today goes to:

WCDT-AM 1340 www.wcdt1340.com

Russell Barnett Ford-Mercury, Inc. (Winchester, TN) – Mid-South 

Hwy 41A Winchester TN. www.russellbarnett.com

Sometimes I get the most wonderful surprises while covering Tennessee.  Thanks to the Invitation of Joshua Tankersley, owner of Ascend Talent Agency, this was one of those times. I know sometimes when the phone rings and I get an invitation it will be an exceptional evening. This time we loaded up in my Yellow, Flower Powered V.W, who’s air-conditioning failed me, and took off to the showcase of Allen Duhon at The Rutledge in Nashville www.therutledgelmv.com 
Allen Duhon http://www.allenduhon.com/  comes to us form Beaumont, TX.  Allen is a self taught guitarist (most of our greats are) who can also play drums and keyboard. Growing up in TX gave him that cowboy attitude and a genuine sense of security in ones self that can’t be fabricated or faked. This self assurance shows in personal conversation and on stage, this is what will make his music stand out. Songs Like “Dry County” and “Don’t Threaten Me With a Good Time” www.myspace.com/allenduhon which can be seen on his my space page.
Ladies, this confidence is what will draw you to see this young man play and, gentlemen, he is the guy that could be your brother, pal, or best friend, singing your truths and sometimes your secrets. Allen Duhon was inspired first by a Garth Brooks concert when he was three, then was drawn to the classic country artists such as George Strait, Dwight Yoakum, Ronnie Milsap, Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings,.

At the ripe ol’ age of 21, Allen packed up and headed to Nashville, though not completely inexperienced.  Music runs in his family and he cut his teeth in his Dads band.  I think this experience gave him an edge, as he started plying the bars on Broadway: Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge http://www.tootsies.net/index.html Legends, http://www.legendscorner.com, Second Fiddle http://thesecondfiddle.com, The Stage http://thestageonbroadway.com.  After catching  the attention of Laney Lawrence of The Artists Group, Management http://www.tagmanagementnashville.com , signed Allen to their roster (joining country music superstar Tracy Lawrence).

At twenty-something Allen has been a steady performer at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge Nashville, TN http://www.tootsies.net/ where he met more than one legendary performer. Not only in Country but Pop, Rock, and Rap. He is one of those performers that is only restricted by the size of the stage. There is a lot of energy that is waiting to come
out. Here are the other band members that played with Allen Duhon at The Rutledge www.therutledgelmv.com – Stan Saxon – Drums and Vocals, Bob Dancey – Bass Guitar, Bobby McKee – Lead guitar, Jarred Vincent – Lead guitar/rhythm guitar, Kyle Aaron-Fiddle/Acoustic Guitar/Vocals, Jay Jackson – Steel Guitar, Mark Burch – Keyboards
,http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/1813328

The Rutledge www.therutledgelmv.com is one of Nashville’s oldest locations.  There is FREE PARKING. Free parking puts it fist in my book already! Off the beaten path, The Rutledge is located on 4th Ave South right off Interstate 24.  The old 19th century brick give this restaurant a unique feel. It is tri-leveled in the stage area. I didn’t see a bad seat.  The bar is separate as you come into the front door.  Some people don’t like the separation, but I do.  I like to be able to have a drink and talk over ideas catch up with friends without the distraction of the band then I really like to sit and enjoy any good music. I love the stage at the Rutledge.  For all you Photographers out there the light man is my hero. He is brilliant. I am truly blessed to shoot  different places and The Rutledge www.therutledgelmv.com will be among one of my favorites.
Of course I want  to give a shout out to Ascend Talent Agency 406 Campbell Avenue * Tullahoma, Tennessee 37388 (931) 563-7291
I also want to recognize The Artists Group Management
And the whole Tracy Lawrence group.
Booking Allen Duhon contact:  visit their website at: www.tagmanagementnashville.com Or call Mike Meade (615)463-3041 For further information visit www.allenduhon.com
 LOOK FOR UP COMING CONCERT AT ALLEN DUHON WEB SITE!

What else is going on I’ll be traveling around for a couple of week but hope to ride the bike down to Black Water Hatties and see The Wild West Band. Try to come and join us there. I know they always put on a good show.
The Wild West Bands http://www.thewildwestband.com/ single, “Don’t Make Me A Memory”, hits # 7 on The Independent Music Networks Top 30 Country Charts *
August 9th,2009 4PM- 8PM – Black Water Hatties -http://hattiesnhuntsville.webs.com/ 10000 South Memorial Pkwy. Huntsville, AL. 35888

STARS ON THE WATER CANCLED:  NOTE FROM Joshua Tankersley

Dear Friends:

I am very sad to announce that the Stars On The Water Cruise has been cancelled! Also, we will be closing the doors to the Ascend Talent Agency. This decision was not made overnight! I have decided to go for better potentials for a better future! I hope all of my friends will understand and stay in touch! Thank you for the great times!

