3
ASHLEY MONROE IS ON TO SOMETHING GOOD
DEPARTMENTS
FEATURES 8
DAILEY & VINCENT Our account of the ‘Rockstars of Bluegrass’ at the Mother Church of Country Music, Ryman Auditorium.
18
REVIEWS Check out Ashley Monroe’s new album, The Blade, along with new singles from Kelsea Ballerini, Love & Theft, and Cam.
12
LUKE BRYAN With the highly-anticipated release of Kill The Lights on August 7th, we share our five reasons to be excited!
20
ON TOUR Shania Twain is coming to a city near you!
21
COUNTRY BIRTHDAYS
23
TRENDING IN COUNTRY
17
CHARLIE DANIELS VOLUNTEER JAM Charlie Daniels and over 40 of his superstar friends are coming together in Nashville to support The Journey Home Project.
An Airplay Weekly Publication
Publisher Tim Hall
Advertising (615) 6 69-9592 Editorial hello@airplayweekly.com
Editor Jeremy Koering
AW Magazine P.O. Box 330322 Nashville, TN 37203 2 | AW MAGAZINE
Design KOER Creative Proof Donna Hall
Contributors Haley Maleah Hall Tim Hall Jeremy Koering
Ashley Monroe is on to something good E
BY TIM HALL
very now and then a song comes on the radio
For more than half of her life, Ashley has been
that is different than all the rest. A song that
making music with fans and music industry icons
makes you stop what you’re thinking to
alike taking notice. Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Jack
reach down and turn the volume up just a little. The
White, Guy Clark and Train are just a few of the
droning sound of noise in the background becomes
giant artists that have offered their kudos and even
the solace or escape from reality that we all are
collaborated with her.
looking for. That is exactly what I experience when I hear Ashley Monroe.
No matter what the scenario, Ashley is an original with a compelling story to tell.
From the first note of her silky smooth tone you realize you are listening to a real country artist, that
“It took a lot to get here. It’s been a long, hard road,”
not only sings about the life you know, but has also
states Monroe.
lived it. Even though Ashley is still in her twenties
when she was only 13 years old, Ashley’s roller
the depth of sorrow and joy that resonates from her
coaster ride began. Suffering such a devastating
songs cannot be duplicated or faked.
loss, she immersed herself in her music. “After he
After losing her father to cancer
died I started writing all the sadness out,” she says. “That was my therapy, my outlet. There was no way I could have held all that in.” Perhaps events like these are what gives her the ability to make you feel the sorrow in a song as she sings. The journey of an artist is always filled with ups and downs. Ashley’s journey has been no different. After numerous recordings, label changes and personal appearances, at the age of 20, she found herself back at ground zero once again. There was one difference though, she had lived a lot of life and had even more stories to tell. For the next decade, Ashley continued to hone her craft. She became a better songwriter, better performer and all around better artist. From her years of hard work and determination, she stepped into what she describes as her most rewarding artistic adventure to date in 2011, The Pistol Annies. Ashley co-formed the group with her friends, Miranda Lambert and Angaleena Presley. Ashley had collaborated with Miranda before as a songwriter when they co-penned Lambert’s hit “A Heart Like Mine”. The Pistol Annies gave Ashley yet another creative outlet to explore. Even as part of a group she stood out, known and loved by everyone as “Hippie Annie”. The group was met with critical acclaim, garnering rave reviews from the industry elite and fans as well.
Regardless of the previous success she had enjoyed, it
way.” No wonder we as fans feel the same emotion
was obvious Ashley still had much to say as a solo artist.
when we hear her sing it. “I’m so thankful to the
It was though she was on a path that would lead her to
writers of that song,” she continues. “They talked
collaboration with industry legend Vince Gill. Like A
about my heartbreak in a way that I’ve never heard.
Rose was the result of that collaboration. The track list
That’s hard to do.”
ran the gamut of emotions from feel-good songs like the “You Ain’t Dolly (And You Ain’t Porter)” duet with Blake
Cut after cut, no pun intended, The Blade delivers
Shelton and the controversial “Weed Instead of Roses”
everything Ashley Monroe fans have been clamoring
to the thoughtful, heart-wrenching “Used” or “She’s
for. Be sure to read our full review for more details
Driving Me Out of Your Mind”, just to name a few. From
about this amazing record!
track to track, Gill produced a record that showcased Ashley’s strength as a writer and performer.
