Music & Radio Industry News and Updates

Village People Set To Release First Ever Christmas Album

When Victor Willis, original Village People lead singer, returned to the group last year, fans waited for an announcement of new material from Willis who wrote lyrics of such iconic hits as “Y.M.C.A.,” “Go West,” “Macho Man,” and “In The Navy.” Many assumed the Village People would release a new dance tune, after all, they are one of the biggest party bands on the face of the planet. Instead, Willis introduced the group to a new holiday song written and produced by him, titled “A Very Merry Christmas To You”. The first Christmas song ever recorded by Village People.

“We were surprised when Victor informed us the first of our new material would be a holiday song. But once he hummed the melody, we all felt the song had the potential to become a yearly favorite”
says James Lee, Village People G.I.

A version of the song had a limited test run last year to a handful of radio stations as the group went on to perform in the televised Hollywood Christmas Parade. Radio stations immediately clamored for service of the initial but unfinished version. Now finished, re-mixed and mastered, “A Very Merry Christmas To You,” is being officially released worldwide this holiday season.

The complete album titled “A Village People Christmas” features nine original holiday songs written by Victor Willis. The full album is scheduled for release November 14th which will include ballads and dance tracks with a music video to be released on November 16th.

“It’s a catchy and wholesome song which we incorporate a children’s choir for the hook. These voices blended with the group gives the song a warm holiday feeling”
states Victor Willis, Village People lead singer

Village People is one of the most iconic groups in the world and are known for their distinctive characters and costumes. Their hits include the mega-hit “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” “Go West,” and “In The Navy,” to name a few. The group who’s celebrating their 40th anniversary throughout 2019 has sold over 100 million records and they continue to tour the world. A major push is planned for the single including promotional appearances, television and radio interviews.

New single is available on Spins Tracking System and AirplayAccess to radio programmers worldwide.

For interview request, additional information or radio station visits, please contact Loggins Promotion at 310-325-2800 or email staff@logginspromotion.com

ABOUT THE VILLAGE PEOPLE:

Village People is one of the most iconic music groups in the world. Their music has become part of the international songbook. The group’s hits are featured in dozens of major motion pictures, on Broadway, in commercials and in “Village People Party” slot machines. Of course, Y.M.C.A (along with its dance) is played at almost every party, wedding, bar mitzvah, and sporting event in the universe.

It began in 1977 when producer Jacques Morali and his business partner Henri Belolo (known as Can’t Stop Productions) were recording a new album for their hit group the Ritchie Family. They needed background singers. Horace Ott, the arranger/conductor who was working with them, suggested Victor Willis, a singer who Ott was working with on a solo album and who was performing in the Broadway musical The Wiz. After Willis completed background on the album, Morali approached him about another musical project he and Belolo were planning which turned out to be Village People.

“I had a dream that you sang lead vocals on an album I produced, and it went very, very big,” Morali told Willis. “I have four tracks. I can’t pay you much right now but if you agree, I’ll make you a star.” Willis agreed and the rest is history. Those initial four tracks, San Francisco (You’ve Got Me), In Hollywood (Everyone’s a Star), Fire Island, and Village People, were recorded by Willis under the auspices of “Village People” with use of professional background singers, and released as the group’s debut album in 1977. The album quickly climbed to the top of the dance charts and became an international hit.

Demand for “Village People” to appear in concert and on television shows like American Bandstand and Merv Griffin was great. The only problem … “Village People” was Victor Willis! So Morali, Belolo and Willis had to put together an actual group … and quick. Morali and Belolo had already met Felipe Rose who dressed as a Native American. They recruited him. Willis hand picked Alex Briley, who he’d previously worked with in a musical.