Sincerely,

Joshua L. Tankersley

   I hope that everyone had a safe a safe and wonderful 4^th of July.   Tullahoma, TN had a combination fireworks and air show featuring pilots Chris Round and Julie Clark, sponsored in part by the Kiwanis, Goodrich Landing Gear of Tullahoma and The Tullahoma New.  I am not an aircraft expert.  It was only by chance that I got to go to the hanger.  Goodrich Landing Gear http://www.goodrich.com/portal/site/grcom/home of Tullahoma had a drawing among its employees for a barbeque dinner and select seating to the air show and fireworks. The winners can be seen here with the T-33 Silver Star belonging to Chris Rounds, “The Red Knight.” They also gave away a ride to one of the employees. The winner of the drawing was Brad Holt, plant manager, who has been with Goodrich for 6 years and living in Tullahoma for 3.

Once again I am not an aircraft expert. 

Chris Rounds http://www.redknightairshows.com fly’s “The Red Knight”a T-33 Silver Star.  In Jayne terms a small jet?  Thanks to Sam Crimm II http://www.distinctivephotography.net/bio.html a pilot and photographer I was on the tarmac and able to take a few pictures of this small mighty plane in action. The Red Knight has a rich history that is Canadian in origin.  Because The Red Knight is a jet there are a few different rules for flying an air show than those for the smaller and slower Beech craft. Distances from fans and the airport and, as always, the risk to housing in the area remain the main concerns. Reaching speeds of 580 miles an hour while twisting and turning over such a small venue is an amazing for the feat for both plane and pilot. Chris Rounds not only fly’s the T-33A but has his own business. “Rounds Aviation” which restores war planes for other people. If you would like more information on Chris Round and the Red Knight go to http://www.redknightairshows.com

The next performer on the evening was Julie Clark. www.americanaerobatics.com Julie fly’s a Beechcraft T-34 and has a 15 minute show which features Julie “sky dancing” to the music of artists such as Lee Greenwood and his patriotic songs “God Bless the U.S.A” and “God Bless Canada”. Julie, who was inspired by her father Ernie Clark, has been flying and performing for about 30 years.  First flying for Northwest Airlines then her creating her own aerobatics show Using her Chevron Mentor T-34 named “Free Spirit”. Patriotism is very important to Julie Clark. She named her plane “Free Spirit” in honor of America and the Freedoms we enjoy. Personally, I think from watching her fly the name describes her spirit.  If you get a chance to see Julie Clark fly you won’t be disappointed. For more information on Julie Clark or her plane go to www.americanaerobatics.com

Special thank to  , Goodrich Landing Gear of Tullahoma,TN.,Tullahoma Kiwanis, The Sunday News, Robertson and  Worsham Law

Special thanks to the Kiwanis for the Fireworks go to kiwanisfireworks.com to see more pictures

Our deepest sympathies to the family of Peggy Gattis who passed away unexpectedly right before frontier Days.

 The first thing I want to do is to thank Sky at Judy’s Leather on the square.  I walked in the store to ask a simple question and Sky immediately realized I was too hot and came to my rescue with a cooldanna. Like many on that day I didn’t know I was too hot.

All that being said I love Lynchburg, TN.  You can often see me at Judy’s Leather www.judysleather.com.

There is a new coffee shop on the square called Southern Perk. I love their food and coffee. They have a variety of deli sandwiches, salads and of course pastries.  When I am in the mood for a hamburger I go to the Iron Kettle (but be aware they don’t take credit/debit cards).

Well, I am supposed to be talking about the Frontier Days in Lynchburg. They had the usual parade with a variety of floats and horses.

 The stage in the morning featured Julie Taylor http://www.myspace.com/julietaylorcountry, Cody Huber http://www.littlehollowrecords.com and Ray the bass player I.  You can hear Cody @ The Saturday Jam11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Central Daylight Savings Time (USA) each Saturday morning at The BBQ Caboose Café. http://totcrs.com/index.html on the old time radio program. The BBQ Caboose has a web site and a radio show you just have to hit a link to find what you are looking for.