You can be listening for Ashley on the radio, but you can also catch her on television. If you missed her
Gill and Monroe wanted to capture the true essence of
on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon on July
each song and were committed to capturing each cut in an
27th you can still catch her on CONAN. She will be
old school manner. Ashley shares, “We just got the band
performing songs from The Blade on Wednesday,
in a circle and started playing the songs,” she continues,
August 26th, set your DVR!
“and once we felt like we had a feel for it, I’d do my vocal live—I never went back in to do a second vocal. Everyone
While hearing Ashley on the radio or watching
put everything we had into the songs. There was a buzz
her on television is awesome, nothing compares to
in the room. We all had fun—it felt like a big old family,
seeing her live. If you are lucky, you can catch her
the way records used to be made.” You can’t argue with
as she performs at a few select festivals this summer,
the results. Like A Rose still remains one of my favorite
or possibly on select dates of Rascal Flatts Riot Tour.
country albums of the last 20 years.
If you miss those, no worries, you can still catch her in the fall as she joins long time friend Miranda
On July 24th, Ashley released her latest musical effort,
Lambert on her Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars tour.
The Blade. She chose to collaborate with Vince Gill once again as producer, but also enlisted Justin Niebank to
She’s definitely on to something good!
produce a few tracks. --------------------------------------Ashley has shared that the nature of the title track from The Blade is a very personal one. “I have been on the
For complete tour dates visit AshleyMonroe.com.
receiving end of that pain,” Ashley said. “It actually
Read our review of The Blade on page 18.
makes me physically hurt when I sing it … but in a good
Dailey & Vincent
Rockstars of Bluegrass at the Ryman BY HALEY MALEAH HALL
8 | AW MAGAZINE
L
et me set the scene for you. It’s a hot midsummer’s day in July, Nashville is buzzin’ with tourist running from various bars and honky-tonks on Broadway. Situated just behind the hustle and bustle of Broadway is the Mother Church of Country Music, the Ryman Auditorium. Playing the church that night was none other than the always entertaining Dailey & Vincent. It’s the “Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman” series and everyone seems abuzz and energetic to see one of Bluegrass’ most famous duo. There really is something about a sold out crowd at the Ryman and the classic sound of true bluegrass music. The duo which is made up of Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent, don’t just sing, they perform. The show brought out every emotion. At times you would be uncontrollably laughing at their parody songs such as “Thyroid Condition (Family Tradition)”, and then you would find yourself crying at the emotions of a song about heartbreak and loss. The show was split into two parts, the first set was mostly new music that they were premiering that night. The crowd reaction assured them that their new music would be accepted by fans of all ages. After a brief intermission, they returned and played some of their biggest fan favorites, including my favorite “Cumberland River”. The guest stars were not in shortage either, the first guest was very special indeed! Darrin Vincent spoke about the recent death of his father. In his late father’s honor, he invited his mother on stage with him to sing a haunting ballad “Slippers With Wings”. I think that it’s safe to say there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
The final special guest was none other than Jimmy Fortune! Jimmy stayed out on stage for a few songs and you could tell that the audience loved every minute of it. Another incredibly touching moment was hearing Jimmy Fortune sing “More Than A Name On The Wall” in honor of our Military men and women. After the song ended, he asked for all of those who have served to stand. Perhaps the loudest ovation of the night when out in honor of those brave men and women who were standing… Now, it wouldn’t be a true Bluegrass show without a little bit of Gospel! Dailey & Vincent took us to church (literally) with songs such as “By the Mark”, “When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder”, and “I Believe I’ll Live For Him”. Needless to say, this show had it all. Perhaps one of the most exciting moments of the night was when Dailey & Vincent announced their new TV Series “The Dailey & Vincent Show” which will air on RFD-TV this Fall! The show is filmed in front of a live audience at the Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tennessee! They announced that just some of their special guests will include Vince Gill, The Oak Ridge Boys and Jimmy Fortune, just to name a few! It’s a very exciting time for Dailey & Vincent and we can see why. They are true artists and you can tell they are as genuine as they seem! After all, they aren’t called the “Rockstars of Bluegrass” for nothing. AIRPLAYWEEKLY.COM | 11
5
Reasons
TO BE EXCITED ABOUT
LUKE BRYAN &
KILL THE LIGHTS BY HALEY MALEAH HALL
Luke Bryan is one of the biggest names in music today. He is loved by many, and it’s not hard to see why. On August 7th, Luke will release his new album, Kill The Lights, and we could not be more excited! We have already heard some of the new songs from the album such as “Kick The Dust Up” and “Strip It Down”. If these two songs are any indication of what to expect from this new album, we can’t wait! Then again, when does Luke ever go wrong?! In honor of Country Music’s reigning Entertainer of the Year and Luke Bryan’s upcoming release, we thought we would do the top 5 reasons that we love Luke Bryan!