The quickly assembled original lineup which appeared with Victor (dressed as a disco king) on American Bandstand consisted of seven members: Mark Mussler (Construction Worker), David Forrest (Cowboy), Lee Mouton (Leatherman), Peter Whitehead (nondescript), Felipe Rose (Indian), and Alex Briley (nondescript). After that appearance, an ad was placed in a trade paper for new members which read: Macho Types Wanted for World-Famous Disco Group — Must Dance and Have a Moustache. Randy Jones, Glenn Hughes and David Hodo answered the call, and the six member classic lineup was soon in place. Casablanca Records and Filmworks, the group’s label, having had success with the first release, got behind the second album Macho Man with full promotion and marketing. Village People became an international phenomenon and quickly followed with their third album, the 5x-platinum Cruisin (which featured the blockbuster hit Y.M.C.A.). They embarked on a worldwide tour in 1979 to coincide with the release of their fourth album, Go West.

The group has received many honors and awards, including the American Music Award for Favorite Musical Group, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and was featured on the cover of Rolling Stone. After Willis exited in late 1979, several replacement singers took over as lead singer of the group, including Ray Stephens, Miles Jaye and Raymond Simpson (who served the longest). The group went on to star in the 1980 Razzy Award-winning movie Can’t Stop the Music. Over the years, various renditions of the group have consistently toured the world along with original members Felipe Rose and Alex Briley, including Raymond Simpson (cop), Jeff Olson (cowboy), Mark Lee (Construction Worker), Bill Whitefield (Construction Worker), Eric Anzalone (Biker), and James Newman (Cowboy). The group has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and continues to break records. In 2004 BMI recognized Y.M.C.A. as exceeding one million airplays. In 2017, Y.M.C.A. made UK’s Official Millionaires Chart – songs that have reached 1 million in combined sales/streams.

For the group’s 40th anniversary, Victor Willis returned and is back at the helm. Backed by a live band (no pre-recorded tracks!), Village People continues to thrill concert-goers around the world — as they did back in the day. Village People is: Victor Willis (Cop/Admiral), Angel Morales (Native American), James Kwong (Construction Worker), Chad Freeman (Cowboy), James Lee (G.I.), and James J.J. Lippold (Leatherman).

Radio promotion:

Loggins Promotion
5018 Franklin Pike
Nashville, TN 37220
United States
Tel: 310-325-2800
www.logginspromotion.com
staff@logginspromotion.com

Old Dominion Announce New Single and New Tour

Following a string of sold-out shows and chart-scorching success, acclaimed country band Old Dominion share a brand new single and announce their 2019 headlining arena tour, both entitled “Make It Sweet.” Get the song HERE. This marks the group’s first new original release since the arrival of the chart-topping Happy Endings in summer 2017.

The upbeat “Make It Sweet” unlocks the next chapter of Old Dominion. Rustling acoustic guitars and pedal steel bristle up against heartfelt verses before the hashtag-worthy, handclap-driven refrain – “Life is short, make it sweet” – takes flight. The song culminates on a rafter-reaching guitar solo and show-stopping vocal performance. They also uncovered the cinematic music video for the song. Watch it HERE.

Most importantly, the tune heralds more music to come from the reigning Academy of Country Music’s Vocal Group of the Year very soon.

The boys will perform “Make It Sweet” for the very first time live on “Ellen” Oct. 16. Be sure to tune in!

Additionally, Old Dominion reveal the dates for the first leg of their 2019 “Make It Sweet” arena tour. They’ll be joined by special guests including Jordan Davis, Morgan Evans, and Mitchell Tenpenny at select dates.

The initial leg kicks off Jan. 18 in Chicago, at Allstate Arena, hits major markets across the country, and wraps April 27 at San Jose Events Center in San Jose, CA. Check out the full itinerary below. Get ticket information HERE. The band will be releasing the details for forthcoming legs in the near future!