Despite this being one of the hottest days we have had this year the River Chase Posse was ready to shoot it out on the square in full costume. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhqCbC2hdms 

The River Chase Posse

Left to right

Judge Ace Blackwater, Ms Sassy Birdsong, Wishbone Stevenson, Kansas Stone, Jimmy Ringo, Sara Lee Ringo, and Blackeye

A ruthless bunch of characters that always start every show with a talk on gun safety. They put on a great show for those of us who like living history.  There are always other living history reenactors at the Frontier Days. The Civil war and Davy Crocket Long Hunters Club that strive to keep things correct for the times (1730’s-1840’s). Teaching people by showing how people actually lived in the days of Davy Crockett. The Davy Crockett Long hunters Club will be having a camp at, of course, David Crockett State Park – Lawrenceburg, Tennessee U.S.A www.lawrenceburg.com/crockettpark in August on the 7th, 8th, & 9th.

I meet other reenactors of living history that were from the Civil war.  I don’t care who you are or what side of the Mason/Dixon Line you hail from, the history of the North and South should not be lost.  Jimmy Walker took time to show me how the men survived.  It didn’t matter which side of the line they were from, some things just are because of the time period in which they lived. In one small bag a man carried some coffee beans, medicine, a piece of soap, brick of tea, and a cone of sugar.  I didn’t realize that in the Davy Crockett era or the civil war they had to roast their own coffee beans and then smash them to make a cup of coffee.  Did you know there were dental requirements to be in the military? You had to have at least one upper and one lower tooth.  For more information on the Civil War reenactors North and South history go to http://nps-vip.net/history/reenact .

I had invited many of you to come to Lynchburg’s Frontier Days to listen to The Wild West Band.  Unfortunately they didn’t have the opportunity to play.  I am greatly saddened by that.  After all, they are the reason I covered Lynchburg two weekends in a row. There was another band, a very youthful band from Fayetteville.  Not exactly the former kind of music but they are good.  If you could pick a complete opposite of country music, that might describe this band. “The Perfect Tomorrow.”  They are for the young.  Who can still jump up and down in the shear excitement of being alive and young and adding music? Members of “The Perfect Tomarrow” are Austin Brrent,Kameron Jones,Victoria Broderick,Bradley Martain,, Devan Jones.

For those who go every year to the Frontier Days the carnival was a little smaller and the funnel cakes a little pricier.

The newest part to this festival was the horseshoe competition. I have met some of the competitors at the High On The Hog. This years winners are;

 Doubles winners R to L Edd Hill Coordinator 1st Place – Leonard “Peewee” Beard, Bobby “BB” Brown,

2nd Place – Roger “Big Daddy” Staples, Dewayne “Debo” Darden

3rd Place - Bobby McConnell, Noel Stubblefield

  With names like Pee Wee and Big Daddy, you know the games are going to be entertaining even if you don’t play. This year’s competition was sponsored by Lynchburg Gifts & More & Jackie’s Gift Gallery http://jackiesgiftgallery.com/default.asp.  

The single‘s competition winners are: from R to L

Lenord ”Peewee “Beard

Clayton” Hamburger” Watkins.

I didn’t get to see the rodeo or the fireworks because of the storm. After all if I can ride my bike to cover an event I do. To see more pictures of this or others festivals go to myspace.com/jaynestnpicscom

Comment: It will always be my opinion that when you accept a band and put them on your schedule.  If the Band is coming at their own expense and playing for free, lets be courteous.  Lynchburg is the only Festival to turn away a band that not only has a recording label but a record deal. Obviously thinking that if they are playing for free they must be bad.

Check you references before accepting please. When you accept please be committed. The members of the Wild West Band are good musicians with out a doubt but we all missed out because they are also very good entertainers as well.

For pictures of the parade and the festival go to myspace.com/jaynestnpicscom

The last note I want to put in we are deeply sadden by the sudden lose of the Mayor Peggy Gattis.

If you are feeling the economic crunch and still would like to enjoy the summer with family and friends I have a couple of ideas for you.

I went to free concerts this weekend.

They have been a long-standing tradition in some communities from Nashville’s symphony in the park to enjoying a concert from a local band by the lake. I have never attended any of these, until now. I hopped over to McMinnville to Main Street Live (http://www.mainstreetmcminnville.org/play/calendar.php) and then to Winchester for the Music by the Lake (http://www.franklincountykiwanis.com/MusicByTheLakeEvent1.html) sponsored by the Kiwanis and The Herald Chronicle, the local paper in Winchester TN. I saw two completely different bands and had a great time at both events. Bring your chair or blanket, grab some friends and get ready for a great time. Usually they have food and drinks for sale but all city park rules apply as far as drinking goes.

