Artist Showcase

Scott: First of all, congratulations on being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Jimmy: Thank you Scott, I appreciate that. I don't think I will ever get over that.

Jimmy: Well, actually Harold called me. He asked "Are you sitting down?" So, I sat down and he proceeded to tell me that we had been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He was so excited, and I could hear it in his voice. I was actually numb for a while. It's not something that you plan on, it's just something that happens in your life that you have no control over that comes from the good Lord above. It doesn’t get any better than that.

Scott: You've performed at the Grand Ole Opry a lot and I know there is no comparison in that and becoming a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, but what has that meant to you as well to perform on it regularly?

Jimmy: The Opry is always a special place. If you have just stepped on the stage, there is a spirit and presence on the stage that you can't explain. The people that have been there and the artists who have been there for years, it gives you goose bumps to know where you're going and where you've been.

Scott: There are a lot of stars that perform on the Opry and they get nervous every time they appear on the Opry. Do you still get nervous?

Jimmy: Yes. I get nervous anyway, but when I am there I get extra nervous. It's like singing in church. You have to do a good job and be on top of your game. It's just a place you want to go and do your best and you want to be there. It's the pentacle of any place you will ever perform. It's just an awesome place.

Jimmy: I was 26 years old. It was January 1982. I was with them for 21 years and we retired in October of 2002. I remember the first one and the last one like it was yesterday. I felt the same way the first show as I did the last. I stood there looking at them, remembering all the people we met and everything went through my mind like a flash. I couldn't believe it was our last concert, the same as I couldn't believe it was our first concert. You wouldn't think 21 years would go by so fast, but it did. They were at the top of their game when I entered the group and we just kept going from there.

Scott: Were you ready to retire and start to do your own thing or were you ready for another 21 years with The Statler Brothers?

Jimmy: It was actually a surprise to me. They called us in about 8 months and told us that it was our last tour. I figured we had about 5 more years left though. It was a scary thing to think that I would be onstage by myself. I decided that there was no way I could accomplish what we had done as a group, so I figured I would pick up where I had left off, which was singing and playing clubs. I don't do too much of that now, but it was scary to be up there by myself again. I had 3 pretty good crutches to lean on. My first solo album "One Door Closes" was how I looked at it. That's how I looked at my life. One door was closing, but another one was opening.

Scott: When your new album comes out, will it be Country, Gospel, or a little bit of everything?

Jimmy: It will be a little bit of everything. I am pretty sure it will be all new material. I have plans in the future of doing an all classic Country album and well as a classic Rock album of the 50's and 60's, and maybe even a duet album. There are a lot of great things going on, and I just have to find the time to do it all.

Scott: You were apart of the "Country Family Reunion: Nashville." This was a big deal for a lot of people, where the stars all got together. During the DVD, T.G. Sheppard mentioned a song that you had written and wanted you to sing it. By the time you were done, there wasn't a dry eye in the house. What was the name of that song and will it be on your next album?

Jimmy: That song will be on my new album and it's titled "On The Other Side." It came about because of a dream that I had about my father. I had a songwriter's appointment the next day and my father passed away in 1994. On a couple of occasions I have dreamed about it. These dreams affect me in such a big way, I can feel his presence. In just a few minutes, we had written the song. It's so simple, but so powerful. It's like God lets us have little glimpses of heaven in our dreams. So, I was really shocked when T.G. Sheppard wanted me to sing it on the spot. So, I got up and sang the song. I closed my eyes and let myself go and I think everyone was really moved.

Scott: There are a bunch of new groups coming out in Country Music. There is actually a group that I ran across that has a connection to you and that is the group Grandstaff. With them included in this question, how do you see Country Music in the next 5 to 10 years?

Jimmy: I think Country Music is going to continue to change. Nothing can stay the same. I think there will be people coming out of different groups and solo acts. It's hard to find the Elvis Presley's, Johnny Cash's and Roy Orbison's. It's hard to find those types of people right now. Now, it is so open, you have Itunes, YouTube and all those different ways to get music out there. I think Country Music has a great future as long as we don't get too "cookie cutter." I think people are going to get behind the reigns and take different avenues to hear music. I feel that Country Music is in good hands, so we need to set back and see what happens. There is a lot of great talent out there. Wil and Langdon, the boys from Grandstaff are really starting to push their music and get heard. I really hope they get out there and get heard.

Jimmy: They are everything to me. They are my life's blood and the reason I do what I do. The Statler Brothers had some of the greatest fans in the world and I have gotten to bring some of them with me. I couldn't do it without them.