“MAKE IT SWEET” TOUR 2019:
FIRST LEG
Jan. 18 – Chicago, IL – Allstate Arena ^+
Jan. 19 – Bloomington, IL – Grossinger Motors Arena ^+
Jan. 24 – Bemidji, MN – Sanford Center^+
Jan. 25 – Brookings, SD – Swiftel Center^+
Jan. 30 – Scottsdale, AZ – Coors Light Birds Nest
Feb. 2 – Durant, OK – Choctaw Grand Theater^+
Feb. 7 – Lowell, MA – Tsongas Center^+
Feb. 8 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena^+
Feb. 9 – Washington, DC – The Anthem^+
Feb. 14 – Windsor, ON – Caesars Windsor^
Feb. 15 – Cedar Rapids, IA – U.S. Cellular Center^+
Feb. 16 – Ft. Wayne, IN – Memorial Coliseum^+
Feb. 27 – Athens, GA – Akins Ford Arena*
Feb. 28 – Asheville, NC – U.S. Cellular Center^*
March 1 – North Charleston, SC – North Charleston Coliseum^*
March 7 – Pensacola, FL – Pensacola Bay Center^*
March 8 – Tallahassee, FL – Donald L Tucker Center^*
March 28 – Madison, WI – Alliant Energy Center^*
March 29 – St. Louis, MO – Chaifetz Arena^*
March 30 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center Omaha^*
April 25 – Boise, ID – CenturyLink Arena^*
April 26 – Reno, NV – Reno Events Center*
April 27 – San Jose, CA – San Jose Events Center*

^+* on select dates
Jordan Davis ^
Morgan Evans +
Mitchell Tenpenny*

Dierks Bentley Unveils “Burning Man” Music Video Featuring Brothers Osborne

Current three-time CMA nominee Dierks Bentley unveiled the official music video for his Top 20 single “Burning Man” (feat. Brothers Osborne) with Esquire. Longtime director and collaborator Wes Edwards intertwines Bentley’s musical and personal evolution with California’s Salton Sea as the backdrop.

“This song is a personal reflection and it was important to me that you feel that with the video,” said Bentley. “The Bros and I flew out to the desert in July to shoot this…several people on the crew had heat strokes, two cars got stuck in the sand and we had to have a rattlesnake wrangler with us at all times…but we got the shots!”

To watch the “scorching” (Esquire) video for “Burning Man” featuring Brothers Osborne, click here: https://bit.ly/2y99aCp

Jobs Forum: The Land Of Opportunity

Country WDZQ/DECATUR, IL is searching for a PD/afternoon host; BEASLEY Country WQYK/TAMPA is looking for a morning co-host; DICK BROADCASTING/GREENVILLE-NEW BERN-JACKSONVILLE, NC is seeking an OM; BEASLEY MEDIA/FAYETTEVILLE, NC is on the hunt for a Traffic Manager and Account Executive; and much more.

Chris Lane’s Latest Single “I Don’t Know About You” Lands At Country Radio

Big Loud Records star CHRIS LANE is bringing his fan-favorite sing-along “I Don’t Know About You” to Country radio as his brand new single. Already spotlighted by PEOPLE as a “wistful earworm,” the song is spinning on stations nationwide and is among this week’s most-added tracks.

The follow-up to three consecutive GOLD-certified smash hits, “I Don’t Know About You” is poised to supercharge Lane’s on-fire career. Tallying 25 million total streams to date, the song immediately shot into the Top 10 on iTunes’ Top Country Songs chart the week of its release.

The track’s impact goes beyond sales and streams with packed crowds singing the smooth-talking lyrics word for word at Lane’s live shows across the country. Watch the reaction in the “I Don’t Know About You” lyric video here.
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Lane will turn the heat all the way up this fall, as he kicks off his headline LAPS AROUND THE SUN TOUR with special guests rising Country star Mason Ramsey and American Idol standout Gabby Barrett. Set for bucket-list shows in major cities, Lane will take the stage at Joe’s Live in Rosemont, IL (10/19), Troubadour in Los Angeles, CA (10/28), Irving Plaza in New York, NY (12/13), and dozens more.

Lane is crisscrossing the country in support of his sophomore album, LAPS AROUND THE SUN, which just surpassed 100 million streams on Spotify. Produced by studio ace Joey Moi, the project debuted in the Top 10 of Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart for the second time in his career. Featuring 14 tracks that were chosen based meaning and personal connection, the album was named one of Rolling Stone’s “10 New Albums To Stream Now.”

