Gone Country: Demo Day and Critiques
I welcome criticism from other artists, as long as I ask for it, and I ask for it a lot. I'll go to other artists and say, "What do you think about that song I wrote? What do you think about an idea to do this, that or the other thing?" Some artists will come up and critique you without you asking them, and that can sometimes rub you the wrong way. But when the artists were working on Gone Country, it was a situation where these guys were fish out of water. They wrote a song and they had a work tape on it -- just them and a guitar or them and a piano. They really had no idea if they were close to hitting the mark or not. So for me to be able to critique those songs, I had to be able to tell them, "That part's good. That part's not. This works. That doesn't." They were wide open to it. I mean, they were soaking up everything I told them. It was a pretty big responsibility for me, though, to tell them the right thing. But it's no different then when I listen to songs that come in for records I'm going to produce or whatever. I'll listen to probably 100 songs a week from different people, and I'll know within the first 60 seconds if it's right or not.
To pair the cast members with some people who really know what they're doing, I called up a laundry list of the best songwriters in town, people I've been able to become friends with over the years. Most of them I've written with on one occasion or another, as well. And I put two writers per artist because I didn't know which artists would be good writers or not. Some of them might be great, and some of them might not be able to write at all. I teamed them up based on what I knew about their personalities and what would be the best combos. I think I matched them up pretty well because everybody wrote a great song. As far as the Nashville equation on how to write a hit song, I think I plugged them right in to that thing. It worked.
Maureen McCormick, of all people, exceeded my expectations. Now, Maureen is probably the weakest singer on the show. She's not really a vocalist or anything, but she wrote this song called "The Price I've Got to Pay for Being Me," that -- I swear to God -- is a hit song. It sounds like something Loretta Lynn would have written early on. It's just so direct -- three-chord country that just rips your heart out. When the cast heard her song, we all looked at her and went, "You've got to be kidding!" When I heard that, I said, "She went just way, way, way up on the totem pole as to who might win this show." I mean, that song is incredible.
©2008 Country Music Television, Inc., a Viacom company. A division of
Christina says:
I can’t wait to hear everyone’s songs, especially Diana’s. We haven’t heard anything from her or Sisqo yet.
KellieGirl says:
Maureen’s songwriting ability doesn’t surprise me a bit. If she doens’t win the show (which I wouldn’t mind seeing) will the song be recorded by another artist? I mean, a great song is a great song right? As long as the right person does it.Looking forward to tomorrow to hear a few licks from the cast.
diane says:
I cant wait to hear Diana sing……period..I have followed her since AI and it is just time for her to be appreciated…
alexis massey says:
Sisqo i can’t wait for!!!!!! The man is fire!!!!!!!!! It’s time for him to be appreciated!!!!!!!
kattod says:
I love the show! I can’t wait to hear all the songs they wrote!
Leah says:
John you certainly have skimped on the Diana Degarmo information on the show and in this blog. Why don’t we get to hear more about her?!
Displaced Southern Gal says:
With all the heart Mo has, I’m not surprised that her song is awesome, especially since it’s a subject she knows all too well…she’s paid - a lot! for being “Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!”
Diane is not crossing over to country, she is returning to country after switching to R & B/pop for Idol, etc. - she’s got a great future in the genre!
Irene says:
I vaguely recall seeing Miss Degarmo singing at Dollywood when she was much younger. She was probably 8 or 9 years old. Glad to see she has decided to “come home” It would be a travesty if she does not win.
Tracy Graisy says:
WOW! I have loved this show! Something pretty darn spectacular has to come from having one of the most multi-talented people in country music take them under his wing and show them the nuts and bolts of country music. I must admit when the show first aired, I was a bit surprised (not so pleasantly) of the celebrities that were chosen. Things quickly changed for me! Dee Snider has been a pleasant surprise. He’s been a real rock and has seemed to be a real supporter for everyone. I would love to see either Maureen or Diana take this because of their strong desire and dedication. Keep up the good work everyone!
Melissa says:
This is, by far, one of the BEST shows on TV. I wish we could give each episode a full hour like some of the other celeb-reality shows. I am a big fan of all music and to see such a diverse group of artists come together is just amazing. And the fact that John Rich is HOT just puts the icing on the cake!!
Kim says:
This message is for John Rich. I love this show, mostly because of your input. I have to say when I first heard “Save A Horse, Ride A Cowboy”, I thought it was cute,..but a little cheesey! But after listening to some of the many other songs that you have written, I have to say,…YOU ARE ONE AMAZING SONG WRITER!!! My favorite song performed by you and Big Kenny is “NEVER MIND ME!”
This song amazes me. This is a song that I can listen to 100 times a day and never get tired of. You are a refreshing, awesome talent! Please keep up the good work! I hope to see you in Texas someday. I live in Arlington, Texas. Very near Cowboys Arlington! Maybe I will see you guys perform there soon.
Dawn says:
Hi
I love this show fianlly country is getting the respect it needs You are a class act Mr. Rich!! Thank you
Dawn in Oregon
Nashville Rocks says:
I can’t wait to hear Diana’s song. She has been given the least face time out of all the seven. I hope she wins. I hope we really get to hear her sing this time.
karen says:
I have a great idea… Let Diana sing Maureens song and make them both winners…( Grin)
co_sgtmjr77 says:
I think artists, preformers in general; get stuck in the parts they play and this was a Good Country song! While I agree that her voice is weak, it could be done by G. Wilson and made into a hit: easy. Writting a song comes from the heart not the head, Maureen McCormick: Aka; Marsha Brady out did herself. I only see one problem in that once a hard rocker it’s a long road back to the basics and if your life has not had the “country life” it makes it even harder to understand that way of life. A+ to JR onhis comments to Maureen.
Susan says:
Hey John,
Can you make some room in that coat for me too?
P.S. Love the show!!
Daniel batson says:
Bobby you are so cool.And Mureen you are cool to.And dee you are you crazy not for not liking country music country music is the heart andsoul of america.And Sisqo you should on the america best dancer because got pretty cool moves.and you were right Julio does look like he humping something .And john Rich you are the king wedding songs. please write back i really like yalls show.and i am the coon hunter you will ever see. so see yall later.
Sicerely Daniel Batson
Diane says:
Karen I agree..if Maureens song is so good let Diana sing it..I bet Maureen would be honored..I also agree that she hasn’t gotten much “face” time but that is because the time was spent on the dysfunctionals for entertainment value of the show…Diana is polite…quiet..and there to win and that is what she concentrated on….She got cheated on AI and should have won..I hope she doesn’t get cheated here too..If they are looking for someone with longevity for country music it will be her..if they are looking for short term entertainment value then it will be one of the dysfuctional men..I loved Diana’s first CD..it was very age appropriate..but now I am ready to hear her sing something with more maturity..and grit to it..she has the voice..range..and strength of Martina..with her own style….I look forward to the finals…I just hope I am not disappointed again with
her not winning…What a wonderful young lady..and so diverse..pop…broadway..country….Go Diana
SUSANNE.diana fan 7777 says:
Tonight is the night!! I cannot wait. I hope Diana DeGarmo wins WOOO HOOOOOOO. Go Diana!! (she’s my favorite can you tell haha). Thank you for such a great show. All the cast is great. I love Bobby Brown too and think people are too hard on him. Good luck to all!
Love ya Diana.
SUE
Rose says:
I love the show! And my views on Bobby Brown has changed. He is very caring person and I wish the best for him. However, I would love to see Diane win “that girl can sing” Can’t wait until tonight to see the show.
Toto says:
I love this show. Can’t stand Bobby Brown though. Even before this show, but to each his own. Keep up the good work John! Hope to see another season of this.
Joi says:
Hi John, This has nothing to do w/ this blog. However ,I just wanted to ask a question and to leave a comment.. 1st, Where is Big Kenny in all of this, are you taking a break from each-other? And 2nd being from Newport Rhode Island, thanks for giving your support towards The Station Club Fire concert.. You Rock.. Sincerely Joi
Jenny says:
I think that it’s great and wonderful that Maureen can write a good song. However, and I could be way off here, but in the big picture can she really pull it off? I mean, let’s face it, it’s hard to be an up and coming artist of any genre especially country, where not only can you sing, you have to look the part. I think it’s going to be really hard for her, and to get a connection with a country audience. But that’s just my opinion. For what it’s worth.
Jan says:
Honestly we’ve had so much snow up here keeping us housebound that this show is the highlight of my week. I would have to say that when you see celebrities whether they’re a singer or an actor you just get to see that side of them. I think John Rich has shown us a side of himself you don’t often get to see. I think he has gone into this with a lot of thought, has shown great respect to each member of the cast while keeping this entertaining for all of the viewers. A big part of “reality” shows is of course the dynamic you have going between the members. I don’t think I’ve watched a reality show/contest that has caused me to laugh and cry. Thank goodness for the comic relief provided by Bobby, Dee, Carnie & Marsha Marsha. Thank you John Rich for the ride on a very long long winter up behind the snowy cheddar curtain in Wisconsin.
Lilly says:
Why on earth would Diana want to sing Maureen’s song? How is a 20 year old going to relate to a song that is 100% about 50 year old Maureen?! Let somebody Maureen’s age record it.
Christina says:
If Maureen wrote such a good song but isn’t really a strong singer, maybe someone else could win (like Diana) and John could produce Maureen’s song with another artist that would be appropriate for the song.
Reaccia says:
Hi
Its now nice to know that somebody is trying to make people notice that it is hard to be country. Not everything is the same in everyway. It’s not easy being he way you are and do stuff like us country people do.
Jenny Marie says:
John, GREAT show! Would love to see more of it! Begging for another season, as long as you and Granny Rich are in it! Thank you! God Bless!
Deb from Wisconsin says:
I love the show. Not crazy about Mr. Brown, peeing all
over. YUCK. I don’t always listen to country music, but
I do like a lot of it. I’m excited to hear what these guys
will do for country music. Great idea, to have this type
of show.
You all Rock!
Lorrie says:
I think that Maureen is AWESOME!!!!! I’m hope she wins.
I think that she has the most heart of the cast members.
I’m looking forward to watching the show tonight, I think it’s one of the best shows on television.
I love you Maureen!
Lisa says:
Hey John, I love this show!
I also love Gretchen, and was glad to see her on the show.
If yall do another Gone Country How about seeing Big John……….John Anderson that is.
That would be cool if the cast members went out to his farm, or teamed up with him to write a song……..now we’re talkin!!!!!!!
John is about as country as it gets.
I’m a fan of Maureens and I’m cheering for her!
Stay cool John, and be good! HEE HEE!
Shannon says:
Hello i love the show i like the episode where they went to the hospital and ciqso and bobby went up to the little girls room and prayed and all that was so sweet and because they did this the little girl recoverd and is doing well. I also cant wait until i hear Dee Snider sing i have heard his twisted sister stuff this should prove to be interesting !!
Carol Noss says:
Hi John,
My husband & I caught a show of your in Hershey, PA. You were wonderful. Always love your songs and dedication to what you do and it show through this show. I am hoping that they bring it back another season. Good Luck to you and the cast. And last but not least I have to say that you look WONDERFUL when you stepped of the helicopter that first night. You are the total package. Good Luck from PA.
Diane says:
I thought the finale was next week??
Angi Campbell says:
John, I don’t know really how far into the show you guys are. I try to catch up during the day because I can’t watch it when it airs. If you can turn Dee or Bobbie into a country singer, more power to you dude. I do love the show. I just wish I knew where it was really, I mean, I’m just now seeing the episodes of the hospital visit and the clothes shopping one.
Keep up the good work with this wonderful and fun show. I’m a huge fan of country music and of your songs.
P.S. Do you know when we will hear more from Cowboy Troy???
Dillon from texas says:
im not so crazy bout Dee on the show he already admits he doesnt like country music which would make me kick him off on the spot. And give me a break, ooo i dont like to wear jackets waaa.
BrianLee says:
KIM,
I completely agree with you, in fact, I stated in an earlier post that “never mind me” was a great song and proof of immense talent. Big and Rich’s ability to blend popular genres of music is their great strength and the reason people just love them. About the show: I have waited this long to hear some music, I just hope the songs are not lame.
Kris Brownstown says:
Man I LOVE this show. I LOVE Carney Wilson she is a sweety and so is Maurenn. You girls ROCK I mean COUNTRY. I LOVE this show and can’t wait to see who wins it. I’m thinking Sysco. Kris Brownstown Michigan
JENNIFER MONTGOMERY says:
FIRST OF ALL JR YOU ARE A REAL BUTT.. YOU ARE PUTTING THESES PEOPLE DOWN FOR HOW HARD THEY TRIED AND FOR WHAT THEY FELT IN THEIR HEARTS WHEN THEY SONG THEIR SONGS… YOU REALLY NEED TO LISTEN AT HOW YOU SOUND WITHOUT YOUR PARTNER BIG……… IF IT WAS NOT FOR HIM THEN YOU WOULD NOT EVEN EXSIST TO A LOT OF PEOPLE.. AND BY THE WAY IS THERE SOMETHING WRONG WITH YOU THAT GRETCHEN WILSON WANT EVEN GIVE YOU THE TIME OF DAY………….
JENNIFER MONTGOMERY says:
CARNEY WILSON YOUR SONG WAS WONDERFUL IT MADE MY HEART THUMP EVEN HARDER THAN ANYTHING IN THIS WORLD…….. YOU NEED TO ASK JR HOW IN THE HELL HE MAKES IT WITHOUT BIG WHY IS HE NOT ON THE SHOW…………
Dillon from texas says:
Yea john keep bein tough if they cant handle it maybe they shouldnt be on the show!
Angela says:
I have really enjoyed the show so far. However, I feel the need to weigh in on my reaction to your “character” on the show. I am a fan of your music. Have your last CD. But I am shocked at your attitude on this program. Country artists, just like artists in any genre offer a variety of flavors in songs, style and music. The way you are attempting to position yourself on this show is turning me off. WE in Nashville are all not the same. Not all country music fans live the way you portray us. You offer a cocky stereotype of Nashvillians, songwriters and country music artists that I do not appreciate. If you really listen to many of the recent country stars and their hits you will notice that a great many of them sound a lot like pop. I’ll bet if you search country music history you will find that there are a great number of artists whose bad attitude attributed to their ultimate demise. Fans love authenticity, not attitude. And, I tip my hat to the participants in this show for not letting your comments such as threatening to smack the hell out of someone or kick someone’s ass push them out the door. Great music. Fantastic songs. Very bad attitude.
Leia says:
Sisqó is hot, he can move and I love his voice.
diane says:
Watching the show..my question is is it a songwriting contest or a singing contest..Is the best written song by a poor singer going to win or is the best singer who can sing other songwriters songs..as many country singers do going to win..Diana had no camera time the entire shows and then he nails her…..She should win…put it together girlfriend..not to mention they all have songwriters helping them so they aren’t on their own..and the songwriters should catch a bad song before it ever leaves the room. Maureen should be a songwriter..Diana the singer..let each one do what they are best at..
Leah says:
Man John you really ripped into Diana. Girl can take it but geez that’s unfair considering she hasn’t gotten ANY air time.
Lily says:
Dierks Bentley is awesome and he dresses more like Dee. You either got it or you don’t. Clothes alone don’t make you country.
Lily says:
And I bet Dierks could not line dance.
Kathleen Kennedy says:
Ok…here’s the deal; if there is a ‘next season’ of Gone Country’, each weekly episode needs to be an hour long. 22 mins in the half hour is just ‘not’ enough to dig into the meat of this competition. Really wanna see the details of the song writing and performances; the preparation for performances and the intense emotion tht accompanies. Want to see more of the life they live together in the house and what they really think about each other. Want to see JR interact more with the contestants.
Am not looking for another AI…just want to see more of what this one is all about.
Have thoroughly enjoyed this season. It’s been great. Sad to see it ending already. Good luck all on the what lies ahead in the world of country music.
Sarah says:
Wow John…you really thought Diana’s song was worse than Julio’s? Julio sounded like he was singing a Spanish love ballad. At least Diana’s had a bit of “twang” in it. She’s the best singer on this show, hands down. She’s beautiful and could sell, just like Carrie Underwood. You’d be smart to get this girl rolling in Nashville. I’m not sure why you ripped into her like that. It’s not like she was trying to offend you with her song, but that’s the WAY you acted! Lost alot of respect for you tonight man. Disappointing. Keep your head up Di!
Jody K. says:
That was brutal!! Poor Diana!! The only time she gets any air time is you belittling, berating and humilating her. You can apease yourself by saying this was honesty, toughening her up or passion for your music. But if you hear yourself it was brutality. You came off as a real a-hole. I hope Diana wins and you apologize.
Janet says:
I am an aspiring country songwriter. I love this show because it’s very instructive for songwriters (and artists) who are trying to break into the business. We get a look at what to expect from Nashville. One of premises of the show tonight was that ‘country music should never be taken lightly.’ The show gives us an idea of the huge odds we’re up against. Great program.
kat, from NorthCarolina says:
Thank you for such an interesting show,I love country music and would love if they All could win,I think it takes alot of courage for Anyone to except constructive critizium,and I have to hand it to them they all took it gracefully,I want to incourage them to follow that dream and remember it’s not what cha got but what cha make of it!!Good luck everybody!
Jeanne Dean says:
I think all of them should be given a great big hand. They all gave their best, considering none of them are country people, which would make it harder then being country to start with.I have throughly enjoyed this show from day one!!
amy says:
I think what john said was true because to be country youve got to want it.It aint just a challenge and i’m already country but i give Carnie Wilson a high five because she’s put alot effort in it and put up with alot crap.
Max says:
John Rich is an asshole. I cannot believe you treated a 20 year old woman that way. She’s the true talent of the show and you certainly could have critiqued her negatively without being an abusive bully.
terry ward says:
JR stated that if you acted like an asshole Nashville was unforgiving—-then why the hell is anyone still talking to him. Who died and made him the jesus of country music. In tonite’s episode JR comes across as the angry fanatical dictator of country music. Somebody needs some anger management classes.
Nora says:
John—Just wondering,are you going to rip a new one to the songwriters that ‘helped’ Diana write that song like you did to her? You overacted big time. Please don’t be so mean!
DENISE says:
Hi John:
I just want you know that I think you are an incredible person for what you are doing. I love the show and you are so down to earth and tell it like you see it. I believe you will find the right person because you know what you are doing. You make great music and I truly enjoy it. Thanks
terry ward says:
And another thing–Diana regardless of what JR says or thinks I have your “pop” cd and I can’t wait to buy your 1st country cd. I think you would have more success without him as a producer anyway.
Carole says:
I love this show, best show on CMT!!! I have to agree with many of the other bloggers… Diana’s song was great, many country singers cross over or are very close to pop. I thought that her song was so much better than Julio’s, Bobby’s or Sisco’s. In fact, I think on the whole, the girls song were better than the guys.
Great show, hate to see it end, please do season two!!!
Susie says:
Lets remember here that John is going to produce whoever wins. His reputation is as much on the line as all of the people on the show.
And I want to add that I had an art teacher who was so hard on me that I almost quit his class. I didn’t and thank god because I realized he was only trying to get the best from me and not put me down. I needed to hear his criticism before I could reach down and do what was inside me. I learned a lot from that experience. Sometimes it’s hard to hear what you don’t want to hear but it’s necessary and that’s what John did tonight for everyone. Thanks John for your honestly.
Debby says:
I have to admit that I am really impressed with John Rich. He thought this thing out well, knew each personality that he chose thoroughly. He is articulate, intellegent, and real. Very different than what I had expected! What I have loved about the show the most is getting to know him better, which gives me more of an appreciation for his songwriting and singing!
robert says:
Will someone please remind john rich of what half of his music sounds like and ask him if king goerge would ever be seen in some of the clothing he wears. I believe maybe he should try going country.
Debby says:
I just finished reading what others have posted and I strongly disagree with those who didn’t like what John said to Diane. I have been listening to Country for all of my life and tho Diane is a wonderful singer, her song was one of those sugary pop songs. John is very country: he lives it, breathes it, he is it. Diane’s song will crossover to Country without a problem, but that isn’t what John is looking for. He laid it out the very first night at his house when they met him. He’s looking for authentic country, not a crossover.
robert says:
has john heard the song gone country. I believe the line goes some of that don’t sound much different from dylan. Gee I wonder why that is. Becuase the new country is alot different from what is real country. Starting to not like big and rich and the show is to thank for that.
Max says:
Half of what John Rich records isn’t “true country” so he needs to STFU.
Diana’s song was country/pop, ala Faith Hill, Taylor Swift, etc, and she has an amazing voice. It was a fricking demo, not a completed track. There was no need for John to go off the deep end on a hard working talented and classy young woman.
Dave says:
I really enjoy this show! I admire the effort all of the cast is putting into their respective songs. I think that Mo and Bobby have the best chances of showing the heart and soul of real country music. And i don’t want to take anything away from the others, cause I think all of them are gonna give it their best shot. I have to say that i’m a bit prejudiced for Dee, I am an old headbanger and have been since the early eighties when I was a teenager. I can’t wait to hear all of their songs in their entirety. Thanx & God Bless.
Tony says:
While I do think John’s response to Diana’s song was quite an overreaction, we also have to remember we are only seeing what the show’s editors are allowing us to see. Perhaps he’s not quite as harsh as they made it look in the context of the conversation.
And for anyone saying that they’re “starting to not like Big and Rich” because of this show, that’s just foolish. Their music is their music. Keep that separate from the character John plays on the show.
country_gurl_89 says:
LOVE The show so much !!!
Nashville Rocks says:
I liked today’s show but it was kind of annoying that when Diana does get serious airtime, she gets ripped like that. I think JR expected a lot from Diana, that’s why he was really harsh on her, but it’s the way he said to her rather than what he said, that was rude. Diana can sing and her song was pretty darn good.
Mo wrote a really good song but I’m not sure if she’ll make that song into a hit.
Julio is crazy if he thinks he can win with that song. Didn’t care much for Dee, Bobby or Sisqo.
Carnie’s song was nice.
I think Diana needs to be given some props for the way she handled herself, she didn’t start arguing with him, which shows her manners (country enough for ya?). I hope she wins. I think JR did apologize to her afterwards, because they seemed to be okay at the Wildhorse.
Can’t wait for next week. Diana is gonna win it! Dang, that girl can sing.
mandy says:
i must say….john, i think you are a pig headed jerk that dont know ..you, a damn thing about country music who has only published a few records the past few years yourself..hank williams would stop your ass at any gone country relay….you are so self centered and shovanistic that i dont believe you could call your self a real country singer if you tried. you are rude unintelligant and unbelievable, how many true country singers walk around with the furs as big as yours and call themselves born!! give these people a break!! have you forgotten you werent always in the limelight….p.s. carnie i think you are the sweetest sinser and down right cool cat….you look as if you are so fun to be around
mandy says:
my husband would love to come to your concert just so that he could kick your ass out of nashville…..you dont deserve to be there…..why dont you head to memphis….
Hope Dye says:
First of all, I LOVE the show AND John Rich! Maureen soared to the top with her song! Bobby Brown was good also, although I have a problem with him winning because of his behavior in the past. Country music doesn’t need to deal with that. Carnie had a great voice, but country, I am not sure. Best of luck to all of them. They are all winners because they had the guts to do this chow without really knowing what they were getting into.
1 REBA FAN says:
i love you carnie, you are the one true talent on gone country and i’ll be rottin’ for u till the end. if you don’t win maybe you and your sister can become a country duo i’d definantly buy the album.
MaureenFTW says:
I think John Rich was so hard on Diana because to him (and me) Diana seems like someone who just wants to get her foot in the door to be able to sell albums. All the other house guests are already known in the entertainment industry and have in a sense “peaked” and had their hay day and Diana to John came across as someone who is using country music as a way to get into the music industry by any means necessary. Like he said, he doesn’t want people piggybacking off of country music just to get in the industry and go Pop. Diana to me comes off as an opportunist waiting on her big break to sell some albums, something she was not successful at doing in the past.
travis says:
go carnie, i loved your song so much and do believe that you have what it takes to be the next big thing in country music. keep up the good work and we will be seein’ u on country radio before long.
april says:
i hope that carnie wilson wins b/c her song was by far the best. she has the songwriting chops 2 make it n nashville. maureen was good 2 but i’m prayin’ 4 carnie
COUNTRY_BOY69 says:
I LOVE THAT CARNIE GIRL. IF ONLY SHE WAS SINGLE. BY FAR THE BEST IN THE COMPETITION AND IF JOHN HAS ANY SENSE AT ALL SHE IS WHO HE WILL PICK TO GO INTO THE STUDIO WITH HIM. IF HE DON’T PICK HER HE NEEDS SOME SENSE KNOCKED INTO HIM PRONTO.
Duck Tape says:
I was at the Wildhorse for the finale so I’ve already heard all the songs from start to finish. Personally, I find it hard to believe he likes Maureen’s song so much because I didn’t and I also don’t think it would ever be a radio hit. Maybe it was the very bad vocals of Maureen that put me off so much or maybe it was the lack of anything vocally challenging in the song. It was very mundane to where anyone could have sung the song and even at that Maureen still struggled with the notes. Over all I thought her performance was not good. There is no way John lets Maureen win with her performance. Diana was awesome with her song and her performance. She made the others look like amateurs. After hearing their songs and seeing them all perform John has to pick Diana to win or he is a fool.
danah says:
WOW!! I can’t believe how everyone is ripping into J.R. How can you grow as an artist if you don’t know what you are doing wrong. If John Rich or any other song writer worth his or her salt told me that my song didn’t sound right I would be hurt , but it would also male me work harder to prove myself. I mean it sounds like only a hand full of people watched the same show that I did. He did not say the song was bab, he said it was more pop than country, more Christina than Martina. I happen to agree with him. Everybody hang in there and push harder, Diana, honey if you want this then prove him wrong, go after the prize only hard work, determination, and talent will get you the win. As always: GOOD LUCK TO ALL.
Janet says:
You can look at it this way….John Rich had to pull a ‘Simon’ on Diana tonight. He was just being honest.
You may not like that, but in the end, it actually helps the artist. How many times have you watched Simon on American Idol, and even if you didn’t agree with his methods, you still knew he actually helped the person in the long run?
Lynda Jaye says:
John Rich,
I hope you are reading your blogs comments from your fans, because I truly want to say that you are one awesome person. I look at you on Gone Country and I watch you and Big in videos and I think to myself, you did not walk into country already popular, famous, or on a pedestal. You literally found your niche in Country Music and tho I have heard and read so much about how vain you are and all, I can only say, you are who you are and I truly think you are one man who gives a damn about country if not music!
Thank you for giving the world these weeks of Gone Country and sharing your home with the contestants and being able to show us in the world how they live making me realize that everyone is just human, whether they make it big or not. You have a lot of pressure on your lap and you take it by the grace of God.
Thank you for being you.
Respectfully Lynda Jaye
(conejoslynda@yahoo.com)
Hick-Chick from NY says:
I guess John thinks he is Simon Cowell. I though John was there to critique and offer constructive criticism without scolding and cynicism. Why did John single out Diana when there were others that sounded less country than she did? Intimidation cause Diana to call country music a challenge instead of the fact that country music has called her back. I would be the farm, including my beloved quarter horse, that ever other cast member considered “Going Country” a challenge.
I agree with diane. Is this a singing contest or a song writing contest? It is harder to listen to a well written song sung by a boring singer than to a great singer singing a boring song. I’m sure Diana’s song will sound much more country in the finale as will some others but before we will hear it on the radio; John will make a few more adjustments.
If anyone thinks that Diana is an opportunist and using country music to get back into the industry is delusional. You just have to listen to Diana sing “Crazy” or “A Broken Wing” to know country music is in her heart. All other music is in her head.
For some unknown reason, John and CMT continue to pimp Bobby. The scene at the end with Bobby praying was almost as bad as if the final scene was Bobby and John swapping spit on “Brokeback Mountain”.
Lynda Jaye says:
People can criticize John Rich as they wish, but they won’t walk in boots to know the real John Rich. All the contestants have a chance, but I think Julio is on the bottom of the totem pole. He is a spoiled inconsiderate person. He could take a page out of his father’s book of life before he goes out and stands around while the rest do the work.
For the record, I believe it would be awesome to see Carnie Wilson win this contest. She is not just a Wilson, she is a musician. Her singing ability is shown in her albums she has out already. Good Luck Carnie….
Diane says:
Go Diana….you are talented..If you can take Simon Colwell..you can take John Rich..He aint perfect by any means and I am sure he hasn’t written all the songs he sings..She started out at country..like she says..they booted her..she loves to sing so much she did AI..that was an opportunity..broadway she was awesome….BTW did these people apply to be on this show or did he hand pick them..I thought the latter….I watched the show mainly because of Diana..and she was never showcased until tonight..JR owes her an apology..I think Randy even was embarrased for the way he treated Diana……She has shown her dedication to country music by buying a house in nashville to concentrate on the music..I think she should win…but win or not..we will hear from this girl..If Taylor Swift can make it..Diana DeGarmo can..Haven’t figured out Taylors last video which is….pretty bad..Go Diana
april says:
carnie is gonna win, i totaly have a girl crush on her
travis says:
I could see why u have a girl crush on her!!!!!!!!!!!!!
karen says:
I dont at all ahve a problem with what John had to say about Diana s( song) vocals.. But he didnt have to use the tone he did with her, he scolded her because he didnt like the answer she gave him.. WTH was that?? I didnt see him scold Dee like that when Dee said he didnt like country music.. ( not a diss agaist Dee at all just stating the truth) anyway Diana has always liked country and has always been country… with all the editing and amount of airtime she(Diana) recieved she may have came off to those who do not know her or have followed her career as someone who was cocky and full of herself when in reality shes just a Go Getter and a down to earth person who strives to do the best at any and everything, she puts her heart and soul into everything she does.. Bottem line to me is Ive heard Diana sing country and she is COUntry.. Go look her up and listen to her sing Crazy or Broken Wing.. anyway GOoooooooooo Diana, Still love ya Girl….
LitlTxIndian says:
Not sure I understand all the Negative against JR, maybe I’m watching a different show than y’all or another version!?! I was with the understanding at the very first show that this is how it was suppose to be! JR is the one who will be producing the “Winner” so makes him the boss! Right? And is it not just like for the rest of us in our own work places you/we do as the boss says, and not do it “your way or as you see fit”! This IS their line of work, just under a different title/category (Country, Pop, Metal, RB…), so to say. These people are in the “spotlight” all the time and they expect criticism. Diana says she has been in this line of business since the age of, what?, 5…so like this was the first time for her to hear such negative “inputs”??? And are people forgetting WHO was sitting there beside JR? RO has how many #1’s???? and sold how many albums??? hhhhhmmmmmmmmmmmm
I can say that if that song of hers was released as it was played tonight I wouldn’t have bought it nor listen to it more than once. It didn’t have what I look for in a country song/music at all, which is what the purpose of the show is, right?
Diana has a great voice, in fact they all do, that is why they are who they are!