Following your dreams is something we all try to do, but actually going all the way is a totally different story. Country Music newcomer, Fisher Stevenson has done just that. From a troubled childhood and a fan of hardcore Rock and Roll and Punk music, Fisher had never really listened to country music and never related to it. This all changed when he was given a pair of Rodney Crowell tickets one night. He learned just how powerful Country entertainers are. After becoming a fan of Rodney's, Fisher expanded his ears and became a fan of Dwight Yoakam and then The Mavericks.

Fisher made his way to California and after the record deal his band "Big Blue Hearts" landed, fell through, they headed south to Texas. After this period fizzled out, he went to Nashville as a songwriter. Once he got to Music City, Fisher learned the ropes and is now releasing his first single "No Tomorrow Here Tonight." It's making great progress on the charts, and turning heads all the time.

This tune is simply about two people who are together for the night. One night stands have always been a part of country music, but this song will have it pouring out of your speakers. When people are going through a rough spot, finding a companion for the night seems to make things a little easier. For these two characters, "there is no such thing as time." This is a great song that people are bound to love. Everyone needs to be on the watch for Fisher Stevenson and listen up for "No Tomorrow Here Tonight."

One of the greatest things about Nashville is that no matter where you go, you can hear great country music. It can be heard in the nicest bars and the smallest dives, but you'll hear it. One of the best acts that I have ever heard is a young man who takes great pride in his songwriting and shows. I saw him performing in a little diner off of Music Valley Drive by the Ernest Tubb Record Shop called Rudy's Country Music Cafe. Gary was on the little stage jamming with the owner, Diane Berry, and it was obvious that they were having fun.

As he was sitting onstage, someone bought his CD and right away he got excited saying "I just sold by hundredth copy and it's officially plywood." It's great to see this kind of humor from a struggling artist. Once you listen to this awesome, eight-song album, it will become clear that he deserves so much more out of music row. "Country" is the only way you can describe Gary. His voice, style and stories all reflect his life, interest and dreams. Gary Gibson's self-titled CD was produced by himself, Matt Lindsey and Dave Lindsey. The first track is "Little Bitty Red Headed Redneck Girl." This is a catchy little tune and a fan favorite at Rudy's. The girls eat it up and so does Gary.

Most people in Country Music refer to Vern Gosden as "The Voice." There is no denying his amazing voice and way with words. Well, Gary captured that same feeling when he recorded one of Vern's most popular songs, "I Can Tell By The Way You Dance." "Merle Haggard And Me" is another great Country tune that everyone should hear. Gary co-wrote this song and it's obvious the love and respect he has for the "Hag." Gary teamed up with another "up and comer," Stacy Scruggs on a remake of "Jackson." When you hear this tune, you can tell they had a lot of fun recording it. They may not be Johnny and June, but they give it everything they have and I'm sure everyone will like it.

The song that had be hooked on this album is "I've Had All Of Nashville I Can Stand." It was written by Gary Gibson, Seth Hopkins and Stacy Scruggs. With everything going on in Country Music, people think it's better now than it ever was, but that's not the case. Some industry folks and people that are involved in one way or another think that Nashville is spiraling out of control and will be gone if someone doesn't step up to the plate and try to help. That's exactly what this song is about. Who would have ever thought Stonewall Jackson would have to sue the Grand Ole Opry just so he could perform on the stage that he has supported for so many years. It seems the only way to be heard anymore is if you are young, blonde and less than a hundred pounds. In Rock and Roll, the legends are embraced and if you are asked to go on tour with them, it's an honor. Well, not in Country Music. All of the power has been placed into a select few, who could care less about anything other than money. Well, Gary Gibson makes sure and lets everyone know he's disgusted and tired of it. Unfortunately, more people have not stood up to the plate to voice their opinion. This truly is a Country album and everyone needs to hear it. Check out Gary's Myspace page at WWW.Myspace.Com/GaryGibson1 and you too will be able to get this record. Support your independent and struggling artists. They usually make the best record with the most heart.

Track List

"All I ever wanted to do was sing." Janie Fricke has gone from Indiana farm girl to internationally acclaimed recording artist throughout her career. She was born in South Whitley, Indiana, and raised on a 400-acre farm where her father taught her how to play guitar. From county fairs to corporate trade shows, live concerts, in recording studios, or before millions on television, Fricke's individual sound and performance personality has captivated audiences around the world. Fricke began her career singing in a "little church up the road" where her mother played piano. She sang at local coffeehouses, high school events, as well as her way through college where she obtained her degree from Indiana University in elementary education.

Fricke then chose a musical career, working in Memphis, Dallas and Los Angeles. There, as one of the marketing industry's most successful jingle singers, her voice became known to millions as the voice for such advertising giants as United Airlines, Coca-Cola, 7-Up, and Red Lobster.