To learn more about Chris Lane and check his tour schedule, go to iamChrisLane.com

Reach out to him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Fall Season Is Adult Contemporary Music’s Favorite Time Of Year

The legendary Paul McCartney is back at radio with a new single and that is always a welcome sight. Our format is going crazy for “Come On To Me” (Capitol). Watch for some big weeks ahead for Paul and his new entry. George Ezra is out and about with a new single that is getting raves from many of our music and program directors. “Shotgun” (Columbia) is the jam that is setting the music world ablaze and if I were a betting man (and I am) I would put some cash behind this new masterpiece.

Dean Lewis is on the move and make no mistake about that. His well thought and powerful “Be Alright” (Universal/UMG) appears to be well on its way to becoming the breakout of the year. Anne Marie is also getting raves for her latest offering. Many of our programmers can’s seem to get enough of her new “2002” (Atlantic). Make sure to save some room on your play-list for this monster jam. Matt Nathanson who is always one of my favorites is off and running with a new single. “Used To Be” (Acrobat) is the one he’s taking from coast to coast and this track deserves your very immediate attention.

Panic! At The Disco, one of America’s premiere bands are rocking the charts once again and their powerful fan base is going crazy. “High Hopes” (DCD2/Fueled By Ramen/WEA) is the song that is doing the trick and if you want to see the phones light up, just toss this one in for a few spins. The young and ever so popular 5 Seconds Of Summer are off and running with their current single moving to the top of the charts. “Youngblood” (Capitol) is the cut that is better than most and deserving of top-level radio rotation.

Recording artist Devi is back at the format with a real solid gem. “Summer Love” (Ind) is the track that has spent weeks in the “most added” column and now it’s making its way to the top of the charts in record time. Weezer has one of the best remakes of the year. “Africa” (Crush Music/Atlantic) taken from the legendary Toto is the bands rendition that is out of this world. The boys have done a masterful job in making this into a new hit single and for those youngsters that never really knew the powerful original.

Snow Patrol are back at the format and what a great band they are. I’m really loving the new “Empress” (Republic) track that is one of their best to date. So glad to have this great band back at radio and if you caught their live performance on Good Morning America it reminded all of us about just how good this act really is. The odd pairing of Cher and Andy Garcia is actually pulling in some rather impressive numbers. “Fernando” (Polydor) is the song that is making magic on many AC stations around the USA.

One Republic is rocking the charts once again and they are also truly one of the best at radio these days. “Connection” (Interscope) is the song that is getting major support from our panel of music and program directors. Mack Holland has a new single that deserves your attention. Save a little rook out there for “Are You Ready” (Coast). The big time teaming of Jason Derulo along with David Guetta, the ever wild Nicki Minaj & Willy William is a real treat. “Goodbye” (Parlophone/WMG) is the one that is making magic and we really will keep a good eye and ear on this one.

Garrett Young is rocking strong with “My Friend” (West Coast Collective). This single is moving to the top at record time. Dianne Meinke is also closing in on the top spot with her new and approved “Read My Mind” (UVI). Al & Trey are also picking up big numbers for their latest “And Now I Know” (Tide Productions). Andrew Reed has one of the best singles out at radio and make no mistake about that. “Cure My Mind” (Artists International) is the one that is making magic from coast to coast. Royalush are back with a real solid jam. “Complicated” (High School Records) is so good that you just have to give that some special attention. Also be on the watch as Eileen Carey “That Town” brings new magic to radio in the coming weeks. I’ll have more for you next time right here.

Aaron Watson To Release His First Ever Christmas Album, “An Aaron Watson Family Christmas”

The Christmas season is starting early for “pioneering independent” Aaron Watson as he announces his first ever Christmas album, “An Aaron Watson Family Christmas,” will release on Friday, October 5.

The ten-song collection includes seasonal standards and two originals. The project was a labor of love for Watson and truly a family affair, with his wife of 16 years, Kimberly and their children; Jake (12), Jack (10) & Jolee Kate (8) all featured on the album.

Among the originals is a self-penned neo-classic tip of the hat to his home state with “Lonestar Lonely Christmas” and the beautiful “She Stared At Him All Night,” which was written by Drew Womack and depicts Mary in the manger with Jesus.

