Check Out CMA Music Festival's Day Stages, Too
As always, the CMA Music Festival boasts an incredible lineup of country stars at LP Field this year. But if you're in town this week, the day stages offer a multitude of country artists. I'll be near the Riverfront Stage on Thursday morning (June 10) to enjoy the Judds' harmonies on their classic hits. Right after that, Clay Walker is sure to introduce some fresh material from his brand new album, She Won't Be Lonely Long. After that, I may divide my time between the Riverfront Stage and the Chevy Music Stage to see how the fans react to some of country's newest artists, such as Josh Thompson ("Beer on the Table") and Jaron & the Long Road to Love ("Pray for You").
I've been a Patty Loveless fan for as long as I can remember, so I'll probably drop by the Riverfront Stage on Friday (June 11) on my lunch break to check out her set. Most likely I'll stick around for Chris Young, too, since I missed him on the Alan Jackson tour this summer. Up at the Music City Zone by the courthouse, local duo Sam & Ruby will be hitting their soulful groove at 1:40 p.m. It's not exactly country but I sure like it. And I wouldn't mind seeing newcomer Chris Janson at the Chevy Music Stage at 3:30 because I've heard a lot of buzz about his music.
If I could get up early enough on Saturday morning (June 12), I'd consider starting my day with Mark Chesnutt at 10 a.m. at Riverfront Park. There's a lot of stuff happening that day, but I'd make sure I got back there by 5 p.m. to catch Joe Nichols. And if you like these traditional artists, consider heading up to the Music City Zone for Mandy Barnett at 5:30 p.m. She originated the title role in Always, Patsy Cline more than a decade ago and she continues to satisfy all the old-school country fans.
On Sunday afternoon (June 13), country fans at the Riverfront Stage will have a chance to hear new music from James Otto at 3:15 p.m., Jo Dee Messina at 4 p.m. and Darryl Worley at 5:30 p.m. But wherever you end up, Nashville will be happy to have you.
Photo credit: Alyssa Brass
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Marcy says:
This was a sad night for the CMT awards show. Who put this show together? The jokes were horrible. Everything was surrounded by sexual remarks. It was boring. It was unprofessional and very distasteful. What happened to the “wholesome charm” that country music represents? I feel that the morale went down several notches tonight. Being a musician out here on the frontlines, I was always proud to be a part of the country music family because it represented deeper meanings in life. Not any more. This has been a show that in the past children could watch. I feel like I lost a friend that I will never see again. Sad, sad, sad.
Ken says:
Marcy, I agree…the production was the worst. Terrible choice of MC (kid rock? What, carrot top wasn’t available???) and non-country presenters who thought they were funny? Back Stage antics were 5th grade at best. I’ve seen better run shows at local Karaoke contests. Mics were not turned on at beginning of songs. Toby Keith obviously had something else playing in his ear monitors than was going out to the airways. I’m sure this turned off alot of performers and country stars. Their participation with next years show may be questionable now.
James Otto Sweet Heart says:
I love James Otto SO much! (big smile)
God bless you and him always!!!
Holly in East Tennessee