Now that I have said all that, the first place I went was McMinnville’s Main Street Live. The M.C. for the evening is local radio celebrity Jeff Barnes from radio station

Jeff Barnes Star 107

Star 107. The Security Federal Saving Bank at 306 West Main transforms its parking lot and lawn to make a beautiful stage and seating area. If you live in that part of the country you know the air hangs thick with faint smell of honey suckle and lilac. After all, this is Nursery country. A place where the outdoors is a part of making a living and a tree isn’t just something to curse in the fall but a source of revenue. McMinnville Nurseries are known all over the world. The lawn area used for seating has a slight breeze and the cooling comfort of the shade trees makes for the most pleasant of evenings. McMinnville has a free concert every Friday so you have plenty of opportunity to catch a great show. Yes I did say free. I went to see Entice http://enticemusic.com . They are a 70’s funk band with the strong guitars, drums and the whaling of the saxophone. Which we all know, I am particularly partial to any thing that has horns.
Now if you want to sit with your hands folded and just enjoy the sound of the music, while relaxing under the shade trees, don’t go see this Entice. Entice http://enticemusic.com is big into audience participation. If you love music and want to clap your hands stomp your feet and even sing out a bit then Entice http://enticemusic.com is a must see band. This is a band that is booked well into next year so if you get the chance to see them take it. I have always had an exceptional time with this band. The energy they bring to the stage and to the audience is best experienced, rather than described. They have made me forget about the pouring rain or the extreme heat. The founding members of Entice include: Eugene, Renee and Derel Ewing other members are Virgus Ewing, Ron Ballentine, David Martin, the sax player was Karl Wingruber.
I can’t wait to see them in the future. As for the Main Street Live in McMinnville, TN. http://www.mainstreetmcminnville.org/play/calendar.php I hope to go back and would like to thank all the sponsors Security Saving Bank, Dr.Pepper, Star107 http://www.star107fm.net/personalities/jeff_barnes.php, for concert information in Tennessee, Boys11 Men to the Jonas Brothers go to http://www.star107fm.net/concerts.php, BLTV http://www.bltv.net/index.html
Up coming Main Street live McMinnville Tn. Concerts
June 26th The Tennessee Four
July 3rd Four on The Floor
July 10th Rubber Soul
July 17th The Boomers
July 24th Joe Harvey Band
July 31st Timeline

Be sure and give a listen to Jeff Barnes on Star 107 6am to 10 am Monday thru Fri. Their County affiliate is 105.3 WOW, McMinnville’s Information Station 960 WBMC -
Main Street Live is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Arts Commission and the National endowment for the Arts.

The next night I went to see Music by The Lake sponsored by the Kiwanis www.franklincountykiwanis.com of Winchester, TN. and the Herald Chronicle www.heraldchronicle.com. I don’t need much of an excuse to go to the lake and the Winchester Park is on part of the Tims Ford Lake. There is not much better than being able to pull your boat up to a free concert. The Kiwanis www.franklincountykiwanis.com and Herald Chronicle http://www.heraldchronicle.com along with WCDT radio and the city of Winchester have provided fun blow-ups for the kids for slide down climb thru. The next event there will be water fun. Music By the Lake is only a once a month event but, like McMinnville, it is a free concert. All you need is a chair. If you wish to purchase food there is food and drink available. They also have Shaved Ice, hamburgers, candy and a variety of soft drinks. Because this is Winchester City Park the rules for drinking and firearms apply.
On Saturday the 20th I saw Steve Middlebrooks and the Sleepin Hounds. http://sleepinhounds.com/index.html They did of course bring the Middlebrooks dancers. If you haven’t see the Middlebrooks http://sleepinhounds.com/index.html dancers they are as much a part of the show as the music. While their husbands sing the young women dance and they can also show you how to line dance. It sounds a bit old fashion and maybe it is, but these wives aren’t sitting in the corner pouting, they are laughing and having a good time. They have shown a lot of men and women and young adults to line dance. I think the way the families’ work together has created a recipe for success. Good music and good fun. Steve and the Sleepin Hounds play every Friday Night at Troy’s Place in Ringgold, GA. The place is packed with dancers. They play a compilation of their own songs and old stand-bys. Steve and the Sleepin hounds are about ready to go back into the studio, but for now you can find their music here http://sleepinhounds.com/our_music.html. I cover a lot of country bands and they are one of my favorite bands. The Band Members are: Steve Middlebrooks – Lead Vocals, Lead guitar; Tim P – Bass Guitar; Paul Middlebrooks – Guitar, Harmonica, Vocals; Richard Brannon – Drums; Tim Middlebrooks – Fiddle, Steel guitar, Vocals; Tommy Middlebrooks – Rhythm Guitar & Vocals. Look for Steve and the Sleepin Hounds At Troy’s Place in Ringgold, GA every Friday night. For information Troy’s Place, 320 Emerson Drive, Ringgold, Ga. Steve and The Sleepin Hounds 8-11 p.m. each Friday. $6. No-smoking-or-alcohol venue. (706) 965-8346. Want to learn to dance www.chattanooga-dancesport.com