Gottcha back JR 100%
:)
Norma Jean says:
Hi everyone,
I normally wouldn’t comment here, but these uninformed comments by some peple are just killing me! First of all, John is NOT “playing a character” on the show. That IS JR. If you recall at the beginning of the show he said he was going to be hard and cruel and truthful. And that is John all the way. Don’t get me wrong here, I have been a JR fan since he was a teeager, but in my eyes I’ve lost my respect for him for other reasons. Example: the Furs…. I do not spend as much as a penny on Big & Rich any more, because of that, but will support them as far as the muzik, comments, voting, things like that. As far as JR not making it without BK… now I adore BK, but he was not makeing it, totally peaked low, in the business. I personally love his muzik, as most of the fans who have been there from the start of B&R do. But many didn’t “get it.” So truly, John & BK complete each other. Yet they are superb songwiters and artists in their own right. BK is out of commission with an old back injury, and Doctors ordered complete break for a length of time. They finish whatever’s booked and then he will be out of commission for a lot of 2008. And someone said, so… John published a few songs?! Uh, yeah, by the 90’s. Since then he’s become a multi-million $$ empire. Songwriting, Publishing, Producing, developing new artists, Muzik Mafia, Gretchen Wilson, Cowboy Troy and (Thank God) finally James Otto, developing with Warner Bros. - the RAYBAW record label, and a huge number of hits for other artists that launched their careers, have made John the one person in Nashville people want to truly work with and respect. One thing John is not is a FOOL, as one person said.
I think that the fact that the show is only 1/2 hour long, makes the editors leave out very important parts of the shows. You don’t see all of the show. Such as Dee’s comment on “not liking Country Music.” He was on our radio station the day after that first show. He stated that that’s where they cut out the rest of that comment. It was,”…BUT, I’m willing to give it a try and to listen.” After that he said that now he really likes it, just didn’t listen close enough to really know Country Music. Now he gets it!
Anyway, enjoy the show for what it is, a true learning experience for all of them. Whatever happens in the end, I can gaurantee that they will all leave Nashville with a healthy respect for JR and a place in their hearts for him. After all, what you see is a tiny, tiny bit of the harshness of trying to break into the business in Nashville. Times John by about 200 rejections, then multiply it again. On average it takes artists 10-15 years to actually make it. Just ask David Lee Murphy, Tracy Lawrence, Timm McGraw, Alan Jackson and yes, Kenny Chesney. I also urge anyone making uninformed comments, in other words, don’t know the facts about what you’re talking about: to visit the Big & Rich Website, or even better the Muzik Mafia website. Learn about where they came from, who they were and are, what they’ve accomplished and everthing they stand for. Maybe then you’ll understand. While I must stand by my convictions on Animal Cruelty, it doesn’t stop me from verbally supporting good music, great artists and truly wonderful people. And Big Kenny & John are all of that and more.
Anyone want to banter: normafullmer@yahoo.com
Scott says:
i’m a bit confused as to what the definition of a “country song” is now… is it having a country accent or using the word “truck” or “redneck” in it? what’s the formula? does faith hill’s “cry” qualify as a country song? if so then why? it speaks nothing of the country life.. but it’s accepted as so because she’s a country artist. How was diana’s song, the one john really trashed, different in formula to faith’s song? would john tell faith to her face she isn’t country? I think the fact diana didn’t really have a country twang in her voice caused her to be labeled pop.. if she were from tennessee it may have gone differently.
Bobbie Willis says:
Love the show ,Bobby& the gang they’re all great!!!
Cathy says:
Bobby Brown, you made me cry tonight. To see a strong man pray…it just gets to me. God bless you Bobby.
Bobby, I grew up on Country. You have what it takes. It takes heart, you have heart. It takes soul, you have soul. It takes respect for for Country Music, you have that too. (Thanks for that!)
We watched “Bobby Brown” and we grew to care about you. You are a caring, good man.
Take care Bobby!
Cathy
karen says:
Norma Jean… I totally see what your saying and My comment about Dee wasnt to diss him in anyway,I was just saying or atleast trying to say I wish John would of used the same tone with Diana as he used with Dee ( when Dee made his comment about the Not liking Country Music).. JOhn just kinda went a little overboard with Diana IMO. Dont get me wrong what John said to Diana she needed to hear, but I just feel she didnt have to be told in the manner in which he told her thats all… By the way I LOooooooooove Otto :)
Cathy says:
Ok…….you must get out of Johns a**! If any of you understood what Country Music is all about you would understand that it is important to him to make sure country Music is treated with the respect it deserves!
One thing is for sure if Country Music welcomes you, it is a gift! Not a right! It can and will be taken back if you dont RESPECT it! Hes doing them a favor by pointing that out!
Kd…who?? Dixie whats?? Behave or be GONE!
We love God, Country, Family……and COUNTRY MUSIC!
Jenny says:
Pretty good show….EXCEPT…..shame on John Rich for wearing those fur coats. He doesn’t seem to be the kind of guy that would be that vain. Shame!!! Think of all the little animals that died so big John could look “cool” Ditch the fur John!! People like you keep the fur industry going. Other than that, the show is entertaining.
Also, there should have been an awesome canoe trip. That would have been halarious seeing all those guys going down the Harpeth River.
Mandy says:
MaureenFTW can STFU. You obviously know NOTHING about Diana. She performed at the Grand Ole Opry when she was 12. She grew up idolizing Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline and Wynonna Judd. As she said at the end of the show, she tried to be a country singer over the years and it never worked out. She now feels country has called her back. She performed country music until she was 14.
So don’t try to paint her as an opportunist, she’s just a great young woman with an amazing voice who is returning to her original genre.
Patrick says:
John, Let me start by saying I love country music, but you have to admit, that there is some very cheesy lyrics in country music, as much as any other style of music.
ex. “last weekend when the Vikings lost….”
” ….why does everybody want to kick my ass….”
“,,,,save a horse ride a cowboy…..”
lots a love, a real! Big and Rich fan
mitch says:
Hay John.who gives a crap about you killing for country music.Half of your songs sound like rock.Like Save a hourse,just to name one.You need to quiet thinking your a country music god.I just marked BIG AND RICH off my list.I”d buy an Dee,Bobby Brown or any other artist albam thats on your so called show befor I ever buy one of your agian.
Nadia says:
hey.. first of all i’m a big country music fan and to me country isn’t country anymore. there are only a few true country stars still around like alan jackson and george strait. and i’m a fan of big an rich but i do have aproblem with john saying that diane’s song was terrible and that sisco needed to work more on his song. when to me most of your new singers are singing closer to the pop scale than the country includung mr. john rich and big kenny. one thing is for sure country fans are hard core when you mess up alot of times thats it their done with ya.
r says:
The one time you actually show Diana in the show ur hurting her. She is an amazig singer iwth vocals better than anyone on that show. She wants this more than anything but you let her down. Thanks john ur a great person.
F YOU!
R says:
Also- You know NOTHING about the wonderful Diana. SO apperently she need to have the work cowboy and rendeck for her song to be country? wow…ur a great guy JOHN!
LISA says:
I LOVE THE SHOW!! IT TAKES ALOT OF TALENT TO BE ABLE TO WRITE A SONG AND FOR ALL YOU WHO ARE HARPING ON JOHN RICH ITS OBVIOUS YOU DONT KNOW ALOT ABOUT COUNTRY MUSIC OR YOU WOULD KNOW HE HAS WRITTEN ALOT OF SONGS NOT ONLY FOR BIG AND RICH BUT OTHER ARTIST THAT ARE GREAT. WE ARE TALKING ABOUT A MULTI-TALENTED MAN WHO IS ALSO PUTTING HIS REPUTATION ON THE LINE BY PRODUCING WHOEVER WINS THE SHOW! IF I WERE IN THESE ARTISTS SHOES I WOULD APPRECIATE THE HONESTY REGARDLESS OF HOW BAD, IT ONLY MAKES THEM STRONGER. WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE JR JUST HOW MANY SONGS HAVE YOU WRITTEN(and if you think its easy sit down with paper and pen and see) HOW MANY SONGS HAVE YOU PRODUCED AND RECORDED? YOU GO JR!!!!!! DONT THINK FOR A MINUTE IF THE SHOW WAS JR GOES RAP, ROCK OR POP THAT THESE ARTIST WOULDNT BUST HIS ASS IF HE DIDNT MEET THEIR EXPECTATIONS BUT I THINK HE WOULD EXCEED THEIR EXPECTATIONS IF HE HAD THE LOVE FOR IT THAT HE DOES COUNTRY MUSIC!!!!!!
Nora says:
I agree with you R. And for the ones who say John did this so she could learn and it would make her better,stronger or whatever–THAT’S A CROCK!! He was cruel,just plain old cruel and there’s no excuse for that. His point could have been made without comments of slapping someone or kicking someones butt. He showed no class and on leadership abilities!!
Nora says:
typo–meant no leadership abilities!! (sorry)
Bobbi says:
I have been listening to country music since the day I was born 44 yrs ago….I grew up hearing Patsy Cline, Hank Sr, Gearge Jones, Tammy, Lorreta and all the older country artists…and I find this show very interesting.
For those that are ripping into John Rich, stop and think about what he is saying to these people. So many of the so called “pop stars” think that all they need to do is come to Nashville, put on some boots and add a twang to thier voice and they can sing country….country music is SOOOO much more then that. He is trying to show them that country music….TRUE country music….comes from your heart and soul. Something that Diana’s song didnt have. yes, it was a nice song and was sung well….but it had no country anywhere in that song! It was a nice little song that if released to the radio would get alot of air play on the pop stations….and be buried on country.
John is giving these people a taste of what they are going to be up against…do you all actually think that Bobby Brown, Julio, Dee, Sysco, and Diana could have taken any of those songs into a record executives office and NOT be told the same things? If Diana took that song and sang it as is to a record producer she would hear “You know…its a nice little pop song….but this is country honey. We already have an American Idol…” Dee Snider would be laughed out of the building.
Mo and Carnie’s songs were good….and Mo’s could definately be a country hit….sung by someone else. She had a sweet voice, but there is no way she will EVER be able to handle the stress and such of country music.
To answer the question about where Big Kenny is….JR has said several times that Kenny is recouperating from a neck surgery. And to the people saying that JR is nothing without Kenny….are you all forgetting where he started out? As one of the guys in Lonestar? JR has a deep set of roots in country and deserves to have some respect.
real country palouse33 says:
Animals die every day. If we wear a fur coat it’s OK as long as we keep the animal population in balance!
If a person has a good voice dose not make them a country singer!
If a person has hit records and is chosen for a reality show on CMT to critic various artists out of their realm, we the public as a whole have chosen this. Not saying this is right, but that is the way it is.
I found myself angry @ John sitting up there and judging these people, but have desiced that this is the job that he was given and he is going to do the best job he can. It is sad that what is “country” is decided by one person, based on what he has experienced, sang, wrote, and sold. I believe he can do a very good job deciding what is hot @ this time in country music.
I believe country music is a soul. It echo’s the sounds of humanity. It is life @ its most complex and at its simplest.
Country to me is a way of life that is simple and true, and if you are going to say it, it is going to be done, and if you shake on it, it is set in stone.
Thanks for reading,
Palouse 33
P.S. Keep it true.
clyde mccullough says:
Hi John; Thanks for the best show on friday’s. Diana an Maureen should WIN hands,And Dee should not be on the show , With on of Fits, Thanks again for a GREAT show.
Jessica says:
Does anyone else see this as the next step in the systematic destruction of country music? First we have the integration of pop and rock which I can live with to some extent. Then we have pop diva’s thinking they can cross over, example of Jessica Simpson. Now we have people who have never even listened to country claiming it’s their life long dream.
I’ll admit I am not a Big & Rich fan, though they have done a few worthy songs. Now JR is the one claiming to know how to make these people country as it reflects him. Yet he, to me, doesn’t reflect country. True country legends such as Merle Haggard, Garth Brooks, George Strait, Hank Williams (both Sr. and Jr.)..I could go on. They reflect the different styles of country. The outlaw, The artist, hell even the hippy influence, and all Big and Rich are bringing to the table is the pimp. Isn’t anyone tired of seeing country music become a prostitute?
Country makes you laugh, makes you cry, makes you damn happy to be, even just as a listener, part of it. Country is our heart and our conscience, not just as people, but as a nation. Whether anyone realizes it or not what we put out there every genre hears and emulates. And anyone who says the only difference between pop and country is ‘twang’ should be slapped and banned. John was right when he says country doesn’t forgive. When is the last time you heard from the Dixie Chicks? They had to change genres.
John, go back to Lonestar they desperately need you.
Chris From Springfield, MO says:
I am excited to find out who you will pick. Bobby brown has surprised me, but I really enjoyed his voice back in the day. I enjoyed everyone on the show and their past work, you picked a good line up. I really hoping Sisqo would make a better impression, he is hands down the best vocalist on the show. I’ve grown up country and was excited to see the cross over idea. I really think sisqo can take this if he could just step into the county persona. I’ll see you in nashville.
mitch says:
Hay Dee show nashville how to rock.That pissant John Rich sure doesn’t know.Is John Rich a country singer or a pimp in that dumpass fur coat he is waring.Just woundering.Go Dee.Heavy Metal forever!!!!!
Kelly says:
My husband is a songwriter & we’ve enjoyed watching “Gone Country.” I agreed w/ JR’s feedback to the group about making sure they have good hooks in their songs… but I have to say I do not agree w/ the feedback Diana D. received. Viewers couldn’t hear the entire song on last night’s episode, but it sounded like a good start. And I don’t think she deserved the rude response when she said country music is “challenging.” Sounds more like a compliment to me! Furthermore, country music hits, like most genres, IS fluff. Especially “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy!” Not that I’m complaining b/c I like fluff, but let’s call a spade a spade.
alexis massey says:
lol A lot of you are going to be extremely pissed! Diana will not, I’ll repeat, WILL NOT, win!!!!! Yes she is a great singer and to other peoples’ opinions the best on the show. She can’t perform though at least not like sisqo. Plus she is the ovious one to win that’s why she can’t win. You people forget sisqo is the all “around guy”. Noone talks about sisqo he rarely get air time Diana get more time than him. Trust me i bet the highest stakes that sisqo will win guarantee!!!!
Trish Crawford says:
I usually am not a Country Music Fan. I watched Gone Country the other night to see what pop singers would do with the genre. I was blown away. When they were sent to the hospital, I saw some very tender hearted people. What happened brought tears to my eyes. For the first time I saw people who, when performing, present a confident, in control and “got it together” presentation. The wonderful part of the program was seeing these people with doubts, laughter, bonding, and sincere condern for others.
This gave me a totally different perspective about people who are performers. Thank you for creating this program
Regards,
Trish
Shannon says:
I love this show.I realy did like Maureens song.She puts alot of emotion in it and I like that.It was realy good.But this show sometimes makes me laugh seeing these people trying to go country.I will have to give them alot of credit I know lot of city folk and they would do anything to get themselves out of working at a farm.
Bob says:
I have been reading the messages here and have had to agree with some of them and laugh at others. I too have been listening to country music all of my life. Actually I have been living music for most of my life as a weekend musician. Like Bobbi, I feel that the true country legends are people like Hank Sr, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings. I believe John Rich was sincere in his effort to make Diana a better country music personalilty. However, I also agreed that his tone of voice was uncalled for. Telling her that “there was nothing country about that vocal line”, was the pot calling the kettle black. This is coming from a man that put out songs like Save A Horse Ride A Cowboy, country music’s version of hiphop. I think every artist in every genre has produced a recording that was purely for record sales. Examples would be Trace Adkins’ Honky Tonk Badonkadonk or Brooks and Dunn’s Hillbilly Deluxe. These songs were songs put out to ride the coattails of Save A Horse. Neither of them were very good songs from very GOOD artists. But that’s getting into another subject altogether. Back to the real reason I am expressing my opinion, and its only that, I think that most country music fans are fair to performers. If they put a good song with sincerity, it will be accepted. I have not caught all of the shows because I am usually out working Friday nights. What I have seen though leads me to believe that whoever JR picks has a good chance of making it. But lets keep in mind this is CMT and they are in it for the ratings. They need to create controversy to get you to watch the show. OBTW how about showing some videos on CMT. I haven’t seen a video on the station for quite a while.
Lilly says:
JR you just absolutely crushed that little girl (Diana). Yes, country music is serious business and she has to be tough but you really took offense where none was needed. She didn’t say she hated country. And I didn’t hear her say she just wanted a free ride into a country career either. You know all about her country music history as a young girl, you know where her heart was. Part of what you told her was fine and appropriate. The rest of it was just pure meanness and rudeness. I wanted to give her a hug!!
buttons53 says:
Maureen’s song was good, but John did you have to rip Diana apart like that. Even Simon Cowell isn’t that mean.
SUSANNE.dianafan7777 says:
oh the finale is next week (lol). Look, if Diana doesn’t win, I dont know about you, but I won’t watch the show again (I say that about American Idol all the time…haha). Diana is incredibly incredibly talented, and the best in my book! She was known as a powerhouse on AI. I saw her in concert and was in third row and blown away. She has sung at the Grand Ole Opry for goodness sake. I know she will find the right support and skyrocket. She deserves to be there. She is a true talent! If John, you don’t pick her… I have to say I will think you are out of your mind!! :)
sandy says:
this is such a great show. i just love it. i think bobby
brown had one of the best songs. but i like the whole
cast
diane says:
Of course Maureens song had emotion in it…she cried..that is all she has ndone all season is cried..gosh that got old..she is a has been..I do think she can be a songwriter..but a singer Argh….boring boring boring
Cindy In GA says:
Dianna did get cheated on American Idol. She should have won that and she should win this. In all reality she is the only one that has the ability and image of a country artist. She rocks…When I think of country I think Diana
DonziDoll says:
Thankfully not *all* the comments here are childish and attacking, but I am so very disappointed to read the ones that *are*… I wish everyone posting here could follow the examples of the cast who’ve been playful & friendly, supportive of each other, and helpful to one another overall.
Clearly this episode was not all Candyland Chutes & Ladders (names of little children’s board games) nor the making of a laugh-track for some sitcom… The primary subject matter of this segment of the show was of a very serious nature, hence the very serious comments made by JR and Randy Owen. Granted it might’ve been hard to receive blunt constructive feedback for some; to take it and use it to self-benefit and to become a better CM performer would be a worthwhile achievement.
While our family wishes ALL the contestants the best of luck, we’re hoping our fave, Julio Jose, wins! He has a new CD coming out soon, not sure of the USA release, but his website will be http://www.juliojr.com
P.S. Jj, if by chance you see this, the Donzi BH is doing great! And the invitation to visit & drive for old time’s sake is always open!
SHANE says:
BOTTLE OF JIM AND A SHOT OF JACK, MY BABYS GONE AND SHE AIN’T COMING BACK AND I’M HAAAAAAPY I’VE BEEN WAITIN FOR THIS DAY THAT THAT GOLD DIGIN MOSTER WOULD BE GONE TO STAY……….YEA THAT GOLD DIGIN MOSTER PUTA HURTIN ON ME ,BROKE MY HEART IN A MILLION PICES MADE REAL FOOL OUT OF ME ,BUT I’VE GOT 2 FRIENDS THAT I KNOW THAT WILL ALWAYS BE HERE FOR ME , THATS JIM AND JACK I’M GONNA TOSS EM BACK I’M SO GLAD THAT GOLD DIGGIN MOSTER LEFT ME!!!! …….WHEN SHE WAS PACKIN OH LORD I CRIED, TO SEE THAT WOMAN LEAVEIN TORE ME UP INSIDE, BUT AS SOON AS THAT SCREEN DOOR SLAMED IT WAS LIKE A LOAD CAME OFF MY MIND,NOW I CAN LIVE MY LIFE FOR ME AND NOT FOR THAT DOLLOR SIGN , NOW THERES NO MORE OF THAT GOLD DIGGIN MONSTER PUTA HURTIN ON ME,BRAKIN MY HEART IN A MILLION PIESES MAKING A REAL FOOL OUT OF ME,BUT I’VE GOT 2 FRIENDS HERE THAT I KNOW WILL ALWAYS BE HERE FOR ME,THATS JIM AND JACK I’M GONNA TOSS EM BACK I’M GLAD THAT GOLD DIGGIN MONSTER LEFT ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!I SAID JIM AND JACK I’M GONNA TOSS EM I’M SO GLAD SHE LEFT MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Dee says:
I think it’s pretty obvious Maureen will win.
Dee Snyder already said we will be “surprised” who wins, and since Maureen is not a great singer and wouldn’t even sing the first night that the rest of them did her victory will be a total surprise.
Longevity in country music is about FAR more than writing one good song. JR should know this.
SHANE says:
I JUST WROTE ONE GREAT SONG WERES MY MILLION DOLLORS???????? DEE OR BOOBY WILL WIN ,THEN THEY CAN RECORD GOLD DIGGIN MONSTER, IT’LL GO TO #1 AND WILL ALL BE HAPPY….COME ON DOWN TO SWEET HOME ALIBAMMMY BABY AND WILL WRITE EM LIKE THAT ALL DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!
Betty says:
John, my (grown) daughter and I love your show! This is a show we will sit down and watch together. It leaves me wanting more. (Too bad it isn’t an hour.) I hope you produce more series of this show.
God Bless!
Debbie Rivera says:
Which episode was the line dancing featured? I’d like to see an instructional video put out, either on cmt.com or even YouTube. I’ve checked YouTube…but there are so many variations!! The one on this show should be the original, yes? What do you think? Debbie
R says:
JOHN liked Hulio and not Diana??? THATS CRAZY. If you heard his song its not even country!! Diana had a way better song and you put her down like that. IF U SAID THAT U HAD THE BEST PEOPLE to help them with their songs ur wrong. Blame the people you brought to write them a song. You dont even know Diana. She is a very great singer. You didnt even show the whole song! My gosh..Diana got to sing with some amazing people when she was young. You think Maureen will win? I could sing better than that. You just like it since she is soo emothional and you would never break her heart. If you know country music SOO much why did u like Hulio. It was a like a mexican ballad! Wow..ur an amazing guy John.
R says:
by the way..If you listen to Taylor Swift its almost just like Dianas song. I suggest you all go and buy her cd and see how amazing she is.
R says:
OVERREACT to the writers who apprently “helped” Diana with the song. I suggest u go yell at them!
Brenda from Tennessee says:
I’m sure a lot is cut on the show! John was a little rough on Diana, but maybe it was “TOUGH LOVE”! I think they all tried hard, even though some of their songs didn’t sound very COUNTRY!!!! John did say that they had time to tweek them before the “BigNight”! I’ve enjoyed the show & hate to see it come to an end. I hope John does it again next year! Good Luck to all the cast!!!! Gone Country!!! YEE HAW!!!!
Christina says:
Well, at least we got down to SOME of the music part this episode. This was a long time coming. My opinion about this whole criticism issue is that John WAS too harsh to Diana. I completely agree with his criticism about her vocal not being country enough (and I think she appreciated hearing what she had to work on, if you listen to what she says to Carnie later in the episode), however, the way John handled that was appalling. Diana, one of the few on the show that has consistently been putting a good effort in, gets chastized when others who have been slouching have never received a reprimand. How is that fair? And let’s also mention that Julio’s song didn’t sound country either-in fact, he wasn’t even trying to sound country. A number of the others didn’t sound country either, so why does Diana get the attack? Because she said one wrong thing? I have to give some respect to her for handling that whole situation maturely and not talking back. I thought what she did in the bedroom was very touching (and let’s give it up for Dee Snider for really showing his true colors-he is a sweet man!). I truly do believe from that scene that she is intent on doing country music because she loves it. I don’t know if she’s going to win or not, but she at least deserves a little respect and appreciation for trying. I hope she improves on what John criticized her on for the finale.
Joseph says:
Look, I don’t know a thing about Country music. That being said, I watch this show because my sister if friends with Diana’s family. This guy John Rich is a bigger asshole than Simon Cowell could ever be. Good lord, does this idiot even understand the concept of his own show? Isn’t the premise to bring in artists from different genre’s and challenge them to make a country song? Isn’t that what Diana admitted she was there for? The challenge. The point of the show is not to make someone a sole Country artist. It’s to find someone who can make a hit record. John Rich’s little “I’m the Pope” speech about he will do to anyone who “disrespects” country music is a fuckin’ joke. Real tough guy to berate a 20 year old for trying to do something outside of her comfort zone. Face it John, you’re a washed up bitter fool who’s trying to grasp on to anything that will save your career. You’re obviously trying to be the Kid Rock of country with your wardrobe. I’m sure there a millions of farm hands and cowboys who can really relate to a pansy with a mink coat. Screw you
Deb from Wisconsin says:
I have to say, my hats off to Dee Snyder, for doing something he would not normally do. That takes guts.
I never listend to Twisted Sister, but I find I like the
man Dee Snyder, and I like the other singers as well. This
show presents them in a true manner.
I love that MO is so down to earth, and caring.
Diana has a great voice and her career is far from over.
Rock on.
Dale says:
I have to admit I love this show but I’m not sure if it’s real or fiction. JR, Come on man! Are you for real???
Real country singers work on a farm and cook?
Isn’t Kid Rock In your Mafia? He is from a upper middle class family from the suburbs of Detroit Michigan! My home state.
Josh Gracin is an awesome country singer and he is from my neighborhood here in Westland MI. No farms around here!
You say you would kill for country music??? Really?
You would die for it? Are you freakin’ serious????
My family is from Tennessee, I was raised on country music and I love it as much as the next guy but Die or kill for it?
Come on Man! Get real! Save a horse ride a cowboy? And you have the nerve to say someones lyrics are simplistic?
Then you say things like you’re gonna kick peoples ass? For what? Really man, For what? Maybe its just a figure of speech, either way it should have never been said! There was no need for it! I don’t think I’ve ever been so angry over a tv show in my life. You sir, are a joke! So is your music !
I wanna beat your ass so bad it freakin’ hurts!!!!
I feel better now. Thanks for letting me get that off my chest. Love the show. Keep up the good work.
Audrey Lefkowitz says:
I know how tough the music industry is but being a lover of Diana´s voice and starving to hear her on cd I was devastated at the tirade against her. Living so far away in Spain and watching every week only to see 2 seconds of her, I finally got to see her and was so upset for her. She is such a lovely young lady and deserves to have that gorgeous voice heard. I hope that very shortly I will have a fabulous Diana DeGarmo album to purchase. Diana I am so proud of your tenacity.
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
Jessica almost hit the nail on the head. Country music will never be what it was. George Jones said it best. ” Who’s gonna fill their shoes? This is a sad eulogy for some and the start of a new era for others. The big production country shows seem to miss the point! Country is country and rock is rock and never will they blend successfully. comparing Merle Haggard with Garth Brooks is blasphemous. Merle never swung across the stage on a wire. A few young artists have it but most never will. Country Music Rest In Peace!!!
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
Artists like Josh Turner make me still have some hope and can still make me smile!! Achy Breaky heart has sadly won out!
R says:
Diana was the one who had affort in this show. It wanted it more than anybody. The others were lazy and Diana was up to this. If you say Dianas song wasnt country well look at Hulio!!! His was like a latin ballad. My gosh you people put her down for nothing. You should be blaming all of the song writers who apprently helped her..umm okay yeah I should suggest you yell at them for not making it too country. Dianas song was like Taylor Swift! She wants this alot but you know..its okay because YOU JUST LOST AN AMAZING SINGER WHO COULD make amazing country music. Oh well ITS YOUR LOSE. Dont you ever try to get Diana back when you see her make it big one day.
John your a COMPLETE loser
MARCIA says:
I have been watching the show from the beginning and I truly beleive that Diana should win this. The girl can sing and if Carrie can switch from AI and make it big why shouldn’t Diana. She got cheated on AI. John did come down way too hard considering he didn’t abuse the other lousy songs and singers. To me Diana is another Martina or LeAnne
IF John doesn’t pick her he doesn’t know anything really on what the fans want to hear now. Things have changed since the twangy days of country music. GO Diana!! So the fool wrong!!
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
That sound you here in the background is Lefty Frisell spinning in his grave!!!!
Susie says:
I would suggest for all of you who are so concerned about Diana that you go and check out YouTube. There is a video (sound is not great) of Diana singing her song during the finale. And, if you listen to what she has to say on stage, she doesn’t think badly of John at all and said they are friends. John, the gentleman that he is when Diana is introduced kisses the young lady’s hand.
I have to say what a difference a day makes for some of you. You say, oh I love John, I love the show, then one thing happens and everyone starts critizing the man and the show. Let’s move on, it’s reality tv and that’s all. I have been a Big and RIch fan for about 5 years now and am damn proud of it. And if the only song you’ve heard is Save a horse ride a cowboy, then you have missed the boat. There are so many great songs on their cds that radio never plays and if you haven’t heard them, check on ITUNES under Big and Rich.
Christina Huss says:
John- I sure hope you read this, as I may never have another opportunity to “speak” to you! As a music teacher and band director in Georgia, I have to say that this is my favorite television show of all time! You are truly an awesome guy! What a class act! You make me SO PROUD of my profession! (Several of my friends from college are songwriters and studio musicians in the Nashville area by the way!) I have all of my music students watching the show. You are such an inspiration! Thanks for the show!
We love you!
Christina Huss
Quitman, Georgia
mrsflash49 says:
What a great show!! Again I will say 30 minutes is just not enough time for an episode and I hope they will have other seasons of it..
I agree with some of the comments above, but a lot of it has nothing to do with the show “Gone Country” which I thought this blog was for.
It was finally nice to hear the cast sing some of what they had been working on with their co-writers. It was great to see Randy Owen as a guest to help critique the music. If any one of these stars want to win, they are going to have to learn to take constructive criticism from
JR or whomever..He might have been a little more harsh then
he needed to be on Diana, but in response to his question for her reasons to compete she should have responded with
what she said after in her bed, talking to Carnie and Dee; not what she did say for the challenge..As a country gal, her song was more pop than country..JR laid out in the first show what he was looking for to win this and he does have his reputation on the line producing whoever does win..Also as I have commented before from previous episodes, I think a lot of the taping is being edited too much by the producers of the show so we aren’t getting the full picture.
I think Mo, Bobby and Carnie took the goods last night. Mo’s song was truly spot on towards traditional country. Her vocals need work, but she still has a chance. They all do!! Bobby and Carnie were also right on..I don’t have a favorite, I wish them all good luck!! I can’t wait to see the finale, but will be sad to see it end so soon..
I also think they are focusing too much time on just BB,all of them should get equal coverage on air..
Looking forward to next week’s episode..
GONE COUNTRY EVERYONE..HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!