Her voice led her to singing sessions for Country artists such as Loretta Lynn, Eddie Rabbitt, Crystal Gayle, Ronnie Milsap, Barbara Mandrell, Mel Tillis, Johnny Duncan and others. She has also been given the privilege to sing on albums for Charlie Rich and Elvis Presley, after their deaths. It was a line in Johnny Duncan's single, Stranger that ultimately gained the most attention for Fricke. When it hit the top of the charts in 1977, fans wanted to know who sang the line, "Shut out the light and lead me..." The music industry took notice as her voice was heard on duets with Merle Haggard, Moe Bandy and others, leading her to her first major recording contract. Fricke soon began to dominate the country charts with smash hits such as Don't Worry ' Bout Me Baby, He’s A Heartache and You’re Heart’s Not In It. It was only a matter of time before she started winning awards. Included among them are: Country Music Association's Female Vocalist of the Year, Music City News Female Vocalist of the Year, "Billboard" Top Country Female Vocalist, "Cash Bed' Top Country Female Vocalist, Academy of Country Music Female Vocalist of the Year, British-based Country Music Round Up Most Popular International Female Solo Act, and she was chosen to the Country Music Hall of Fame Walkway of Stars. Twice she has been nominated for the coveted (Grammy Award, once for her It Ain't Easy Being Easy In her recording career, Janie has released 23 albums and 36 hit singles. When she relaxes she spends time with her Husband Jeff and her animals. She attends church near her home. Remembering from childhood the importance of her confirmation. Thankful for her blessings, Janie feels these values have helped her become the woman she is today. From an Indiana farm girl to an internationally acclaimed recording artist, she has never lost the pure heart and love of music that launched her career. And today, Janie Fricke sings on..

Joe Logan Diffie was born and raised in Oklahoma, where he was immersed in music from a young age. His first public performance came in his aunt's country band when he was only four.

It was songwriting that lured Joe to Nashville after his song Love On The Rocks was recorded by Hank Thompson.

Diffie found work in the Nashville-area Gibson guitar plant and soon established himself as one of Music Row's top demo singers. "When I first came to Nashville I sang a lot of demo recordings--songs that would be pitched to other artists," he explains. "I had worked in a foundry in Oklahoma , and singing for a living seemed like a piece of heaven. I took it very seriously, making sure I told each song's story the way I thought the songwriter intended.

"I'd written a few songs that had been recorded," he continues. "Holly Dunn recorded my song, There Goes My Heart Again, and when I heard her version it confirmed that her interpretation of my lyrics was what made it a hit. So I've always learned the 'story' before I sing the song."

That innate sense of phrase and meaning, that relentless attention to detail, served Diffie well as he made the transition from demo singer to major label recording artist.

His first hits including Home, If You Want Me To, If The Devil Danced In Empty Pockets, and New Way To Light Up An Old Flame established Diffie as, arguably, country music's foremost balladeer or as Vern Gosdin, according to The News-Times, said, “the man with the golden voice.”

Home at number one became the first single in history to top the country music charts of Billboard , Radio & Records , and Gavin Report simultaneously. According to imusic.com, Joe was also the “first country singer to be accorded a #1 hit his first time at bat” with “Home”.

As his career progressed, Joe began flashing a more playful side on up-tempo smashes like John Deere Green , Third Rock From The Sun , Bigger Than The Beatles and Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die).

He was inducted into the Nashville 's legendary Grand Ole Opry and nominated for CMA Male Vocalist of the Year and for a CMA for his duet with Mary-Chapin Carpenter on “Not Too Much To Ask” which Joe wrote. Over the course of the nineties, Joe's steady radio success helped notch his belt with 12 #1 Hits, over 20 Top 10 Chart Hits, two platinum albums and two gold albums. Along the way Joe also picked up a CMA for Vocal Event of the Year with George Jones on I Don't Need Your Rocking Chair and a Grammy for Same Old Train.

Joe also founded the First Steps concert and golf tournament – an annual event which raises money for disabled children –in honor of his son Tyler. As a surprise the Country Music Broadcasters honored Joe with the Humanitarian of the Year award.

Along with singing a good country song, Joe is also a successful songwriter having most recently collaborated on Jo Dee Messina's smash hit My Give A Damn's Busted . Other famous songs of Joe's include Tim McGraw's Memory Lane , Doug Stone's Burning Down The Town , Tracy Lawrence's I Got A Feeling , Conway Twitty's I'm The Only Thing I'll Hold Against You, and more.