The up coming concert for Music By The Lake;

Lee Gibson
with special quest
Valerie Borman, Veronica Leigh, and Amanda Jo Chandler
 
Children activities begin at 6:00. All Water this time
Music begins at 6:30
Concessions available with freshly grilled burgers and hot dogs.
IT FREE,Bring a lawn chair
If you use this link it will take it to the Franklin County Kiwanis web site;:
 
www.franklincountykiwanis.com

  I love a lot of things about this festival.  It is family friendly and, for those you that are in high school, this is the place to go. The social event of the year as one young man called it.  A place where families cane be together. Riverbend is just that, following along the walking path beside the river in the area of the Aquarium and the Imax. The Southern Bell (http://www.chattanoogariverboat.com/www/docs/3.36) of course is running with an average of 6 cruises a day, the last one ending with dinner from 7:00 – 9:30 just in time to see the Headline band. That to me would be the perfect end to the perfect day.

Before we think about the end of the day we should enjoy the stages and the fun of the over all festival.  It is a long walk from one end of the festival to the other. Being a unique festival is a theme carried out even to the stages. The most unique stage designed is under an over pass, where we saw the Bowmans Sing. Fortunately the stages are far enough apart that they don’t compete with each other. On one stage you might have a little folk / rock and the other a little Be Bop. Along the path are sand castles in tribute to the artist who have played or are going to play. Here we see Willie Nelson. (This will change daily so keep looking.)  Along the way we found the Market place which is always my favorite place to be.  Hand crafted or unique items for sale. There I meet Thomas Osborne.www.africator.com A painter who was born just down the road who moved and taught in Ohio.  When he retired from teaching I guess Tennessee called his name so he moved back and you can see his acrylic paintings of Chattanooga and surrounding area.  Moving further down the path we find the Army, Navy and I haven’t seen the Marines yet but I am sure they are here.  Do you want to know what it is like to fly a helicopter you can try the simulator, or maybe flying with the Blue Angle is more for you.  You can also try that in a simulator. One of the most interesting things about this event is that it is a combination of festival a product fair.  Your ticket in gives you access to try new products all up and done the path. Thinking about trying Gillette Fusion Power Razor.  Here is your chance to get a free shave.  It’s not just music, craft and music vendors, it is a chance to try or experience things you wouldn’t other wise have a chance to see. The kid zone is no exception.  Along with the games, rides and prizes, and face painting, you can visit the Oscar Meyer Luncable table.  Which is a great idea.  Most children don’t care for food on a stick unless it is a candied apple.

Well the sun is going down and I am ready for the Train to roll in to Chattanooga. (You know they have to get tired of that.)  I love that classic Zeppelin crazy rock and The Train delivered.  If you have doubts about having a good time because you cannot see the stage, no worries.  The have brought the Tram to new height. Of course this festival has been going on since 1981 and they have plenty of experience bring good music and fun to families. All those who are young and single a chance to meet friends and hear some of the greatest music there is.    Yesterday I heard great music saw the Southern Bell (http://www.chattanoogariverboat.com/www/docs/3.36), Took a tour of Texas @ http://www.traveltex.com/texasontour. Yes I did.  I can see a bike trip in my future. Come with me to see what today will bring.

Jayne

I forgot to give a big shout out to the Soddy Daisy High School Band Soddy Daisy High School Band  officially opened the River Bend Festival by marching thru the main gate at Chestnut and Second Streets on Friday at 4:30 p.m. Then like all good bands they marched down Chestnut Street and up Riverfront Parkway all the way to the Unum Stage. Where the band was scheduled to perform on the Unum Stage at 6:30 p.m. I missed the grand entrance. Not intentional but late.

Congratulations S.D.H.B.on your invite to participate in the 120^th Tournament Roses of Parade. I know it to a lot of hard work and dedication on the part of the band and the parents to even be considered. If you would like to help one of our Tennessee High School Bands go to the 120^th Tournament Roses of Parade donate to: www.sdhsband.org

Besides we need to help Soddy Daisy to keep producing such local Favorite Bands such as Stone Line www.myspace.com/stoneline

First I want to thank all the people who put the Thunder on the Rock www.thunderontherockonline.com  (Monteagle Mt.) Together . and for letting us come out and cover the Rally.