HIS SIGNATURE DANCE MOVES I mean, can you think of Luke Bryan and not think of his dancing skills? That’s what we thought... He sure knows how to get the crowed pumped and make his shows high energy!
HIS HUMOR Luke Bryan not only has the moves, but he also has the humor and the constant ability to make you smile. I mean, have you seen him co-host the ACM Award’s with Blake Shelton? Talk about a “bromance”.
HIS PARTY ANTHEMS Luke Bryan has some of the greatest country party anthems. “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)”, “That’s My Kind Of Night” and most recently “Kick The Dust Up”. Be honest, just thinking about them makes you want to dance.
HIS HEART While Luke Bryan does a fantastic job at being high energy and singing catchy songs you want to dance along to, he is equally amazing as showing his softer side. Through the face of tragedy in recent years, Luke has remained strong, humble and sincere. These attributes shine through in his songs and makes us love him even more.
HIS LOVE FOR HIS FANS Obviously the thing we love most about Luke is how he loves HIS fans! It’s evident in every area of this career that he cares so much about the people that support him. Whether that be bringing fans up on stage, meet and greets, fan club parties, or even just sending a tweet to a fan, you can tell he genuinely loves them.
Charlie Daniels Volunteer Jam LIVE IN NASHVI LLE O N AUG UST 12, 2015 BY TIM HALL
O
n Wednesday, August 12th, country music fans from around the world will converge on Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee to witness a once in a lifetime musical event, The 40th Anniversary Charlie Daniels’ Volunteer Jam. The colossal, one of a kind concert will benefit the 501 (c)3 non profit organization, The Journey Home Project, an organization that benefits U.S. veterans in need. Charlie Daniels said, “It’s really something to see my music peers and friends come together this year to perform with little incentive other than to help raise funding and give back to those who have served. Few sacrifices are greater than those of our U.S. Military, so it makes me proud to have witnessed this event come together in such a big way in 2015. We as U.S. citizens can never repay military members and veterans for what they have and continue to do for us, but I hope at least this concert can serve a small role in showing them our great appreciation.” Daniels recently announced the award-winning
hit-maker Wynonna and multi-No. 1 hit-maker and Canadian guitar-slinger, Terri Clark, will join the already-announced mega line-up which includes: Charlie Daniels and The Charlie Daniels Band, Ted Nugent, Trace Adkins, Alabama, Montgomery Gentry, The Oak Ridge Boys, Tracy Lawrence, Travis Tritt, Craig Morgan, Phil Vassar, Lee Greenwood, Billy Ray Cyrus, Colt Ford, Michael W. Smith, The Grascals, The Kentucky Headhunters, Ryan Weaver, The Outlaws and Lee Roy Parnell. In addition, several head-turning SURPRISE guests will add even more excitement to the event. The event will be hosted by FOX NEWS talk show host, Sean Hannity & country music personality, Storme Warren. Tickets are still available to the public at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations, and the Bridgestone Arena box office for $17.68 and up. For more information on the Charlie Daniels 40th Anniversary Volunteer Jam, please click here. Check out the September issue of AW Magazine for complete coverage of the event!