“We’ve talked about making this record for a few years now and I’m so glad we finally did,” says Watson. “I had so much fun with Kim and the kids working on this project and including them, and am so proud of how it turned out. It’s very much a Frank Sinatra on the farm kind of feel. We hope it is something families can enjoy during the holidays for years to come.”

An Aaron Watson Family Christmas
1. “Lonely Lonestar Christmas” (Aaron Watson)
2. “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” – featuring Kimberly, Jake, Jack & Jolee Kate
3. “She Stared At Him All Night” (Drew Womack)
4. “Christmas Time is Here” – featuring Jolee Kate w/ Jack reading Luke
5. “Baby It’s Cold Outside” – featuring Kimberly
6. “The Christmas Waltz”
7. “Jingle Bells” – featuring Kimberly
8. “Silent Night”
9. “Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer” – featuring Jake
10. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” – Watson Family Greeting

Beginning Friday, fans can order special gift packages directly from aarowatson.com with items including: a tree ornament replica of Watson’s guitar, a set of holiday cards for fans to send out, an Aaron Watson ugly Christmas sweater and more!

LIVE REVIEW: EILEEN CAREY AT WHISKY A GO GO IN WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA

Recording artist Eileen Carey took on Hollywood this past week with her band mates Suzanne Morissette, drums; Barbara Leoni, acoustic guitar; Al Bonhomme, electric guitar; Alexis Skjlarevski, bass, Carey has released her new single “Anything That Reminds Me Of You” to radio this week.

Material: Eileen Carey is a country pop-rock Ohio-to-Los Angeles transplant, and that aspect is consistent throughout her musical style. She subtly layers her tracks with hints of beach-y California elements that give off a Pat Benatar-goes-western type of vibe. On her latest single, “That Town,” she delves into a feeling shared by a lot of people who come to LA––that their dreams are just too big for wherever they came from––while incorporating modern and classic (think early Taylor Swift meets Dolly Parton) country elements that give the listener a relatable sound and story.

Musicianship: Focusing on positivity and self-empowerment, Carey keeps an air of seasoned versatility flowing throughout her music. Tracks such as the heavily ‘80s influenced “Let It Go,” the “embrace your flaws” anthem “Good Bad Girl,” and many more showcase her goal as a woman in the music industry in a lighthearted, enjoyable manner that can appeal to all generations. But Carey is not here to be your next run-of-the-mill country songstress with an edge. She’s here to use her music to highlight personal, realistic life experiences and emotions.

Performance: The crowd was hooked from the moment “Hearts of Time” kicked off the night. Carey’s sassy yet humble stage demeanor gave off Gretchen Wilson meets Miranda Lambert vibes, which clearly appealed to the crowd, which engaged in hand clapping, line dancing and singing along. From “Bottle Your Crazy Up” to “Lazy” to here rousing send-off, “Faith,” Carey showed she’s not afraid to voice her thoughts and opinions. And yet, not all of the songs that she included on her setlist were necessarily styled with well-known country elements. A perfect blend of upbeat and lower-tempo tracks showcased her experience and versatility with ease, so much so that it came as a shock when her set was about to end.

Summary: It was refreshing to see a country music artist perform at this well-known rock & roll shrine. Eileen Carey’s seasoned talent, her ability to consistently engage her fans (t-shirts were thrown into the crowd), and a real chemistry with her band members kept me entertained throughout the night. I do wish, however, that she had made better use of the Whisky’s sizable stage, because it would’ve added even more energy to her otherwise enjoyable show.

New single is available on Spins Tracking System and AirplayAccess to radio programmers worldwide.

For interview request, additional information or for radio station visits, please contact Loggins Promotion at 310-325-2800 or email staff@logginspromotion.com

LIVE REVIEW: EILEEN CAREY AT WHISKY A GO GO IN WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA

New single is available on Spins Tracking System and AirplayAccess to radio programmers worldwide.