Joe's recent album Tougher Than Nails was co-produced with Lonnie Wilson and Buddy Cannon. George Jones, with whom Diffie won a 1993 CMA Award, voices a duet with Diffie on What Would Waylon Do? "This album shows more of me-the way I was raised, where I am in life, how I approach things--than anything else I've recorded," Diffie says.

Currently on the Rockin' Roadhouse Tour with Aaron Tippin and Mark Chestnut, Joe plans to begin shows in Branson, Missouri on September 6, 2008, at the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre. Fans will be able to see Joe along with friends, family, and comedian Paul Harris at 8:00 PM, Tuesday through

Born in the heart of downtown Nashville just blocks from Music Row Stacy Scruggs was raised with a firm understanding of the rich heritage of country music. She grew up in west Nashville on the banks of the Harpeth River where she lived until her mother remarried and the family relocated to Alton, IL, A small town on the Mississippi river where her stepfather worked as a riverboat engineer.

“The river, and the music that accompanied it, always seemed to be an underlying current in my life. Nothing was polished. Everything was raw and very real. You could feel and relate to the music in a way that is rare today. I was exposed to Vern Gosdin, Gene Watson and George Jones when all my friends were listening to Bon Jovi and Ozzy. I loved the “beer soaked tear soaked songs” and the sadder the better. They all thought I was crazy”

Which is why when Stacy sings there is an undeniable traditional sound that comes directly from the influences of artist like Tammy Wynette, Connie Smith and Loretta Lynn.

After graduating from high school she returned to Tennessee to build a life and pursue a career in the music business. But, like it always does, life happens and the music was put on the back burner for a while. Now a full time mother and a supervisor at The Country Music Hall of Fame Stacy devotes every second she can to carrying the torch for the traditional country sound that made Nashville what it is today.

For the last few years she has been a staple at local clubs in Nashville like The Stage and Legends Corner, singing demos and making the rounds at the writers nights trying to learn the ins and outs of the music business. She has recently hit the road as an opening act and headlining her own shows.

“I have been so lucky that I have had the opportunity to work with so many talented musicians in my band over the last few years. Knowing that they have been on the road with artist such as Kitty Wells, Loretta Lynn and Merle Haggard keeps the bar set high. I truly feel honored to have them with me. My band has been a tremendous support and I wouldn’t be where I am without them. For me it’s about the whole package. After my children, performing is the most important thing to me. I would love to sign with a major label some day but as long as I have the opportunity to perform the traditional country music that I love so much I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Chesnutt got his start in the honky-tonks of Beaumont, Texas, learning from his father, Bob Chesnutt, a singer, record collector and major fan of classic country music. Playing alongside his dad, Mark embraced his father’s influence one set at a time and to begin making a name for himself.

Mark sang covers by Lefty, Merle, George and Waylon to develop his
unmatched crowd-pleasing rapport and his authentic country style.

Bob Chesnutt often traveled to Nashville to record and to broaden his exposure. He began taking Mark along to record when he was just 17. After nearly a decade of recording on regional labels, word got out about this young country vocalist. Music Row executives came to hear Mark on his own Texas turf and recognized the depth of Mark Chesnutt’s raw talent. In 1989, he was signed to MCA Nashville and his list of accolades tells the rest of his story. With the release of his first single “Too Cold At Home,” Mark established himself as one of country’s most authentic and talented vocalists. He won the CMA Horizon Award attracting the attention of country legend [and Mark’s greatest mentor] George Jones who introduced him as “A boy from Beaumont, Texas who is the real deal.” That recognition and initial success opened the door to offer Mark his chance of a lifetime, to do what he loved most—sing country music for country fans; this time, on a national level. “The first couple years it was non-stop.” Mark says. “I can remember one time during a tour, I didn’t step foot on the front porch for ten months, with exception of a day or a day-and-a-half, then, it was right back out again.”

Mark’s dedication paid off. He developed a true blue fan base. Fans, he confides, “are the reason for my success.” His fans helped his records to climb the charts one right after the other making him one of Billboard’s Ten Most-Played Radio Artists of the ‘90’s. Mark’s singles were some the decade’s most memorable; from the fun tempo “Bubba Shot The Jukebox” to emotional ballad “I’ll Think Of Something.” Mark is easily identified for his string of hits including “Brother Jukebox,” “Blame It On Texas,” “Old Flames Have New Names,” “Old Country,” “It Sure Is Monday,” “Almost Goodbye,” “I Just Wanted You To Know,” “Going Through The Big D,” “It’s A Little Too Late,” “Gonna Get A Life,” and one of his biggest, “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing;” a song that held its position at the top of the charts for four consecutive weeks.