AIRPLAYWEEKLY.COM | 17
A
BY HALEY MALEAH HALL
shley Monroe is back! Now, we all knew that it would take a lot to live up to the greatness that was her last album, Like A Rose. Well, Ashley Monroe never disappoints. Her new album, The Blade, which released on July 24th, is another masterpiece. First up on the album is “On To Something Good”, which is also the first single from this album. The song is upbeat, fun and at times, it seems reminiscent of that classic Dolly Parton sound mixed with the unique and incomparable voice of Ashley Monroe. It really sets the tone of what is to come from the rest of the album! Next up is the dramatic and sultry “Buried Your Love Alive” and the powerful ballad “Bombshell”. In these two songs we see a edgy and brutally honest side about love and loss. In both of these cuts, no pun intended, Ashley showcases a sincere power in her voice. The title track of the album “The Blade” is perhaps one of the most powerful songs that Ashley has ever recorded. It’s a haunting melody and is filled with emotion. The unique mix of powerful lyrics and the cry of Ashley’s voice is a match made in heaven. It’s almost impossible to listen to this song and not feel the hurt of a relationship gone wrong. “Winning Streak” is a clever and upbeat song that showcases Ashley’s unique sense of humor that she so frequently shows in her songs. Perhaps one of the most clever lines in this song is “If losing’s a game, I’m on a winning streak…” 18 | AW MAGAZINE
Ashley slows things down on “Has Anybody Ever Told You”. I think that this song is sure to be one of the fan favorites. It displays that unique country style that Ashley demonstrates so effortlessly. Another standout on the album is “If The Devil Don’t Want Me”. The clever lyrics play into that classic country melody that drives the song. You’re going to want to hear this song over and over again. The other songs on the album such as “From Time To Time”, “If Love Was Fair”, “Dixie” and “Mayflowers” add such a character to this album. The final song, “I’m Good At Leavin’” is a classic Ashley Monroe song. It’s a no nonsense anthem like only Ashley can do. What’s so special about Ashley Monroe is that it’s not just her distinct voice that sets her apart in the country music industry. It’s also her ability to incorporate the sounds of classic country with her own distinct style. Even more important, her music is incredibly genuine. Congratulations Ashley on another amazing record! Trust us, you should definitely go this this album.
Single reviews Country
duo
Love
&
Johnson and Jeff Bhasker. From the very first
Theft were propelled to
note you are pulled in. It’s not just the melody
fame with their #1 smash
that is so gripping, its the powerful lyrics that
hit “Angel Eyes” in 2012.
paint a tragic and beautiful picture. “I’ve been
Comprised of long time
sleepwalking, been wandering all night. Trying
friends Stephen Barker-
to take what’s lost and broken and make it right.
Liles and Eric Gunderson,
I’ve been sleepwalking, too close to the fire. But
the duo is at it again. Their latest offering, Whiskey
it’s the only place that I can hold you tight. In this
on my Breath, reflects a different side of the pair.
burning house…”
According to Stephen Barker-Liles, “We wanted to
powerful way of delivering these lyrics, that you
show a different side and make a record that sounds
can’t help but follow along with such a beautiful
like us,” he continues, “In some ways, we’ve played
and vivid story.
Cam has such a distinct and
it safe in the past, and I think we’re over that now.” Stephen goes further and says, “It’s easy to fall into
- Haley Maleah Hall
that when you’re working in the Nashville system and trying to please everybody, but eventually you
Kelsea
come around and realize that you need to be true to
Ballerini
may
be a newcomer on the
yourself.”
music scene, but she has already become one
The latest single is the title track from the project,
of country music’s most
Whiskey On My Breath. It’s an honest, heartfelt song about a man’s struggles with his own personal
popular
artists!
Her
demons. Even though he knows God will forgive
first single “Love Me
him, his greatest fear is meeting Jesus with Whiskey
Like You Mean It” was a
on my Breath. Great harmonies, powerful lyrics and
major success that garnered Kelsea her very first #1
very thought provoking song!
single! Now, she’s back with her new song “Dibs” and we think she has another hit on her hands!
- Tim Hall
This song was co-written by Kelsea Ballerini, Josh Kerr, Ryan Griffin and Jason Duke. “Dibs” is a I think it’s safe to say
fun and upbeat anthem about a girl who is calling
that
setting
dibs on that special someone. It’s both sassy and
Music
ablaze
energetic, which just happens to be some of our
new
single
favorite things about Kelsea Ballerini!
Cam
Country with
her
is
“Burning House”.
The
haunting single was co-
- Haley Maleah Hall
written by Cam, Tyler AIRPLAYWEEKLY.COM | 19
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For more information on Shania Twain and the Rock This Country Tour, visit shaniatwain.com.
20 | AW MAGAZINE
AU G U S T B I RT H D AYS
3
21
whitney duncan
13
kacey musgraves
26
21
lennon stella of Lennon & Maisy
hayden panettiere
19
21
brian kelly of florida georgia line
28
lee ann womack
25
Kenny rogers
28
shania twain
28
billy ray cyrus
leann rimes
jake owen AIRPLAYWEEKLY.COM | 21
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2
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4
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Maddie & Tae Announce 2015 Headlining Tour
AIRPLAYWEEKLY.COM | 23