Interview with Adrienne Haupt

 Posted by at 3:52 pm on November 27, 2020
Nov 272020
 

  • Artist Name: Adrienne Haupt
  • Hometown: Paris, IL – currently residing in Nashville, TN

What project(s) are you currently working on?

This year has really just been a year of figuring out who I am as an artist and learning how to project that into my music – no big projects this year but hopefully, there will be some new music in 2021.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?

 I grew up singing in church and just loved the rush of being on stage – I was about 6 years old when I knew I wanted to be a singer.

If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?

As crazy as it may make my life feel, I think you can pursue more than one dream at a time! I’m currently pursuing my music career and starting graduate school in the spring to get my Master of Arts in teaching!

What is your favorite downtime activity?

 I love laying in bed watching Netflix with my dogs and boyfriend!

Who is your biggest celebrity crush?

 Theo James for sure

Who is your favorite sports team(s)?

Chicago Cubs!!

What is the last movie that you watched?

Not a movie but I recently binged The Queens Gambit on Netflix and it is AMAZING!

What is the last album you listened to?

 In full, Folklore by Taylor Swift – her best yet in my opinion.

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?

 If you ask me right now, Folklore but it changes all of the time.

What is the greatest country song of all time?

If Tomorrow Never Comes – Garth Brooks

What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?

Nashville, that’s why I moved here!

What is your favorite meal?

A Joe’s Special from Joe’s Pizza in Paris, IL

Who is your dream duet partner?

 Garth Brooks!

Who would you like to go on tour with?

 You guessed it, Garth Brooks.

What is your ultimate career goal(s)?

I would love to be able to perform and write without the financial worries that come with being an independent musician.

Interview with Aaron Tanner

 Posted by at 7:57 pm on November 25, 2020
Nov 252020
 

Artist Name: Aaron Tanner
Hometown: Denton, GA

What project(s) are you currently working on?

I am currently working on a 5 song EP entitled “Stranger With a Song” that should be out very soon.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?

I was born into a musical family, so I always sang, but I didn’t really consider it seriously until I learned to play the guitar when I was about 12. It hit me like a freight train. I knew that was what I wanted to do forever.

If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?

 Well, right now I still have a “day job”. I am a mentor at Paul Anderson Youth Home. It is a Christ-centered home for troubled teenage boys. Many of them come from backgrounds of addiction, legal trouble, amd behavioral issues, and we teach them about Jesus, hard work, and a better way of living.

What is your favorite downtime activity?

 Other than playing music I love lifting weights. I hate dieting, but I love lifting weights.

Who is your biggest celebrity crush?

 My wife says it’s her. Haha!

Who is your favorite sports team(s)?

 I’m really not much of a sports fan other than rodeo and UFC, but if they are playing I do always pull for the Atlanta Braves and the Georgia Bulldogs, because that’s what real Georgians do. Haha!

What is the last movie that you watched?

 I think it was Captain America: Civil War.

What is the last album you listened to?

 “Full Circle” by Loretta Lynn

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?

 That’s a hard choice, but it would probably a Randy Travis album or an Alison Krauss and Union Station album.

What is the greatest country song of all time?

 Once again, that’s a very hard question. There are so many, but off the top of my head “No Stranger to the Rain” (by Keith Whitley) is hard to beat.

What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?

 It may be cliché, but I love Nashville. There’s just so much history there. There’s nothing like walking in the footsteps of the legends.

What is your favorite meal?

 It depends on what I’m in the mood for, but you can’t go wrong with a ribeye. Sides are optional.

Who is your dream duet partner?

 Alison Krauss

Who would you like to go on tour with?

 George Strait

What is your ultimate career goal(s)?

One of my dreams has always been to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry. That’s pretty high on the list. I would also like to stand the test of time. There are so many artists that come and they are really hot for a while. Then they fade into memory. I don’t want to be one of those that people say, “Hey! I wonder what ever happen to him? He was big back in the day.” I want to leave a legacy. And if I had to pick what I would like to be remembered for I’d probably have to say songwriting. I would love to be remembered in the ranks with the likes of Billy Joe Shaver and Kris Kristofferson. Those guys were never really what you would call major artists, but their songwriting made them Legends.

Interview with Lauren Jolly

 Posted by at 7:28 pm on November 25, 2020
Nov 252020
 

 

Artist Name: Lauren Jolly
Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama

What project(s) are you currently working on?