Duck Tape says:
The way John singled out Diana to belittle her attempt at her song was outrageous! All the guys songs didn’t sound country to me and Dee was the absolute farthest from sounding country. From start to finish Dee’s song is nothing but rock and roll! Singing rock and roll in Dee’s song was OK but Diana singing pop was not? Julio’s song was not any better and was nothing but in his comfortable Latin style. The writers tried to make him a country song and he says “it’s not me……..at aaaaall.” “Hay Julio, the challenge was to make a country genre change, stupid”! So they come up this Latin song that puts him in his comfort zone and John doesn’t call him on it! Come on John! What gives with that? Instead John picks on Diana that is the only one of the bunch that has mad talent, can sing all the others under the table and the only one that has any real chance at making it in this genre change. On top of that I feel certain that this GC is a challenge to them all so that answer is really not that bad considering she had no time to contemplate the question to give an answer that she really felt. If John had asked the same question to them all, and they didn’t know what he wanted to hear, they all would have most likely answered the same way because this is a challenge to them. If John would have had them doing less useless antics for no purpose other than stupid TV, and more of actually being there with them to teach them what he knows about writing country and how not to sound pop or R&B in their vocal style he may have had a reason to jump Diana. As is, I don’t’ believe John taught them anything about how to sing country or write country with the stupid things he had them do and then jumps on Diana for not knowing! Personally, it makes me mad at what John did and in this show in general. He has his friend, Cowboy Troy, that is trying to make rap country songs! Is rap country the real country now!?!? John you have lost your mind if you think that stupid rapping chicken song by Cowboy Troy is country and you jump on Diana for doing nothing but sounding a little bit too pop! If John doesn’t pick Diana to win this then he has for sure “Gone Crazy”.
helen says:
I have been watching the show,I gotta tell you maureen was greatBetwwen the emotion and the song she wrote she amazed me.I would so love to see maureen win.GOOD JOB MO
Joan says:
Dear Cast and John: For the most part, I have really enjoyed and looked forward to seeing the new episodes each
week. John, thanks for opening up your home, and planning and providing so many fun and learning experiences for the group. Wonderfully,you also started out the first night being very encouraging and positive with each cast member. As a music teacher,I also have degrees in music education, have taught music in schools and churches for over 20 years, judged or have judged many different solo and group competitions with my students. I have also been a huge and knowledgeable fan of country music for close to 40 years. However, John, even though you have provided many great opportunities, you also have portrayed not only a very arrogant, ignorant, extremely inaccurate, and “tunnel-visioned” view of what today’s country and country music is about, but have come close to dashing the hopes and lifelong dreams of your cast. I watch CMT often and find that most of the biggest, most respected, artists are not your “Big Hick”, “Red-necked”,or “Puffed-up”,KNOW it ALL artists, but your talented, honest, passionate,humorous and able to cross-over, empathize and sing well from the depths of their heart and soul.Also, the large majority of the hit songs are country rock (almost identical to regular country). Most of the successful, established artists have not forgotten their roots and are not intimidated by talented newcomers,but,instead are humble, inviting with open arms, helpful, and encouraging to new artists. As a music educator, I have often been given the task of critiquing students. I consider this to be a God-Given, ominous,and AWESOME responsibility. I realize that any music talent that I have is only by the Grace of God and that I will answer to Him on the way that I critique, encourage, or destroy my students. I am not at all perfect, but I try very hard with God’s help to give as corrective and encouraging, helpful criticisms as possible.
The world may be hard and cruel, but that doesn’t mean I have to be and when I do, I try to correct and heal or answer to Him. I want to commend your older cast members, especially Maureen, whom I grew up with on the Brady Bunch. I greatly admire all of the cast, especially the “Feisty Forties” for their tenacity and passion. I was very wounded by the the insensitive, untrue, and cruel comments made to Diana DeGarmo by John Rich. Even if you felt her “country rock” song needed some changes, any constructive criticisms could have been made with much greater kindness, sensitivity and encouragement. Also calling her a Diva who thought she would get a free ride was completely out of line and character. I truly believe that some of your cast members and the host are actually jealous and intimidated by the magnificent voice that Diana has. I first saw and heard Diana sing “Crazy” when she was a young child in Pigeon Forge, TN and I was completely floored. She had a passionate, beautiful, powerhouse voice that totally enthralled the audience. I still have her autograph on my program, because I knew she would be a huge hit someday. She was very humble and sweet. She had one of those very few in a life-time voices,like LeAnn Rimes. I often wondered what happened to her through the years and heard later that she sang at Dollywood and at the Grand Ole Opry. I was so happy to hear she was trying out for American Idol. Anyone that could go through as many murderous auditions as she did, especially with Simon Crowell, and to almost win was
phenomenal!!I knew she did some Idol tours, but I was so happy to see her coming back to country (which she never really left with her passion, heart, or music)! To my knowledge, Diana has never acted conceited or felt”someone owed” her something,but was willing to work very hard. I almost hope, however, she doesn’t win “Going Country”, because John Rich does not deserve to get to produce an artist of her caliber and character(respectful, talented,
sweet, country, compliant, non-conceited and passionate) and ruin her by making her like him. It’s not as if she could not have many great artists interested in producing her. The LEGENDARY and Lovely Dolly Parton, who employed her at Dollywood when she was a little girl, might love to produce her and she would be much more successful and happy. If I was offered the “Going Country” contract, I think I would turn it down, because John Rich is far too controlling. John,I don’t believe she’s desperate enough to stoop down to your level, but of course if she wins that’s totally up to her. MY PRAYERS AND BEST WISHES TO ALL! If they have the show again, I hope you get a new host
who has a CARING HEART!
Trisa says:
John,
More power to you darlin. You told the cast members what they should expect from you in the very beginning, and you were very clear on what you expect from them as well.
You’ve had them participate in activities that have more to them than meets the eye. Yes, it’s true that not all country music fans live the country lifestyle, or even in the country. A large chunk of them do though.
There is a great deal more to be learned from a day spent working on a farm than the amusement factor of Dee Snider cleaning up horse droppings. (Although, having banged my head numerous times in high school to that boy, I about died to see it!)
Fundraising and Children’s Hospital. You were absolutely correct that Country Music as a genre gets behind kids in need. We just don’t hear about it every day. Why? Well, it has a great deal to do with the fact that the artists are not getting involved for a career boost or publicity. They are getting involved because it is so very important and absolutely the right thing to do. Period.
Cooking Granny’s recipes for Granny, yourself and your close friends. Seems pretty simple. We love our family. We love our food.
Image is important. Having the cast meet Manuel and see his work was alot of fun to watch. My favorite part was when Sisqo realized how many big names Manuel has attired OUTSIDE of Country Music. You got that man thinking right there.
Demos of songs are not finished products. Therefore they are not studio quality. That wasn’t the point. Again, you told them what to expect from you and I think that’s exactly what you gave them. I don’t understand why so many people seem so upset by it. The people you critiqued aren’t holding life long grudges over this. Seriously, why all the drama?
To me the intended lessons have been obvious, and very important to understanding the point of view of Country Music fans. What is important to us, is what we look for in our music. Home-Family-Hard Work-Humility-Compassion-Responsibility-Tradition-Respect. In other words, the definition of Country Music.
You’ve said we’ll be very surprised by who you picked. That peaks my interest.
My best to Big Kenny. I love what you guys are about and what you bring us. I thoroughly enjoyed your effort with ‘Underneath The Same Moon’. Especially ‘Steel Bridges’. Can’t wait to hear the new stuff coming out soon.
One more thing, I was tickled pink today to see James Otto debut on CMT Top 20 Videos at #11. I wonder what the Muzik Mafia will bring us next.
I can’t wait to see you at Stagecoach in May. Great job so far. Keep it up Bright Eyes……….
Trisa
tgcali@gmail
danah says:
Well, I wasn’t going to put another comment on yjis week. I just can;t keep my mouthe shut or my fingers still. I am really tired of hearing how bad John treated Diana. I know she is the youngest, but she is goingh to have to be able to take the likin if she is going to keep tickin. I think she is very talented and will go far. Did you ever stop to think that maybe John sees this as well, maybe more so in her. I do agree Julio and Dee’s songs neither one of them sounded country, but to be honest Diana’s did not either. I also agree with Trisha why all the drama. These people are not holding a gridge and they knew what they were getting into when they started this. J.R. keep on doing what you are doing. Can’t wait for the new release, see ya on the road. Hope Kenny is feeling better.
StraitFan says:
The show is fabulous. The bad grammar and misspellings in this blog are priceless.
Trisa says:
StraitFan - You got that straight….
Cindy says:
John Rich is one of the producers for the new Jessica Simpson album that she is recording in Nashville.
Allison says:
Diana Degarmo is my favorite one of the Gone Country cast and after seeing her on this episode. She should still win the show. If she had sang Right Back Where We Ended backed by the guitars instead of just the piano. She would have sounded more country, but she was still great. Her vocals on the song were amazing and the song was excellent.
Can’t wait to see her next week on the Gone Country finale, when she gets to perform Right Back Where We Ended with a full band. She will definitely sound country and be the best one in the competition.
Kristen says:
I am only watching Gone Country because Diana Degarmo is on the show. Her song was great and her vocals are amazing. This episode of the show only was a practice run of the song before the big show the one that counts. Diana will definitely make the small adjustments that she needs to make before the performance of the song that counts. The changes that she needs to make are easy changes to correct and fix. She already did all of the hard work writing a great song with her co-writers.
Diana will be great in the finale and be the best one.
R says:
DIANA IS AMAZING AND WILL WIN!
She wants it and she will get it!
GOO DIANA!
Laura says:
The show is great and I applaude Gretchen for taking the “City folks” to the ranch and let them see what real country life is about. I would love to just sit in room with JR and stare at his eyes all day… The 2 sexiest men in country music JR and Kenny Chesney. Oh wait were on the show.. They can all make it if they want to learn and work at it. Hard work pays off and it is better for JR to be the critic than have someone get out and have the whole world be a critic and honestly words are easier to swallow and get over than falling flat on your face in the real world.. they will all be better people for what they endure on the show…
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
Whats next? Lets have a show where we take some East Indian convenience store owners and see who could be the next great rap star!
Farva says:
Hello….
First off.. I would like to say how much I like the show.. I can not wait to see who wins. Mr. Rich you have done it again and re-invented yourself. Hats off to you.. I have followed you from Lonestar to Big and Rich and have to say you are a very classy, NO BS guy. I have to say that you seem like a real” what you see is what you get ” man. I could go on… but I dont want people to get the wrong idea about me..lol.
I grew up in a NY and was in a band, we played hard rock, well the 90’s hit and the grundge scene came to and thats when I swiched to counrty… Because to me that was real music. If Tom Petty came out today with all of the music he came out with in the 70’s-80’s he woulod be country, as well with many artists. I ahve said this all the time.. I ahve lots of songs that my brother and I wrote that I am singing as counret and not hard rock..lol.
As for my thoughs about this Blog. I think everyoen deserves a voice. but you people need to see the forest for the trees here. John Rich did not attack Diana or anyone else. He just told the truth. hell why do you think he even brought Randy Owen” Mr Alabama” on . Damn he even backed up what John Rich said, Why arnt you people attacking Mr. Owen for his thoughts too?????? And most of all why am I the only one to point that out????
I think their are alot of awsome people on the show and I think they are all winners. I think Carnie Wilson has alot of potential as well as Dee and Bobbie.. But Bobbie needes to get his head out of his butt… he wants to sing about the man is needs to be.,… well he needs to stop drinking and work as a team. But thats just me. who am I…
You have a really tough choice Mr. Rich… Good Luck and God Bless..
Jason
farva05663@yahoo.com
Diane says:
Mr Owen was not mean to Diana and looked taken aback at how JR spoke to her..He was kind to everyone..
Robyn says:
John Rich, you should be ashamed of your self! Since when did constructive criticism require “knee jerk” personal attacks! You took the efforts of a very talented 20 year old and publicly humiliated this girl for all to see. I was uncomfortable watching it!! Fear is no motivator, its a tactic used by the weak to feel control. You of all people should embrace different approaches in the would of country. It wasn’t so long ago that many thought Big and Rich was just a passing fad in country. Really, how many grass roots country stars use rap in their approach? But B&R took a chance that it would work (Save a Horse) and it did. You pushed the envelope, so you of all people should be able to critique and direct these talented vocalist who want to be a part of your beloved country life.Come on John, step up and support your cause with honor, not rude comments and intimidation. If you don’t, you may lose the respect of the fans you claim to love. Thank God Randy was able to offer his expertise without all the drama!!
diane says:
The sad thing is this episode of gone country will be shown over and over and over again…and poor Diana will know that..I hope that she reads these comments and knows that very few of us think John acted appropriately as a mentor….none of the songs were that great..and the only reason Maureens got to him is cause it was “emotional” meaning she cried……..again….
Christina says:
Randy was perfectly fine. I don’t think anyone is angry at the critique about her vocals. It was just the harshness of John’s response to her about doubting her intentions that I think got to everyone. Now, the next episode Diana is going to work on her weak spots and try to prove to John that she deserves to win and wants to win. Is anyone else noticing the story arc here? Thank you, reality TV. I don’t believe there are any hard feelings between the cast over this stuff-you hear negative things, you deal with it, and then you move on and work on it. That’s what’s going to happen.
Lily says:
It takes a small man to wear a big coat!
Val says:
I have thorougly enjoyed this series. I realize that much of it is “staged” as with most reality shows. Bobby Brown is still a thug, but a thug with heart. He proved that at the children’s hospital. Diana deGarmo is very talented and has a great voice, but JR was right about the “pop” song. So much of country is now “pop” though. Heck, if I wanna see good rock and roll, I watch CMT.
I’d like to see Mo win it, even though she’s not a singer. She has heart, and would really like to overcome the “Marcia” personna.
Jeff says:
First off I want to know how they are going to put the Finale into a one hour taping with all the group singing, and also let us know( see) how the group took their critique and fixed what they had to fix? I mean I was at the wildhotse and heard the songs, I also watched the show of Dianas Demo and I will say Diana had a very good song and it sounded very Country to me. are they going to let people see that or are they going to edit it ? I like many others here have no problem with Johns critique of Diana but moreso in the way he went about doing it. I hope her song is heard in full so people can see( hear) that Diana took what JOhn said to heart and came out with a gorgeous song… either way I hope I get a chance to get a hold of that song to put onto my ipod.. :)
Jeannie says:
I love this show!!! John Rich you are definitely a visionary. Dee Snider has more county in his blood than even he realizes, he has “true colors” and heart. Mo needs to convince herself, she is WORTHY,of anything she goes after in life. Cisqo seems more like a behind the scenes kind of guy, writing maybe, he’s smart and polite. Julio appears to be comfortable with his life, doesn’t seem to have the desire or passion for this. He’s got a great smile though. I think God has given Bobby all the chances he can. Bobby needs to sacrifice and work hard for himself to make things happen. He’s got the gift. I would love to see Carney cast in a TV show as an awesome mom taking care of her family and everyday life, while fighting her own inner demons. She is so great!!!!! My heart broke for her when she was talking about going on stage, and shopping for clothes. Carney you are BEAUTIFUL!!! Diana has my vote, she is so adorable, and jesus that girl can sing. Definitely very marketable.
And John Rich, you are so smokin HOT, why are you not endorsing a clothing line, and fragrances. I’ve already named it,”Friction” imagine the possibilities. Wrangler and Junior have nothing on you. Call me!!!!!
Duck Tape says:
Jeff says: First off I want to know how they are going to put the Finale into a one hour taping with all the group singing, and also let us know( see) how the group took their critique and fixed what they had to fix?
I have come to the conclusion that CMT and the producers of this show are ignorant. Each episode should have been 1 hour long to give each cast member enough face time. With every episode re airing multiple times the excuse of CMT not having the space for 1 hour shows can’t be used. Now with this finale, 1 hour is not long enough for that!!!! Each song is on average 4 minutes long with 7 performances that = 28 minutes for all the songs to be aired without cuts. Most 1 hour shows leave 40 minutes of airtime after commercials. 40 – 28 = 12 minutes. If they have an introduction and close of each performer that will take the remaining 12 minutes leave no time for the big reveal. That means each song will be cut to fit it all in 1 hour show! The producers of this show are as stupid as it gets. This entire season has been leading up to these people performing their song at the Wildhorse and all we will get to see is a short cut version. You idiots! This next episode should be only the performances for this allotted 1 hour with the next one a 30 minutes reveal episode, or at lease one, 1 and ½ hour episode. Get ready to be mad if you thought these performances were not going to be cut short.
Jeff says:
So Duck Tape im taking it from your view that we will not be hearing the whole song from each? if so thats ashame because there were some great songs and great performances. Do you ( or anyone for that matter) know if the songs that were done will be released to the public?
Duck Tape says:
Without being too graphic of why, you and everyone else will get an opportunity to hear Diana’s “Right Back Where We Ended” after this show is over. The rest I’m not sure. I was at the Wildhorse as well. It was really a great show with John performing 3 songs too. I think it is a crying shame these nimrods at CMT are not making this finale a 2 hour show so each song can have the time it deserves and I would like to see John’s performances as well. I just really can’t believe they are cutting it short like this.
Beth says:
MR. RICH,
I HAVE TO AGREE WITH ANGELA. I ALSO BELIEVE YOU WERE TOO BRUTAL TO DIANA BECAUSE SHE BELIEVES COUNTRY MUSIC IS A “CHALLENGE.” IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE A CHALLENGE, THAT’S WHY THESE INDIVIDUALS ARE ON THE SHOW, TO CHALLENGE THEMSELVES FROM THEIR ORIGINAL GENRE. I ASSUME YOU WERE JUST BORN WITH “THE TALENT” BUT TO QUESTION DIANA ON WHY SHE’S ON THE SHOW? DID YOU WATCH AMERICAN IDOL? SHE’S A COUNTRY GIRL AT HEART, AND A YOUNG ONE, WHOM I SINCERELY HOPE HAS THICK SKIN AND DOESN’T LET YOUR NEGATIVITY BURST THIS BRIGHT YOUNG TALENT’S SPIRIT. YOUR DEFENSE OF “EVERYTHING COUNTRY” WAS SELF-SERVING AND NOT VERY ATTRACTIVE TO YOUR DEVOTED FANS WHO KNEW OF YOUR COMMITTMENT YET BELITTLED THE CONTESTANTS WHO ADMIRED YOU AND VALUED YOUR OPINION. THESE ARE ALL VERY TALENTED PEOPLE, IN THEIR OWN RIGHT, AND DESERVE BETTER THAN THE CONDENSENDING, NOT CONSTRUCTIVE, CRITICISM.
RESPECTFULLY, BETH
johnny says:
man you are like the songwritter i know. but it just takes years of experience and practice. i am a songwritter also and sing a bit (much) but my suggestion is your songs that you write should have more feeling and a more wildness to it. the songwritter you will know in 5 years
Trish Crawford says:
I am amazed at the non constructive criticism I read on this site. What ever happened to “walk a mile in his/her shoes? It’s easy to be a Monday morning quarterback, but hard to do it yourself. Of all the people who critized John Rich, they sound just like he did on the show.
There are criticisms but no suggestions as to how they think things should have been done. Diana is a big girl in a tough business. Did anyone think that she may hear worse in the future?
So, I suggest that if one doesn’t like how John handled the situation that they suggest another way.
metal fan says:
I think JR is a complete douche bag. Especially for how he treated Diana on the last episode. How can anyone whose greatest claim to fame be a song called “Save a horse, ride a cowboy” really be taken seriously. C’mon- all the crap he has the cast doing doesn’t prove that they are country. The attack on Diana was brutal, unecessary, and uncalled for. I think she has great talent and no-doubt her feelings were hurt. Why shouldn’t it be a “challenge”? And to be offended by that statement, JR should really grow a set and see that there’s so much more out there than country music.
Now as a life-long heavy metal fan, I could give two craps about country music. In fact, I only watch this show for 1 reason- Dee Snider. My only hope is that someday Dee will come up with a show called “Gone Metal” and bring the likes of JR into the frey to see if he can go metal…..which I am guessing not. I’d like nothing more than to see good ol’ JR plug into two Marshall stacks in front of 40,000 people following Twisted Sister in front of a metal crowd. I’m only sorry JR’s comments weren’t directed at Dee- he could whip JR’s ass at the drop of a hat.
METAL RULES!! \m/
Jim says:
After watching the show I have a whole new respect for all of the celebrities. Before the show I knew very little about any of these people, I was surprised to see how sensitive Bobby Brown can be, Dee Snider is a trip, I enjoyed seeing the caring personality of Maureen, she is so much of a nice person. I have a greater tolerance to others life styles and what makes people who they are. Thanks for opening my eyes and maybe others as well.
Thanks to John Rich for putting this show on for us regular people to enjoy.
I wish someday that I would be given an opportunity of a lifetime like these celebrities have been given. I am sure my life would be changed forever.
Heather Caywood says:
John,
you need to have a “Gone Country” show that feature’s average people who want to go Country! I know without a doubt that my husband could go country!! PLEASE DO A SHOW FOR THE AVERAGE JOE TO HAVE A CHANCE TO SHOW WHAT COUNTRY IS REALLY ALL ABOUT!!
Kaye says:
Love the show. It has been very cold here in Utah. On friday nights my son and I can”t wait to watch. John Rich is amazing what a brilliant idea. The things on the show to get these people to understand about country life are great watching. I have a small horse farm with reining and cowhorses and I really laughed when they tried to catch the horses, coarse that can be easy or a challenge anytime. Oh loved to hear about Pocatello and the place where John went after the show,had many good times thier after college rodeos, that is understanding your fans. Thanks again for great songs and good entertainment.
Norma Jean says:
MetalFan, you ask…. “How can anyone whose greatest claim to fame be a song called “Save a horse, ride a cowboy” really be taken seriously.” If you think that is John’s greatest claim to fame, you are yet another of the many, many people commenting here totally UNINFORMED. If you knew anything about John or Country Music, which of course, you hate, your comment would be more meaningful. Jeannie, your comments made me smile; you’re right on the money. (Yup, Friction is perfect.)
Of course Diana has a thick skin. She would never have made it this far since the age of 5 if she didn’t. These celebs have been through it all and if anyone thinks John’s criticism is the worst they’ve seen or will see, then they are naive. You think John hasn’t been treated the same way at times?? The music business is a cut throat, hard business.It can make you or break you. Just ask Britney,Kurt Cobain (oh, you can’t) and any artist in the business today. They will tell you, for every one that makes, it there are 100’s that go home. There’s a reason for that. There are hundreds of executives that do what John did on a daily basis. And trust me, they sleep well at night.John & Big Kenny will agree, trust me they’ve been there too.
Tania says:
Can anyone tell me why this episode has not been put on CMT Loaded. I have been dying to watch it since Saturday (Friday for you guys) and I am getting really annoyed waiting for it.
Every other week it has come on just as it airs on CMT but this week it is late.
I live in Australia and we do not get CMT here.
Can the people at CMT please WAKE UP AND DO YOUR JOB’s.
Susie says:
Dee I have a whole new respect for you. Bobby, just go home and get sober will ya, pleeeaase!! Julio, well you need to really understand what the rest of the world does everyday to appreciate what you have. You are spoiled!! Sisqo, don’t know much about your music but my daughters love you!! I wish the best for you. Maureen please I grew up on the Brady Bunch and you are most likely getting paid royality’s on being Marsha Marsha Marsha. Come live a day in my shoes and tell me how bad it is being you!!! Carnie, I have respect for you and your goals in wanting to make your own voice in music. You go girl!! I loved your song!!
Bill says:
John Rich is a scumbag,how dare you treat a woman like that on tv.I hope somebody puts their foot in your ass.F u and go play in traffic
craigallen69 says:
well like i said diana is the winner.. i hope.but diana sounds just like carrie,,sara.and taylor or am i the only one who thinks..let me know.DIANA U ROCK.fantasia sould have not be allowed to win. american idol..
BrianLee says:
WoW!!!!!!
A little intense drama and you people came out of the woodwork. I’m sure the producers of “Gone Country” are thrilled with the response. And the level of anger at JR is stunning, I must say that I don’t believe that he said anything that isn’t/hasn’t been heard in an ordinary A+R session at any record label. Please remember, that “reality TV” is an oxymoron, there is always editing and cutting of dialogue, so that it seems more dramatic. Recording demos are the hardest because that is the beginning of the recording process. The changes can be made there and the critiques can be harshest, it is a lot better and cheaper than trying to change the song during production.
Art/beauty are all subject to the eyes and ears of the beholder, it sometimes takes a trained professional to actually recognize a truth, which is what a true artist delivers.
BTW, I am almost sick of hearing about the difference between what is “Country” music and everything else. It should be called “American” music. All of it’s history and best performers are from America, and though there are some exceptions, this music was made by them for us. Let the rest of the world appreciate it, buy it, and imitate it, but it is really “American” in it’s heart and soul.
Didn’t always feel so strong about the future
Too many lies about the past
There just wasn’t a good leader
Who had the power to make it last
And if there was a promise on the horizon
TV was sure to shake it down
Values were not important
as teeth and hair are in that town
Now they bother us about consumption
while selling all the latest things
so much noise that we’re not hearing
the fat lady as she sings
and the money we are spending
goes around the world so fast
a dollar spent to get your groceries
kills some soldier in a blast
Governments were not built on kindness
The facts are not always black and white
It’s never been said “he did the LEFT thing”
but always said about the right
A land of hopes dreams and vision, the torch that glows in the darkest night
While they spend their days looking to the left, I’m turning to the right.
So easy to walk away from a hard challenge, just cry about the fight
The left have left the building, time for turning to the right.
Karen says:
Come on Now, How many people get scolded in the manner Diana did, with the whole, Ill kill for country music, ill slap anybody down.. blah blah blah.. Like ive stated several times, I have no problem with what he told Diana about her vocal part of the song ( she needed to har that) and yes why it is Reality TV, some who do not know Diana as an artist might go on what the show (showed) and doubt her Love for country music.. ( I will not because Ive followed Diana therfore KNow the girl is very passionate about her music.
alexis massey says:
I heard some one wrote that sisqo seems like the behind the sceans type of guy lol. Look the winner is always quiet!!! Diana is not going to win. Dee snider said that the person who wins is going to be a surprise to us. Really will it be a surprise that diana wins? LOL sisqo is the man hands down!!!!!
Christina says:
If Diana doesn’t win, I want it to be Sisqo. He seems to be the next most talented and also seems like a cool guy.
honestmomma says:
Wow, all these attacks on John Rich when over half of the attacking people can’t spell or even say something factual. Sounds like they are just as bad as they are claiming Mr Rich to be. Agree to disagree, take your sides, do whatever you think you have to do to sleep at night. It’s a competition no matter how you spin it. People are going to take sides and root for their favorite. If you don’t like what someone says, get over it. Be mature or stay quiet. Personally I think that the attacks on John, Big & Rich, or the cast in general is just blown out of proportion. It’s tv people, not life, get over it and yourselves. If you don’t like it, don’t watch it.
Denice says:
John Rich
I am a big fan first off. I have watched all the shows. I agree with you on the contry music. I love your music. I am all about the country. You have to be a country singer because thats is what you are about not because its a challenge. Image also liked you said was a big thing. I have grown up around country music so i can relate to them
JP says:
Hey John,
I like the way you took all of them to G Wilsons for a little taste of the farm life But Mucking stalls and the way they tried to halter a horse. thats the easy part how about the fencing and field work hoof picking etc…
there is sooo much to being country maybe you should get a few real country farmers and mold a really country singer.
take a country girl or guy to the country music world watch someone blossem that would be sooo rewarding.
Like watching gramp show his grandson or dau. to driver a tractor or deliver a new born calf / foal.
country music has been in my life forever. john you should grab a hold of a farmer and youll get country music song and maybe a really rewarding exp.
PS we country people dont need big fancy house (they are really nice.) I do really love your show.
Im a little nervous soo I my spelling is a-okay.
just remember starting from the bottom and watching something grow is what its all about! if you know what I mean.
Hope your having fun
JP
Keri says:
I predict Bobby to be the winner, From the crazy antics of his Peeing on the bed to the heartfelt moment at the childrens hospital to the great critiqe he recieved to the very last episode where he prayed to GOd, He is so the winner!
I personally Like Diana and sisqo myself but as said before one would be no suprize to be the winner and the other is a bit of a behind the scenes type person. so OH well Give MR Brown the Win and be done with it, I was after the3rd episode.
Tim says:
Some of the best laughs I’ve had in some time are the comments of outrage at JR for hurting feelings. Give me a break. I do think that John is coddling Bobby Brown way too much and not giving Dee the praise he deserves. Great show CMT. My hat is off to the Cowboy Stevie Wonder.
LitlTxIndian says:
I thought that maybe Dee or Bobby would have come up with a song that would along the areas of like Steve Earle’s “Copperhead Road” or “The Deveil’s Right Hand”… I do like what they had going, but just figured for something else I guess.
And for all the JR attackers, seems like they need to pay more attention to what all was said and that not all was Directly at Diana, the beginning was, but then it seems to have been more of a general statement for everyone! Competitors & show-watchers. Pay attention to eye contact! Some people just need to put their “Big Girl Panties On and Get on with it!” Judging from the upcoming-commercials that is what Diana did!! (U-go girl!) :)
Lucas Wynne says:
I’ll be watching the finale!
By the way, AMAZING production on John Anderson’s latest album, I’ve been playing Bonnie Blue and Brown Liquor over and over and over.
Mr. Rich, if you guys ever do a Muzik Mafia show at a joint that allows under 21 to enter - let me know. I’d love to come out to a show, actually, multiple shows - I’m moving to Nashville by August - going to Belmont
myspace.com/lucaswynne
Harv says:
Yeah, this sure makes for some great TV. Ol’ Hank sure as HELL would’t do it this way. As I tip my hat of respect to everyone involved, one word keeps coming to mind as I’ve watched (and enjoyed) this show: contrived.
myspace.com/harvrocks
Chris says:
I’ve been reading all these comments. I think everyone is forgetting the fact that the show is going for RATINGS. It is supposed to get everyone fired up. Yes, JR could have been alittle nicer on the critiques of the songs. JR is also a very passionate man on what he believes in, he hasn’t had an easy road getting where he is today, so why would he be easy on anyone else, either you have the talent or you don’t. Your not going to get many breaks with him becasue he sure didn’t get any breaks. If JR is producing the song it had better be good. If any of you would have listened to some of his solo albums you would see that he is more country than you think. Alot of JR’s roots came from singing at chruch on Sunday’s, how much more country can you get than that? As far as his fur coats, he gets enough crap from that! To each his own, give him a break..lol JR if you read these, keep up the good work, can’t wait for your solo album this year. If ever your in IN… I invite the Mafia to my house, better bring Granny though, I need to swap recipes with her..lol
George says:
I would like to see JR go on a Twisted Sister set and perform as well as Dee. Yeah, this is country, and country started going down the hip hop, rock and roll crossover a long time ago. I think in the movie with George Strait, “Pure Country”, it was pointed out that fireworks, smoke, lights, and sequins make for a great dancing chicken, but those of us who grew up in beer joints, listening to George Jones, Porter Waggoner, Johnny Cash, and the grand Ole Opry, on AM radios, this is not country music. It is entertainment, but is is crossover, and to the older baby boomers, stars did not wear earrings, tattoos, etc. Lots of folks have turned away from Country because it is becoming a circus freakshow, and does not resemble anything we grew up with.
hootchie mama says:
I haven’t heard enough of any one contestant singing or hashing out the lyrics during the writing process–since this is supposedly the premise for this show, to make an educated guess on who would win. There’s a lot of bling on this show, but not enough substance. Heck, there isn’t much substance on CMT to begin with, what happened to all the music video’s? Or did CMT change it’s name to Country Movie Television? If I had to watch King George play Dusty one more time, well….I did scream, come to think about it! Let’s get back to the MUSIC is basically my comment.
Samantha says:
The finale is AMAZING, no lie. Anyone that was there that night is still clueless as to who wins, they all did a great job!
Oh, and this may have already been posted but the reason that Big Kenny wasn’t on the show is because he was in Darfur while the show was taped last fall.
Hooray for the airing of the finale next week!!!