If you love bikes and embrace the thunder I hope you didn’t miss this years Thunder on the Rock on Monteagle Mt. They say there are 160 acres of tents, bikes, babes, and beer. The rolling beer carts offering nothing but the most beautiful of woman. My thought is.    I am the one who would love to see a hunk of a man driving or selling beer,maybe next year.

If you weren’t on the Rock  www.thunderontherockonline.com let me share some of my pictures , and thoughts. This is one of the few places I cover that isn’t family friendly. What makes it different?I love the Thunder ,now what did I see?

I saw a crazy wet T-shit contest and more nuidity then I care to talk about. Between you and I, the wet t-shirt contest takes more than a body – it takes courage. The contestants need to dance on a stage while being splashed with ice-cold water. The young lady that eventually won deserved the prize.  Not only was she beautiful but she could also dance. I won’t however be showing her picture just the ones that are family friendly.

Thunder on the Rock www.thunderontherockonline.com is one big campground. Where beer comes by in a wagon. Of course that is the point – you don’t have to go anywhere to eat, drink, laugh, sleep.  I think however, they should give prizes for the best camp, most unique camp, If you want to enter get a number and post it out front and let the people choose.  It is a shame to have such efforts go unrewarded. I didn’t say unnoticed because, well, we all noticed some of the efforts. That is why we kept driving by.

The Music, games, food, drink, bike show and the Thunderettes walking around. I had a blast as I meet new people and learned a lot about bikes games.  The games started Saturday off, how slow can you go, get the hot dog and water balloon catch. I didn’t see the mud wresting. The How Slow Can You Go, usually called the ‘Slow Roll’, doesn’t make good still pictures unless they need a photo finish.  The hot dog catch, however you can see for yourself. And the water balloon toss. My least favorite game was the rev your motor game.  Who could tell as they all sounded equally loud? The burn out pit was smoke’n as we came up you could see little bits of tire go flying off everywhere and smoked fill the air.  (I don’t know how they judge that one either.) 

I loved the bike show even though I didn’t have any one to walk me thru it and point out the good or the not so good points.

The Winners are (Sportster H-D – #5 Brandon Worthey, #32 Tina Hennen), (Full Dresser – #1Weirdo, #11 Glen Fowler, # 2 Snoopy), (Antique – #8 James Owens, #18 Kristi Slack, #3 Terry Payn), (Foreign sport bike – #7 Alan Franks, #33 Keith Smith, #27 Mike Roggers), (Dyna – #17 Bill Deason, #9 Joe Warren, #12 Tammy Williams), (American Sport Bike – #28 James R. Owens), (Sport Dresser – #36 Gerry Vandergriff, #41 Jeff Lee, #24 The Alabama Kid), (Rat Bike – #21 Aaron Conner), (Custom Chopper – #38 Randy Hamilton, #93 Richie Rich, #41 Michael Boyd) and the (Peoples Choice “Weirdo”).

Of course a Special thanks goes to the Thunderettes for posing on each of the winning bikes. To see more pictures of the winning bikes go to http://myspace.com/jaynestnpicscom    

  The bands are the next big thing at the rally. It didn’t matter if there was anyone in front of the stage, music can be heard all thru the complex. This was my first time to hear Big Engine http://www.bigengine.com/band.html, or Liquid Fire www.myspace.com/lfiremusic, Stimulus Package, or Stone line www.myspace.com/stoneline. I have heard Shane Worley http://www.myspace.com/worley1974 a local favorite, Sammi Moore http://www.myspace.com/sammimooreband, and Arlo Gilliam, www.myspace.com/arlogilliammusic is an Americana, Acoustic Guitar playing, Arlo Guthrie, James Taylor style together in a Southern Style.  You can read more about the bands on the Thunder on the Rock web site www.thunderontherockonline.com. 

My rock pick was Big Engine http://www.bigengine.com/band.html, which referee’s to itself as “A finely tuned rock n’ roll machine! Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida. The band brings their high-performance rock show to festivals, rallies, events, and clubs throughout the United States.” I think this is an understatement. Benny Puckett doesn’t just play the drums he becomes a part of the set to the point where he can balance, juggle, and twirl the sticks and never miss a beat. Hans Oellerich is on lead, with Ryan Wilcox on bass. Hans I know was influenced by the old MTV videos. I don’t know if Ryan was, but together they bring that old school playing and performing to the group. They don’t just stand and play waiting for me to take their picture they perform. Last but in no way the least Tony Mikus- guitarist, vocalist and founding member of Big Engine http://www.bigengine.com/band.html once know as The Motion. He pulls all this http://www.bigengine.com/band.htmltalent together and gives it direction.  Big Engine  is a must see band for those who like to be entertained.