Of all the recorded highlights Chesnutt has enjoyed, they take a back seat to his first love; Mark Chesnutt lives to perform on stage. “I just make records because I want people to come see my show,” he says with a grin. “Recording music for folks to just listen to music is great,” he says, “but I’ve got to be out there on stage making it.” Fans who have seen him perform agree. Known as one of the industry’s hardest-working concert performers, maintaining a hefty tour schedule and steady presence in front of his fans, Mark’s dedication to deliver live music is unsurpassed. Mark has been on the road since 1990. Whether you hear Mark Chesnutt with a new release on the radio, or see his face on the cover of a new CD, folks can always find Mark doing what he was born to do, playing. “The clubs and honky tonks are home for me; it’s comfortable and I’m always with friends,” says Chesnutt.

Married since 1992, Mark and Tracie Chesnutt are the loving parents of three boys, Waylon, Casey and Cameron.

Close your eyes. Lean back and relax. That warm, soothing, mellow voice that whisks you away to a happier time belongs to none other than the incomparable Jack Greene. As one of country music's most enduring and best-loved stars, Jack has thrilled millions over a career that has spanned over 4 decades. His unforgettable hits include "Statue of a Fool," "There Goes My Everything," and "All the Time," all of which have been immortalized by enthusiastic fans who demand to hear them wherever he plays.

Having toured as a drummer in the Texas Troubadour band for the legendary Ernest Tubb, Jack could scarcely have imagined the incredible success he was to achieve as a solo performer. However, E.T. could see the dynamic potential in his protege, and actively encouraged him to strike out on his own. The rest is the stuff of history. The pinnacle of his success came during the 1967 CMA awards, where he swept every major prize including Single of the Year, Album of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Song of the Year for "There Goes My Everything." The enduring popularity of that song is reflected in the fact that it has been recorded no less than 111 times, in 14 languages. Due to Jack's immense popularity, he was later inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry and to this day, remains a regular on the weekly Saturday night programs that have become a tradition for country music lovers everywhere.

Jack's accomplishments have been legion, and his notoriety has spread across the globe. A multiple Grammy award nominee, he was also recognized by Billboard Magazine as one of the Top 100 "Most Played Artists" over the last 40 years. His string of nine #1 hits was complemented by two #1-selling albums, one of which stayed at the top of the charts for a full year! Among his other accolades was enshrinement into the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame in 1989, and receipt of the "Living Legend" award at the Major Independent Record Label awards show. The magnitude of Jack's success, and the manner in which his music has been embraced by his fans, was perhaps best captured in an Associated Press article characterizing him as "the Garth Brooks of his era."

The love of performing and the seemingly insatiable appetite for his music among his loyal fans, has prompted Jack to continue what he loves to do most. A true ambassador of country music, he is the consummate entertainer, always ready with an autograph, a warm smile, and an uplifting tune. One of his most recent projects was to collaborate on the "Opry Legends Collection," which consists of a series of albums featuring various stars of the Opry. Whether in the recording studio, or on a stage in front of his legions of fans, Jack Greene will always be known as the Gentlemen of Country Music.

Leroy Van Dyke, of "Auctioneer" and "Walk On By" fame, star of the movie, "What Am I Bid?" is known around the world as an entertainer, recording artist, radio and television star, actor, auctioneer and veteran of the Nevada circuit. He has recorded over 500 songs, and probably holds the record for most repeat-performance bookings of any working, name country music entertainer. He has worked 40 to 70 fairs and livestock events per year for over five decades, in addition to a great variety of other engagements.

He was born on a farm (not in a hospital) in rural Pettis County, Missouri, without the amenities of running water and electricity. Elementary schooling was in one-room country schools, then to high school at Sedalia, where he ranked third in a class of 180 graduates.

Leroy is a graduate of the University of Missouri with a dual major: Animal Husbandry and Journalism, with a minor in Speech. He received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, did one semester of graduate work, and was a member of both the junior and senior University of Missouri intercollegiate livestock judging teams.

After serving as a special agent, U. S. Army Counter-Intelligence Corps, in Korea, Leroy was catapulted into show business while working as a journalist, when his self-penned "Auctioneer" recording went a million-plus just weeks after its release. He then joined Red Foley's ABC-TV Network "Ozark Jubilee" in Springfield, Missouri, as a regular member, and continued in that position for three years until the show left the air.

He again had a multi-million seller with "Walk On By," a record that stayed in the charts an incredible 42 weeks, nineteen in the number one position, and was later named by Billboard Magazine as the biggest country music record in history! Leroy then moved to Nashville, Tennessee, and became a regular member of the world-famous Grand Ole Opry.