Kristy says:
I’ve sat here and gone through the postings above and I only have one thing to say. Grow up people! So many of you are jumping all over John Rich for his critic of Diana and everyone elses songs. THE SHOW IS HALF AN HOUR LONG! You have no idea what all was said to these people nor did you get to hear their entire songs. The producers are going to pick through hours of tape and we will see what they think will get the greatest ratings. You say ‘oh Diana is so sweet and she really wants this, you never show Diana and when you do you yell at her’. I have watched this show from the beginning and it seems to me that everytime they show Diana she is commenting about how much experience she has and that she’s gonna take them all down. Seems to me she is just as cocky as Dee has been accused of being. But she’s the cute little baby of the show so that makes it okay. She’s just not as in-your-face about it as Dee. In my opinion she wrote a very good pop song that may make it as a ‘crossover’. That is not what this show is about, or supposed to be about. John is trying to teach them to write from their heart and soul and life experience. I believe that is what he is after. Several of you have commented on ‘Save A Horse Ride A Cowboy’ and it not being real country. What is real country? It’s all music people! If you don’t like it don’t listen to it. I have been a fan of John Rich since his Lonestar days and am a huge Big and Rich fan. ‘Save A Horse’ is not my favorite song but it is fun. Country music, all music, should speak to you, cheer you up when you’re sad, or just make you feel good. Why does it need to be more? Isn’t that enough? You talk about Johnny Cash, Hank Williams Sr. & Jr., Patsy Cline. Remember these artist were just as controversial in their days. Music changes and evolves, that’s what it does! So when you’re watching the show remember that John is trying to teach them a different way. Not better or worse just different. We all have our own opinions, as is our right, but that includes John Rich as well. It includes Randy Owens who I’m sure did more then just sit and choose who they would hear next. These contestants, yes contestants, knew they were going to get brutal honesty from the start. Only arrogance or stupidity would make them think otherwise.
KatieAnn says:
Kristy, I think you’re missing the point in what most have a bit of a problem with. Yes, all of the celebrities should’ve expected critiques and honesty, but John’s job was to constructively criticize. Telling someone that he’s going to “smack them down” is brutal and not in a good way. The producers have shown very little of Diana, and then go ahead and do this. When you show someone for about a minute in about 3 episodes, how IS one going to get a well-rounded impression of that person? Like, you said yourself, all you saw was her saying she was young and saying she wanted to win, but I’m sure there was a heck of a lot more than they’re not showing us and I bet it’s all good. She’s just not a drama-filled person and doesn’t play to the cameras. Has she shown confidence? Of course she has, but you need confidence in this industry, and you need passion for what you do (she has passion for country music). John himself probably has more confidence than all these people combined. Is that arrogance though? I don’t know about that. A desire to win does not mean that someone can’t be sweet and respectful. If you saw someone cutting someone else down, then we’d have a different story. Thank GOD everyone on this show seems to get along and seems to support each other. That’s one thing I like about this cast. For the people defending Diana in this blog, I’d say don’t worry about her, she’s a strong young woman and can more than handle herself. I’m sure she’ll improve on all her criticisms for the finale. For those of us who have a better idea of who she is and have met her before, we know she’s a sweet, humble, and most importantly hard-working girl with a hell of a talent. And don’t worry about John Rich. He and Diana get along just fine and are even hosting the Gone Country Marathon next weekend together with Dee.
Diane says:
Diana cocky??????????????????????? All she said once was she was there to win as everyone is…..And everytime they show her?????Maybr 3 times the entire series???And compare her to Dee?????? Geesh..get a grip Kristy!!
Susie says:
I agree with Kristy! Diana has said she was going to ‘take them down’ and does appear cocky to me. She also said on last Friday’s show that “pop is like country, all you have to do is put some twang in it”. Sorry, wrong answer!!! I feel the reason Diana wants to be a country singer is because she didn’t make it as a pop singer. I feel she is using country music as a means to get her singing career going and that if has always wanted to sing county, then why didn’t she follow that dream instead of selling out for a pop career. For those of you who love and adore Diana, go for it I just don’t share your enthusiasm.
KatieAnn says:
I think she might be naive in her approach, and I attribute some of that to her youth, but I think people are reading too much into her comments. If you read any of the articles about Diana, this is how the story reads. She grew up singing country music, sang on the Grand Ole Opry at 12, performed with many great country artists, etc. That was as a kid. Then she became a teenager and got into pop music and decided she wanted to sing that instead (though she always sung “Crazy” and always cited her favorite singer as Patsy Cline). She was a kid and spent years trying to “find herself”. Now she’s realized that country music is where her heart is. What’s wrong with that? Some people take years to figure out who they are. I’m not sure why her intentions are just as, if not more, sincere that anyone else’s on the show. With the exception of Maureen, it’s not like anyone else had tried country music before. You may not like her but surely you can see that with reality TV editing and with the little they’ve shown of her on the show, they’re editing her a certain way-as the naive, young one. And yes, maybe she is, but there’s a lot more to her than that and they’ve only shown a bit of it. We’re all entitled to think what we want, however. I just feel for people like Diana, Sisqo and Julio who have hardly gotten anytime on screen (at least prior to this last episode). To someone that hasn’t followed their careers for years, a casual viewer might not know what they’re all about and I put that blame on the producers of this show, because they took footage of everyone, but only decided to show footage of a choice few.
Tracey says:
My comment is in general to John Rich and not actually the contestants. I am pretty surprised by John’s harsh comments toward the individuals with regard to their songs. Basically the last lashing he gave out to Diana and then when he stated he would “beat down” or maybe it was “smack down” anyone who puts down country music. That he is very proud of country music and will defend it to the death, especailly traditional country. Good….I hope he does and will, but to his harshness I have to say…..do you honestly think that “save a horse ride a cowboy” is good traditional country???? You are successful in your career John…..but not at what I wouldn’t consider traditional or good old country music, for the most part. You are listed as “hick hock” if I am not mistaken. Though as I stated you are popular and I enjoy the music and appeal of Big & Rich…..I think you are moving in a different direction with regard to country music and should cut others the same slack that you were not given in your initial quest. Maybe the contestants are a bit out of their surroundings, but give them a chance to try something different. Most of the songs I heard could easily be played on country radio in this day and age, but yes could also cross over to pop or contemporary…..which isn’t so bad when you have many of the “country artists” doing just that now a days anyway.
Thanks for listening. ;-)
alexis massey says:
I have to agree with Kristy. She seemed cocky to me and Dee seemed like a ok guy to me. That incident where dee said he dosn’t like country music they edited that part because he said he wanted to try it out and give a chance. The show put a label on him as the bad guy but he really isn’t. I believe that Diana is cocky, she thinks she she has it down pack. Remember people we havn’t heard the whole song all we heard was one line!!!!! I agree that she is a good singer But personaly she is not the winner. Besides the cast said at the end that Dee and sisqo had the best performance!!!!!!! Personally i’ll give it to sisqo!!!!!!! The one they really don’t talk about. The one that didn’t start controversy. The one that still has sex appeal. The one that is not too young and not too young. THE ALL AROUND GUY!!!!!!!
Irene says:
I watch the show every week just to get a peek at John. He’s hot! I like his personality, style and intelligence. I find the show entertaining as well. Everyone is going on & on about the constructive critisism given to the contestants and I say good for him. That Diana has a good voice but a huge ego. Maureen’s song was deep & she showed a great deal of song writing ability.
I liked Bobby Brown as well. I can go on & on about how much I love the show but I do not have the time-I just wish it was longer-way too many commercials.
Beth says:
Tracey, I agree with you.
John, do you recall the criticism Big & Rich have gotten and still get for not being country enough … whatever that means? I’m betting Cowboy Troy could talk to you about some of your nastiness because he got it even worse than you and Kenny did. Your cruel comments show you haven’t learned a thing from any of that.
I believe that country music has become a ‘big tent’ and I like it that way. There are a lot of Big & Rich songs I love; some I don’t like at all; however, I wouldn’t put you down for not being country just because some aren’t to my liking! By the way, I believe you are a great songwriter and although Kenny isn’t as prolific, he has written some great songs, too. Do you believe your talent gives you license to be so mean?
Fans eventually turn away from artists whose egos have zoomed into the stratosphere no matter how good the music because we do not want to support people who forget where they came from.
louise says:
for one to the people that are trashing john u just want to be him and can’t… as for diana she is pop not country and i think that if dee put a little work on his song he could win.. i wish they would put a show on like this every week good work john thank you
Tim says:
JR and Big Kenny are true visionaries. I didnt know who Big and Rich even were until I saw “Save a Horse Ride a Cowboy” video on CMT. You talk about something blowing you away. That performance is truely the “Sgt Peppers” of country videos. Can’t wait for Friday night. This episode will be one for the ages.
Doreen says:
I love the show. I think Bobby Brown’s song is wonderful. I am really looking forward to hearing everyone’s songs.
chris says:
I think you need to get over yourself. All of today’s “new” country is re-hashed, slowed down 80s and early 90s glam/pop rock. The smoke, lights, big stage sets..ect.
Tim says:
By the way, congrads to John and Big Kenny for garnering four ACM nominations that were just announced today. Hopefully this time the voters will get their heads out and recognize B&R for a much deserved and overdue ACM award win. Way to go guys. Good luck!
KatieAnn says:
I think the finale is going to be good.
Darinda says:
After watching this episode I hope that the contestants realize what a golden opportunity they have had to get their song critiqued by such an awesome songwriter. I would kill for the opportunity for John to hear some of my songs and give me such honest feedback - good or bad…mostly it would be good I’m sure. Coming from a family of songwriters I wish that they would host a show for “common” songwriters - instead of just stars/celebrities. And the songwriters can get to choose stars to sing their songs. It would be an awesome show.
Wndrwmn says:
I just love this show. I laugh & I cry. I am determined to get to Nashville on my vacation! John, do you think you might have room at the house? LOL
Diane says:
my my Diana gets 3 seconds of air time and she is cocky and using the country music genre to get famous..what about the drunk Bobby and all they show is his peeing in the room and Dee hating country music..and Maureen crying cryin crying…You guys don’t KNOW Diana..she wants to “take them down” cause she is serious about winning..she will make it in whatever she does..Her first album was great….But she can sing Patsy Cline type like Leann..And if you listen to Carries new cd..some songs there are more pop than country..and before he cheats was on the pop charts
Tracey says:
Louise,
I think Beth and I are not “trashing” John…..I happen to like Big & Rich and I too agree that John is a great talent, especially his song writing. Have the songs that have been out for the past few years have been co-written by him. Obviously he is doing something correct.
We are just saying that he needs to set back and remember what it is like when you are starting out. Once he left Lonestar (I hope you remember he was once in the group) anyway……he had a rough go of things and with the country community that he know claims as his bread & butter. He was wanting to try a different type of countyr music and no one would listen to him. Obvisously times have changed and I think a younger batch of country music listeners have arrived and so the sound/attitude/stage performance/etc. of Big & Rich is now being accepted.
All Beth and I are saying is don’t get to far ahead of yourself or full of yourself and set back and see the potential of others.
Thanks again for listening. All is good people….all is good.
;-)
Duck Tape says:
Unlike 99.9% of the people that post here and are watching the show, I was at the Wildhorse for the finale so I am one of only a few that have actually seen all of the performances. Everyone else that was not at the Wildhorse has very little to base an opinion about whom they think will win except for what the producers have let them see by their edits. Carnie’s vocals were second best but I really didn’t like her song even though it sounded more country than some of the others. Julio’s song was not country at all. It was very Latin sounding and was sub par on vocals. Sisqo did a fairly good job with only par vocals. I can’t see his song being a radio hit. Bobby did write a good personal song, performed like he has been doing that on stage for 25 years (oh yeah, he has) but he really bomb at vocals and was the worst singer out of the bunch. The winner of this has to be able to sing great and Bobby proved he can’t. Maureen’s song was good but way too slow and boring. That song has no challenging vocals at all and she still was not good at hitting the easy notes. She was second worst vocally behind Bobby and proved she can’t sing either. Dee’s song was nothing but hard rock and roll with a bunch of creaming for vocals. I thought they were supposed to “Gone Country” not rock and roll. Which now brings me to the winner, it’s Diana! Vocally, she’s in a class by herself making all the others sound like rejects on American Idol. She wrote a great song that for sure is a hit, performed it like a pro with an ending on the song that will make everyone wait in anticipation for 10 seconds (and I mean that literally, I’ve timed it) before she makes everyone watching drop their jaw and say “WOW that girl can sing”! From what I saw and heard at the Wildhorse, Diana has to win or John has lost his mind.
Lex says:
Sounds like DuckTape is a biased Diana fan. As far as Dee’s song being too rock, geez it’s like you’ve never heard of Steve Earle or the Kentucky Head Hunters or even some of Big&Rich’s songs. Rock is part of country stupid.
DuckTape needs to STFU. He also needs to learn to spell better than a 3rd grader.
Katharine says:
I’ve heard most of the songs as well and thought Dee’s was pretty entertaining. Same with Sisqo’s. My favorite was Diana’s though. Who knows who know picks though, we’ll see what happens.
R says:
Thanks for the post Duck Tape. I hope everyone will read it to know what really happened…DIAN WILL WIN :]
Duck Tape says:
Lex says: He also needs to learn to spell better than a 3rd grader.
LOL I almost always have one or two typos or misspellings in every post. I guess I should proof read better but I also guess you’ll just have to get over it or not read it. If John wants his new country star to not change from where they had been musically in the past and wants a rock and roller instead of a country star, then Dee wins. I never said any of them were bad because they were not. Dee was just too much rock and roll and “screamed” his vocals instead of singing like a country star should. Like I said, none of the performance was completely awful but IMO each had their flaws and I just pointed out the weak spots at why John may cross them out as winner. Diana was the only one that had a great song, great performance and she most definitely was the best vocally. There is nothing negative to say about her performance or song which equals the best performer of the finale. So if that is most of what John based his decision on, then Diana should win.
Laurie D says:
What is it with Diana?I don’t think shes so special.If Maureen wrote the song then let Maureen sing the song.
Maureen will proberly end up writing she has alot in her her life hasn’t been all peaches and cream.Just look at her very average plain Jane looking for approval!!
Go Maureen Go!!
This was a great show!
MAMAJESS says:
Why is this episode not up on CMT Loaded but all the others are?
Nora says:
To Duct Tape,
I love reading your posts. I agree with you with what you’re saying. You save me alot of typing since you’ve already expressed my views. Thanks and keep up the good work!
S says:
Diana should not be in this show, if all it does is to destroy her reputation.
As for her pop album, no/little promotion/push by AI. Only winners get it. Only lately the runner up gets some promotion. AI also saddle her with some bubblegum pop songs making her album too young. Her voice deserve better songs than those.
You can get most of her songs on youtube, myspace including some leaks from broadway.
try searching streetsinger, magic man reprise, once upon a time.
Not a lot of singers can do a 8 shows per week for months at a time and be spot on.
Not all singers can be a great song writer and not all song writers can be a great singer.
To be a great singer and song writer is to be a legend.
Whether diana is special or not, you will have to listen to her performances before deciding. If country does not want her, broadway does. Broadway stars needs to be able to act and sing and dance. Braodway needs new talent. Current crop of stars are getting old. This is the same for any genre of music.
Keri says:
Diana at age 16 http://kikoish.imeem.com/video/CFVali-O/diana_degarmo_broken_wing_music_video/
S says:
Any song written needs to brought alive by a singer.
A great singer can make a lousy song listenable.
A lousy singer can destroy a great song.
A great singer is preferable over a great song writer.
Christina says:
You people are talking as if John said something bad about Diana’s songwriting. He didn’t praise it like he did Maureen’s but he didn’t say it was bad either. In fact, I’ve heard him say in another interview that they all wrote really good songs and that she specifically wrote a “really, really good one”. He just had a problem with her vocals sounding too pop.
Christina says:
I meant to say this before as well. The best songwriter is not necessarily going to win and the best singer is not necessarily going to win. It’s going to be whoever has the best chance of “going country”, as decided by John, the person who can best crack country radio with their song. And that’s really up to him. Who knows what he finds to be more important.
S says:
Too bad leaks from broadway did not include west side story.
She was singing soprano. Music critics gave her a pass on it.
Mz.Janice says:
John…I love the show!!!
I think it is great, and what a wonderful idea in bringing these folks together to see who has the talent to go country.
I was raised around country music, and love it!!! There is so much emotion put into the art of country music.
I am a published author/poet, and love to express feelings…
I look forward to seeing each episode each week, and I have been watching the re-runs too. What a fun group!!! Can’t wait for the grand finally to see who wins…Keep up the great work!!!
~Peace & Love~
~Mz.Janice~
Pepsi Girl says:
>>>>”As far as JR not making it without BK… now I adore BK, but he was not makeing it, totally peaked low, in the business. I personally love his muzik, as most of the fans who have been there from the start of B&R do. But many didn’t “get it.”
Pepsi Girl says:
>>>>>As far as JR not making it without BK… now I adore BK, but he was not makeing it, totally peaked low, in the business. I personally love his muzik, as most of the fans who have been there from the start of B&R do. But many didn’t “get it.”
Pepsi Girl says:
I got it. And prefer it.
tillyouwantme says:
till you want me
Delese says:
yeah, the voice is the first thing you’ll usually notice in an artist… but to me, the words that their trying to say is the biggest impact..
so hell yeah maureen!
and also hell yeah to JR, such an incredible songwriter.. one of my biggest influences.
?? says:
I can’t comment on this episode yet since i haven’t seen it. When are they gonna put online? They normally put it up pretty quickly. Not all of us have CMT so our only option is to view it online.
Katie says:
I love this show. It is ABOUT time a reality show is just that REALITY. I love that there is no house drama and fighting and all that other crap. Im sad that this is such a short season. I hope to god that they do this again next season. This was just awesome. Good Work John ( everything you touch turns to platinum. ) :)
George says:
You can find the full episode on Diana’s website. The link is http://www.dianadegarmo.com.
Judy Best says:
I think this is the best show I have seen in a long time. I have enjoyred it greatly. It’s nice to see so many positive things come out of watching it and YOU Mr. Rich really have a keen eye on so many things!!
Marc says:
Sorry, but country isn’t country, it’s weak pop.
k knight says:
this is the pimpest T.V. show ever it shoulod have like alot of sesions.
Renea from Tennessee says:
I appreciate the honest criticism. Since I like all genre of music, I can see where you come from. I think Bobby is soulful, talented but shaky, Sisqo has what it takes but needs to dig deep, Carnie needs more confidence, Mo’ has the most heart for it, Dee still rocks, and shows a sweet side and decent side of him, Diana is a great singer but I think is more suited for pop unless she changes her style, and Julio is perfect for bringing in the latin vibe but I don’t know about his staying power. The show is great and I enjoy it immensely!
crazy says:
crazy
Don says:
The single was released digitally to radio stations this week, along with a press release announcing this person as the winner.
The winner WAS NOT Diana. Sorry folks.
dianad says:
Diana’s fan web-site is dianad.com. I think the other one listed above and the myspace that this site links you to is undergoing some re-construction. But you can get everything and anything you want on dianad.
Melissa says:
Julio won. His single is already at country stations from what I read online.
katiaq says:
Don,
HOw do you know its not Diana?
katiaq says:
Julio? Really? Where did you read this? Dang, I was rooting for Diana. I just dont get it.
dave says:
Ha. So much for best song writer or best singer. It is best marketability. So does it means you only stand to win if you already has a huge fanbase? wow. it is not going to be the budding artist that is going to get the break.
Christina says:
I actually think Diana is more marketable than Julio, but he’s still up there for marketability. I also don’t think he has a huge fanbase either. John has gone crazy if he picked that person.
Nancy says:
Diana Degarmo definitely met all of her challenges on Gone Country and will have a great country music career. Love the song Right Back Where we Ended and can’t wait until she releases the song as a single.
Go Diana!!!
Buffy says:
I glad you guys finally realize what a narrow-minded, arrogant, self-centered homophobic prick that JR is. It was just a matter of time. Keep a camera on this guy for over five minutes and he’s bound to piss someone off. He’s very short and has an extreme inferiority complex. He gets people in a position of subserviency e.g. (Muzik Mafia) (TV Show) (Producing Has-Beens) and uses this pseudo-authority to mentally and verbally abuse people with his Machiavellian style doctrine. Most professional music business people in Nashville now avoid this guy like the Black Plague! This guy is such a cretan that he thinks a being on a reality show is a good career move. Go Fred!
Dee says:
All that winner will do is sell albums to his existing fanbase. He has a very slim and I mean SLIM chance of picking up any new fans- and if he does it certainly will not be of the country genre.
DonziDoll says:
To me, this song especially showcases Julio Jr’s voice as a singer and his talent as a songwriter, Con El Viento from his 2nd CD, Tercera Dimension:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmkprrUGG0o
Just listening to the emotion in his voice makes me want to learn Spanish! Not trying to spam the board, but the rest of the cast have clickable working CMT links to messageboards & official webpages, yet I’ve posted twice to ask CMT to fix the broken Julio Jr links on this website. It’s easy for anyone in the USA to find examples of the rest of the cast performing, but not so much for Julio Jose. He has a large following in Spain, where he was born, as well as Europe and also the Phillipines, as his mother is Filipina; he came to live in the USA when he was a small child, was raised and educated all the way thru college here. He travels back & forth regularly between Madrid and Miami, owns a home there in FL. Like Diana, he’s younger than the rest of the cast…and like Diana, Julio Jr is a very polite and well-mannered person who would also be an excellent role model. Having met him and having spent a good bit of time with him, it’s obvious to me that the “latin lover” label is quite ridiculous and misplaced, especially since he’s been in a longterm relationship for several years.
DonziDoll says:
I just found this:
John Rich Says Audiences Will Be Shocked By Winner Of ‘gone Country’
By: Lauren Moraski
John Rich, of Big & Rich, says viewers will likely be surprised when they find out the winner of the CMT reality series, Gone Country. The show features a motley mix of established performers, vying for a spot as the next country star. Seven musical celebrities have moved into a Nashville mansion together to embark on a two-week adventure, hosted by Rich. Each celebrity will be paired up with some of Nashville’s finest songwriters in an attempt to prepare them for a career in country music.
Contestants include Brady Bunch’s Maureen McCormick, R&B singers Bobby Brown and Sisqo, pop vocalist Julio Iglesias Jr., Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider, American Idol finalist Diana DeGarmo and former Wilson Phillips member Carnie Wilson. Rich told CMT.com, “I think everyone will be shocked at who I picked as the winner. Honestly, though, they all had great songs and they all had great performances. It made it really difficult for me. I just had to one-by-one put as many strikes by them as I could — and the person with the fewest amount of strikes is the winner.”
Rich says he’s been surprised by what it feels like to constantly be on camera, calling it an “out of body kind of thing.” He says, “Because it’s 24 hours a day and you’re in all these different situations, you forget the cameras are on. You forget that they have a microphone on you. You get to see and hear how you really are. That was pretty wild.”
The season finale airs March 7th.
After reading the part ==> “the person with the fewest amount of strikes is the winner”, it makes sense to me that possibly Julio Jose won! =)
foreigner says:
well nice and dandy! dont mean to knock julio. Unfortunately his english is not up to par. Is he an act trying to break into the USA/English market or is he trying to expand his spanish market in the USA ?
As far as singing english songs in any genre, we have yet to hear an outstanding song from him. If you have one, can you give us a link. At least we can judge him singing an english song if you have one. What is acceptable in spanish may not sound very good in english and vice versa.
foreigner says:
What i meant about wheather the phrasing/tone/range of his voice is right for the language to be sung in.
DonziDoll says:
IMHO, he’s neither trying to “break into” the USA/English market, nor trying to expand Spanish in the USA–IIRC it was JR who said Jj would be an IDEAL candidate to bridge the gap between those English- and Spanish-speaking CM fans. IMHO, Jj was mismarketed in the US earlier in his musical career. He is NOT his dad and he is NOT his brother! His second CD (2003) was in Spanish, which he wrote & performed & produced. All the songs on his first CD (1999) were in English and he was the feature performer for that year’s Miss American Pagent, here’s his video of “One More Chance”, pls keep in mind it’s almost 10 yrs old and he’s grown/matured musically since then:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBKi-BQd9KM
DonziDoll says:
Jj might be a bit more comfortable singing in Spanish, but I know for a fact that he speaks perfect English, including slang.
Leah says:
I really hope that spoiler about Julio winning isn’t true. He doesn’t seem to have any real commitment to following through with a country career, unlike Diana who desperately wants to be a country artist. What a slap in the face. I like Julio but Diana not only deserved it she also wanted it.
DonziDoll says:
IMHO, Diana will do well with/without a *win*. She is a lovely & talented young lady!
I also found it interesting/humble that Jj said he did not think of himself as a strong contender, yet JR was very complimentary of Julio Jose in one of the *extraz* videos.
Looking forward to the finale! =)
Keri says:
OH well if its true Julio won, congrats… and Diana I really hope we get a chance to get your song on itunes or something… you Rock Girl!!!!!
Aileen says:
This news sucks. I guess JR really did hold a grudge against Diana for how she answered his question and for her pop sounding song. I can’t understand any othre reasons for not picking her. She even has a bigger fanbase than Julio because of American Idol. geez
Jeff says:
Is this for real, Julio Won? I honestly thought Diana would take this thing.I met her at the finale and she was just so nice and Damn that girl can sing. I too hope she comes out with something Ill but it for sure……. Still confused on how she couldnt of won!
dave says:
Well i love country music. but JR from Big and Rich what a joke he is. save a horse ride a cowboy was there biggest hit. yehaaa yea I bought thier cd i think thats the only song on the whole cd that was any good! who is he to judge on they way a person can sing country music when Big and Rich sounds more like country Rock with dance music..until your brooks@dunn you might be a music critic.. how meny hits have they put out compared to Big and Rich…….
dave says:
HEY JR what are you trying to be the new porter wagner or a fake ass snoop dog wanna be.with the fur coat and those gay ass laser pants hey JR save a horse and ride your broke back mountain you would have done a grate job in that movie……i know were those lyrics came from now you are the one whos dreaming of riding a cowboy…..
Dee says:
Well what’s interesting is that Diana got chewed out because her song and voice sounded too pop. However, Julio’s song is very pop, has even less of a country sound. So it seems kind of unfair that JR would rip Diana for that and then turn around and choose a winner with the same issue.
Sounds more to me like they had to “manufacture” a strike against Diana so that he could pick Julio to try and pick up a Latin market to country.
Julio was the laziest of all the contestants and he was not shown favorably in the show. His winning will make no sense and will also pretty much guarentee that this show will have any less viewers if it comes back next season.
mary says:
I can’t believe that lazy kid won. I never thought he had a chance to win, so I figured it had to be Diana. If I were her right now, I’d be wondering what the heck it takes to get somebody to recognize TALENT. TALENT. And Diana got ripped for not being country enough and the Latin boy’s song IS? I’m really mad.
Nashville Rocks says:
I’m a recent Diana fan. I don’t watch Idol but this girl is like a revelation to me.
If Julio won, it would not only surprise me, it would make me want to smack John over the head and go what in the name of GOD were you thinking? I mean seriously, first you put the cast into a bunch of meaningless tasks that according to you are “crucial” in writing a good country song; then you pick the dude who was least committed to those activities. He just sat around on his lazy ass and wrote and sang a weird Spanish country song, whatever that is. I’m sure JR picked him to attract the Spanish crowd and that means he SOLD OUT. That’s right, country music has changed and there’s no sincerity to talent anymore.
Even Maureen seems to be a million times better pick than the “Latin Lover”. I have nothing against Julio, it’s just that there were a couple of other people who deserved it a LOT more than him.
Sorry. But I’m disappointed in John.
john says:
Poor diana. What does it takes to catch a break?
It’s a long and winding road for her. If any artist is suppose to pay their due, she has been doing it for 15 years already and looks like it going to be even longer before she gets her breakthrough album.
Maybe it is better for her not to be in the country genre as it is more restricting for someone of her ability.
magic man reprise
Judy says:
I love this show!! I check CMT.com everyday to look for the times that the show will be on so I can catch up, since I miss the Friday night show.
The combination of talent chosen for this show at first seemed so outlandish! As the show winds down, the interaction of the individuals really surprises me. It was so cool to see Dee Snider giving support and encouragement to Diana when she was so upset after the critique of her song. I think she is just so used to everyone telling her how great her singing is, that when she is criticized, she doesn’t know how to handle it. She needs to learn and grow from it.
Great show!!!! Want more!!!!!
Fb says:
Diana is a loser and always will be!
Nashville Rocks says:
^agreed. she’ll get there someday!
alexis m says:
Diana is awsome but she isn’t going to win it’s so obvious. I put my money on sisqo.
diane says:
Diana was constantly criticized on AI..too young..too bubble gummy…always second place..so don’t say she is always being told how great she sings..you obviously know nothing about her Judy amd FB……
?? says:
Thanks so much George, i’m watching it now! :)
Serenah says:
How dare you FB call Diana a loser! The only loser around here is you. Diana is an amazing singer. If you can’t say anything nice about her then you need to STFU!!!!!!!!!!!!!
musing says:
If lindsay lohan, hillary duff can make it with less than sterling vocal ability, then why knock diana who is trying her best. How about you FB ? Can you look at yourself in the morning and said you have given your best shot at anything ?
Success is not all or nothing. The journey is part of the fun in life. Your world is too white and black. lighten up and get a life!
Buffy says:
Diana will be way better off without JR. She is so lucky she lost. She has gotten some great exposure on he show so an established producer or label will more than likely pick her up. Then she can have a chance at a ligament deal rather than one from a silly contest.
Doug says:
Diana Degarmo has been great on Gone Country. She is the only reason that I am watching the show. Right Back Where We Ended will go on to be a #1 single on both country stations and pop stations. Keith Stegall who she co-wrote the song with is one of the legends of country music. He is the producer for Alan Jackson and has written numerous hit songs for country radio.
What a great opportunity Gone Country was for Diana to work with two of the best in country music Keith Stegall and Shanna Crooks.
Diana will definitely shine in the finale of Gone Country. She is a great performer. She earned critical acclaim for her role in Broadway’s Hairspray as Penny Pingleton. Diana will definitely go on to be a huge country/pop star.
Pegi G says:
Maureen should win. She is so good. Love “Gone Country”. Only thing that could have made it better is to have Big Kenny involved. I love both my “Big ‘n’ Rich” guys. Keep up the great work John…………….Love You…..Pegi
Carl says:
Big Kenny won’t go near John Rich anymore unless he’s forced to by management.
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
Dave is right on the money!! That bigfoot skin coat is the funniest thing i’ve ever seen!! What is in that glass he’s always carrying? I think it’s ex-lax because he is so full of shit!!! J.R. looks like an angry little garden gnome!! If this is country then I’m a hairlip pope!!
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
And further more he has eyes like a ferret!
Kayla says:
Isn’t it disappointing to find out that John Rich feels Country Music and Country Values all boil down to ‘making the girls scream’.
I think we all would have respected his decision last night much more if he had been honest with everyone right up front and said that all he was looking for was a little cutie to prance on the stage to sell records by sex appeal; not talent or heart.
John B says:
Shame on you John Rich. I never thought of you as a sell out. You worked your plan very well. Julio was not the best or close to the best of the finalists. On the first show you said you were looking for someone to cross over into the “Huge” Latin market. Well you made sure your conclusion matched your hypothesis. Even my wife a casual watcher of the show, fell off her chair when you announced the winner. What a bunch of crap. I didn’t have a favorite, but based on YOUR criteria Diana was the better candidate. Your decesion was based on race (future markets) and not talent. Shame on you John Rich.
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
How about a calender with J.R. wearing those gay outfits and riding a cowboy naked up brokeback mountain!!
Dianne says:
Watched every episode of Gone Country & loved them until the winner was announced last night. I was completely flabbergasted! What? Julio is just a spoiled rich kid and will never, never be what country is about. What a disappointment.