I just recently released an EP titled Bold! It is available on most streaming networks! But with Covid going on at the moment, I have been focusing on school. I attend college at the University of Alabama and I am majoring in psychology!

What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?

My mom said I have been singing since I was in diapers! I think I’ve always know making music is my passion and something I’ve wanted to pursue.

If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?

I am currently a sophomore in college and I am majoring in psychology with a minor in human development. I plan on getting my masters in counseling and doing something in that field. I really just want to help people and let them know that their feelings are valid and respected.

What is your favorite downtime activity?

I love spending time with my family and friends. They are some of my biggest supporters and I’m always laughing when I am with them.

Who is your biggest celebrity crush?

My biggest celebrity crush is Justin Bieber and it always has been since I was little!
 
Who is your favorite sports team(s)?

My favorite sports team is the Alabama Crimson Tide!!

What is the last movie that you watched?

The last movie I watched was The Notebook

What is the last album you listened to?

What You See Ain’t Always What You Get by Luke Combs

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Any album by Luke Combs or Morgan Wallen.
 
What is the greatest country song of all time?

“Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood

What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?

With Covid I haven’t really been able to travel and preform but I really do enjoy singing anywhere in Alabama because it’s my home!!

What is your favorite meal?

My favorite food/meal is spaghetti.

Who is your dream duet partner?

My dream duet partner is Carrie Underwood.

Who would you like to go on tour with?

Reba, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Morgan Wallen

What is your ultimate career goal(s)?

I truly just want to make music that people can connect to. Country music is so beautiful and special to me because it tells a story. It’s always been a genre I connected with a and a community I’ve wanted to be apart of.

Remembering Hal Ketchum

 Posted by at 8:50 pm on November 24, 2020
Nov 242020
 

Country music has lost yet another star in 2020, as Hal Ketchum lost his battle with dementia last night, as reported on his Facebook page.  Probably best known for his debut signature hit “Small Town Saturday Night,” Ketchum charted eleven Top 25 singles, including three songs that peaked at #2 in the early 90’s (“Small Town Saturday Night,” “Past the Point of Rescue,” and “Hearts Are Gonna Roll”).  He also saw his single “Sure Love” reach the Top 5, peaking at #3 in 1992.  The Grand Ole Opry member was 67.

Here is what his colleagues in the country music world are saying about his loss:

  • Adam Hood – Telluride, Colorado• July 2015 (the trip we found out we were expecting Drue). I was opening for Jack Ingram at the Songwriters Festival but Britni and I traveled a day early to catch Hal’s show. After his set, we went next door, sat in a booth at the pub and talked for HOURS! He was fascinating and funny, Brit was starstruck (which rarely happens) and I was reminded that a legend can be humble, approachable & kind! As you can see, I made a friend. I put his number in my phone as “Uncle Hal” just as he told me to do. There is NO ONE like him and I’m so thankful for these memories! Godspeed, Uncle Hal.
  • B.J. Thomas – My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He made a lot of great music throughout his career.
  • Bryan White – When I first heard “Small Town Saturday Night” on the radio I was in high school. I instantly went out and bought it. I was dreaming big during that time and it definitely played a role in my excitement for wanting to make records. I loved Hal’s voice and music. Sad to hear that he has left us but his music will live on. What a talent. Prayers for his family
  • Dallas Moore – Rest In Peace Hal Ketchum. Godspeed Old Friend. Live Forever…..
  • Dallas Remington – I’m so saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. Ketchum. Although I never met him, he and his music were a huge part of my life. Growing up in a small town, “Small Town Saturday Night” became one of the theme songs of my life. He will be dearly missed!
  • Danielle Kleha – I am so sad to hear of the passing of Hal Ketchum. Our Country music world for sure lost a legend. Although I was only born in the late 90s, some of my favorite artists and influences come from 90’s Country. “Small Town Saturday Night” has always been a favorite of mine. Hal’s memory will live on forever through his music and all he inspired. My heart and prayers go out to his family and friends
  • David Ball – We have lost another good one. Hal Ketchum passed away this morning. Love to Hal and all his family. He was a brother.
  • Deborah Allen  – Such a deep loss for our music community and for the world. Thank you, God, for giving us the gift of wonderful, talented Hal Ketchum. My heart and prayers are with the family, friends, and all who were touched by his music and songs. He will surely be loved, missed, and remembered Forever. Rest In Peace, Hal.
  • Devon O’Day – I remember one year when Gerry House was promoting Oktoberfest and as a joke he challenged Hal Ketchum to come play live in the studio in a pair of lederhosen to yodel for the audience. It was off the cuff and on air and we had no idea Hal had heard until he just showed up wearing full German attire with knee socks, suspenders, leather shorts and an accordion.  I seldom saw Gerry House bested with a joke but this time he was. Hal sang and laughed with us at himself and the joy of life. He was brilliant. He had a voice he kept pristine throughout his career and dashing good looks that matured like the finest wine. But his laugh…his smile…his humor will always be my fondest memory of him. Our world is dimmer today without Hal’s smile.
  • Elizabeth Cook – RIP @halketchum I played Ann Arbor #theark w/him -I only knew him as a country hit maker. He played solo and BLEW. MY. MIND. His voice,guitar,songs! +he was incredibly friendly n fun n we jammed. he welcomed me. it was a beautiful experience. He’ll b missed. #oneofakind
  • Flatland Cavalry – We’re gonna howl at the moon, shoot out the light It’s a small town Saturday night… RIP
  • J.D. Shelburne – Thoughts and prayers out to the family of Hal Ketchum. One of my favorite voices of the Opry. I’m glad to know that he is no longer suffering and in a much better place. Our hearts are still gonna roll, Hal. We love you and will miss you but your songs will always remain.
  • James Otto – RIP Hal Ketchum. I always held him in high regard. He was an authentic and original artist.
  • Jeannie Seely – Very sad to hear of Hal’s passing. His poetic piece about becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry was so touching. He will certainly be missed.
  • Jeff Carson – Rest in peace Hal Ketchum. What a horrible year
  • Jimmy Wayne – #HalKetchum introduced me on the @opry 03/22/03 — it was my debut. I’ll never forget how nice he was to me on and off stage. He is part of my history. May his amazing singing voice live on forever. RIP, Hal.
  • John Berry – I am saddened to hear the news of the passing of Hal Ketchum. He had such a distinctive voice and way of delivering a song. He was also a very nice man and wow, could he snow ski!! I will cherish the day I spent with Hal and Charlie Daniels the day we shot the video for the Long Haired Country Boy remake at Charlie’s place. If you watch the video and you think we must have had a lot of fun you’d be correct. It was a great day and will be forever a fond memory.
  • John Rich – In memory of the great #HalKetchum I’d like to sing my favorite song of his, and dedicate it to all his fans and loved ones  See Video
  • Johnny Lee – There is now another addition to the amazing band in heaven. I really hate to hear this. Hal was such a talented and wonderful guy.
  • Kent Blazy – I met Hal thru the Allen Reynolds group at Jack’s Tracks and was lucky to do some shows with him. At the 1st 30A Songwriters show we did, he sang “Stay Forever” a cappella and it was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.
  • LeAnn Rimes – So sad to hear that Hal Ketchum has gone to live amongst the angels. We will miss you down here, Hal! He was such a talent and a dear soul.
  • Lockeland – Wow, what a year to lose another amazing artist of the 90s. Small Town Saturday Night was just one staple of many great songs Hal released. Regards to his family and friends and thank you for all of your iconic music
  • Michelle Wright – So sad to hear that Hal Ketchum passed away last night due to complications of dementia. Our paths crossed several times over the years and we shared the stage a few times as well. Besides being a great talent and movie star handsome Hal was a kind soul. Rest In Peace.
  • Mickey Lamantia – Today the industry lost another icon!! Hal Ketchum was one of those really cool guys with his own style. I  listened to him often back in the day. R.I.P Hal.
  • Noah Garner – I was saddened to hear of the passing of Hal Ketchum today. I was blessed to be raised with nineties country icons such as Hal, and am forever grateful for his musical influence.
  • Oak Ridge Boys – The Oak Ridge Boys are saddened over the loss of Hal Ketchum … a great voice and a great guy … 2020 has been hard … so many country music artists and songwriters have gone home this year … Rest easy Hal.
  • Radney Foster – When Hal Ketchum sang he packed so much truth and passion into every lyric. His tenor rang so clear. I will miss you brother. Godspeed you home.
  • Randy Rogers Band – This ol world is gonna miss ya Hal. Thanks for the love and the songs.
  • Ray Scott – In the 90’s, I discovered Hal Ketchum and recognized him as a true artist who didn’t seem manufactured… I was an instant fan.. have been ever since… even got to open a couple shows for him along the way… RIP HAL.. You were one of a kind. The damn good kind.
  • Rodney Crowell – Video Message
  • Sawyer Brown – So sad to hear that our road brother Hal Ketchum passed away last night due to complications of dementia. We travelled a lot of miles together back in the day—Hal was one of the good guys. Rest In Peace.
  • Steve Goetman (Exile) – Hal’s debut in country music was explosive. Unique-sounding singer, prolific and commercial songwriter and drop dead handsome, Hal presented as the total package. As an instant fan I requested and received the opportunity to interview Hal for an article in Country Song Roundup magazine. We covered a bunch of topics, but kept returning to songwriting and his process of inspiration. “When I’m preparing to write for a new project,” he explained, “I feel myself seizing up emotionally, and I exorcize all of it by writing”. In contrast to exploring the depths of his artistry, we had a few hearty laughs, too. Hal was honest and open that day, and I liked him a lot.
  • Suzy Bogguss – So sorry to hear of the passing of my good friend Hal Ketchum He was such a beautiful singer/artist and a soul to match.  We’re lucky we still get to hear his recordings as there was never a voice like his
  • T. Graham Brown  -Hal was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever known. We always had a special bond. I’m saddened to hear of his passing but gladdened to know his physical pain is over. Sheila and my prayers are with his family today. R.I.P. my brother.
  • Tim Atwood – My heart is breaking for the family of Hal Ketchum. I always enjoyed playing the Grand Ole Opry with Hal. He stepped on that stage with a smile on his face, and the music he sang was pure poetry. He will be missed.
  • Tim Rushlow – Hal Ketchum was a singers singer. One of the nicest guys in the business and I so enjoyed our conversations about history. I can’t say enough about how cool he was on and off stage. I will be cranking up my favorite song of his today! Do yourself a favor and listen to “In front of the Alamo” and you’ll know what I mean. Rest easy my friend.
  • Toby Keith – RIP Hal Ketchum See Video
  • Ty Herndon – It truly is a sad day. I Just heard about the passing of my friend Hal Ketchum. He leaves a true legacy of music. A legacy of country music. He was kind, dashingly handsome, and super talented. His daughters call me uncle Ty- I witnessed him fall madly in love with their mother. He had some troubled days towards the end. This journey is over for you man… But you will be remembered as one of the best. Now go write and sing one with Jesus- and give my grandma a hug. Rest in peace brother