Music industry experts named Leroy Van Dyke as the Country Music Entertainer of the Decade for the 1960s. He had the starring role in the 1967 movie "What Am I Bid?."

Leroy was a founding co-host of "Country Crossroads," the most widely syndicated show in radio history; he hosted his own syndicated television series, "The Leroy Van Dyke Show;" he hosted the 1965 Country Music Association Awards Show at which Ernest Tubb was inducted into the Hall of Fame; he was the first entertainer to receive the prestigious Country Music Association Founding President's Award for contributing to the advancement and improved image of country music; he served on the board of directors of the Country Music Association. .

He was selected by the Country Music Association to represent it in showcase situations at the Waldorf in New York, The Monteleone in New Orleans, The Edgewater Beach and the Conrad Hilton in Chicago, The Ambassador in Los Angeles and numerous Country Music Association functions in Nashville.

Van Dyke is considered by industry moguls and by his peers to be the entertainer who put professionalism in country music. He was the first to blaze a trail and take a staged, produced, choreographed, self-contained country music show to the "Strip" in Las Vegas. He was the first to take country music to Bourbon Street in New Orleans' famed French Quarter. He was the only country music performer ever to open a show for Marilyn Monroe.

Leroy is a 2001 inductee into the North American Country Music Association, International Hall of Fame

.
After more than four decades as an entertainer, Leroy still travels in excess of a hundred thousand performing miles yearly around the world . . . he performs in all facets of show business including fairs, festivals, concerts, rodeos, supper clubs, conventions, radio, television, recordings, the Nevada circuit, livestock events, agricultural shows and private functions.

He has not missed a performance in over four decades as an entertainer.

On a personal note, should you ask, Leroy will tell you that there are only four things he ever wanted to do: sing, sell, write, and raise livestock. He is living his dream. His name is a household word in country music circles around the world. He is an auctioneering Hall of Fame member. He was a successful journalist, and is the author of "Auctioneering, Motivation, Success," a work that is rapidly becoming the textbook of the auction profession. His Arabian mules are developing a reputation from New England to California and from Canada to the Deep South.

Call Gladys
1.800.316.1236
Email gvandyke@iland.net
Leroy Van Dyke Enterprises
29000 Highway V
Smithton, MO 65350
660-343-5373
FAX 660-343-5292

Many have dubbed Vince the un-official ambassador of country music. This isn't his official title, of course, but it's the role he occupies whether he's picking bluegrass with his boyhood heroes backstage at the Grand Ole Opry or trading jazz licks with the house band on The Late Show with David Letterman. Gill's prodigious talent, legendary compassion and quick wit have made him the face that country music likes to show the world.

Vincent Grant Gill was born April 12, 1957, in Norman, Oklahoma, the son of a federal judge and a homemaker. By the time he was in high school, he had become proficient on the banjo and guitar and was playing in his first bluegrass band. After graduation, he turned professional, working with such acts as the Bluegrass Alliance, Boone Creek, Sundance and, most famously, Pure Prairie League. For a time, Gill also toured with Rodney Crowell's high-octane backup band, the Cherry Bombs. In 1983, he signed to RCA Records, where he scored his first solo country hits, among them Oklahoma Borderline and Cinderella.

Gill moved to MCA Records in 1989. The following year, he achieved his big breakthrough with his When I Call Your Name, which won the Country Music Association's Single of the Year award. Since then, he has won 17 more CMA honors, including Entertainer of the Year twice and Song of the Year four times. To date, Gill has earned more CMA trophies than anyone else in history. He hosted the nationally televised CMA awards show from 1992 - 2003.

Since 1990, Gill has walked away with 18 Grammy awards. In 1991, he was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and remains one of that revered radio show's most active members. As a recording artist, Gill has racked up sales in excess of 22 million. His high, pure tenor voice and unerring sense of harmony have made him a favorite duet recording partner for dozens of fellow artists from Ralph Stanley to Barbra Streisand.

Active in a wide array of charities, one of Gill's causes is the annual The Vinny pro-celebrity golf tournament, which he established in 1993 to raise money for the Junior Golf program.

Gill's recent projects included reuniting with the legendary Notorious Cherry Bombs, the group of famed musicians Gill played with in the late 1970s. The group released a critically-acclaimed album in 2004. Gill co-produced wife Amy Grant's second hymns project, Rock Of Ages . . . Hymns & Faith, which was awarded a Grammy for Best Southern, Country, or Bluegrass Gospel Album.

Thom Bresh is a multi-faceted entertainer. A singer, songwriter, recording artist, impressionist, and instrumentalist with an eventful career stemming from the tender age of three. He is the son of legendary Hall of Fame guitar great Merle Travis, and can recreate that famous Travis style with an incredible Bresh twist.

