Country Universe

Review: Billy Ray Cyrus, “Somebody Said a Prayer”

July 17, 2008 Leeann Ward 37

Now, Billy Ray Cyrus may not necessarily be known for his understated vocals. In fact, he’s got some pretty effective pipes when he needs them. On this song, however, he takes the belting to a

Sara Evans, “Love You With All My Heart”

July 17, 2008 Leeann Ward 15

If you tend to embarrass easily, this song is likely to elicit some serious blushing, especially if you’re not alone when listening to it. In this steamy ballad, Sara sings of how it’s been a

Tim McGraw, “Let it Go”

July 17, 2008 Leeann Ward 6

Well, this is clearly an empowerment anthem. He’s going to rise above the pain and dark experiences that have permeated his life and try to “let it go.” It may sound cheesy, but I’m sold.

Thursday Open Thread: Put a 'Stupid Girl' in it

July 17, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 27

Today's open thread From Brad at Music City TV, via The 9513: It makes sense: The new Brooks & Dunn song is called Put a Girl in It. For the music video shot Tuesday, they

Review: Becky Schlegel, “Bound For Tennessee”

July 16, 2008 Leeann Ward 0

Those who are familiar with Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion on NPR may recognize the name of Becky Schlegel, who has performed on Keillor’s show numerous times. Her first single, “Bound For Tennessee”, retreads

Wednesday Open Thread: Worst Song Lyrics Ever!

July 15, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 63

I’m not above lifting another open thread topic from Spinner. They listed what they consider The 20 Worst Song Lyrics Ever, with topping the list. Country music is represented by Shania Twain, showing up at

Crunching the Numbers: July 2008, Part 4

July 15, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 0

Country music is such a male-dominated industry that there is an entire class of male artists who exist just under the radar, often scoring radio hits but rarely an instant add. They may go gold

Tuesday Open Thread: Best Guest Harmony Singers

July 15, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 18

Josh Turner is singing the praises of Trisha Yearwood, his harmony partner on current single “Another Try”: “I had already asked Trisha face to face if she would come in and sing on this song,”

Crunching the Numbers: July 2008, Part 3

July 14, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 0

Today’s entry looks at how some new artists are faring with their albums. James Otto, Sunset Man Release: April 8, 2008 Sales to Date: 246,000 It’s not his first album, as his 2003 debut set

Monday Open Thread: Greatest Album Titles

July 14, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 24

Earlier this month, I received a press release announcing Todd Snider’s upcoming set. Peace Queer, which will be released digitally on August 19. Snider’s a personal favorite of mine, as longtime readers know, and I