Billy Dukes
Josh Turner Credits Ricky Skaggs, John Anderson + God For Songs on ‘Punching Bag’
Josh Turner didn’t plan on creating his most traditional album to date. It just sort of happened. The singer recently told Taste of Country that there was no agenda when he began recording, but the men he worked with ultimately shaped his fifth studio album. And of course, the Big Man had his say.
Gretchen Wilson, ‘One Good Friend’ – Song Review
Gretchen Wilson may not be one of country music’s top female vocalists any longer. No, she’s transcended the genre, in a way Alison Krauss did hers years ago. Except Wilson’s not getting any of the recognition, until maybe now. ‘One Good Friend’ is a brilliant ballad about the meaning of friendship. However, it’s perhaps too professional to fit between the stars on modern country radio — a problem
Daily Roundup: Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton + More
Could Blake Shelton‘s days on ‘The Voice’ be numbered? The singer says he wants to be a part of the show forever, but at the same time says he’s not real happy about the upcoming season. Find out why in the Daily Roundup. Also, watch Kenny Chesney‘s steamy video for ‘Come Over,’ and see a picture of his adorable new puppy.
Kenny Chesney Hatless – Readers Poll
Prior to his ‘Come Over’ video, seeing Kenny Chesney without a hat on was as common as seeing Blake Shelton in a dress. We’re not saying either has never happened before, but there’s little picture evidence to prove it. However in the new, just released music video the singer proudly shows off his smooth head as a bikini-clad babe hangs on his arm. Which version of the country singer do you like b
Carrie Underwood, ‘Blown Away’ – Song Review
‘Blown Away’ is the signature song on Carrie Underwood‘s new album of the same name. It’s the dangerous storm cloud that looms over the other tracks on a surprisingly dark project. Is this really the same woman who cut ‘All-American Girl?’ This is what critics are talking about when they hammer the importance of subtly reinventing one’s self with each new album. The singer has built to this point
Daily Roundup: Lauren Alaina, Lady Antebellum + More
Drama, drama, drama … Lauren Alaina aired her boy drama for her followers on Twitter last night, but her fans tell us she has good reason to be upset. Tempers also flared at a recent Lady Antebellum concert, and one fan left missing a digit. Really. Find both of these stories, plus reviews of albums from Edens Edge and Josh Turner, in the Daily Roundup below.
Favorite Chris Young Song – Readers Poll
It seems like Chris Young has been a part of the Nashville fabric for so long that it’s surprising to learn the singer is only 27-years-old. Today (June 12) is his birthday, and we’re honoring the hitmaker and ACM Award nominee by letting his fans decide the all-time greatest Chris Young song. So, which one is your favorite?
Josh Turner, ‘Punching Bag’ – Album Review
Josh Turner‘s booming bass voice has never sounded better than on songs from his fifth studio album ‘Punching Bag,’ in stores June 12. However, it’s not enough to lift many of the tracks past mediocre.
New Country Music Releases – July 2012
Compared to June, there are relatively few new country music releases in July 2012, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any albums worth being excited about. One Nashville trio will make their debut, while a country duo returns after a change in record labels. There’s also a legend and a perennial award nominee releasing new country projects in July.
Taste of Country’s Lady Antebellum Contest Winner Announced
One lucky Taste of Country reader has just over two weeks to clear a space on his wall for a picture of himself hanging out with Lady Antebellum. Phillip Lawrence of Kansas City, Mo. was chosen as the winner of last month’s flyaway to see the band. He and a guest will fly to St. Louis for the once in a lifetime event later this month.
Daily Roundup: Carrie Underwood, Chris Young + More
This week, Carrie Underwood stood up for something no other country superstar has been brave enough to speak in favor of. Find out what she said and how people are reacting in today’s Daily Roundup. Chris Young‘s story is not nearly as contentious. Find out what he bought himself for his birthday, as well as the next three songs on the Top 100 Country Songs list, below.
Hunter Hayes vs. Kenny Chesney – The Showdown
Hunter Hayes‘ new song ‘Wanted’ continues to prove itself to fans and those who’ve yet to buy into the hysteria surrounding this 20-year-old. Last week, the song thumped ‘Postcard From Paris,’ the Band Perry‘s new single. The country song is halfway to the Showdown Hall of Fame, but Hunter’s got one tall hurdle to get past this week.