Jill says:
I have loved the Gone Country series. I’ve always respected John Rich’s work. That is, until last nights episode. I think he “SOLD OUT.”….. There is absolutely no way that Julio has the making of a country artist. He lagged behind (or slept) through almost every event. To declare him the winner based solely on his anticipated commercial appeal, is reprehensible. I’ve never a been a Bobby Brown fan. But, even Bobby participated and was far more believeable as a country artist. He laid himself open on his final performance. The true winner should have been Maureen McCormick. Her vocals weren’t that strong but, she certainly has the heart and soul of a country artist. Besides….we all know that alot of Artist(s) are created in the studio. Maureen had it all. John, I feel robbed!!!
ClarkeVTA says:
Anyone,
What happened to the previous postings on the Gone Country blog?
Wasn’t this GONE COUNTRY?
Anyway, I’ve watched all the performers again online and think that Bobby Brown was absolutely the winner. Sisco, he was ok but online and getting to hear him sing the lyrics again made me pick him for second place.
John great show and lots of fun. I like Julio and his song, but no way did Julio “GONE COUNTRY” compared to Bobby.
Last thing, CMT…get Bobby to sing at the awards. That was awesome!!!
Tanya says:
This episode and the last one… what an interesting thing to watch. I have to say, in all honesty… the most boring song and performance - let alone a pretty weak vocalist - were chosen as the winnner. I have read the other comments on here disagreeing with your choice, and all I know is I enjoyed every song BUT the one that won. So I don’t get it! I hope at least a few of the “losers” - AKA awesomely talented contestants (Diana and Maureen especially blew me away) - continue on in country music!!!
mark says:
And the winner is….CRAP! Julio is no freddy fender, there is not an ounce of “country” in his voice. Obviuosly, Mr. Rich s$$s a ripe market to be picked with young hard of hearing girls? If thats country i`ll kiss your ass!
Russ says:
I guess no one big or important ever reads these things, but here goes anyway.
It was by chance that I happened across your show on CMT called “Gone Country” and I thought this might be interesting. (I will say here that I have a fan of rock music and some classic country - Hank, George J. Patsy, etc. Your music these days is ok I guess, but please don’t call your light rock music country music. All you have to do is strip the lyrics from a country song these days, insert rock lyrics, and you’ll see that there is only one difference. The lyrics.)
Your concept for the show was right on, but in the end, you no more picked a country song as the winner than Godzilla did, and I was truly disapointed. Mr. Rich, you are a very talented man and musician (I’ll give credit where credit is due) but the song by Julio Iglesias Jr. was nothing but a radio ready pop song, taylor made for the teeny boppers in the crowd to go ga ga over. If you’re gonna put up a challenge and pick a country song, then do it by all means. But then do what you say and pick a country song as the winner. Mr. Rich Sir, you were way, way off base this time.
Now I will say that yours and Mr. Owens comments on one episode were right on track. But Julio Jr’s song better than Bobby Browns? You have got to be joking. (no I’m not a B.B. fan, I just respect the musical talent he displayed on the show)
I offer you but one suggestion Sir, maybe you should lay off the sippin whiskey on the days you have to pick a winner.
B&RFAN says:
All of this critisizing of everyone or anyone that was on this show, especially John Rich, is a total joke! It is television people!! Maybe next time they should put all of you “perfect” people who always say and do the right thing their entire lives on the next episodes!! It must be so hard to be so perfect! If you get so worked up and ready to fight or kick JR’s ass over a simple half hour show I’d like to see how you handle real problems in the real world. You must be out kicking everyone’s ass, suprised you’d even have time to post a comment. Go JR you rock and are a great person. There is more to you than 1 comment you made to Diana on a 30 min tv show. She’ll get over it…
Russ says:
One more thing Mr. Rich Sir, if you have so much “country music” in your blood, then you should know that real country people love animals, they don’t flaunt them around on their backs that way you do. Guess most of them hard working country people who spend their hard earned dollars to buy your CD’s, just can’t afford a coat as big and stupid as the one you FLAUNTED on the show. Hope the dollars Julio makes for you in the latin teeny bopper market buys you a few more. All those fur coats on your back and in your closet sure as hell ain’t helping no little child somewhere get well or get the medical care they need. You work for your money, and you have every right to spend it as you see fit, but you really don’t have to FLAUNT it around like your Hot S**T. Remember the little man Mr. Rich. They pay your salary.
mark grayson says:
i agree maureen wrote the best song…but i don’t know that i would say it was ‘great’…it has potential….being a songwriter myself i know how tough it is to break into nashville…i doubt any of the songs from gone country would have made it past the AR department if they were anonomously sent in on a demo…it’s just isn’t that easy in the real world…c’mon John…you know it’s true…i thought Julio’s song was one of the weakest and yet he won…just my opinion…next season why don’t you try matching them up with unknown songwriters and see what we can add to the equation…could be very interesting…by the way John….YOU FREAKIN’ ROCK!!!!!
DISCOVER ME!!!!www.markgrayson.biz
Russ says:
Hey B&RFAN, yes it was only a TV show, but Mr. Rich got it all wrong. He didn’t pick a country song, he picked a crossover latino/pop song for the money.
And buy the way, if you want to see how a simple man handles real world problems, just ask one of your local law enforcement officers. I assure you they handle real world problems on a daily basis, and none of them are rich and famous.
Tank says:
Hey,
Blame John Rich all you want, but don’t forget this is a CMT Original. They are just as much to blame as he does. The behind the scenes bigwigs control the show, Rich is just an on camera host, a puppet, if you will. Did he pick the line-up ? Nope some suit did. All the women contestants weree way better suited for country music. Maybe they should form a trio, it worked for Dolly, EmmyLou and Linda. Food for thought people.
scott says:
it doesn’t matter if cmt was in charge because like JR said, it’s his name on the person chosen… and what happened to the blog entry and replies on the final episode? quite a few people were P***ED about the decision but i can’t see why they removed it to hide it.
blueman says:
The show was a joke. The winner was a joke. And your solo career is the biggest joke, Mr. Rich.
scott says:
i can’t remember everything i posted last night after the show but the main thing that irritated me was that diana was bashed for not singing “country” enough. That the winning song had to be a sonofab***h because his name was on it. Why was the least sounding weakest song chosen? Also the comment about how when he saw the girls reacting to Julio he knew they had their guy.. half the cast hadn’t even gone on stage at that point. All the talk about what is real country. It’s gone country, not country gone latin. There was nothing country about that song. Hopefully someone will pick up the few others that deserved to win. It just didn’t seem as though Julio was interested in even being there.
Candy says:
I was so dissappointed when I found out that Julio won. His vocals are awful. I guess looks are a great asset to have. I think that Diana was great and Sisqo got the best audience reaction, he really done a great job, I was really impressed with his vocals and song. Great job Sisqo and Diana!
Swampfetus says:
JR, you’re a cheap, greasy little sell-out. Kiss my ass.
Juliofan08 says:
Ok so i know you’re all surprised that Julio won and i am too. I’m glad he won, don’t get me wrong but i don’t think he himself even thought he would win. In fact i wish he hadn’t won just so he can stick to what he does best, his spanish songs and give Diana or any of the others a chance, because it’s probably the only chance they’ll get. And also so you guys wouldn’t rip him to shreds just because he won. As if often the case with these shows, the underdog wins and then the runners up normally end up being more succesful. That will probably happen. I don’t think JJ went in there thinking he would win and honestly i don’t see him sticking with country. It seems a little too restrictive for him. And i dont really see him as a country artist. He’s NOT a “latin lover” as people call him but he is a Latin artist and that’s what he does best.
If Diana is as great as everyone thinks she is then she’ll get her break. Personally, and i have nothing against the girl because she seems sweet, but i dont see what the big deal is about her. She’s just another pretty girl with a good voice. There’s plenty of them out there. Yeah ok she probably had the best voice out of the bunch of them, technically anyway, but it takes more than just a good voice. I would have thought by now after AI she would have got a record deal already rather than having to keep doing all these reality shows. Well anyway good luck to her.
And just in response to what someone posted about JJ being a spoilt rich kid, well he might be rich and that’s not his fault, but he’s not spoilt. I know since i’m a huge fan of his bro Enrique, they were not spoilt. His parents were very strict and they worked hard for everything they had so don’t start the whole “spoilt rich kid” thing because it’s not true. People might think that because of who is father is that he was born with a silver spoon his mouth but it’s not the case.
If i’m honest i thought Maureen’s song was the most country and i loved Carnie’s song. I just wish everyone would stop hating on Julio. He’s not a bad person. Remember that these reality shows get edited heavily. So what if he fell asleep while the others were making dinner, more fool them!
He’s won, it’s done with and Diana Degarmo will get a record deal of some sort i’m sure.
Brats5 says:
I would never buy any country cd with Julio on it. How he rip Diana apart when he said, she sounded pop.What does he think Julio sounded like? He even sung in spanish. So what the girls went crazy over him they are not the only thing that makes up country music. The outcome of the show was such a let down and if their is another gone country I will not watch. JR you made a bad decision. Bobby Brown sounded better than Julio did. My vote was for Diana and once again she was rob of a title. Thats ok that Ga Peach will make it with or without JR’s blessings. We love our home town girl you did us proud…
drifter says:
john i was so proud of you believing the way you do in being country. every show was excellent till the end. every thing you belived in went down the drain when you picked julio iglesias jr. yeah, he is a international latino hot hunk of a man but country??? that was what the show was about and maureen mccormic was everything country. heart soul all of it. it was heartbreaking becauseyou didn’t go with what you said to start with about country. i even watch the show twice to make sure i didn’t miss something-you need to rewatch it. kindly
B&RFAN says:
Hey Russ,
I never said he got it right did I?? I personally don’t think the correct person won either and that is not what my statement was about! And quiet frankly, although I loved watching the show…. I don’t care because at the end of the day I have other things to worry about, my world and my emotions don’t revolve around who won a reality tv show or to have to hurry and get on the boards to start bashing and trash talking the host. And why are you bringing law enforsement officers into this??? That whole point doesnt even make sense! Or are they the ones threatening to kick JR’s ass, lol??? But now that you brought that up, actually that is a good point, why get so worked up over a tv show when there are real problems in the world?? I’m sure the law enforcement men and woman aren’t worried about getting on here to bash someone they don’t even know because they don’t like who got picked a winner. It’s only a tv show, I am just saying people need to chill and be decent and not be so hateful over something so silly.
Anita says:
I LOVED THE SHOW. WAS NOT INTO DEE THAT MUCH. HE IS NOT COUNTRY AT ALL. WILL ALL THESE SONGS BE PUT ON A CD TO PURCHASE? I PERSONALLY CAN RELATE TO MAUREENS SONG. BROUGHT ME TO TEARS CAUSE IT SOUNDS LIKE MY LIFE.
CONGRATS JULIO…
JOHN IF YOU READ THIS CAN YOU TELL ME HOW TO GET MUSIC TO MY LYRICS? I KNOW NOTHEING ABOUT TUNES.
BY THE WAY BIG N RICH ROCK AND I HOPE KENNY FEELS BETTER SOON…
LOTS OF LOVE FROM A FAN!!!!!
Nita says:
I guess now we know what the show was really about. Julio may be the bomb in Spain but his performance was NOT country.John can get Richer off the cute little guy that the girls screamed for.It was not his talent but i guess when he tours with John he will bring in more money from a different demographic.Shame on you J.R. All the others did betterthan Julio as far as a country sound goes.Bobby Diana MO Carnie Dee and even Sisqo sounded more country.You sir should lose you country rights. You have certainly lost my respect and a lot of sales too i hope. you blew it on this one and i dont think you deserve another one. I will not watch another Gone Country show.Its not about talent its about lining J.R.s pockets.
sally bee says:
Gone country is just a show for entertainment and ratings. all the songs were really great, the talent was superb, so what if Julio won, if CMT publishes a CD with all the songs on it, now there’s the real winner. I bet tons of people would buy it. Loved the moves that Sisqo did in his song, wonder if that could be transferred over to country. Thanks for a great show.
Dan B. says:
John:
I really love my country music. I was really excited about the ideal of the show, and for the most part I think some real talent was brought to the screen. Didn’t really like the ideal of one song and done tho. And then I was there for the finale. I was never more disappointed with the final results of a reality show than I was with this one and the reason you gave for your selection. Hey hoss, it’s your show and your pick just to let you know you sure passed on a lot of good talent and a lot of heart to get to the one person that made it clear, he did not really care to be there and in no way put as much effort in to it and to be rewarded like that. I hope he does well but I don’t plan to ever buy any of his music. (He flat cannot sing COUNTRY MUSIC).
Ricco says:
This is for Juliofan08: Go back and read what you wrote on March 8th. Are you a politican?
Shari says:
C’mon guys. Give JR a break. Look at the average age of country stars today. Who is going to buy a CD from an old has been like most of the people on this show? And unfortunately how many popular black country stars are there? If JR picked these people, and if he does another Gone Country, I hope the choice is better. Maybe some of these oldies will have a song writing career in the future, but no one that listens to country would have bought anything from anyone except Julio, because I’m sorry, but he was the easiest on the eye, just like many of the country stars today. I agree though, more singing would be great.
The end of John says:
You people running this CMT web site are a bunch of chicken asses. What happen to the other bolg. You know the one! The finale bolg page with almost 1,000 responses and at my count about 95% were negative towards John and his pick that was not country at all! What’s the matter? You scared of all the negative publicity that other blog was going to generate in what most on there wanting to skin John alive for that stupid choice of his, when any of the other 6 would have been a better choice? I guess you better take them all down because as you see we are just going on with this riot in the next available blog! Personally, I’ve never seen more unity in a bunch of people that have never met each other in all my live and all pretty much agreeing that John sold out and did not pick the one that deserved to win. Hey John, we’re not shocked, we’re pissed off! I hope Diana, Bobby and Maureen all make albums to show that prick John what a lousy mistake he has made and I’m sure Diana will be that country star John thought this show was going to make out of the winner. Hey John, you lose!
Big Al says:
The Show Stinks
Play some Country Music.
DEBBIE says:
Gospel, R&B, easy listening, those are the types of songs I love. my son told me to watch Gone Country. I did. WOW,,,,,it was such a good show, I couldn’t wait for the next episode,,,,each and every one of them,,,each and every one was outstanding. Jr was great but he was not country. I hope you release all of their songs on one cd, I’d buy it in a heart beat. I knew the girls could do it,,but Bobby, Sisqo and Dee were big surprises. And they were country! I hope you do it again. Oh,,by the way that house is fabulous. You know maybe I did like country music,,,uummm love Dolly, Kenny (both of them) Garth, Carrie, Reba,,Dennis,,,
Big Al says:
John said 2 things on the first show.
“country music is looking for someone play to the Latino audience”
to Dee “there’s no difference in your stuff and today’s country music”
both some up my reasons to dislike CMT and John Rich
I wonder when they will close this blog?
Kathryn says:
John ~ I’m a big fan of yours (along with the rest of the Muzik Mafia) & looked forward to this show series. I sat glued to the set every Friday night to watch the next installment. Every show was excellent til the end. Every thing you claimed & I believed in went down the drain when you picked the winner that you did. I thought the show was supposed to be about “Going Country” not about who could make you the most money? I was so extremely disappointed.
I believed in what you said & I feel cheated. I was really excited about the ideal of the show & I think some real talent was brought to the screen. I was never more disappointed with the final results of a reality show than I was with this one & the reason you gave for your selection. But for myself as well as everyone else writing on this blog, we need to remember that it’s your show & your pick. While I enjoyed the show & feel that all of the singers were truly winners, I’m still extremely disappointed.
Sue says:
Eagerly awaiting the finale blog…that’s the one I have a comment for.
Reba S. says:
Final Blog
Reba S. says:
Wow you actually have to power to erase by blog. You should run for president!
Tiff says:
I was disappointed with the winner of the show
sandy says:
great show. i hope you produce a cd from all the singers.
all songs were great. i was hoping bobby won.
Linda says:
John: Loved the show, however, I was extremely disappointed in the winner selection & felt let down. Clearly the best “vocalist” & performing artist was Diana DeGarmo. Her voice was like butter; understandable, spot-on & the crowd loved her country style. Julio was none of the above and to think country music fans in the USA are going to go for it, we don’t think so. My only guess is you’re hoping to tap in to the latin market, well good luck there. You stressed on the show about how you were looking for someone to take part, understand & live “country” life-style. Julio proved in every episode he didn’t like it & even said, “it’s not me”. You might want to go back & view the shows again, but as we saw them. By over-looking Diana DeGarmo, I think you missed picking the right one that would have possibly been another ’superstar’ in country music.
Bobby says:
To quote JR, “I welcome criticism from other artists…”, but obviously not from country music fans since the blog regarding the last show has been removed.
It’s obvious that country music fans everywhere are disappointed and upset with your choose of a winner for Gone Country.
You preach a good game, you talk country, but when it comes to judging country, you need to go back and listen to your own criteria for what makes a country artist.
I would like to see a second season of Gone Country, but this time with a country artist who has a real appreciation for what is. Unless you make ammends to country fans, another season of GC with you as host just ain’t gonna get it.
The end of John says:
• Sue say: Eagerly awaiting the finale blog…that’s the one I have a comment for.
•
• What final bolg are you talking about? There was a finale blog that had close to 1,000 comments on it and somewhere around 90% of them disliked John’s pick for the winner and wanted John’s head on a platter. Whoever is running this site took it down because of all the negative comments. I guess they want to put their head in the sand to pretend it didn’t happen and now that its gone they can say it never did and there’s no prove it ever was. So I guess I’m still here to say….John’s a prick to let Julio win with that non country song of his. I hope to God it’s a flop!
John Stuart (Country Recording Artist) says:
JOHN RICH, THIS MESSAGE IS FOR YOU AND YOUR EYES ONLY:::
YOU NEED TO LOOK AT INDIE ARTISTS LIKE MYSELF WHO HAVE MADE IT ON THE COUNTRY MUSIC SCENE, WRITING AND SINGING, AND PLAYING ALL THE INSTRUMENTS AND PRODUCING THEIR OWN
MUSIC ON THEIR OWN LABELS. THAT IS WHAT I HAVE DONE, YOU KNOW WHO I AM JOHN,,? MY NAME IS JOHN STUART, I HAVE THREE CD’S ON THE MARKET TODAY, AND MY FOURTH CD WILL BE RELEASED IN TWO MONTHS. ALL SONGS ON THIS CD ARE HITS, YOU CAN FIND OUT COMPLETELY ABOUT ME ON CD BABY.COM, ALSO YOU CAN SEE AND HEAR ALL MY SONGS ON APPLE I TUNES, AND ALL THE INTERNET STORES. ALL MY PREVIOUS CD’S ARE THERE
“THE BEST OF JOHN STUART” “CANYON COUNTRY” AND HIP HOP COUNTRY” LISTEN TO THEM, THEN TELL ME, WHO HAS THE TALENT AND THE HOOKS IN SONGS YOU ARE LOOKING FOR.??
THIS MESSAGE IS NOT INTENTED TO PUT YOU DOWN, SAVE A HORSE AND RIDE A COWBOY, WAS TO SAY THE LEAST IN POOR TASTE, BUT THAT IS WHAT MADE IT A HIT. IT WAS DIFFERENT.
AND THE HOOK GOT YOUR ATTENTION. CHECK OUT MY SONGS, AND OH BY THE WAY ALL MY SONGS HAVE COPYRIGHTS IN MY NAME. AND ALL OF THEM HAVE HOOKS AND TEETH AS YOU SAY.
I HAVE WATCHED YOUR ” GONE COUNTRY ” MY SONGS ARE TEN TIMES BETTER, AND YOU DEFINATELY NEED TO HEAR THEM,
IF YOU HAVE THE BALLS, JOHN RICH AS YOU SAY ON THE SHOW, I CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH YOUR NEXT HIT SONG. AND IF YOU DON’T
THINK SO, THEN YOU DON’T HAVE THE BALLS TO CONTACT ME
HERE IS MY CELL PHONE # 209-858-8265 HOME PHONE 209-824-8545 , AND MY E-MAIL IS
desert-star-records@hotmail.com LETS SEE IF YOU REALLY
ARE WHAT YOU ARE MADE OF AND HAVE THE BALLS TO CONTACT ME.
JOHN STUART
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
DESERT STAR RECORDS
COUNTRY RECORDING ARTIST (JOHN STUART)
glorie says:
I liked all the songs and i hope he at least records them on a compilation cd.
to the whiny wannabe says:
please get over your hillbilly self with your silly post for JR and “his eyes only”.
you sound so ridiculous with your gay challenge that i just had to come on here and call you on it.
real musicians don’t do this.
Tasha says:
I can’t believe you picked Julio. He was the worst, and least country of them all. This is ridiculous. Just because he can make girls scream means nothing…. This is really dissapointing!!!!!!
Cindy says:
Hi John,
I really enjoyed Gone Country and sincerely hope there will be more seasons of it to come. I’ll miss it until then. I just have to ask…is the Ploughboy Mansion really your home? My brother has a beautiful log cabin here in KY but nothing like the Ploughboy Mansion. Some magazine needs to showcase that place. It rocks!
Shauna says:
Just watched the season finale of Gone Country and I have to say I feel robbed! I watched every show the entire season and feel I wasted my time! I was COMPLETELY unhappy with the final decision!!!!
Sorry can’t say I would be willing to watch a season II.
Danielle and Bill says:
Not only am I disappointed in John Rich’s choice but I am disappointed in him as a musician. When this show first came out I was so excited knowing of John’s past and present with the Music Mafia. I was sure we were going to find a great country musician. What we got was the biggest joke of the century. Any true country music lover would shout from the hilltops and say that Julio is not country. I am shocked to say that John totally took country music to a level that will be laughed at by other genre’s. In his own words he said he would die fighting for country music but yet he made us all look like a bunch of fools. The only way I would have chosen Julio would be if the rest of the cast up and died and even then I would probably just not listen anymore.
You disappointed me John and now I am going to second guess your motives as well as your music.
KayKayKins says:
I agree with Shauna. Julio is good and all but I don’t think that he should’ve won. But I still love ya John. Maybe Julio will come out better than we thought.
Misty says:
Very disappointed about the outcome………he would have been my last choice. Bobby Brown done much better. I hated that I wasted an hour to watch the finale!!! VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!!
Melissa says:
Julio is not country. Julio is a great singer but not of Country music. I am a fan of many genre’s. I would even listen to Julio as a non-country artist. But I can not take him seriously as a country artist. This was PC invading country music. All others had potential, even Bobby. this was a huge let down.:-(
Nora says:
Does anyone remember the girls screamed for Sanjaya on American Idol and what happened to him? Nothing!!
mike r says:
Man great show. I was so surprised how great everyones song’s were. I am surprised at your choice of winner though. I believe i picked him to finish last and was laughing at his song. I feel there were many so many better country talents who performed on the show. I guess he was picked because of his looks and commercial appeal.
Jim Paduka says:
Who is Jon Rich to say what country is. I said enough is enough when he critized Dee Snider for flipping the bird. He actually said 5 year old come to hear “Ride a Cowboy”. Excuse me, Big and Rich get very filthy and I have to turn their stuff off when my children are hearing. Maybe all of CMT needs a refresher on what country is, not the pop crap artist they push constantly.
sasie says:
John why o why julio!!!!!!!! bob and mo had heart felt songs…. plus if you have a bunch of teen girls in the front with a handsome latin man ofcourse girls will scream…. but his song was NOT country!!!!! it was r&b not country….. i think that you had a brain frat when you made your choice…. i hope your happy with it but i won’t be listening to it…god bless
KirkD says:
My hat goes off to you John Rich. In this big pile of horse crap genre of “Reality TV” finnally someone has managed to give their viewers a dose of reality. Gone Country has managed to gut a, so insanely different, group of people (Mo McCormick and Bobby Brown, who does that?)and give us viewers a real chance to see what makes them tick. And, and you did it without the cast playing up to the cameras. It was like they weren’t even filming a show. J.R. keep this show coming! You have a damn big pair a boots to fill, but I’m bettin’ your horse.
Mark and Tammy says:
We have always loved JR’s music, BUT we never did consider it true country music. Good but not country music. We were both very disappointed with the results of this show. The winner was least representive of what true country music is about, and we guess that is where country music is headed. We loved the show and the interaction of the people on the show (no back stabbing) but we will not watch any future Gone Country shows.
Brenda from Tennessee says:
I agree with most everyone here, Julio isn’t country “at all”! I think he’s a pretty good singer, but he shouldn’t have won this competition. John, I think you’re gonna realize how “forgiving ” country fans are after the boo boo you made! I hope you record all of the cast….CD & DVD….it would be wonderful & might help you to redeem yourself a little bit. There were some songs that I would buy…like Carnie’s song, Maureen’s song, Diana’s song, Bobby & Dee’s songs & even Sisqo’s song…..I just wasn’t that impressed with Julio’s song. By the way I do like his Dad’s song “To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before” & at one time had it on a Willie Nelson tape!
cathy williams says:
I can’t believe Julio is the one you picked John. He was in it for fun and to show the american people he could win. The show was called”Gone Country” I thought this show was about entertainers wanting to become Country entertainers not making money off of country music. John, you said it right on the show,”country music very serious business and country music fans take country music entertainers very serious. I hope you took that into thought when you choose the winner. I’m not sure there are alot of fans happy with your choice. I’m not happy that is for sure.
Diane says:
Hey guys..don’t worry about Diana..She was such a hit and had producers and songwriters encouraging her so much that she has moved to Nashville to get serious with country music..If she can get some songs like Carrie has on her new album..she will be a hit..she has the same strong voice..I will watch for her second album and I will NOT watch for gone country next season
Nancy says:
I happened upon this show by accident and became hooked right away. I was never into country music and had never heard of John Rich. He seemed like such a cool guy, really sincere and passionate about country music.
I am officially done with John Rich and I will never watch another episode or seaseon of Gone Country. I canNOT believe Julio was picked, it is just so contradictory to everything John Rich said he was looking for in a country singer. Everyone else had so much passion for what they were doing, Julio was completely useless on the show.
He’s about as country as Santa Claus.
I haven’t seen this much backlash on a reality show message board since Rock of Love season one. Bret Michaels was practically tarred and feathered, and John Rich deserves the same.
Aileen says:
Juliofan08, the fact that you’d marginalize Diana by saying she’s “just another pretty girl with a pretty voice” shows your ignorance. The girl is a star in the making. She’s been on Broadway and gotten RAVE reviews. She almost won American Idol.
Don’t talk about something and somebody you know nothing about.
Scott says:
having watched the show for the second time now i can’t say that Julio’s song was as bad as i thought it was.. and i don’t think anyone here is putting him down as a person. It just didn’t seem to be the obvious choice to win. I loved the show.. hopefully next time it will be longer and more involved if they do it again. I think we all assumed the best and most country song would be the winner… that’s why everyone is shocked because it wasn’t. There was so much talk about having to be country and the most country sounding songs were passed up for an image. The girls may buy the albums but will it really be considered country? They were into his stage performance and it wasn’t country. What was the name of the show again?
MeMe says:
WOW to Bobby Brown! John, country is about moving people based on stories and boy his did it..truthful and inspiring. Simply the best of all, shame he didn’t win.
This should be recorded regardless. Julio didn’t deliver anything that resembled country. The idol winners don’t always deliver, sometimes those who don’t make it, make it!
James Meeker says:
Well, I have shot through here and read many of the posts. Obviously, none of the viewers of this program are country people, because “real country folk” would never behave this way. Where is the grace and charm of real country people? Whether your favorite won or not, there is no excuse to call someone names or threaten them. You all should be thoroughly ashamed of yourselves. After reading these posts, I would hate to tell anyone that I had GONE COUNTRY.
Big Jim
Don says:
Well, I guess everything in this world is about $. I was hoping and praying that this show would not go in that direction. I’m so disappointed in you John Rich! I thought “You where more deep welled than that”. When you have a song that is titled “Save A Horse and Ride a Cowboy” then you ripe Dee about flitting his finger. WOW!!! Who are you? I guess your last name says it all! “I’m being blatantly honest with you”. I guess you’ve climbed the mountian and you have camped out on the mountian because you have no idea what is going on in this world! Bobby Brown I think won. Produce everyone on each song that was on the program. That would make $ John RICH, I pray that country music hasn’t come to this! I will pray for Bobby and what he has gone through because God is calling him back to where he should be. I hope Christian music picks him up! His song was deep and true. I can relate to Bobby! I’m at the crossroads in my life and I know which way I should go but pride comes into the picture. Bobby what should I do? I love you Bobby and Christ loves you to! Now, that is deep welled as we can get! I pray for you John, that you don’t get caught up in wealth! I thank God for Bobby! Let me tell you something John RICH if it wasn’t for Mr. Brown this show would not have caught my attention. Thank God for Bobby Brown! Mr. RICH please pass this to Bobby. I think you john RICH, used Bobby Brown to make your show! So this is my list 1 through 7. Bobby, Diana, Mo, Miss Wilson, Sisqo, Jr., and Dee. Thank you! Good night and good bye! P.S. Cowboy Troy? NO!!! Bobby Brown and Sisqo have more talent in their left dig toe than Troy.
Jeff says:
The only thing that bothers me is I was actually there at the taping and I heard and I saw the response to each contestant, ( They didnt show all of it on the Show) sure JUlio had a couple of girls screaming for him, But Dee Rocked the house and Diana had everyone in the upper deck giving her a standing O. It was so quiet when maureen was singing until you could here a pin drop, They all did fairly well So how in the world could John say he picked Julio because he had the X factor, when there were others who had the audiance in an uproar as well.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqDelAF7u8o
DonziDoll says:
Yay! Julio Jose won! Thank you, John Rich, Randy Owen et al & CMT for recognizing Jj’s talents. Our family is just delighted that Julio Jr won and we’re looking forward to hearing/seeing more from him!
DonziDoll says:
Gonna wear out the replay button, but can’t stop watchin’ the video!
http://www.cmt.com/videos/julio-iglesias-jr/214388/the-way-i-want-you.jhtml
Wishing you all the best, Julio Jose!