If I had to pick a southern rock group, it would be Liquid Fire www.myspace.com/lfiremusic. This one would be it even though it was very clear to me that there is more to their southern spirit that rock. If you have never heard Hendricks at Woodstock then you need to hear Joe Riley play. His rendition of the National Anthem is a perfect start to any concert and a tribute to Jimi Hendricks, to this country, and to music in general. In Joes own style. Jeff Lewis handles bass while Josh Reed comes in with vocals. Michael Scott Howard. Holds the heartbeat of this band with a defiant metal feel. Liquid Fire www.myspace.com/lfiremusic is the brainchild of Josh Reed. They have managed to combine all genres of music into one ball of raging fun. For more information about Liquid Fire visit them on My Space @ www.myspace.com/lfiremusic. It isn’t every day that a band refers to itself as “country/metal.”

Stoneline  www.myspace.com/stoneline is a local band that is full of the old school hair-flying guitar playing Metallica, Pearl Jam, and Nirvana etc. Stoneline comes from Soddy Daisy, TN. That’s right music fans, from that small town comes some big music. I look forward to seeing this group in the future.

 Scott Towers: Lead Vocals & Guitar, Aaron McNeece: Lead Guitar & Vocals, Beier: Drums & Backup Vocals, Jon Hise: Bass Guitar 

The head liner for Saturday night was the Atlanta Rhythm Section http://www.myspace.com/arsAtlantaRhythmSection. This iconic American band has changed faces but the music is still the same. “Doraville”, “I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight”, “Champagne Jam”, “So Into You”, “Imaginary Lover”, “Angel”, “Do It Or Die”, and “Neon Nites.” Most of us hear one or two of these songs every day. A.R.S is a band of a generation. What makes them great in my book is the fact that they didn’t change to disco! Every one knows that back then they would have had a runaway hit if they had compromised their sound to Disco. (This is my opinion on disco – a little went a long way.  It swept thru this county like a cancer trying to take out some of the best musicians of our time as well as radio, radio stations and personalities.)

 Who is A.R.S? The current members are Dean Daughtry – Keys, Andy Anderson – Vocals, Steve Stone – Guitar, Justin Senker – Bass, Jim Keeling – Drums, Dave Anderson – Guitar. I could tell you the history of the band members who have come and gone but you should check that out yourself.  And enjoy the sounds of one of our most Iconic Bands of a generation. http://www.myspace.com/arsAtlantaRhythmSection 

Sunday, (Echo), Sunday, (Echo) Sunday (Echo)

A lot went on Sunday their were services and bike blessings if; you choose to participate.  The bands took stage in the afternoon, all leading up to Tracy Lawrence. http://tracylawrence.com Some bands stayed over Liquid Fire, to entertain the audience while Tracy Lawrence’s crew sets up. Tracy Lawrence’s crew is great!  And I want to give a big shout out to the Light man. (When they light the stage correctly it makes my job sooooooooo much easier.)  If you haven’t seen Tracy Lawrence in concert I suggest you give it a try I don’t think you will be disappointed. The combination of the lightshow, band, and his singing will give you a performance you haven’t seen in awhile. One of the main reasons people come to this rally is to forget the hard times out side of the gate.  His show allows that to happen.  You become in gulfed in the whole illusion of the show so you can’t really have a bad time since the show is great.

 I have left out two people in my story until the last : Cousin Ricky www.CousinRicky.com   You may not know the name but I am sure you know his voice. Cousin Ricky Peardon is the voice of CMT’s 20 Greatest Redneck Moments II and CMT’s Most Outrageous Motorsports. When you combine Cousin Rick with Big Ed Caylor www.myspace.com/bigedcaylor you get “Hicks Gone Wild.” Big Ed and Cousin Ricky alternate telling stories of marriage, family, growing up and living in the south. What makes them so funny is everyone at some point can relate. You don’t have to be married if you have ever been in a relationship or just around children you can relate to point of Cousin Ricky and Big Ed. Today we need to laugh more than ever. If you get a chance to go see “Hicks Gone Wild“ take it. It will keep you laughing for days if not at yourself than someone in your family.

 I hope to see you guys at the Thunder on the Rock Next year.