When touring, Thom travels with some of his array of guitars including his signature handcrafted Dualette, (the famous two-sided guitar that he refers to as My Band), a custom signature Plummer" attached to a synthesizer creating incredible instrument replications, (such as a horn section, piano, and strings), and his "Unity Special" 18 inch archtop, (a state of the art version of Merle Travis' famous Gibson Super 400 Special). You may also catch the Breshman with one of his signature Bresh Spirits.

Thom and extraordinary guitar pickin' have become one... globally. In New Zealand, Bresh's audiences come to see "The yank with the 2 sided guitar." Thom Bresh is hailed throughout France for his captivating sound and memorable stage presence. He also carries the coveted title of "Wine Lord" by both the World Wine Counsel in Bordeaux, France and Patrimonio, Corsica. In Europe he has performed with entertainment greats like Marcel Dadi, Frances Cabrel and Albert Lee. In his vast career, he has shared audiences with everyone from Bob Hope to Gordon Lightfoot.

He guest starred with Chet Atkins and Steve Wariner on the TNN special "A Salute to the Country Greats." He has hosted his own successful weekly television variety show called "Nashville Swing," and was a regular on Dinah! and the Merv Griffin Show.

Thom Bresh "the Producer" is in demand among the music industry's guitarists. Classical guitarist "Valerie Duchateau" made the long journey from France just to be produced by Bresh. He has also produced country guitar great, Jerry Reed. As a Producer, he received Grammy nominations for the Merle Travis album, "Travis Pickin," his instrumental CD, “Wires to the Wood” and an Academy Award nomination for "Over You," theme song from the movie Tender Mercies, in addition to producing six of his own CDs. His CD "Son of a Guitar Pickin' Man" brought him much acclaim from magazines such as "Guitar Player," to Britain's "Now Dig This." Thom‚s latest CD, "Guts & Steel", is a duet CD with the extraordinary fingerpicker, Buster B. Jones. It was released on Solid Air Records.

Music is not his only love. As a videographer, Bresh has shot, produced and edited projects that include Hank Thompson, Lyle Lovett, Brooks & Dunn, George Jones, Tanya Tucker and a long-form narrative-music-sitcom video starring Jerry Reed called "Another Puff".

He is an accomplished impressionist/comedian with a diverse collection of voices ranging from country greats to various political icons, which he incorporates with ease into his performances leaving audiences rolling in the aisles with laughter. This brilliant comedic timing and unique delivery led to two HBO Specials.

Meet Ray Price

Ray Price is one of American music's truly great stars. He was inducted into Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996, but has long shown his genius in other genres as well. After more than a half-century in the business, Ray can still belt out a song with the best of them, whether it's honky-tonk, country, pop, blues, jazz, or anything in between.

Audiences full of cheering fans still flock to his concerts whenever he's in town, and that's fairly often, for this vigorous Texan maintains a hefty tour schedule. On Inauguration Eve 2001, Ray was proud to be on stage in Washington, D.C., as one of the Texas performers who entertained enormous crowds at the Texas Black Tie and Boots Ball.

This dynamic artist can be proud also of his role in the history of country music. In fact, he has helped to write that history as well as live it. He was born Noble Ray Price on January 12, 1926, near Perryville, Texas, and his musical talents became evident at an early age. While in college, Ray became a regular on KRLD radio's "Big D Jamboree" show in Dallas.

On March 15, 1951, Ray signed with Columbia Records, and in 1952, moved to Nashville where his great friend and supporter was the legendary Hank Williams. Hank got Ray on the Grand Ole Opry and the two shared bachelor quarters during the last year of Hank's brief but memorable life.

Ray's band was initially formed from the remnants of Hank Williams' band, the Drifting Cowboys. The band would later become the Cherokee Cowboys, and Ray himself would become known as the Cherokee Cowboy. Ray has always had an uncanny talent for recognizing quality in both music and musicians. The careers of many country music superstars, such as Willie Nelson, Roger Miller, Johnny Paycheck, Darrell McCall, Buddy Emmons, and Johnny Bush, began with Ray Price and the Cherokee Cowboys.

Ray Price became noted for his magnificent show-stopping voice and honky-tonk hits throughout the 1950's. On the way to the top, he also helped revolutionize more than a few changes in country music. In 1956, when rock and roll was threatening to drown out the sounds of traditional country music, it took Ray's rendition of "Crazy Arms" to knock Elvis off the charts. That recording's 45 weeks at the top of the charts got people listening to country music again and clearly established Ray Price as a leader in the field.