TERESA GAIL says:
JOHN, JOHN, JOHN, O.K. WHAT WERE YOU THINKING WITH JULIO YES O.K. AND A GREAT SINGER OH YES BUT JOHN, C’MON JULIO COUNTRY ? THE GIRLS LOVE HIM BUT, JOHN HE IS NOT COUNTRY, EVERYONE KEPT SAYING MAUREEN WAS COUNTRY O.K. WHAT WAS COUNTRY ABOUT HER, BECAUSE SHE WAS EMOTIONAL O.K. SHE IS A GOOD SONGWRITER BUT SHE IS NOT COUNTRY, O.K. THEN YOU HAVE CARNIE WILSON DANG NOW THERE IS A VOICE AND (REAL )BEING COUNTRY SHE IS ON THE EDGE, DIANE !JOHN, YOU HIT THAT ONE RIGHT ON WHEN SHE MADE THE STATEMENT THAT POP AND COUNTRY IS THE SAME AND COUNTRY IS SO EASY ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS GIVE IT A TWANG SHE NEEDS TO GET OUT OF TOWN, WHEN YOUR COUNTRY YOU DO NOT TRY TO GO POP BECAUSE COUNTRY SHOT YOU DOWN WHEN YOUR COUNTRY YOUR COUNTRY, WHEN YOUR TRUE COUNTRY YOU APPRECIATE GOOD MUSIC, OF ANY KIND YET WE HAVE NO ROOM FOR CRITISM FOR SOME ONE TO SAY JUST GIVE IT A TWANG AS FAR AS DIANE BEING COUNTRY SHE WANTS TO BE A POP STAR, NOW SISQO JOHN, I HAVE NOT MUCH TO SAY ABOUT HIM DID NOT REALLY HEAR OF HIM BEFORE HAND, TRULY THE ONLY COWBOY YOU REALLY HAD IN THE HOUSE WAS BOBBY AND HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN COUNTRY YET SOCIETY AS A KID GAVE HIM THE OPPORTUNITY AT A YOUNG AGE THEY TOLD HIM WHAT HE WAS HE HAS AN ALCOHOL PROBLEM THIS IS TRUE HE HAS BEEN FIGHTING HIS DEMONS OF WHO HE TRULY IS WILL SOCIETY ALLOW HIM TO BE WHO HE REALLY IS HE IS A DOWN TO EARTH SONGWRITER, JOHN, IF YOU DO NOT TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK WITH BOBBY ON SOME SONGS YOU WILL BE MISSING OUT ON SOME NUMBER 1 HITS EVERYTHING HE HAS GONE THROUGH IN HIS LIFE JOHN, HELLO, OPPORTUNITY TAKE IT, AND HE IS A DAMN GOOD SINGER GREAT SINGER MY GOODNESS I AM A WOMAN AND WHEN HE SANG I BEEN LOCKED UP THATS EXACTLY HOW WOMEN FEEL WHEN THEY ARE IN A MARRIAGE AND THEY FINALLY GET OUT EVERYONE FEELS AS THOUGH THEY ARE THIS CLOSE TO GIVING UP THAT SONG NEEDS TO BE ON THE RADIO PEOPLE WILL BE BLASTING THEIR RADIO’S BOBBY BROWN HE IS REAL , HE IS COUNTRY , HE IS WHAT COUNTRY NEEDS JOHN, THEY WERE ALL GOOD ALL OF THEM WERE, DEE, HIS CRAZINESS, COMES FROM BEING ON STAGE BEING NERVOUS, WHEN , HE NEEDS TO ACCEPT THAT PEOPLE DO LIKE HIM KEEP YOUR MIDDLE FINGER WITH THE OTHER ONES, OH WELL HAD TO GET THIS OFF FROM MY CHEST EVEN THO YOU WILL NOT EVER READ THIS TERESA GAIL
sweetbuttbad says:
I think that John Rich should be ashamed of himself!!He jumped down Diana’s throat about its a challenge and he picks a guy who you cant hear and cant hardly speak English…. because the girls will be screaming for him ect..I have lost all faith in Richie Rich and will never EVER buy a cd of his or big and riches again!!!You are a fool to listen to anyone for the ratings..you have really screwed up John Rich!!ed
Jeremy says:
Thank you CMT for all the support you have given Diana Degarmo and her career already. I really enjoyed the article you had on her moving to Nashville.
Diana was great on the CMT Insider and as one of the host of the Gone Country marathon.
Thank you CMT and have Diana Degarmo on many more CMT television shows. She was great on Gone Country.
Julie says:
Diana Degarmo sure shined on the finale of Gone Country. Her song Right Back Where We Ended was the highlight of the night.
Sure hope a country label signs her to record a country album. Diana will be a great addition to country music.
TERESA GAIL says:
JOHN, YOU HAD BETTER MAKE THINGS RIGHT FOR ALL OF US AND RECOGNIZE BOBBY JOHN YOU NEED TO RECOGNIZE
Matt Mascarenas says:
I’m not sure I would have picked same winner that John picked but all and all it was a great show. With the non winners some one needs to produce their songs every one had a hit. Id buy them. Growing up in the 80’s I was shocked to see how Dee Snider and Bobby Brown did so well and acted like people and didnt let their ego’s get in the way. I’m glad I didnt have to pick the winner. I hope there is a next season of gone country
Don says:
does anyone read these blogs? RICH, I guess you are set in $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess you need the spanish vote, oh! I mean money!!!!!! It makes me sick!!! It sounds like the Democrats. Open the borders!!!. Come on in!!! Come one come yall!!!! Lets cross the roads open the borders. YA
Wanda Louise says:
Bobby Brown, bless your country soul..your song was awesome. I hope you produce this song yourself..you warmed my heart
sweetpea says:
PLEASE JOHN RICH RELEASE A CD WITH ALL THIER SONG I WANT TO HEAR BOBBY BROWN’S THE MAN I’M GONNA BE FOR SURE I WOULD BUY THAT IN A HEART BEAT LOVED THE SHOW BUT I HATED YOU PICKED JR. AS THE WINNER HE IS SO NOT COUNTRY AND COUNTRY MUSIC IS ABOUT FEELINGS LIFE AND BOBBY’S WAS ALL OF THAT AND MOE’S TO HOPE TO SEE NEXT SEASON GO BOBBY BROWN YOU WAS GREAT
AMANDA says:
PLEASE RELEASE A CD WITH BOBBY BROWN’S SONG THE MAN I’M GONNA BE THAT WAS EMOTION THAT WAS HEART AND SOUL AND LIFE
AND THAT IS WHAT COUNTRY MUSIC IS JR. SHOULD HAVE NOT WON HE IS SO NOT COUNTRY AT ALL BOBBY’S SONG WAS AND MOE’S TO
EVEN THOUGH I DIDNT LIKE WHO WON PLEASE RELEASE BOBBY’S SONG AND GO FOR A NEXT SEASON
Maggie says:
This country gal will never buy a Julio jr cd. He ain’t country, he never will be. Carnie Wilson, Dee Snider even Bobby Brown those were your choices. I’m still scratchin my head on this one. What the heck were you tellin those people about country fans and what we like and what we’ll accept? You fed them all the right info then pulled the rug out. Why? Eh, whatever…you blew it baby. Good luck Darlin…you’re gonna need it!
Lisa says:
I have listened to country music for over 30 years and was so excited to see that this show was going to be one. My husband and I watched it faithfully. John, you are amazing as a musician and a song writer, however, you really messed this one up. I have to agree with 99% of the other comments here, Julio is NOT the one. There is nothing country about him or his song. So what if women scream, they do that with 50 Cent too but he ain’t country either. By far and I do want their recordings, demo will be fine, Bobby and Maureen were the top two choices. Diana was very close, she showed you she could turn that pop song country just like you advised, she is teachable. Bobby and Maureen there was nothing absolutely NOTHING wrong with their performance and definately NOTHING wrong with either of their songs. I would love to get both of those songs performed by them, no one else can possibly do it better, they were from the heart, that’s what I have always thought country music was about. I know you wanted to bridge the gap between country and the latin group but John, as talented as you are, this was not the one. Still love and respect you and understand that this was not all your doing, but John, oh John, I hope you can pull this off cause I just don’t see it.
Stephanie says:
When I first found out about gone country I thought it was a cool idea and I am a diana fan so I was looking forward to seeing her. I was very disappointed in how little face time each artist got, other than bobby, dee and mo of course. And I am very disappointed in the winner, of course I would have loved to see diana win but I would have been happy with anyone winning other than julio. At least everyone eleses song actually sounded a little country. I am not that much of a country fan but can some one explain to me how julio’s song was country? This show, which had potential of being a great show, was a joke and I feel sorry for the other artists that actually put in an effort to be country. If I was any of them I would be embarrassed to say I was a part of Gone Country!!! John rich is a sell out, I think he let fame and fortune go to his head. His ego is out of control. I want Carnie, Bobby and Diana to make great country music and make their producers lots of money so JR can see what a mistake he made. JR is a loser.
1victoria62 says:
Hello John,
I have enjoyed this show tremendously. To see the way that you took all these stars out of their comfort zones and introduced them to the Country Side of Life, has been fantastic. Hopefully there will be a Gone Country 2.
Thank you also for your tremendous talent and open heart and continuous dedication to the Country Music fans:)
jeanette.word.noone@gmail.com says:
I have to say I do not normally watch CMT and do not listen regularly to country music. My music interests are varied; however, I do consider myself an “old school” country music listener. I grew up listening to country music since my parents always had Hank, Willie or Johnny Cash playing in the background.
I’m a nostalgic kind of person. Here were some of my favorite icons wrapped in a house together to find themselves. Maureen McCormick, Bobby Brown, Carnie Wilson, Sisco, Dee Snider, Julio Iglesias, Jr. and Diane DiGarmo. I say “find themselves” because I look
at this whole experience as a kind of pilgrimmage for the seven of them. So, when I saw the preview for the show, it peeked my interest.
Yes, these people were brought together to try and “go country.” People that you would never expect to be together in a room were made to live amongst one another. Yes, we have seen it done on so many other shows. I’ve watched those shows, you have watched those shows. But something about this show seemed surprisingly different.
All of these talented people had a test that goes far above winning the “Gone Country” title. They put themselves in unfamiliar territory which made them vulnerable. Anytime someone takes themselves out of their element I think it demands a degree of respect and admiration. Each of them had a shared goal, to win “Gone Country,” but individually they faced many personal challenges and accomplished a lot of growing in a very short amount of time. Their beauty lies far beyond their surfaces and celebrity. They are each unique, beautiful souls. I think they learned to love themselves, but only they know that.
I actually found myself wanting to know these people. Maureen, Bobby and Carnie have a soulfulness that touched me.
Maureen–An angel has awoken. “There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman.” Emile Zola
Bobby–prince of pain nevermore, nevermore. “Facing it, always facing it, that’s the way to get through. Face it.”
Joseph Conrad
On the whole crew-”Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are made of the same thing”-Emily Bronte
Carnie-”A loving heart is the truest wisdom.”Charles Dickens
Dee-”I walk where my own nature would be leading: It vexes me to choose another guide.” Emily Bronte
Julio-bright eyed, heart felt. “The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work.”
Emile Zola
Diana–her real journey is just beginning. “Growth itself contains the germ of happiness.” Pearl S. Buck
I wish I could wrap my arms around each of them–ok, group hug!
For each of them, remember this- Art weaves time-me. Think about it. Ponder it.
I have dreamed in my life, dreams that have stayed with me ever after, and changed my ideas; they have gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the color of my mind.
Emily Bronte
Sam says:
Ok…ok… I get it… JR’s been getting so much flack for his choice that he pulled his blog from this site. Yeah, its still advertised on CMT’s main blog page about his comments on the winner. Well, I’m MAD AS HELL and want my comments read by everyone cause this was the worst ending I’ve ever seen!!! My husband and I have been DVRing your show and its been awesome watching it. We totally identify with everything you’ve been saying about country and agree with all the activities you planned to show the artists what we’re all about. And tonight we finally got to see the ending. The ONE person we were SURE would not win was Julio. We were soooo disappointed and CONFUSED!! Did we miss something?!! ANY OTHER CONTESTANT we could have agreed with. They ALL made the effort in a huge way EXCEPT Julio!! We kept trying to logically find an explanation for why you picked him because you seem so smart and you seem to really understand country fans - and then you went and picked JULIO?!!! He wasn’t remotely country. He wasn’t AT ALL passionate about country and didn’t even make an effort or feign an INTEREST!! I wish you would post a blog of what you were thinking because I don’t see it AT ALL!!! I’ve grown up with country music MY WHOLE LIFE and I’m a HUGE FAN…but tonight I lost so much respect for you and your music!!! I feel very USED!!
Big Al says:
The show stinks please don’t subject us to anymore.
John says:
I think it’s important to say that overall we are not blaming Julio for the outcome. He was a lost puppy that had the misfortune of becoming a victim of someone elses alterior motives. Yes he was the poorest example of the values and traits that JR preached about but he was not the decision maker. The full blame go to JR and CMT for this sham. We need to show Julio some compassion as he was duped
Macy says:
Thank you John Rich for a great show, and for expanding the country horizons. It’s about time some fresh new sounds were injected into country music, and if you can do that with Mr. Julio, then that’s awesome and I look forward to it.
I’m a life long country girl and I’m glad country is finally getting over itself and has decided to spread its wings across cultures and races. Thank YOU for taking us there!
Much respect,
Macy
Jimmy “guitar” Gordon says:
Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes??? Not John Rich!!!!!
Displaced Southern Gal says:
Hey, ya’ll - I, too, am totally perplexed by JR’s choice; while I had no specific opinon as to who should win, I certainly did not count Julio in as a serious contender. However - remember the dinner table conversation in the first episode? JR specifically said when addressing Julio that they were looking for an artist to reach the Spanish speaking audience. And at the performance, as women screamed, did anybody notice JR’s eyes? - click!
Of course, they do know more than I do about the business and all. Hey, wouldn’t it be interesting if, when the cast CD is released, someone else’s song breaks out?
Bubba says:
Don’t worry about getting the good songs. Hasn’t anybody seen American Idol. If the songs are good, somebody will record them somewhere, i.e. Kelly Pickler, Daughtry, etc. You don’t have to be the winner to be a WINNER.
Maureen should have been the winner anyway. WAY TO GO MARCIA!!!
Laura “Blonde Mafia” says:
JR….you was on the money with all of them…but why did Randy Owen not say much??? That is not like him.
I loved the show….I did not miss a one. You need to do a CW 2….lol.
Laura
susie Q ‘”Nilla “ says:
HEY JOHN IT’S NILLA FROM JAREDS AND ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS MAN BOBBY BROWN CAME A LONG WAY IN A SHORT TIME AND YOU KNOW IN YOUR HEART HIS SONG WAS OUT OF THIS WORLD , IT WAS GUT WRENCHING AND PURE COUNTRY, I CAN NOT BELIEVE YOU PICKED JULIO HE WAS SO NOT COUNTRY HE WAS LATIN POP AND BOBBY HAS HAD A EFFECT ON HIS LIFE AND I THINK BOBBY BROWN WILL MAKE A COUNTRY ALBUM AND IF HE DOES I AM SURE IT WILL SURPASS JULIO , YOU KNOW AND NEED TO ADMIT THAT BOBBY TRULY WAS THE GREATEST AND WILL BE AGAIN
susie Q ‘”Nilla “ says:
YOU SAID YOU WOULD KILL FOR COUNTRY MUSIC IT MUST NOT OF BEEN IN YOUR HANDS IT WAS IN SOME ONE ELSES OR I TRULY BELIEVE IN YOUR HEART YOU WOULD OF PICKED BOBBY BROWNFOR HIS SONG AND PERFORMANCE WAS STRAIGHT UP COUNTRY, DO THE RIGHT THING I KNOW YOU WILL.HUGS AND MISS SEEING YOU
Kristi says:
My husband and I combined have over thirty years in the live entertainment idustry and generaly do not watch these types of programs on t.v., but curiosity got the better of me. I watched the final two episodes of Gone Coutry last night and was completely dumbfounded at the winning results. In our opinion John Rich did not choose Julio Jr
because of his “talent” to perform country music,but because good old J.R. knows Julio will be a huge female draw-that translates to alot of money for J.R. and after all, that’s what it’s all about. So, My thoughts about J.R. -He sold out for money.One last note: My husband and I toured with Enrique Iglasious in 2002 and it’s obvious that the Iglacious brothers have the same performance style. Sing to those pretty young girls in the front row, which, by the way, have paid $85 ( or more ) a seat.
Ayesha says:
I know Bobby Brown didn’t win, but someone should sing and produce that song, Dierks Bentley, Gary Allan, or Keith Urban.
Deb says:
I can’t believe this show is over. I love it and now it is over. I hope CMT is gonna do another one, because as a rock fan I really enjoyed this show and all the personalities that came together. I definitely don’t think Julio should have won, He was my least favorite, however I guess Mr. Rich knows his stuff. Winner should have been either Bobby Brown, Maureen or Carnie. Deb from the great state of Maine.
Madfem says:
I’m not sure what John was thinking when he picked Julio. He saw some screaming little girls and that is IT! John said that he was picking the person who he felt would have the best chance of going country and he is by far the worst choice for that. Even Dee had a better chance. But there were at least three choices that would have been better. John thinks he knows what a country fan wants - HA! He couldn’t be farther from being right, but the sad thing is he’ll probably do well. That yet another reason why I can not stomach current POP country commercial sell-out crap. Give me a break. it’s sad ’cause i thought this was a good show and i really gave john credit. but after he blasted the artists during their demos with some of the comments i thought wow. john really acts as if he is the know-all protector of country music and thinks he knows what we want. for his sake i hope julio doesn’t disappoint but man what a sell-out. i read sportically through these posts and heard some much good stuff about many other of the artists. i can’t say enough about my disappointment. i am a really good friend with a singer- songerwriter from Nashville and he would not be able to write for julio nor would any of his friends. oh well, good luck is all i have to say. i won’t be listening.
Madfem says:
wow, i did’t even read some of the more recent posts until after i posted my last one - i am so glad to see i am not the only one upset about john’s pick.
what john didn’t take into account is a lot of country fans are displaced pop/rock fans. they knew and probably liked many of the other artists especially during the final show. they have something to reference with these people. they don’t mind a little “spin” during a song or a familiar face from tv. but julio? not too many people even know his historic family let alone who the heck he is.
the show was great in theory until he made that sucky pick. maybe they’ll do it again with another host and let the FAN’S PICK - THEY KNOW WHAT THEY WANT MORE THAN SOME WANNABEE COWBOY.
Mr Ron says:
If they want to do a sequel, perhaps they could use 80’s pop stars, such as Hall and Oats, Brett Michaels, Brian Adams, Richard Marx, Huey Lewis, the Bangles, Pat Benatar, Chrissy Hynde, etc.. Mot of these artist wrote as well as recorded their own material.
Maybe they should do a CD of this show and donate the proceeds to charity. They are opening a new Victory Junction camp in KC. This would be a worthy cause for the money..
Trish says:
Diana should have been the winner, followed by Bobby Brown and Carnie Wilson. I am hoping there is at least one intelligent record label a&r guy who is actively wining and dining Diana to get her to sign with them. If she is this good at 20 just imagine how good she’ll be in 10 years with her songwriting and singing.
southern sally says:
John, Loved the show and all the people on it. Just thought the choice of winner was not a good one. Wish you would of let the viewers vote and you might of had a different outcome. Thought there were better performers then the one you choose. Loved that show .
country lover says:
I CANNOT believe that Julio won!!!!!!!! He did not even try during the whole show!!! Just because girls screamed!!?? I think Carnie, Mauareen or Bobby should have won!!!! I just can’t believe Julio won!!! Even the young girl was so much more country than him!!!
Madfem says:
I could not agree more. I really hope he reads these so he can see how wrong he was. I have more respect for american idol at this point because of the fan’s input!
Judd says:
Hey John, this Julio decision you made. It didn’t have anything to do with that hot Cuban from Miami you been chasin down now does it? I mean she is as fine a city slicker as they come, but you know you bring her here and the country girls will split her and her Jimmy Chus in half.
Graham says:
I love it!!!!! This Rich fellow is a phony. So many of these comments are right on the money and they state everything that I am feeling. I don’t like country music mainly because many of the songs have corny lyrics and this goofball jumps all over Dee about his(think he did it to someone else too) What an a**!!!! Julio was the worst, did you see the look on his face. My wife and I made it a point to record this program every Friday and now we feel that we have just wasted our time watching this as JR clearly does not have a clue. Mr. Rich, here is the criticism that you welcome so much! You wasted out time jerkoff.
KatieAnn says:
I am totally disappointd in who John picked. ANY of the others wrote credible country songs and worked their butts off to impress you, John. All you ended up showing is that you are a big hypocrite. What was the point of attacking Diana last week for sounding too pop and that you would kill and die for country music, only to find out that you picked the most pop-sounding singer of the bunch. He didn’t even TRY to go country. Personally, I think a lot of the songs were good. If I were you, I would have awarded it to Diana. Not only did she fix what you thought was a problem, but she wrote a great country song that would do well on radio. They all gave good performances (Bobby’s was awesome), but if you wanted to balance country sounding, talent, and marketability (which in the end seemed to be the only thing you cared about), why not go for the most well-rounded contest? Diana. I hope the other 6 performers release their songs. I think we’re going to be seeing quite a few of them in this genre. I feel like you cheated them by not even giving them a chance to win, because it’s clear to me you picked the winner long before they even got onstage.
Mike says:
John if you think this is a way into latinos rolling over into country you don’t know marketing.You got few latino fans and raised the hackles of many Country fans. If you wanted to get a latino into country go to a Latino channel ,say you want to do a reality show to find a country artist and have the latinos vote on it. You would get on board the ones YOU want to SELL to.Right now you got no buyers. Duh.
Valerie says:
Hello John,
I’ve enjoyed the show tremendously. Country music has been a part of my life ever since I could remember as a little girl when my Dad played the guitar and sang Hank Williams songs.
You made a difficult but good choice in choosing Julio. He has great potential and seems to have talent of an unusual nature.
He is passionate, charming, and gentle. Strangely enough, he has the same underlying sentimental tone in his voice that you have with some of your songs in the album, Underneath the Same Moon.
I’ve read many of the critiques. This is for the critical reviewers: Thats right folks! The people have to love you and like your songs. Oh, and yes, everybody wants to make money and they sing to make their living. YOU support it by buying the music and attending the concerts. So, don’t be a hypocrite! Remember that not only Julio, but not one of those performers are country folk either; Sounds like there is an awful lot of prejudice when you read between the lines of many of the reviews. Think about the four criteria John used to make his decision and his evaluation of their performances in order to make a fair comment.
Good time Charlie says:
JR, congrats on a fun rowdy show, we’re waiting to see how Julio plays out in country. It was an interesting choice but I support it and I wish you well. I don’t believe you’ve sold us out at all as some folks are saying. I do, however, believe you’re wanting to stretch the country music boundaries and well, there ain’t nothing wrong with that. I agree with a previous poster who says that there appears to be a lot of prejudice when you read between the lines, she may be on to something. I’m glad YOURE not the prejudice one and I applaud you for that. God bless. GTC
Do not blink, cause ur career maybe be ending says:
John,John,John,I think if you are a reading these blogs you know by now that you have made a big,big,big mistake.
How you could say that you would “kill for Country music” and yet choose Julio. You reamed Diana for having a song that was to pop on national tv, yet you selected Julio. She turned it around and nailed it at the finale!.
Do you really know what Country is? Country/all fans know when they have been taken out to the outhouse but I guess you do to after last friday night. How many reruns are there of this show?.
John blink all you want says:
If these people think your career is ending, then let’s take a moment to remind them of all the records B&R sells, all the $$$ you make off licensing your songs (as JR AND as one half of B&R) not to mention producing for others, merchandising and all the royalties that roll in monthly. That’s not even including the cut you get from touring and et al appearances. (And I’m not even including all your real estate investments across the country).
You’re already a brand, so it’s gonna take more than disgruntled naive posters on a message board not buying your records. If they’re assuming that’s going to make a dent in your wallet, well then you just laugh yourself all the way to the bank, Mr. Rich.
Rock on.
Bobby says:
I think JR mispoke when he told Diana, “I’ll kill for country music.” Obviously he meant to say “I’ll kill country music.”
casey m. says:
congratulations john rich and congratulations julio. great show! hope you’ll also consider producing carnie, maureen and bobby’s songs. thanks for bringing new life to country with these folks.
Karen says:
I have to admit I agree with everyone…The choice was extremely disappointing. He didn’t even try to appeal to country music. All he did was slide by to be on tv. He has no interest in being a country artist but rather try to be successful in any biz that will give him airplay. I feel it was a monumental mistake when the others I felt really tried …really put effort. Maureen’s song would be a hit today if released so would Carney’s ..Their songs really hit home …which is what country music is about…The very same thing you said repeatedly on your show but yet you did the completely opposite with your decision. All the girls did was scream for his looks and who he was…but trust me those girls who screamed…would never pay for a concert ticket..maybe a calendar that he might be in..but a concert ticket…or a single…forget it..it won’t happen. The best thing Julio can hope for is to be successful in latin music and cross over into pop like Enrique who I really love but country music ..never. The show was great the decision was completely disappointing. Maureen was able to get all those people to listen…They all were captured by her words….In a crowd that was in a party mood…they stopped and their hearts were grabbed by her song..just as they were by Carney’s, Diana’s and Bobby’s….
You stated from the get go that you wanted a Latino artist..that you all had been searching…well if that was what you wanted you didn’t need a show to get it…U should of just given it to him since he didn’t need to earn it like the rest did..they earned it and showed how much it meant to them…all Julio did was what Julio wanted and relied on his looks to get him the win…look he was right. You fell right in his hands.
Weldon Comes Flying says:
JR what were you thinking! Julio Jr.? That’s like saying Tom Jones done gone country! The only reason Julio’s father is in country music is because of Willie Nelson. And because of the way the girls reacted to him, look at Bobby’s performance. There’s the winner right there. Bobby is the winner, talking about singing with emotion and living what your singing.
Lorraine says:
John, I am so upset at your ultimate choice. I’m sorry but I think you are a bit of a hypocrite, the way you made such a big deal about song content and presentation on demo day. Then, you made your choice saying how much the ladies were screaming for Julio. Just because a guy is hot doesn’t mean he is a good singer or has a good song. I think Diana, Carnie, and Bobby got screwed big time!!!!!!!!!! Julio did not have a good song and I would not buy his CD. You can’t see what he looks like when you are listening to his song driving down the road all alone. I urge you to produce a CD with all the artists and all the songs, I would buy that.
Big Al says:
yes john makes millions. because too many people believe his BS. He is not country so why pretend?
Susan says:
Did anyone have a chance to read the finale blog before it was pulled? I would like to know if JR gave any rationale for his decision, given that it contradicted many of his earlier positions.
No hate for Julio, as he said he was looking for a way into the English market. I just feel so bad for the other contestants…sort of reminds me of folks jumping through hoops interviewing for a position that has already been de facto filled in a back-room deal. They all worked so hard and should come out of this with their head held high.
Carla says:
Hey John,
My family and I really enjoyed the show. You seemed genuinely suprised by the quality of the songs written. Well, we weren’t but we were suprised by your choice for the winner. Though it was an interesting and romantic song, it seemed much more of a mainstream pop song than a true country song. However, you’re the expert, so what do I know? Please update your blog and let us know if there will be another season. If so, please consider some suggestions offered in the previous comments: longer episodes, perhaps some elimination challenges instead of waiting til the end (why not let that audience at the club vote?) and perhaps allowing more than one winner (lyrics, group vocal or duet, and best song overall, which gets recorded/distributed as a prize). And also, the compilation CD with all the recordings - I would buy that too. Thanks again for keeping it interesting - see ya when you come back to PA.
Dennis says:
Just think JR is looking for a replacment for The Late and Great Freddie Fender and Julio is not it Sorry, Not a big Bobby Brown fan but the guy put all he had into it. They all did good I think.
Michelle says:
Mr. Rich,
I’ve enjoyed the show and love the dynamics of the participants from different backgrounds. I was a big fan but was floored at your final choice of Julio. granted, I’m not a music producer, etc but I’d love to hear your rational for your choice. Like many, I felt Julio was the least country of anyone and the least willing to even try to change. So what gives?? Was there stuff that didn’t make the tv cut that would change our opinion. I just don’t get it. He didn’t look country, he didn’t sound country and he didn’t act country. So what makes him Country???? Do tell…
annika says:
ok, earlier I said I wouldn’t watch the show if they made a second season. I would. I just think the challenges really threw everyone off since it appeared that Julio didn’t participate much. I watched the reruns again last night with my husband and I think the strength of the show was the interpersonal relationships. Unlike most reality shows which thrive on controversy and backstabbing, the cast on this show seemed to genuinely enjoy each other and care about each other’s well being. Which is quite interesting and enjoyable in itself considering the diversity of backgrounds. JR, really loved the show. Bobby Brown ….he’s amaizing-hey I was really moved by his song. I think he should have won but either way this was the most enjoyable TV show I’ve seen in a long time.
annika says:
But having said all that, Yeah JR. you didn’t follow your own advice about how country music is heart felt and country people can tell a fraud when they see one. I like Julio but he was not the winner. In my oppinion it was Bobby Brown or Moreen.
Juliofan08 says:
Ok so firstly Ricco, no i’m not a politician, smart ass.
And Aileen, i never heard of Diana Degarmo before this show and in my opinion she is just another pretty girl with a good voice. That’s my opinion sorry if you don’t like. Hopefully she’ll prove me wrong when she get’s a record deal and has a few hits. I’ve got nothing against the girl as a person and no you’re right i don’t know nothing about her but my opinion was based upon what i saw in the show. “Nearly” winning AI is hardly a great credit. Even winning it these days is nothing special. I appreciate that you are obviously a fan of her and it pisses me off when people slag of my favourite artists but at the end of the day i’m only giving my opinion. Sorry if you think i’m ignorant. I could say the same thing about a lot of the people on here passing judgement on Julio. Out of all the contestants he is the one i know most about and a lot of you have got him all wrong. He’s not a spoilt, lazy kid and he’s not a “latin lover.”
I don’t know why most people are taking this so seriously. I mean if the other artists are that brilliant, they get something out of this show so everyone’s a winner.
Melissa says:
I have been catching up on all of the episodes,and I can’t get over how much Dee Snider resembles Porter Wagoner!!!! Does anyone else think so?? Also I don’t think I would be buying any country albums by Julio :(
Renee Rhoades-Lembcke says:
Joining in the loud chorus of viewers who were upset and disappointed with the winner chosen. The loud rumbling sounds we all heard when Julio’s name was called was the collective result of Roy Acuff, Ernest Tubb, Hank Williams, Tammy Wynette, and a host of others spinning in their crypts. I am not so upset because he is Latino, or bubblegummy pop, androgynist cute, etc. The boy just has no real vocal TALENT. The instrument is inferior. People using the argument Julio isn’t country enough? Some people said the same things about Jim Reeves and Patsy Cline. But they had the voices that made country music believe, and they sang from the heart. Julio’s lyrics were shallow and trite. The closest equivalent I could make would be when Pat Boone tried to sing heavy metal. I could picture people like Elton John, Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson, Eminem, Prince, Britney Spears or Fergie being more COUNTRY than Julio Jr. JR, let me apply the “ACID TEST” from David Allan Coe’s hit, The Ride, like a checklist.
Mr. Iglasias, can you make folks cry when you play and sing (like Maureen did)? (No) Have you paid your dues (like Bobby Brown has)? (No) Can you moan the blues (like Bobby again)? (Nope) Can you bend them guitar strings (like Dee?) (Nu-uh), Can you make folks feel what you feel inside (like Carney, Sisco and Diana)? (No, but I CAN make teen girls giggle, blush and sigh).
Ding ding ding, this is not your winner then.
scott says:
the problem is the cast likely had to sign over any creative rights before the show began so everything they wrote, their finished songs, they can’t do anything with them unless it’s allowed by those in charge of “gone country”. I’m sure they thought of this.. they had to have known out of 7 people at least a few good songs would come.. and being only able to choose one. If the others had hits in their hands they would lose the money of someone else picked them up. Believe me, lawyers are sharks, they most likely had to sign over their songs.
Juliofan08 says:
And just to add to what John said, it’s not Julio’s fault that he won. If people are mad at the John Rich’s choice then be mad at him and Cmt, not at Julio. I agree without being too judgemental and sterotypical, Julio was the least country. In my opinion the best “country” song was Maureen’s. But i guess John Rich just saw $$ signs when the girls started screaming. It might not have been the right reason to pick him as a winner but i can understand it. Although i don’t think Julio has quite the same charisma onstage as his brother does (and i hate to compare them) it’s obvious he is an Iglesias.
If this competition had been voted for by the public then i think it’s safe to say JJ wouldn’t have won. Fortunetly he has a Spanish Cd coming out soon so if the country thing doesn’t work out, and by the sounds of everyone here it’s not going to, then at least he has something to fall back on.