I know I may have left your favorite band out Please understand I do my best

Special thanks to Steve Thruman, Still Smoking barbeque and catering in Fayetteville Tn,  THUNDER ON THE ROCK, LLC,423-242-8578 | 423-290-2166,P.O. Box 1223 | Monteagle, Tennessee 37356,THUNDER ON THE ROCK HEAD HONCHO ,Rally Coordinator, Rodney Kilgore, THUNDER ON THE ROCK .Consultant Glenn Matthews ,THUNDER ON THE ROCK. General Information .Danny Barnes. THUNDER ON THE ROCK. General Information. Sonny Kilgore THUNDER ON THE ROCK. Thunderettes Calendar Girl .Scout / Photographer. Danny Givens.

THUNDERETTES

Music, Music, Music. Isn’t a festival? It is Michelle Rea ‘s new T.V. show on Nashville’s Comcast Channel 19 http://nashville19.org  .
I attended to the first taping and I am just now writing about it because I have been on the road. Music , music , music is the brain child of Michelle Rae www.michellerae.net or http://www.myspace.com/michellerae1
The Music ,Music, Music is a place to feature the music Michelle loves. You may think she is just a country girl not our Michelle Rae. She is a little bit country mixed with a whole lot of every thing else. Jazz, Blues, R&B, Motown, Gospel and a little Southern Rock thrown in for balance. There is the sense of tradition as Michelle holds the old country favorites like Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn to her heart. The first show was taped on March the second and Michelle’s very first guest was Karen Wheeler.
Karen Wheeler is one of the kindest most talented people I have ever meet. She was raised in the music business. For those who don’t know who her father is he was He was the late great Onie Wheeler. Onie Wheeler was a member of the Grand Ole Opry and played with the Roy Acuff show for 22 years. Onie Wheeler passed away of a massive heart attack while singing on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry May 26th, 1984 That is one of those facts that makes you sad and happy at the same time. Sad that this great man passed away and also envious that he passed away doing something that he loved so much. I hope that I am that lucky. Onie Wheeler was also a crafts man making hand made banks of wood resembling any

shape you can imagine. Guitars, pianos, or even just a circle all holding hidden latches to be found keeping treasures safe for generations to come.
Karen brought some of her treasured artifacts to show the studio audience. Karen started singing when she was eleven years old, later opening for such greats as Conway Twitty . Whom she toured with for 12 years! Karen also appeared with many of country music’s legendary performers such as: Loretta Lynn, Cal Smith, Ernest Tubb, Marty Robbins, Farron Young, Roy Acuff, George Jones, Mickey Gilley, Billy “Crash” Craddock (no relation) ect, ect, form more information http://www.geocities.com/Nashville/Opry/8434/index.html
Karen has two great passions songwriting and cooking or cookbooks. She is a brilliant and funny songwriter. She is best known for her mortified version of the mule s skinner song. I don’t know how she ever learned to while like she does I must be a family trat.
Her first cookbook is call “RECIPES & Memories” Karen wheeler Cookbook and can be ordered for her web site. It is full of common recipes of the south and some not so common recipes. From basic home cooking to Christmas candy You can find it in one of her two books. In a time when you want the freshest and the best for your family here is the cookbook for you.
Karen Wheeler is also a cancer survivor. Her band members gave her a pink Louisville slugger to knock out breast cancer and so far she is a survivor.
(Karen gives all her success in surviving breast cancer, life and music to her faith in her Lord and Savior. “I can do all things in life through God who strengthens me”.)

She is an amazing person look for an appearance near you to learn more about Karen Wheeler. . It was only fitting on this day Michelle Rae and Music ,Music, Music asked Nancy Haukins Dubois the Marking Director for the Mid South to come and talk a little about the efforts to fight cancer in this area. If you have been touched by cancer like most of us have go to www.caner.org to find fundraisers, walks, relays that you can participate in.
I hope you will look up Karen Wheeler and enjoy her music and some of her favorite recipes.
The other band members on this days taping were a few of our local. Julie Taylor on guitar (http://nashville19.org) Jack Lawless (http://www.myspace.com/jacklawlessmusic  ) guitar, Mike Furkins – Untouchable Drummer/Band Leader for Clue and the Honkytones, Smiley Roberts. on Steele guitar.( the only Steele guitar player I have seen play in boots) www.ntsga.com

Michelle Rae’s goal for Music ,Music, Music is not only to bring some of our favorite Musicians but to tell a bit of their story. While opening the door for the new, up and coming songwriters and musicians. Giving them a chance to rise to the top. Music , Music ,Music will continue to spot light Cancer Awareness and Domestic Abuse.
Special thank to Costco www.costco.com for under writing this show as well as Mike Thompson (Thompson Music Rental) Hillsboro Village, Nashville, TN 37212  http://thompsonmusicrental.com  , special thanks to Little Hollow Records. www.littlehollowrecords.com Special thanks to Cindy For all the Stage decorations