But Ray has never been so traditional that he didn't innovate. During the "Crazy Arms" recording session, he added drums and a 4-4 bass and shuffle rhythm that redefined the way country music was played for years to come.

Then, just when everyone else in country was turning to that sound, Ray, in 1967, went in a new direction and added a large string section and with his concert-calibre voice soared into a beautiful, show-stopping rendition of the classic, "Danny Boy."

Audiences were stunned by its beauty. His "Danny Boy" album made him new fans in sections of the country far beyond the Mason- Dixon line. But some in Nashville and the South thought he had deserted country music and didn't take it well.

Unperturbed, Ray went on to new heights with his early 1970's hits, "For the Good Times," and "I Won't Mention it Again." He refused to accept boundaries between country and pop. Music was music.

A lot of Ray's strong feeling about artificial boundaries in music goes back to his close association with his mentor and close friend, Hank Williams. Ray resented the fact that Hank's songs were eagerly accepted by the pop world but the country singer himself was not. At least in that day and age. A few year later he would have been, according to Ray. But not then.

This Country Music Hall of Fame legend is the soul of country music. He continues to be creative and expand conventional boundaries with his music, while never forgetting his roots. His timeless music and incredible commitment to performing has made him a bridge between the early days of country to today's contemporary country music.

The Los Angeles Times has declared Ray Price to be 'a national treasure.' Another newspaper has compared him to Frank Sinatra. Ask any Ray Price fan, however, if that's true. Most of them will tell you that Ray Price has no equal anywhere when it comes to delivering a song and pleasing an audience.

Meet Johnny Counterfit

Johnny Counterfit with his classic Johnny Cash impression.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, comedian/celebrity voice impressionist, Johnny Counterfit started developing his skills when, as a child, he watched most of the cartoons found on television in the late 1960’s. Through Elementary and High School, Johnny would entertain students and teachers, sometimes to the chagrin of the latter, while honing his vocal and ad-lib skills during class and recess.

While still in High School, the young comedian began performing on stage, at the Nashville West Restaurant and Bar, in Portland, Oregon, albeit as a “freebie” on open-mic Sunday evenings. In 1981, Johnny decided to attempt a career in show business, got together with a band, and never looked back.

In 1990, the big break came when ABC in Hollywood became aware of Counterfit, and asked him to be part of its new America’s Funniest People broadcast. After that, Johnny appeared on a host of networks including CBS, TNN (The Nashville Network), TBS, and The Disney Channel. Johnny’s voices starred in the (1986) EMMY award winning feature, A Claymation Christmas Celebration, still being sold on Amazon.com.

Johnny entertains on the White House lawn.

In addition to performing in concert, Johnny has recorded a number of albums, and has been featured in film, on broadcast radio, and television. Sirius and XM Satellite networks regularly air his material, and you will find Johnny on albums with George Jones, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Bobby Bare, and Willie Nelson.

Counterfit travels from his home in Nashville, and along with comedy, writes and records country and inspirational songs.

For more information, go to: www.johnnycounterfit.com

Meet Stonewall Jackson

Stonewall Jackson was born in Tabor City, North Carolina. He was the youngest of three children. His father died when he was two and his mother

and the children hitch-hiked to South Georgia to her brother-in-law's farm where the possibility of work was better.

At 16 Stonewall changed his birth records and joined the Army. When the military found out his real age he was discharged. When he turned 17 he went right on back and joined the United States Navy. Sailor Stonewall took up picking the guitar and singing...and when he was discharged he decided that music was going to be his career.

As the legend goes, Stonewall drove to Nashville in his pick-up truck. Folks say that Stonewall stayed at a motel outside of town...and because he didn't like driving in the heavy citified traffic, walked to the Ryman Auditorium. When Wesley Rose of Acuff-Rose Publishing heard Stonewall, he phoned George Hay, "The Solemn Old Judge" at the Grand Ole Opry. Rose sent Stonewall over to WSM Radio to see the "Judge". Stonewall became the first and only unknown artist ever signed to the Opry. The audiences liked him and he quickly became a country star. Through his friendship with Ernest Tubb, he went on to his first round of personal appearances and he was soon signed by Columbia Records. This introduced him to a entirely new listening audience.

Life to Go became his first #1 hit in 1959 and it was followed by his classic Waterloo. A few of his other #1 sounds include I Wash My Hands in Muddy Water, A Wound Time Can't Erase, B.J. the D.J., Why I'm Walking, and Don't Be Angry.

Many of us have enjoyed Stonewall's music as he traveled across these United States entertaining fans of real country music. So many have also enjoyed his many appearances on the Grand Ole Opry.

Edited by Travis Kitt

Jimmy Fortune Interview

Track List