And also to the women that said she toured with Enrique “iglacious” in 2002, you’re right Enrique does “perform to the girls in the front row” and i can tell you it feels amazing! Having front row seat at one of his shows is priceless!
scott says:
[quote from valerie]Think about the four criteria John used to make his decision and his evaluation of their performances in order to make a fair comment.[/quote]
we did go on his 4 points.. the main one being which was the best and most country song. The only thing country about this song is the background guitars… and it’s almost unanimous that it wasn’t the best written song.
Stephanie says:
What in the world were you thinking? Iglio seemed to mock Country Music the entire show….That was not line dancing and he seemed to spend more time trading on his looks (such as they are) than on his talents.
Seriously…Bobby Brown wrote a song Meryle Haggard and Hank Williams would of been proud of. Maureen could talk Lorreta Lynn into cutting hers and even Sisco seemed more genuine in his attempts to reach the people of country music.
Seems to me you sold out John…..yep the young girls may buy one album just to see him shake his tiny ass but they will soon lose interest as his looks and inability to be sincere without a mirror present will not go far, especially for us who grew up in country music…which reflects many red blooded, redneck, love this country and love our land values.
As a mother of a young woman the same age as your “Gone Country” winner, I can tell you her and her college sisters all think you have fallen off your horse onto your damn head one to many times. Take of the sequins man they are blinding you to what this country wants and needs from its entertainers.
Iglio is NOT it and if you think so then you confuse your ability at making cutting edge a success with the reality of true country.
Big and Rich has tons of talent….your flash and good looks made you in our face but it does not sell your records. Your true southern nature does. Get real…Iglio?
What a crock!!!!!
scott says:
juliofan i don’t think anyone is mad at julio.. the guy isn’t even from the states let alone nashville tennessee
scott says:
[quote]If these people think your career is ending, then let’s take a moment to remind them of all the records B&R sells, all the $$$ you make off licensing your songs (as JR AND as one half of B&R) not to mention producing for others, merchandising and all the royalties that roll in monthly. That’s not even including the cut you get from touring and et al appearances. (And I’m not even including all your real estate investments across the country).
You’re already a brand, so it’s gonna take more than disgruntled naive posters on a message board not buying your records. If they’re assuming that’s going to make a dent in your wallet, well then you just laugh yourself all the way to the bank, Mr. Rich.
Rock on.
[/quote]
it doesn’t matter how much money the guys has and how much he has invested.. the issue is how much credibility as a country artist is left?
Robert says:
The final selection was a crock. I think he was chosen purely based on his ethnicity. His performance was one of the weakest of the group. It was definitely not a country performance by any stretch.
I have nothing against Julio, he seems like a nice person but there looks to have been an agenda besides finding the best performer for this show.
Stephanie says:
Of coarse threatening NOT to buy Big and Rich records willnot make any difference….llok and the Dixie Chicks. They have so many songs in movies and tied to other outlets they will make money off country music for the rest of their lives, what they won’t do is sell out any more concerts. Watch them sell out a 5 million seat show one year that 2 years later they could not fill with even a 100,000.00 asses. JR should remember his own wrds when he said people of country music know sincerity. Sooner or later one hit wonders all fall flat on their face. Iglio is not his brother or his father and JR best hope he does not have too much of his own cash tied up in this venture.
Bri from LI says:
What happened to the other blog entries that were here yesterday under the Upcoming Finale entry from JR? Did CMT pull them??? Too negative? Too honest??? Anybody know? There were over 700 entries that I can’t find on CMT anywhere.
scott says:
Bri, the replies on that blog were just like the last 200 on this one
Juliofan08 says:
Well he grew up in the states. Anyway what’s that got to do with anything? (him not being from the states or nashville tennesse?)
newyork says:
“you act like an ass.. you’re done” -JR
Alexis says:
In the beginning I thought this show was B.S. as I watched it made me laugh, cry, and think. The cast really surprised me. I love the show but not the out come. I hope that Maureen still works at becoming a country singer and even Bobby Brown. But Julio is not country singer and I don’t think he has the heart. He was there because he is not famous want’s to be and the only thing famous is his name which is his Father’s.
newyork says:
[quote]Well he grew up in the states. Anyway what’s that got to do with anything? (him not being from the states or nashville tennesse?)
[/quote]
meaning it was hard enough for him to do what he did because of the barriers.. it’s not his fault he doesn’t look and sound country.
superm0m says:
I really enjoyed the show. I looked forward to watching it every week but I had to watch the finale twice before I could believe who won. Julio was the only one I felt certain would not win. I really liked all the other choices. I am very confused with the choice. To be a country star you have to be hospitable and Julio was sleeping. He did not follow the grocery list (everything was one color) He was a gentleman and made sure Maureen knew how to ride 4 wheeler. At car wash he was playing with water hose. I feel the show should have been longer than 1/2 hour each week that way the viewer would be able to see more of the interaction and more of the other stars. It was alot of Bobby and Mo (I love you Bobby Brown) Dee (I need coffee) Carnie (so nervous) Julio (playing around) Diana (putting country down) and oh yea Sisco was there wasn’t he? Maybe if alot of the show didn’t end up onthe cutting room floor we would all understand why John Rich picked who he did.
maddie says:
was reading earlier posts…and i just had to say this: so basically, it boils down to the fact that since julio hasn’t been a bobby style wife beater crack fiend who’s lost everything and did the show because nothing else is going on that’ll pay the bills–he doesn’t sing w/ passion? oh jeez. forgive julio for making better choices in life and not having that to pull from. doesn’t mean he doesn’t sing with passion. he just sings about different things. in this case, what worked for him which is obviously romance.
if the country crowd is this judgmental, why hasn’t anyone criticized that loose cannon? there’s no way he could’ve won. he’s obviously unreliable and unstable. gimme a break.
congrats to julio, and as others have said, i look forward to what you can do in country music. xoxo.
Juliofan08 says:
NewYork: well yeah i can see your point but how exactly do you “look” country? Isn’t that being a little sterotypical?
I’m not really a country fan and i didn’t know a lot about country music until i watched this show. So i guess i’m not all that fussed who the winner is. I’m happy Julio won because i like him but i’m begining to think that maybe it wasn’t such a good thing that he did win afterall. It’s probably gonna do more harm than good to his career. I guess i just feel a little sorry for him because he’s always gonna be in the shadow of his Dad and his younger brother.Ok so i know he’s never gonna be as good as them but he does have talent. He hasn’t had his big break yet and judging by this blog i don’t think country is going to give him it.
Trammellclan3 says:
I am absolutely blown away that Julio won. Are you kidding me??? Of all the songs performed, I thought he was the LEAST country. I think that John Rich sold country down the river for the sake of money because of the international possibilities that Julio has….(and he said he would kill for country……right!!!). My husband thought that there should be a CD put out w/ all the songs from the show. I would definately buy it myself.
Mick says:
Hey Stephanie@ 5:13, where exactly is this 5 million seater venue the Dixie Chicks sold out?
And what’s w/ calling Julio “Iglio”? Is that your attempt at cute or funny, or are you hiding an ethnic issues or the racist variety? I don’t think anyone here i asking you to love the guy, but there’s no reason to diss him in that manner. You mentioned having 35 yr. old children (Julio’s age)…somehow that sort of comment doesn’t wear well on a mother. Especially if you’re one that reflects those wonderful country morals we hold so dear. What a lovely example for your daughter.
myrtle brown says:
I just visit watching the “Gone Country” episodes and was totaly, not only me but everyone that watched it with me, digusted, disbelief and thought “what!”.
Everyone performed amazingly, except for Julio. I cannot believe this. And I am definitely, not country. All that I saw Julio do was what he was told earlier not to do. He did not wear country attire, he did not sing country twang. And that’s another thing, the way John Rich jumped all over Diana about singing pop. And Julio won the dang thing singing totally pop. You know we are getting really tired of these reality shows breaking their own RULES. What a inservice all of the other performers were dealt.
All John could see was dollars from Hispanic audience. This show was just a farce to get a Hispanic singer because of the growing Hispanic population. The other performers were used. HOW SAD THIS COUNTRY IS BECOMING!
bluedivr says:
I just tuned into Gone Country for the first time today and I will tell you, as a writer myself ( I write poetry) if you cannot take the good with the bad criticism then you will always stay at square one. I don’t like to hear bad things about my words either but it is what helps me to become a stronger , better writer .
Lol Mick says:
…For that matter, where’s the 100,000 capacity she’s talking about? Not even Wembley in Europe, lol, and the DCs never sold out that size either. THANK GOD.
Moving on…
Amy says:
While Julio was a good performer, I think I was as shocked as he was. I think JR is more interested in the all mighty dollar than who had really “GONE COUNTRY.” Loved the show but was disappointed with the outcome…
Amy says:
Mr. John Rich…
Thank you for some good entertainment in the country show “Gone Country”. I do not pretend to know or understand the music industry. I have watched the finale show a couple of times now, and today I just “listened” to the music. I feel like all of the artists did a wonderful job in their musical performance. I would like to know if all of these songs will be available for download. Each artist was unique and great in their own right. I am most impressed at how you could take a diverse group of people and see how much they all strive for the same things in life. While the country music was very important, the fact that these entertainers are also just people with all of the “quirks” that everyone else in the world has. I apprciate the whole “human” experience, and was able to enjoy their incredible talents, as well. I would buy each and every one of their songs within the country genre. Well done on a great concept for this show. Thank you so much for showing the world how important it is to not only strive for sucess, but to also give back to the community and the world. Congrats to Julio for his victory, and to all the other artists for being introduced to the wonderful world of country music and the fact that the world of “country” is not only cool, but the “real” way to live. While I listen to all genre’s of music, country music is my home. Thank you again…
hannah d. says:
haha, Mick, preach it!
i think JR sold out for latin market, which is fine, I don’t have an issue with that or with Julio. but then he should’ve conferred with the MTV Nashville production team and not called it “Gone Country” cuz that’s misleading. Julio sounds great for pop, i’d like to hear more. but i agree he’s not exactly country, at least not at this point. i don’t see anything wrong with trying to attract latin market to country music, hey the more the merrier. there appears to be a little racial hate it looks like, if some of the posts on these boards are y indication.
anyway, it’s just freaking television people. so congrats to Julio and John. they say the ratings were thru the roof. good for them!
mike says:
To Supermom Diana did not put country down. Diana started singing country at the age of 5 by the age of about 11 she sang at the Grand Ole Opry with Warrener, did the Christmas Special in Dollywood and when she was 17 sang on Leanne Rimes Special I beieve she sang Patsy Cline’s Crazy. You might even hear it on Youtube.com. She knows country and sang it for 11 years before American Idol. After Idol she continued her success starring as Maria in West Side Story, Penny Pingleton in Hairspray on Broadway, and as Brooklyn in Brooklyn the Musical. Last Spring she sang at Carnegie Hall as soloist in front of the New York pops Orchestra. She is only 20 but a great singer that can do many genre as witnessed on AI.She works hard and gives much of her time supporting various charities and her church work. Check yuotube.A year or so ago she went with General Pace Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and his wife and visited troops in 13 African and Middle East countries in places I think I would have second thoughts about.She is a great supporter of the troops and for years has supported the Marines toy drive. The more you know about her the more you admire her. Dee was right when he said I’ve never met anyone with more gumption and your only 20. Dee by the way you are a great guy.
Alisandra Edwards says:
I am livid about the results that I just got done watching from Gone Country. I don’t even like the music of Big & Rich due to it’s exploitation of REAL country music and the forced implementation of hip-hop and other crap forms of music in order to get their “songs” played at ALL the local bars. But this, this was the icing on the cake. Julio? Really, Julio?? Seriously, Julio??? This guy had more than one line of Spanish in his very much non-country sounding song and he wins?!? What are you trying to do to the country music industry? We don’t need to be made tolerant or accepting, we are open-minded people who are intelligent enough to decide who we like and who we don’t without you forcing others cultures down our throats. Congratulations on blowing me away with that ridiculous and undeserving decision. I hope you got the ratings you were after. Also, thanks for wasting all of our time while we watched waiting for someone worthy to win the top spot on your show. You should have named it “Gone out of the Country” with that ending.
English speaking American,
Alisandra Edwards, USA
Alisandra Edwards says:
BOYCOTT BIG & “RICH”
BY TARGETING THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY HE OBVIOUSLY SUPPORTS ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION AND IS AGAINST THE BETTERMENT OF OUR NATION BY SUPPORTING THAT ENGLISH BE THE STANDARDIZED AND REQUIRED LANGUAGE.
Bobbie says:
I enjoyed the show immensely and hope to see more. The only problem I had with the show was seeing some of the antics by BB. He sang good but he really should not been drinking like he did and put the others in the position he did. Other than that they all were wonderful and I wished they all would have won. I don’t know how in the world you made your choice John for it was a tough one. Maureen don’t sweat it people love you for you we just have such fond memories of you and that is a good thing a very good thing. Carnie Wilson is just my hero she has gone through so much in the public eye with her weight loss and I am so proud to see she staying in the public eye for she is such a sweet person with a big heart.
God Bless all of you your futures are looking bright just stay in the spotlight some how it is working good for you.
HAHA says:
PSA: Alisandra Edwards, aside from racist, is ignorant.
You wrote>>>
this guy had more than one line of Spanish in his very much non-country sounding song and he wins?!? What are you trying to do to the country music industry? We don’t need to be made tolerant or accepting, we are open-minded people who are intelligent enough to decide who we like and who we don’t without you forcing others cultures down our throats.
HAHA says:
Your ignorant ass wrote:
#
Alisandra Edwards says:
Posted: March 9th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
BOYCOTT BIG & “RICH”
BY TARGETING THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY HE OBVIOUSLY SUPPORTS ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION AND IS AGAINST THE BETTERMENT OF OUR NATION BY SUPPORTING THAT ENGLISH BE THE STANDARDIZED AND REQUIRED LANGUAGE.#
YOU ARE A RACIST BITCH.
(Who obviously knows nothing about latinos or immigration.)
Alisandra Edwards says:
Yes I am a racist. I am also inbred.
Alisandra Edwards says:
I’m scared of dem hispanics. They has mor teefs dan me. My cousin husband seys so.
Dennis says:
Do you wonder if JR’s friend’s Randy Owen or Gretchen Wilson agrees with his choice? I would like to know.
Stephanie says:
Hey Mick….yes you can call me racist, proud of that badge as I am of the Army uniform I wore. Bet your ass can not relate and try NY asshole. As in Central Park. First Garth did it, then the Dixie Chicks. Try not to show to much more ignorance….it makes you and JR seem to much alike.
Mary says:
Dennis, I was thinking the same thing. But as I watch the reruns tonight, I watched Mr. Owen’s critiques in the episode where they recored the demo’s, and his comments were pretty on target with the reaction shots of him at the finale concert. My guess is yes. He is such a class act and is known to be pretty open minded around Nashville, so I’m sure he’d have welcomed any of them as winners.
Mary
Robert says:
John,
I cannot believe you picked the least country performance out of all of the artists. You ripped Diana up one side and down the other for not being country and Julio was the farthest by far from any resemblence to country. The audience would have never made that choice. I had been excited to see who was going to be the real champion of crossover to country. Maureen was great, Bobby was very good, Diana definitely countrified her song very well and had an awesome voice with a great song. Carney’s song was definitely hit material although the vocals were a little less than blow you away. Obviously, CisqO’s dance and Dee’s flip off showed they were not into becoming part of the country community, so they were obviously out. But, Julio…What? We’re you afraid that someone was going to outshine you. Your whole talk about being true to the fans is now empty. You turned the entire show into a disappointment to all of country music’s fans. Go Maureen, Diana, Carney and Bobby…you don’t need John, pull support people together and get your stride.
becky says:
john you just lost a hell of alot of fans with your ridiculous pick of a COUNTRY STAR that man is not even american nor does he even live in america as far as im concerned you just sent country music down the river with no paddles all the other people on the show did thier best to conform to the country way and look he did none of that this was the most disappointing show ever on tv i will be one of those people boycotting you and your music from now on this is america and we want americans to perform country music not some latin cutie who cant even speak ENGLISH which is what all country music fans speak signed one very upset and disappoited ex fan
Song of the South says:
Ok to you folks reading the above posts from those racist idiots, i’d like to request you please don’t stereotype us country folks the way they’re living up to that dispicable low rent standard.
The claims of being proud of being racists and showing ignorance about hispanics and the extreme pride they take in that…PLEASE know we’re not all like that. I won’t use the same foul language they’ve used, but the “a hole” word one of them use describes THEM perfectly, but not the rest of us.
My apologies to everyone on the board who is offended by them.
Miguel says:
Music is the only language that can cross language barriers. Thanks to Song of the South. We latinos know you are not all like that.
Miguel
wow says:
as a hispanic person born and raised in texas, i have loved country music all my life…how the hell does “targeting the hispanic community” have anything to do with supporting illegal immigration? are you an idiot or do you seriously not know that a great majority of hispanic people in this country are citizens? furthermore, what the hell does that have anything to do with english as the standard language? you are a perfect example of total ignorance.
wow says:
stephanie-
what a horrible example of a military member. i am ashamed you served in my army.
~current soldier in the army
Alisandra Edwards says:
Say what you will, last time I checked the Freedom of Speech was still one of the most celebrated of the Amendments. I’m entitled to my opinion the same as you folks. But, last time I checked, I didn’t do any name-calling. I refuse to sink to your level of ignorance. If you want to pretend that it isn’t an issue, so be it, more power to you. HAHA, Miguel, Poser who used my name, and the rest of you who want to take a CMT blog personally: just make sure when the next Civil War breaks out you’re on the opposite side of the front line from me.
Mick says:
To Stephanie @ 6:36: As “proud of that badge” of racism that you claim to be, Central Park cannot hold a 5 million person crowd for a concert. Please lady, you are embarrassing yourself. How about you take your own advice of “try not to show to much more ignorance”, as you say.
Regarding you calling me “***hole”, as much as I’d like to reply in like manner, I will not because I will refuse to go remotely near your level of trash.
John says:
John Rich,
I believe the main issue is the fact that these stars were under your guidance in how to become “Gone Country”. The values that you expressed about Country Music won over all of America’s heart especially at the Children’s Hospital. You talked about values and responsibilty (I thought I was listening to my parents and grandparents). The real issue is that we all joined you in these beliefs and we saw the various stars baring their souls to us the American public and following your direction but Julio was a non practicing and more important a non contributor and that’s OK there’s always one in every group who “just don’t get the message”. America knows you chose the one who you truly thought had the best chance. The outrage is that America never rewards people who are not doing their best and basicly non conforming THUS the Julio outrage
wow says:
alisandra
dont worry, there isn’t a level of ignorance below yours.
so glad i fight in the army to let you display your ignorance.
Alisandra Edwards says:
Yes, in my ignorance I not only talk out my ass, I make sure I don’t know what I’m saying, and then I lay it on any random hispanic name I can find on the blog.
Gotta go put in my teefs now. My horse is awaitin for some secks.
Bonnie says:
John,
I really am Country music crazy and enjoyed all episodes of this show. Have you thought of putting out a gone country album featuring the songs of all the artists and donating the proceeds to the hospital that they visited? I’d would definately buy it and I’m sure others would as well…..
-Bonnie
To alisandra says:
no! don’t abuse the poor horse! isnt there a brother or a cousin you could screw instead?
Renee Rhoades-Lembcke says:
News flash for Alisandra: while I utterly disagree with the choice of Julio Jr to win, I disagree with it cuz the kid cannot really SING. But country western music has had Mexican and Spanish influence long before now, as well as Cajun music done partially or entirely in French. Scottish music and Irish music had a big influence on old school country music like bluegrass. One purpose of the fiddle was to partly replicate the sound of bagpipes.
You obviously are very bitter about illegal immigrants and people living in our country for whom English is their second language. I get that. Don’t agree with you 100%, but I do get it. (I think we need to balance the effort to keep out illegals with a lot more COMPASSION and HUMANITY than one hears these days.) But the creature that is country music today is not as easily pigeonholed as it used to be. Remember that at one time people like Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Crystal Gayle, Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, even Jim Reeves and Patsy Cline were lookeed down on by “regular” country western music. Country music eventually embraced them.
I have no issue with country music including diversity.
What I disagreed with was the selection of a kid who has less talent for singing than the boys on the Brady Bunch did and who is about as country as my cat, maybe less.
Susanna Davis says:
For the poster signed “Wow”, On behalf of those of us who realize that as Americans we come from ALL nationalities and from ALL languages, THANK YOU for serving in our military!!!
You are a hero, and we appreciate you fighting so that we may have the rights we do. Susie
The end of John says:
Well John, I can see this riot that you caused by picking Julio for the win continues and I bet it won’t stop until CMT removes all of these bolgs. I guess all these negative comments towards your stupid pick are proof you really don’t have a brain when it comes to country music after all. The only thing you have done is piss a bunch of people off that thought you were sincere about what you had said on the show and they are never going to buy anything that Julio puts out. You totally blast Diana, she then fixes her song to please you and then you give the win to Julio that sounded a lot more pop than Diana did when you beat her up! You have wasted everyone time watching this show hoping the best one was going to be chosen, but all you do is sell out to a few screaming girls in the front. In the end all this show accomplished is showing everyone what a real dumb ass you are.
Doc Lowery says:
I scanned through the other posts and I’m glad I’m not a lone voice. I LOVED the show… really did. It was refreshing to see “reality” TV where everyone wasn’t out to get everyone else. Where they were like family. It made me feel good to watch. Loved the hospital episode.
BUT - the finale was a JOKE. I thought everyone did a pretty good job but I’d rate Julio & Sisqo at the bottom of the pile just because they didn’t really hit the mark of going COUNTRY. Diana made the best turn around. Bobby sang his butt off - wasn’t country enough but really good. Mo was very good but not a strong singer. Dee reminded me of the old Southern Rock of the 70’s (which I love) but the curse word and finger were just out of place. Personally, overall - her attitude, her performance, just general personality - I would’ve voted for Carnie. I agree with what someone said about letting the fans have an input if you do this again. JR, you messed up, partner. After you ripped Diana a new one I thought, “man, these guys better get country or go home!” and then you picked one of the LEAST country performances???
Please do GC again but learn from your mistakes.
bubba II says:
You people need to get over Julio. I believe he won because of all, he is probably least known to most country people, and thus does not have the baggage of a previous career. Besides, I am sure a big reason for his selection is because he makes the girls (and probably some of the guys) get all hot and bothered. It will be good for record sales.
What about Dee Snyder? All I could think about during his performance was….”Say Hello Riff-Raff!”
Danny says:
JR choosing Julio completely threw me for a loop, but what’s done is done. We are putting the cart before the horse if we insist on writing him off simply from what we saw in a handful of episodes.
And what’s with he ridiculous remarks regarding Hispanics? Who cares what race he is? As earlier posters have said, if you’re gonna hate him, hate him for the perceived level of talent he ay or may not have, but about his race? STFU. Hispanics have brought a lot to this country. You may like that or you may hate that, but it is what it is. There is good and bad in every race and every ethnic group. Get over it.
As for Hispanic talent in country music, why hasn’t anyone mentioned Raul Malo (formerly of The Mavericks). The guy is a brilliant all around musician. He’s also Cuban, and sings extraordinarily well both in English and Spanish. I don’t think he’d appreciate being booted from country music because he isn’t anglo-saxson enough (in response to the moron poster who said country should be sung by Americans and in English only).
Sheesh. Whoever said these ignorants are making us look bad is completely correct.
Ima Countrygal says:
Wow, I was really entertained by this show !!!!! Can’t tell you how disappointed I am in the winner.
All this “country music fans” talk is bull. I grew up watching the Grand OO, on Saturday night with popcorn on a b&w TV, with an antenna on top of the house. Country Music fans are real people who know what they like and don’t need anyone to tell them.Our love of this music comes from the feeling it gives us, not the spangles and twang. All the performers did well. But I am shocked with myself ,
Dee Snider’s performance made me feel like I was 18 yo listing to CCR or Waylon . A feeling I have not felt in 43 years. Don’t know who he is , but I ain’t seen nothing like that since Jerry Lee.
Doc Lowery says:
OH… forgot to agree about putting all the songs onto a CD and donating the proceeds to that children’s hospital. Would make a whole lot more than a carwash!
I’D BUY ONE and it might somewhat redeem an otherwise LOUSY finale to a great show.
And, why wasn’t attitude and performance from the beginning factored in? Julio as I recall was not into much of any of the other tests…. Again, Carnie came through every week as really trying to go country.
PUT OUT THE CD and make some money for charity!
Corinne says:
IMO, it’s not John Rich making us look bad.
What’s making us look bad is the lowlifes who come on here with racists and ignorant comments.
I’m more embarrassed by that than by John Rich anyday.
Corinne, SD
PS-I have to fess up and admit to laughing hysterically at the lady who insists there’s a concert place in NY that can hold 5 million people. She’d be funny if she wasn’t such a racist ass.
Susan says:
I’m with Bubba II. I really think that a large part of the decision was tied to Julio not being strongly painted into a corner of the American culture already–although many may harbor positive feelings due to the early Julio Sr./Willie Nelson pairing.
Sure, there is the obvious economic drive to corner a large (and growing) ethnic niche in music…but I’ll bet JR just figures that female fans in general will warm to the pretty face–spanish speaking or not! (Witness the early response to Spanish native Antonio Banderas.)
As to the venom regarding illegal immigration….many of us in East Tenn have strong opinions, but in this case aren’t they pretty much moot? The guy is from SPAIN, not Latin America!
Goodnight to all!
Susan says:
Oh, and PS:
I second Doc Lowery’s call for a compilation CD for charity. GREAT IDEA, and it seems like all the principals would be on board!
Max says:
To the person who actually said Diana, of all people, put country down on the show, I guess you fell victim to the manipulative editing. Diana loves country music and it’s history. The comment that is being interpreted as being dismissive (something about country being pop with a twang) was just her pointing out reality when you look at much of the top country artists like Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, etc. They do crossover into adult contemporary and pop charts because of the similarity to a pop song. “Pop/Country” pretty much dominates the charts. That’s just a fact.
Diana should have phrased it differently out of deference to country purists but this is the girl who says Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton are two of her idols. She’s hardly ignorant of the greats in country history. I’m sure if we had been allowed to hear the entire quote instead of having it cut off, she would have come off better. CMT owes her an apology.
Jules says:
I have no problem with Julio being hispanic and I’m sad to see the racism on this board.
I also don’t think he deserved to win. His song was much weaker lyrically and musically. Vocally he didn’t compare. He didn’t have the emotion behind his singing.
Diana Degarmo was the rightful winner.
Maura says:
Susan, 1- you’re assuming the racists on here understand the word “moot”…which sadly, I highly doubt. 2- illegal immigration is coming in from everywhere, not just LatAm. The thing is, they’re too busy generalizing all Hispanics of all 22 ethnic groups and lumping them into one, assuming they’re all illegal. They can’t see beyond their trailer park, and have absolutely no interest in educating themselves on the subject. Julio is from Spain. Lives in Miami. Has dual citizenship. This means nothing to them. I feel a teensy weensy bit sorry for them being so threatened by Julio, Must be sad to live like that. But then I remember they’re just douchey and at least Julio is living out his dream, which will probably make them all the more bitter if they think about it.
Kelsey says:
What a great point an above poster makes about us falling victim to manipulative editing. The only think I’d add to that is that we can apply that to ALL the cast members.
Let’s get real, MTV knows one thing and that’s how to edit a reality show. They freaking invented reality television. I highly doubt even JR had any control over it. I didn’t see his name listed in the producer credits. If you’ll watch the show outtakes you’ll see how twisted things got. IE: Julio portrayed as the “lazy’ one, when in fact no one mentions that he’s just flown in from Spain and is jetlagged.
We don’t “know” this cast. We are endeared to some more than others, but we don’t “know” them. Welcome to Hollywood, Nashville.
John Ripped off says:
Julio Iglesias Jr??? I loved the show until it became a sell out…unfortunatly on the last episode…I feel like I lost a whole series…Julio was the WORST of them all…its all the whole thing of trying to bridge Latinos into country…Come on, look at real country…when does Garth sing spanish??? Heck, I accept cowboy Troy cause he rocks…but Julio Iglesia’s…come on….I am massivly DISSAPPOINTED!!!! I hope he is not, ‘Comin’ to my City.’
Shannon (Philadelphia)
cathy says:
first of all i loved the show….i thought diana was the best singer and really had a great song………didn’t get iglesias winning at all love john rich thought he was a little hard on diana could see she was nervous with her answer as far as country being a challenge….think you would have had a much bigger hit with her in the long run
newyork says:
[quote]NewYork: well yeah i can see your point but how exactly do you “look” country? Isn’t that being a little sterotypical?[/quote]
i didn’t mean physical appearance.. my point was in trying to agree with you that he did what he could with what he had. It isn’t his fault it doesn’t fit the mold. But on the other hand i can’t see how you can’t be stereotypical on a show that was based on fitting a certain mold.. people were cut down who didn’t seem to fit this mold. You can’t fool the audience and that’s why country music is what it is.. it doesn’t change all the time like the rest of the formats.
Ted says:
OH MY GOSH…what in the world!?!?! I’m not happy with the ending of this show. The one person that sounded nothin’ like a country person won?!?!?!
The fact that it was his “sex appeal” that made him the winner totally stinks. That’s not what country music is all about. It’s part of it..but not the major factor. :o( BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Pookie says:
I agree w/ the posters that talk about the producers manipulating the show with the editing.
Carnie Wilson was on “Chelsea Lately” (E! Channel), promoting the finale on Friday. Chelsea asked her about Bobby farting on her, and so she talked about how when that happened on the bus, that she (Carnie) got really freaked out b/c the conversation took a creepy turn b/c Bobby started asking her if she wanted him to punch her in the stomach so that she could fart too. Carnie said that she got scared b/c Bobby was saying it with real intensity, that he really did want to hit her. She went on to say that she really loved him and that they had stayed friends.
Well, we obviously didn’t see that in the show. My point is that yes, it’s manipulated. We don’t see Bobby as a coke head wife-beater who’s bipolar and an alcoholic. We’re duped into feeling compassionate be/c he cries and he talked about changing his life.
He was arrested in Dec. 2007 for cocaine possession, and he’s a deadbeat dad, on top of it all, too. His latest arrest was on 2/25 for failure to pay child support. See: http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20013443,00.html
Not saying his song wasn’t good, I think was. But I’d rather see Julio win instead of that mess.
Southern Girl says:
If JR is such a Southern Gentleman, then he would know that slashing a 20-year-old girl is NOT what Southern men do. Real Southern men know how to treat women, especially a young woman. If someone had done that to his “Granny” or his mother, he would have gone crazy and told the guy you don’t talk to a girl that way. Just goes to show his southern blood doesn’t run very deep! Only a little man would pick on a young girl! There’s a way to criticize, and that wasn’t it.
newyork says:
well it was obviously coming.. it always starts out good and then it switches gears with the posters lashing out at each other. It’s making our point look ridiculous. You can’t make a point and sound like a child at the same time.
Big Al says:
Nobody fell victim to editing.
Some fell victim thinking JR knew and cared about country music.
He is a liar.
wendy says:
i just gotta say,i’ve met john rich on multiple occassions, and he has always been very much a gentleman and very classy. i don’t think him laying it out straight to diana or any of the others takes away from him being a gentleman. he was direct and he was honest. he was hard on her but not in an offensive way. just in a direct get-your-act-together way. even carnie agreed with what he had to say and told her so.
l says:
Diana should have won. She’s so talented and hard working.
Please join Diana DeGarmo’s Myspace fansite: http://www.myspace.com/dianadegarm0
and john how dare you put down and degrade diana when julios song was NOT country.