Interview with Sami Lavette

 Posted by at 8:57 pm on November 23, 2020
Nov 232020
 

 

  • Artist name: Sami Lavette
  • Hometown: Springville, Alabama

What projects are you currently working on?

I am currently in an Artist Development Program with Ivy Manor in Muscle Shoals. This program will end with over fifty written songs, around 15 demos, and one completely produced track. Specifically I am writing song after song searching for my new hit!

What inspired you to pursue a music career and when?

My dad is a musician. Ever since I was little my dad had me sing song after song and I adored it. I would close my eyes and imagine myself on stage. I knew that I could be a star just like Taylor Swift and Barbara Streisand.

If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing?

I would be training a little more intensely for Auburn Cheerleading Tryouts. I would also hopefully have a new puppy that I could train to go to college with me.

What is your favorite downtime activity?

I love to read and watch Hulu shows. I have read 13 of Lurlene McDaniel books alone. She is my favorite author, but don’t read one of her books unless you are ready to cry!

Who is your biggest celebrity crush?

Bennet or Brenden from this season of The Bachelorette!

Who is your favorite sports team?

Auburn football. War eagle!

What is the last movie you watched?

Beauty and the beast… My favorite Disney Princess is Belle!

What is the last album you listened to?

Lately I have been streaming Brantley Gilbert radio. My favorite songs of his are “Bad Boy”, “Saving Amy”, and “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do”.

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Kelsea by Kelsea Ballerini

What is the Greatest Country Song of all time?

“Something Like That” by Tim McGraw

What has been your favorite place to visit on the road?

I love New York City even though I’m from the South. It is definitely my favorite place!

What is your favorite meal?

My favorite meal is any sort of Japanese, Chinese, or sushi! I could eat it everyday!

Who is your dream duet partner?

Bruce Springsteen for sure!

Who would you like to go on tour with?

Chris Bandi, Carly Pearce, Kelsea Ballerini and Dan and Shay

What is your ultimate career goal?

I would like to inspire fans to believe in themselves and to tell my story through my writing. I would like to be able to write the majority of my songs and work hard to be successful and inspiring on stage and off.

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