For interview request, additional information or for radio station visits, please contact Loggins Promotion at 310-325-2800 or email staff@logginspromotion.com

Brecken-Miles-Press-Photo-by-Aaron-Powers-Palette-of-Light.jpg

NASH Next Top 10 Finalist BRECKEN MILES Impacts Radio With New Single, “Liar Out Of Me”

Singer/songwriter Brecken Miles heads in to the NASH Next national finale with his new single, “Liar Out Of Me,” impacting Country radio. A Top 10 finalist in the fourth annual competition, Miles will be judged by a panel of celebrities that includes Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta and entertainer Kix Brooks. The finale takes place on October 11 at Nashville’s famed Wildhorse Saloon. Borchetta notes, “I’m always on the hunt for top-notch talent, and this program provides an incredible opportunity to have our eyes and ears on the ground in all of the great Cumulus country radio markets. If you want to be Next, it’s game on.”

Brecken, a Wisconsin native, hit the MusicRow chart Top 50 with two earlier single releases, and his growing popularity is sure to help boost his numbers this time around. Miles co-wrote “Liar Out Of Me” with Music City hitmaker Melissa Bollea (Nine Days Band, Lexi Larson, Mary Sarah, Nicole Frechette, Lara Johnston, Southern Halo) and multi-instrumentalist/jingle writer Kenneth Duncan. A rich track, honest lyrics and an emotional vocal performance make this unique love song something special:

Yeah girl you got me got me wrapped around your finger baby

Saying things thought I’d never say eating my words with the love we make

Yeah you got me thinking thinking it’s kinda nice jumping’ off the deep end

I’m everything I swore I’d never be you made a liar out of me

You made a liar out of me (Miles/Bollea/Duncan)

“I love this record,” notes newcomer Miles. “I think it’s a song that will have meaning for a lot of folks. And, I’m really pumped to be one of the finalists in this huge competition. That in itself is a big accomplishment, and I’m gonna rock the house.”

Stay social:

http://www.breckenmiles.com/

https://twitter.com/breckenmiles

https://www.facebook.com/BreckenMiles/

https://www.instagram.com/breckenmiles/

ABOUT BRECKEN MILES

Singer/songwriter Brecken Miles has shared the stage with Luke Bryan, Brad Paisley, Luke Combs, Cam, Blake Shelton, Phil Vassar, Big & Rich, Justin Moore, and others. His far-reaching musical influences range from Garth Brooks to Johnny Cash, and includes James Taylor. He’s performed in venues ranging from the gigantic Summerfest (Lake Michigan), Wisconsin State Fair, Allstate Arena (Chicago, IL), Country Thunder (Twin Lakes, WI), and FM 106.1 New Faces Class of 2018 at Pottawatomie Casino to the intimate, world-class Bluebird Café. Music runs in the family: his father is a musician, and Miles followed that tradition, picking up his first guitar at the age of 10. He was raised in the small town of Colgate, Wisconsin where The Eagles, James Taylor, Springsteen, and AC/DC ruled the household airwaves. Brecken fell in love with Country music at a Kenny Chesney concert (2003) and never looked back. In 2008, he became the front man/lead singer and rhythm guitarist for the popular Milwaukee-based band Bella Cain, performing over 200 shows a year until leaving the group in 2014. He has since gone solo, made Nashville his second home, signed an exclusive publishing deal with Rhyme Partners Music Publishing and released two Top 50 MusicRow chart singles, “The Anchor” and “I’m Good With That.” Brecken is a devoted spokesperson for Generations Against Bullying, a Milwaukee-based charity for which he wrote “God Loves,” the organization’s theme song.

About NASH Next

The fourth annual NASH Next competition brings aspiring artists, a major record label (Big Machine Label Group) and the power of Country radio (Cumulus Media) together to launch a new star. The winner of the four-month competition receives a record deal with Big Machine and substantial radio exposure on Cumulus radio stations nationwide. The current competition, which launched July 9, has allowed fans in local markets to rate entrants’ talents and to select their finalist based upon video performances of original songs. Industry professionals then narrowed the field, choosing the Top 10 competitors for the upcoming national finale event set for Thursday, October 11 at Nashville’s Wildhorse Saloon. A panel of celebrity judges, including BMLG’s Scott Borchetta and Kix Brooks of Brooks & Dunn, will determine and announce the winner.