Southern Girl says:
Carnie agreed? Since when is she the deciding factor? She didn’t win, either, and isn’t from the country. Julio didn’t sound like country at all, but he didn’t slam him! Ridiculous! Everyone was there for the challenge, or they wouldn’t have been there. Rich has always been open to doing things differently — like re-doing rocker songs — and that’s what made him great, so he just picked on her because he wanted someone he knew he could pick on.
Ricco says:
Hey Juliofan08: Way to step up. And I really mean thatI really don’t hear anyone putting Julio down except that it was a country music competetion. And bottom line, Julio was NOT country.
I apoligize: you are not a politition.
GA Girl says:
Bobby Brown should have won! His song was the best. I hope he records it. I would love to have it on my ipod. Way to go Bobby Great Song!
3302 says:
I don’t think JR was as rude as some of you are stating on here. Was he direct, yes. Was his tone harsher than it could’ve been, yes. This still does not constitute as ungentlemanly or whatever. It’s a hard ass industry and anyone who thinks it’s all about sunshine and roses, you’re so mistaken it’s not even funny. She’s lucky she got the shot. She, per JR’s repeated acknowledgment, was the best vocalist there. This show got her noticed with bigwig producers and this is great for her. She has a wonderful career ahead of her. I’m sure we all wish her well.
Still don’t see why we need to dog JR so much about it. We don’t know how much he may or may not have ripped into the others. If yall are naive enough to think that reality tv is actual reality, get real.
Lynn says:
I guess I am still floored at who John picked for the winner. I could barely understand anyone else winning but other Julio?. Come on.
Diana has the best vocals,desire,and would be very Country marketable. She is the only one that I would buy a Country singel/album music from of the bunch.
Fool us once John our fault,
Try to fool us twice, I dont think so!.
I think maybe your fooling yourself.
I,for one will not be watching Gone Country II if there is one.
Diana, I cannot wait to BUY YOUR song !!
JR’s girl (I wish!) says:
John! Awesome show, loved it!!! Bring it back for Season 2! This time around I wanna see actors who wanna go country, and who might be up for it (Reese Witerspoon? ScarJo?). I love you and I’ve especally enjoyed watching the Behind the Scenes, you are so funny and amazing. So what’s this I hear about a Miami girl! I’m jealous!Grrrrrrr.
tina says:
I watched every episode from start to finish. If Julio went “COUNTRY” elephants are flying. I was most disappointed with his performance as a country act. JR what was you thinking??? I am a die hard country fan and out of all the participants, Maureen put the most HEART AND SOUL into her song. Her song was the one that touched the audience in a way that country music should. They were involved in her song as much as any country song. I’m not a big fan of Bobby Brown, but come on he was even better than Julio.
MAUREEN KEEP UP THE MUSIC AND YOU’LL MAKE IT YET!!!!
Alice says:
ALL THE SINGERS WERE OK BUT JI JR.IN MY OPINION SHOW MORE FEELING WHEN WAS SINGING. YOU HAVE GOOD EYE FOR WHAT YOU WAS LOOKINK FOR JOHN.
KELLY says:
I LOVE YOU JOHN RICH!
Digger Dan says:
Who has last night’s blog? We want to read the ones from last night!
wowoowow says:
Hacker warning: http://www.myspace.com/teamdianadegarmo is a hacker!! Please remove them from your friend list.
Diana DeGarmos myspace for fans is located at: http://www.myspace.com/dianadegarm0
Please join the real diana degarmo fansite: http://www.myspace.com/dianadegarm0
DonziDoll says:
Re the question of “where’s the missing finale blog?” Its removal likely had nothing to do with any criticism of CMT, JR, or others. IMHO the finale blog was removed due to TOS violations which could place the site in liability jeopardy. What I witnessed was someone made a comment and then some trolls came out from under their bridge and began flooding the board, including probable FCC violations like false impersonation & internet abuse.
Phil says:
Boy, John, I really don’t know where you were going with this. After watching the whole series, your final decision was Julio? I wasn’t going that way at all, especially after hearing his song. If anything, he’s the one that needs the most help. That song wasn’t even close to country.
I was pulling for Mo & Dee all the way. I really thought Dee hit the nail on the head except for his one-finger salute. and Mo poured her heart out, I really felt her song.
Diane says:
Wouldn’t it have been nice if John went against his own rules and said that everyone did so well that he was going to pick more than one winner to be produced? Personally I think Diana won hands down but I have fallen in love with Carnie….Julio..give me a break..Dee was just too rock for country…Bobby has too many personal issues to have any staying power..Maureen can write but not sing and I wasn’t impressed with Sisqo at all..We all know Diana had the best voice..presentation and audience appeal ..she had the balcony (which was producers and record backers) on their feet..she was so obviously the best for country that it went against her..But she has determination and I think doors will open for her and that is why she has moved to Nashville…
Tammy says:
I loved the show! The cast was great. I really loved everyone’s songs, but agree that Julio’s was about last on the totem pole for me. I hope that they put them all on a CD, I would buy it. I have never listened to Bobby Brown but loved his song, I really thought he would win. Oh well, I wouldn’t mind another gone country show and maybe they would let the fans vote on the winner next time.
Just Curious says:
Has anyone heard any news from Nashville? Is anyone saying anthing about the finale and the fan backlash? Just wondering if they feel like the rest of us. If anyone knows anything please let us know.
Sara says:
WOW!!! … What a shock!
I loved this show — watched it every week. It was such an interesting cast as my “knowledge” of each of them had me thinking of them as being such different people and how on earth were they going to live in a house together and get along. But they didn’t just seem to get along — they actually seemed to genuinely care for each other. These people with such different backgrounds and personalties were seeming to forge lasting friendships before my eyes! I actually watched the show more for watching their relationships grow than to see who would be the “winner”. However, the music contest put the cast into a stress level that made the show more interesting.
I was certain the winner would be either Bobby, Maureen or Diana. I could see arguments for any of the three of them. Bobby and Mo wrote real country songs from their hearts, and in the prior episodes it really seemed like that was what John Rich was most concerned about. I felt like one of them should have been the winner. I would have chosen Bobby as his well-publicized life had me understanding how personal his song was to him, and he is a heck of a performer. I could have understand Maureen being the winner as her song seemed as personal to her as Bobby’s seemed to him (though I don’t know what her “demons” are to really understand her song) and I thought JR might be afraid of producing Bobby because of his history (though if he was, Bobby should have never been cast on the show if he wasn’t going to be given a fair shot). I also felt Diana had a chance with her big voice and youth who somebody could easily make a star of if they provide her with the right material.
I have nothing against Julio. I just don’t think he was the winner.
I read in someone else’s comments that the cast doesn’t have any rights to their songs. I am so sad for them. Bobby and Maureen seemed to pour their hearts into their songs and laid their souls open for us to see and hear — AND now they have no rights to these songs? That is such a shame. I would hope that whomever has the rights would do the descent thing of letting them do whatever they want with them.
I will never watch another season of this show if it has JR picking the winner again. He’s proven to me that he can screw up beyond belief. (I’d like to think that the high pitched screaming during Julio’s performance caused some type of brain disturbance and not that it was motived by the potential $$$ of a Latin crossover as many have suggested.)
Hopefully all of the other contestants are reading these comments and know that the vast majority of the viewing audience does not agree with Mr. John Rich.
Craig Bright says:
Brother John, Yes I used Brother and I am a Afro American. I want to thank you for a wonderful show and humanitarian trip. I have always loved country because it has “soul”. I remember taking my mother on Mother’s Day to see George Hamilton in The Hank Williams story and we all cried. Yes, we all cried because of the soul of the story. You should get a “Noble Peace Prize” because you have brought different people together to share a common goal. That is the ideal American way. I cried all day watching the Weekend Gone Country because I work 2 jobs and I have not been able to watch it. America needs more HONEST programing like your show. Human trials and tribulations and the human bonding. Yes, we all American have more in common than we want to believe. American needs to heal the “racial divide” and Music is the “healing of the Nation”. Thank you John and your producers. I have a program I would like to present to your executives that would take America on a “heart felt trip” and help us all grow in Love and Harmony. One Love
diana is hot says:
http://Www.myspace.com/dianadegarm0
Best diana pics
fair warning says:
forget about those myspace accounts. diana no longer has any as she was hacked and harassed by an australian girl who was senteneced but got off very lightly. Shre probably is the one asking you to join her myspace. By joiing you can be hacked into. http://www.diand.com is as close to a fan site that you can find. save yourself and dont join any myspace accounts.
fair warning says:
sorry it should be http://www.dianad.com
Ravae says:
John, I was takin back by your decision! Mo had the country scene nailed! She poured her heart and soul out like no other- I love you and Big together but she showed a whole other side to it! I feel you chose Jr because of his celebrity status and because the girls would be all about him. What happened to the COUNTRY part of it??? I’ll definitely think twice about attending another one of your shows. U dissapointed me :(
PS- how about a ‘Gone Southern Rock’ and Dee would own it!
Ted says:
I live in Nashville, and have heard nothin’ buzzin’ about any of the artists…or the winner. Usually I hear something?!?!?! Wonder why??
Jack says:
John,
I never realized what an ambassader for country music you really are. I knew that you were talented and how much you love country music, but you blew me away with this series. I watch it all and was amazed at what each person was able to accomplish.
I felt that Mr. Brown could be the next outlaw for country music. I loved the song and the feelings he put into it.
Ms. Wilson was awsome as were all the artists.
I have nothing but praise for you and all those associated with this production. Continue your work in country music. You are what makes this genre of music loved by all.
Thanks for it all,
Jack
Maria says:
Mr. Rich, thank you for the ride! What a great show, I’m even watching the episodes over on line. You truly are an ambassador for country and I encourage you to keep on dong your thing, regardless of how many feathers get ruffled in the process.
I had the pleasure of meeting you at Fuel, and you are a true gentleman and I appreciated your graciousness to all of us at the table.
I was surprised at your choice of Julio, but I get it, and I wish you and him all the success n the world. I loved Dee Snider, what a great smile, he seems to have such heart, I would’ve loved to see more of him.
I hope you bring Gone Country back for round 2. You’re a great host– but please don’t wear real furs!
God bless you and your family.
Maria
Nashville, TN.
Big Al says:
Hey Jack are you John Rich?
John Rich and ambassador for country music?
John is killing country music. He talked a good talk but he is a hypocrite. There is nothing country about gone country or John Rich.
Deb says:
How disappointing I was at the shows end. How hypocritical of you John. You blast Diana for her song not “sounding country” then you pick someone who’s song doesn’t even sound like it’s from this country because of the way the “ladies reacted”. I wouldn’t listen to his song if you waved money in my face……..COUNTRY???????? I think not. If the show comes on again, I (and many of my friends agree) won’t be watching. Many of those people could have won and would have exemplified COUNTRY….and you pick someone because of crowd appeal………not of a country sounding song!!!! He’s a cute kid, but neither he nor his song embraced country at all.
Danita says:
I have to agree with Pookie’s post about Bobby Brown. I saw Carnie on that interview too and I totally agree that he would’ve been the worst choice as winner. He has a lot of talent and tremendous potential if only he’d clean up his act. Not trying to take anything away from him, but the smartest thing was not to choose him. I thought his song was awesome and I’d love to see it released to country market, but I can do without his shenanigans and drug addictions and violence. Congratulations to Julio and Mr. JR for a great show.
chells says:
I’m at work sneaking in the shows and I’m loving it! Thanks John I loved the tv show! I can only imagine if Big Kenny had been on the show, talk about a riot.I love you both! Keep up the great work and thanx for expanding our borders! We;re ALL Americans no matter where we come from originally. God Bless! Chells
derek knowles says:
hey john bring back carnie and dee as advisrs or consultants to the next batch of gone country.thatd be awesome. thanks man for rocking out a good show.
Lisa B says:
I could not believe the finale! We felt like the entire series was a joke when Julio was named the winner. Should have easily been Diana, Bobby or Maureen. What a joke! We definitely wasted our time watching and will NOT make that mistake again. What a horrible ending for both the contestants and the viewers!
The show as awesome! says:
Thanks Mr Rich! Congrats to all the contestants, theyr all winners as far as I’m concerned, and good luck to Julio. Can’t wait for next season!
gerri says:
Didn’t start watching the show from the begining, but caught up by watching the episodes on CMT website once I discovered it. Was completely surprised by Dee, what a supportive stand up guy. Bobby was a Drama Queen - but his song was good. Really thought they all did great but being a lover of both latin rhythms and Country Music was delighted & surprised that Julio won as I’m sure he was! Don’t think anyone saw that coming! Can’t wait till Julio’s song is available on ITUNES. Has anyone thought about doing a CD with all the songs?
amERICa says:
hey cmt! my gf and me watched the marathon yesterday and it was great! the performers did real good and i can see how john rich had a hard call to pick the best! congrats to julio and where can i get julio jrs lyrics? i wanta learn the words and sing to my girl! thx for great show! Eric
Marilyn Scott says:
I so disagree with choosing Julio as the winner! He just wasn’t as good as the others and he stated several times it wasn’t his genre. He doesn’t want to be country. Why was he even on the show??? Not a good choice. I’m very disappointed.
Ellie Page says:
I was as fired up and ready to say the same things as everyone else here! All I can say is, if you want a “REAL” country star to win a contest, let the “REAL” country fans vote. Hey John, now that would be “honest country reality” for you.
yeehaww says:
Mighty big thank you to you John rich and the folks at cmt. twas a good show, would’ve wished the shows were longer than just 30 minutes, it’s like we didn’t get to know the cast. Hope you bring the show back again,I look forward to watchin. That’s awesome you had folks from all races there. As country music fans we gotta stop being so racist. It’s never produced anything good in the past and it won’t produce anything good now.
gt_816 says:
Have been reading the blogs - Lots of comments about Julio’s song not being country. Does anyone remember Faith Hill’s “BREATH”, not a country song AT ALL. Garth had a couple that weren’t country and “BIG & RICH’S”
gt_816 says:
finishing blog-Big & Rich’s “NEVER MIND ME” is a great song but doesn’t sound country to me & the Dixie Chicks have lots of songs that are NOT Country.
I don’t think people are giving John Rich any credit - think he saw more than $$$ and a crossover market. Julio is a good singer, just not what Country Music is use to. Give the guy a chance. As for me I would like to see what John & Julio can come up with.
Country Girl from Hawaii says:
I gotta give it to Mo. Out of all the songs it seemed to have been the most “country.” Exactly what you said “Loretta Lynn” like. I thought that immediately. But ya know, I also think that country music has evolved, and I’m a big fan of Bobby’s song. It’s deep, soulful, and I’m sure many could probably relate. But whoever wins/won (haven’t watched tv in a while) my time watching “gone country” was well spent. One day, my daughter and I WILL make it to Nashville to be @ the Grand Ole Opry (my no. 1 travel destination). Hopefully you’ll be singin that night JR.
Aloha!!
Meilina
Country Girl from Hawaii says:
Julio the winner?? I disagree. His performance was ehhhhh ok. Nothing in particular stuck out in my mind. Sounded more like a spanish ballad. I’m still shocked at the outcome lol. I guess thats what makes good t.v eh?? Give em a chance?? Well I guess thats up to country fans like me. First impression tho?? Not impressed. I think out of everyone Bobby made the biggest effort of going country.
Aloha Agaiin!!
Meilina
Jan says:
Great show John I would love to have a CD with all the Gone Country cast songs Can you make this happen?
liz says:
this post is in regards to the final show. JR would not know a good country song if it bit him in the ass. the local country station played julios song today and even the dj was makin fun of it. if you want country look to the greats, chris ledoux, garth brooks, hank williams, johnny cash, willie nelson, david alan coe, and waylon jennings. and as far as dianas song. she is right, todays country is just pop with a twang anymore.
Don says:
Dear CMT and Mr.Rich, Produce everyone’s song and I will tell you it would be a big hit. You have everyone’s picture on the front of the CD and a way you can track all the CD’s, then see who sells more records. Then you decide who has “Gone Country”. This would sell your program but most important it would show your respect to Bobby Brown who I thought you used to make your show. Do the right thing John and make a record with Bobby’s song first.
Don says:
John, I know you will do the right thing and produce a CD with all the Gone Country music. Please, I would buy it. I want to hear all the songs from everyone. Bobby’s Song touch me so much. Now that could be the first line in a song or the title of a song “Bobby’s Song”. What do you think John? I will write the song for sure.
Linda says:
Ditto… Julio the winner??? I disagree! Not country, at all. I would have picked him last, if at all! Loved, loved the show concept, but next time hopefully the country fans can vote instead!
Hartley Page says:
John, you made a big mistake! Julio’s song was not Country, just another Pop song. I won’t be buying Julio’s so-called, as perceived by you, “Country” CD. I would have bought a whole group Country CD with 1 or 2 songs from each contestant. You sold out for the Hispanic dollar. How un-Country and un-American of you!!! Shame on you!
yeehaww says:
hartley person, un-country and un-American to want the “Hispanic dollar”? are you effing out of your mind? jesus, people like you really should stay in the trailer park.
Hispanics are just as American as the rest of us. some others have posted about all the bigotry and xenophobia amongst country fans. how sad. no wonder the world things we are ignorant inbred hicks. apparently we are, you prove that point very well all by yourself.
shame on YOU.
go on John, keep doing what you do.
Mike says:
Hey Yeehaww, latinos are the new blacks, dont ya know?
Can’t say country folk haven’t evolved, they have. They’ve managed to grow their hatred in the direction of the latins now and have moved away from hating the blacks so much.
Give em 50 years, they’ll find a new race to hate.
Candy says:
Congrats, Mr. Rich on the show. I really enjoyed watching it and I hope you’ll produce an album with all the contestants on it. Thanks for not being a bigot like some of the people on here. That you have love in your heart for everyone is what a REAL and TRUE American is, and you are definitely that. Thanks again for the fun Show. God bless you.
Don says:
Mike, You are a idiot!! Your a moron!! DON’T YA KNOW! You turn this to racism. Let me guess, O.J. was set up! R.I.G.H.T.???? People like you will never give up? Get over the past and you will fell better about yourself. K-Good Bye!!!!!!
Mike says:
To the obviously manic “Don”…ugh, what?
You may want to read through the comments. “I” am not turning this into a “racism” thread. Others have done this. If you will take some time to read through, you’ll see that.
The name calling only makes you look ignorant and hysterical, very much like some of the bigoted posters. I applaud the smart folks on here that have called them out on it.
Oh, and for the record, I don’t get your OJ Simpson reference, I can only assume you think I’m black. I’m not though. (Although I wouldn’t mind it if I were, or whatever other race God would’ve chosen to make me). I am white, as in Caucasian. My post was pointing out the sad state of this thread, that is all. You of course, have proven my point.
You can go back to your hysterics and name calling now.
Marilynn55 says:
Mike, the Don guy assumed you were black because he couldn’t imagine a white person defending another race .that’s why he made the O.J. reference. To John Rich, I can’t wait to see the next Season of GC! You did a great job I only hope the shows are longer next time. Congratulations for Julio Iglessias Jr. I heard the song here in Alabama today and I really liked it. Best of luck with everything.
deedee says:
i’m watching the reruns, love them and love you john rich! bring the show back. congrats to all the participants yall rock! and Julio, i heard you today, ur awesome!
Shirli says:
Big fan of “Gone Country”. But what a big let down with the choice of the winner. It was very disappointing end to a great show. I don’t get it? But I guess we will see what happens in the end. But I won’t be one buying it!
Marnie says:
Well, I was as shocked as everyone else when Julio was chosen. But, I did enjoy the ride and I hope the next cast is just as fun to watch. My only suggestion would be more music! I know — make it a one-hour show!
Jackie says: says:
I thought that we had freedom of speech. My message was no different then a lot of the other ones. You ask for our opioions that is what I was doing. It was not ugly messgage, it just stated how I felt after watching the whole show. I still see a lot of messages still on the blog that say the same thing as me, other then you have left really nothing but the good remarks. Doesn’t John want to hear from everyone. Doesn’t mean that I am against John, I just don’t like how the show was handle.
YJudgeLittle says:
I think the best moment was when Bobby was holding the lady crying about her child at the hospital. Bobby shows that we all are just simple human beings, we all make mistakes, we all hurt and yet we all can still hug each other and help each other through our worse times.
Bobby,
God loves you, all of you and you are worth everything He has to offer you. He can help you overcome anything.
God Bless!!
mike r says:
This man said he would kill for country and picked someone who did not care about country at all. Real country fans are dissapointed in this man. Money rules everything, and he proves it.
Sandy says:
No dissapointment here. Mo did have a great song, I just worry about her performing the song. She would probabaly get better with time, but by the time that she did get comfortable would the audience forget about her? Julio performs and seems very comfortable doing it. As far as what he wore if you don’t like it, guess you better not watch any more Kenney Chesney concerts. JR wanted them to be able to be comfortable in what they wore, I think Julio did just that.
Jimmy (guitar) Gordon says:
Blah blah blah!! Shut this stupid blog off! J.R. is a moron!!
Jimmy (guitar) Gordon says:
This message is from John “Brokeback mountain” Rich. This blog is officially closed.
JC Cameron says:
John “Pimp” Rich represents everything that’s wrong with the Country Music industry.
My first chore tomorrow will be to burn my Big & Rich CD’s.
I sure wish Steve Earl would chime in on this…
Linda says:
O.K. John Rich, you are not all that, please, I don’t who you think you are but believe me, you’re to annoying. I don’t think you needed to come down on Diane like you did. That was uncalled for. Anyway, they are all great and Carnie, you are so funny!!!!!.
Jimmy (guitar) Gordon says:
To Country Girl from Hawaii : Howzit Sista!! I like two scoops rice and no beef!! Aloha and Mahalo for your comments!
Wanetta Kerley says:
Hey~there, John you rock!!!! Loved the show. Hope you will do more of them. Was glad to see that Julio won instead of Diana, she is a good singer don’t get me wrong. But Julio and Carnie were the only ones that seemed humble to me.
drifter says:
ok i fell in love with this show. john you where great all the way through the shows but the end(wrong choice) you know if you had followed your heart maureen would have won. also your dad loved bobby browns song not siscos. i know randy of alabama love maureen the best. maureen hang in there age doesn’t matter, get over the shyness give it all you got a beautiful song. don’t let nobody have your song-sing it yourself. bobby brown i love you, you are a good person, have a good heart could feel it. you definitely can make it in country music.sisco you where great to. diana you have a beautiful voice. i don’t feel like john was to hard on you. dee i am so proud of you. i really believed you got the feel of country and it was a wonderful experience for you. carnie you defiinitely could be country. julio your are a beautiful person and i hope you can make it country if that is really what you want to do in your heart. john you did a wonderful job on this show just wish you had followed your heart…..best of luck to you all
jim c. says:
Are you freakin kidding, listen to some of the crap you’ve recorded before you start downing Maureens’ vocal abilities. You struggled to get into this business so that tells me you weren’t all that great, so lighten up jerk and admit you screwed the cast and went for the money shot and it’s backfiring on you.
SHIRLEY says:
John Rich, I think that you should produce the song for Maureen MaCornick sang on Gone Country. She has the most raw inner talent. I love that song I can relate to it as if it were my own life. She should put tht on a record so that more people can buy it. She also should use her voice more and she will be the star you wanted her to be. That girl has raw talent….culivate it you have have ability to make something out of her.
The show was great to watch you need to do mre like that.
jose leal says:
bobby wrote a great song, he should of won.
Angie says:
I would absolutely buy a CD with all these artists. Julio and Dee didn’t seem so country but it’s all good. I love Sisqo (check out Dru Hill CD’s he’s brilliant!) but Bobby and Maureen were my favorites. They seemed to have a connection other than music!!! Bobby gave me goosebumps during his performance as well as tears. Guess he still has the “X” factor that started 20 years ago! Seriously though, this would be a good CD.
drifter says:
i would love to have a cd with all these artists. i don’t there is a chance of doing a show like this again because who would believe in it?? that is so sad because it would have made a great show if it had of ended like it started out*****from the heart. john i just wish you would sit down and watch the whole show from start to finish and i do believe you will see where the viewers of country heart are coming from. you could have had all the money plus the loyalty of country fans. kindly
Treavor says:
JR, I like what you did for this show because I was raised around blues bands all my life.To me you have broke some boundaries. If you would do a show with people(not fomous) I would be the first in line to volunteer. I want to go country to show the world I feel just like Grethen regardless of the color of your skin. I hope and pray that one day I could be a part of MUZIK MAFIA. Keep doing what you are doing I beleive in it. ONE day I will have me a MUZIK MAFIA ring. L.O.L. BIG AND RICH, GRETCHEN WILSON THE whole Muzic Mafia gang is my inspiration for going country. I love you all. God Bless. Too-Too N.Misissippi
Kristy says:
Loved this episode on Gone Country, where the cast recorded their demos of their country songs. Bobby Brown and Maureen McCormick wrote great country songs about their life experiences. It was also great to see on the episode a country legend like Randy Owen of Alabama.
Diana Degarmo will be on the show American Idol Extra and will perform her song from Gone Country which was Right Back Where We Ended. Diana has been signed to John Rich’s Production Company and the song has been produced by John Rich.
I cannot wait to see Diana Degarmo on American Idol Extra which will be shown Thursday, May 1, 2008 on the Fox Reality Channel. The episode times are 7pm and 10pm.
Again, a great job to everyone in the cast of Gone Country, a terrific show.
Lisa says:
Diana Degarmo was interviewed by OK Magazine. She was also at Dollywood recently. There is a possibilty of Diana Degarmo recording a Dolly Parton song on her new album.
The OK Magazine article is below:
When she was growing up in Alabama, Diana DeGarmo told her mom that she never wanted to live outside of the South. And now, after a spell in New York and traveling the country, she says her little-girl instincts were right.
The American Idol runner-up says Broadway was a blast, but she couldn’t be happier with her new life in Nashville.
After finishing second to Fantasia Barrino in season three, Diana recorded an album in 2004, starred in Hairspray on Broadway and toured with Brooklyn: The Musical in 2007.
But just before getting down to recording an R’n'B/pop record late last year, the 20-year-old went to Nashville to appear on another reality show, Gone Country.
Diana says she felt “the buzz” there in Music City.
Anyway, she says, Nashville is the natural home for an Idol veteran. “American Idol brings out the all-American public, and all-American people love country music. It’s a no-brainer.”
Now Diana, who goes into the studio in the next fews days to record her new album, has a house in Nashville, as well as a home on 13-acres of Tennessee country just outside the city.
“I always told my mom if I didn’t live in Atlanta, I’d live in Nashville and here I am,” she said.
“I said I’d never live outside the South, and I lived in New York for a little while, but I’m glad to be back here.
“Nashville is a great town. It’s a wonderful community.”
She said that with all the great work offers that have fallen into her lap after Idol, “I couldn’t be happier — things are really good.” But, she added, “You never know when I just might pop back up on Broadway.”
Right now Diana says she loves to walk her “weenie dogs”, Dixie and Rosie, hang out at the Nascar track with Bo Bice and sing with her friends at the Buck Wild karaoke bar.
She can’t wait to celebrate her 21st birthday with her buddies in Vegas this summer, and their vacation to the Dollywood themepark, where Diana worked as a singer when she was ten.
With all that, Diana says, there’s one thing that definitely isn’t missing from her life: a boyfriend.
“I’m too young to settle down and I’m having way too much fun to settle down with one person right now.
“I’m having fun being a single, young girl in a big town.”
As for this years Idol, Diana says she hasn’t been watching enough to have a favorite (five years on, she’s only just able to hear to the theme music without getting a sudden burst of stage-nerves!).
But she thinks David Cook has a Daughtry-factor that should carry him a long way, and she admits to a soft-spot for David Archuleta, who, at 17, is a year older than she was on Idol.
“David Archuleta is holding it down for the young kids this season. He’s so, so talented and he’s adorable and he’s got an amazing voice. I think it’s a no-brainer that he’s going to get far.”
Allison says:
Great episode of Gone Country. It was sure great to see of the great music the cast of Gone Country wrote.
Bobby Brown, Maureen McCormick, Carnie Wilson, Dee Snider and Diana Degarmo were fantastic. The whole cast did a great job.
Nancy says:
Diana DeGarmo will be appearing at this year’s CMA Music Festival in Nashville. The event is several days with every major country artist. Diana will be appearing on June 8, 2008. The details are below:
4:00 PM - 6:25 PM
Riverfront Grand Finale
Hosted by CMT’s Gone Country & American Idol’s Diana Degarmo. Raul Malo, Rissi Palmer, T. Graham Brown, LoCash Cowboys, Greg Hanna, Cowboy Crush, and Josh Gracin.
The event will be huge with all of the people from country music coming together on several different stages. Also appearing are: Phil Stacey and Keith Anderson and Bo Bice
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Jill says:
Diana DeGarmo Upcoming Appearances June 2008
Jun 2, 2008 Hermitage Lanes Nashville
Jun 6, 2008 CMA Music Festival Nashville
Jun 7, 2008 June Jam @ Brenau University Gainesville
Jun 8, 2008 CMA Music Festival Nashville
John Crawford says:
I agree with 100% with Dee when he said when he said, “I don’t like country music. It’s always about losing your wife, the house or the dog. Poor little you”.
Dee Snider is by far a greater musician than that country, hillbilly redneck John Rich. Dee could kick his country ass any day of the week, musically or physically.
John also said that he didn’t see a difference between rock and country today, what? Oh, so I guess little redneck John boy could sing like Dee Snider, Paul Stanley, Robert Plant, Steve Perry, David Coverdale, or Sammy Hagar? I don’t think so! His little feeble attempt to sing like that would be embarrssment for him. Why not have a show gone rock or gone metal and let his country, offkey, whiny little country cowboy ass sing like these guys?
Country and rock should never mix period. Country is the enemy and rock always wins out. I hope you read this John.
By the way, does your dad who is a preacher appreciate the vulgarity of “save a horse, ride a cowbody?” hmmmm
Get a life..country music is an insipid, assenine, attrocous, mundane, monstrocity and is the audible equivalant of someone flushing the toilet!
Julie says:
Loved the song by Diana DeGarmo on the Gone Country finale Right Back Where We Ended. She should have won the show.
The lyrics for the song are outstanding.
Lyrics to:
“Right Back Where We Ended”
By: Diana DeGarmo, Shanna Crooks, and Keith Stegall
Stop, I know you too well
Look around you can’t you tell
It’s all the same
Hauntingly familiar,
Every time we get here
It doesn’t change
And it hurts babe
You know it kills me
When you say
We can work it out
We can try again
That’s what you keep telling me
But I don’t see it ever happening
Cause every time we try, it’s just a matter of time
Before we’re right here, right where we are tonight
Tell me why are we pretending
We’re not right back where we ended
I’m done making excuses
Cause using them
Means lying to ourselves
We (both) deserve much better
Than being comfortably together
And nothing else
It’s not worth it
And that’s why it hurts bade
When you say
We can work it out
We can try again
That’s what you keep telling me
But I don’t see it ever happening
Cause every time we try, it’s just a matter of time
Before we’re right here, right where we are tonight
Tell me why are we pretending
We’re not right back where we ended
There’s no use in denying
That what we had is dying, oh I’m trying
That’s what you keep telling me
But I don’t see it ever happening
Cause every time we try, it’s just a matter of time
Before we’re right here, right where we are tonight
Tell me why are we pretending
We’re not right back where we ended
But I just don’t believe
We can work it out
We can try again
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