Country Radio Seminar

CRS 2012 Attendance Up Nine Percent

2012-02-28T07:14:00.002-08:00

CRS 2013 set for Feb. 27 - March 1

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 27, 2012) CRS 2012 enjoyed an increase in attendance for the fourth straight year, rising 9.6 percent over last year’s totals, according to Country Radio Seminar officials.

A total of 2,904 registrants attended this year’s seminar, held Feb. 22-24 in Nashville, Tenn. That number includes 2,190 full registrants (attendees, exhibitors, panelists and sponsors) and 714 participant registrants. Participant registrants are defined as attendees that register for individual CRS events or purchase single day seminar passes only. Total CRS attendance in 2011 was 2,649, with 2,181 attendees in 2010 and 2,106 in 2009.

“With attendance jumping nearly 10 percent this year, daily superstar performances, improved on-site conveniences and more event sponsors than ever before, CRS 2012 was a great success,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “This is the fourth straight year we’ve enjoyed growth in our attendance numbers, and it really goes to show how the Country radio industry is not only remaining relevant, but thriving in today’s media saturated marketplace.”

CRS 2013 will be held Feb. 27 – March 1, 2013, at the Nashville Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information.

To view an online photo gallery of events and panels from CRS 2012, visit: www.Flickr.com/AristoPR

CRS 2012 Photo Highlights

2012-02-28T07:13:00.000-08:00

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 27, 2012) CRS 2012 was held Feb. 22-24 in Nashville, Tenn., offering professionals from the Country radio industry three days and nights of panels, speakers, luncheons, research presentations, musical performances and networking opportunities. Included below are selected photo highlights from CRS 2012.

View the official CRS 2012 online photo gallery at www.flickr.com/AristoPR

The 2012 inductees to the Country Radio Hall of Fame, held Tuesday, Feb. 21, as the unofficial kick-off to CRS 2012. L to R: CRS President Mike Culotta, inductees Eddie Stubbs, Ron Rogers, Beverlee Brannigan, Rusty Walker, Bill Whyte, Moby, CRS President's Award winner Bob Kingsley, CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. (Not pictured: CRS Lifetime Achievement Award winner Glen Campbell). Photo: Bev Moser.

Rascal Flatts accepted the CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian of the Year award on Wednesday, Feb. 22, following the seminar's opening ceremonies. Photo: Bev Moser.

Songwriter showcase KCRS Live! featured hit songwriters and artists. Pictured L to R: Jim Collins, Andy Gibson, Aaron Lewis, Bobby Pinson. Photo: Bev Moser.

L to R: Marc Chase, Leslie Fram, Lance Tidwell and Tom Baldrica led the "Show Me Your Hits" panel at CRS 2012 on Friday, Feb. 24. Photo: Bev Moser.

Performers at the annual New Faces of Country Music Show, co-sponsored by MDA and ACM, closed out CRS 2012 on Friday night, Feb. 24, at the Nashville Convention Center. Pictured L to R, top row: Jon Jones (Eli Young Band), Mike Eli (Eli Young Band), Sunny Sweeney, James Young (Eli Young Band), Chris Thompson (Eli Young Band). Bottom row, L to R: CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne, David Nail, Hunter Hayes, CRS President Mike Culotta. (Not pictured: New Faces performers Thompson Square). Photo: Bev Moser.

Country Radio Seminar Inducts 2012 Class Into Country Radio Hall of Fame

2012-02-28T07:11:00.003-08:00

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 22, 2012) The 2012 class of the Country Radio Hall of Fame was officially inducted last night, Feb. 22, at a sold-out ceremony and dinner held inside the Nashville Convention Center.

Beverlee Brannigan, Ron Rogers and Rusty Walker were inducted in the Radio category, while Moby, Eddie Stubbs and Bill Whyte were the three On-Air category inductees. Other awards presented during the ceremony included the CRS Career Achievement Award, given to Glen Campbell (not in attendance) and the CRS President’s Award, presented to Bob Kingsley.

The Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremonies unofficially kick off Country Radio Seminar each year. For more information, visit www.CRB.org.

Pictured below, the 2012 class of the Country Radio Hall of Fame. L to R: CRS President Mike Culotta, Eddie Stubbs, Ron Rogers, Beverlee Brannigan, Rusty Walker, Bill Whyte, Moby, Bob Kingsley, CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. Photo: Bev Moser

CRS 2012 Artist and Radio Humanitarian Award Winners

2012-02-28T07:11:00.000-08:00

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 22, 2012) The CRS Radio and Artist Humanitarian Awards were handed out today on the opening day of CRS 2012, held Feb. 22-24 in downtown Nashville at the Nashville Convention Center.

The 2012 Radio Humanitarian winners are KMOK/Lewiston, Idaho (Small Market), WIVK/Knoxville, Tenn. (Medium Market) and WLHK/Indianapolis, Ind. (Large Market). As previously announced, the Artist Humanitarian Award winner is Rascal Flatts. CRS President Mike Culotta and Radio Ink’s Lois Chooljian presented the awards at 10:30 a.m., immediately following the CRS Keynote Address.

Small Market Winner: 106.9 KMOK/Lewiston, Idaho -
Lewiston’s KMOK was instrumental in dozens of local humanitarian efforts in 2011, including National Night Out Against Crime, Pet of the Week, Lewis Clark Animal Shelter’s Dog Swim, Coats for the Cold, Annual Life Safety Day, United Way Day of Caring, Relay for Life, Earth Day, Jackson Baldwin Foundation, Jog for Jugs, Wounded Warriors Project, Cruising to Clarkston and numerous others.

Medium Market Winner: 107.7 WIVK/Knoxville, Tenn. -
WIVK’s contributions to fundraising efforts helped raise a total of more than $12.9 million in 2011. Campaigns included: the HonorAir Radiothon, Voices from the Front, Coats for the Cold, Stuff the Bus, a Susan G. Komen benefit concert and the Teddy Bear Round Up. WIVK sponsored dozens of events, such as the “Real Steel” movie premiere, Buddy’s Race Against Cancer, Fantasy of Trees for Children’s Hospital, Great Rubber Duck Race for Boys & Girls’ Club, ADA Step Out Walk, Knoxville Zoo and more.

Large Market Winner: 97.1 WLHK/Indianapolis, Ind. -
Indianapolis’ HANK FM/97.1 continued its avid support for Habitat For Humanity in 2011, building a five bedroom house at the Indiana State Fair in just 15 days. The station hosted a Santa’s Secret Star benefit concert for the Salvation Army during Christmas, debuted its Christmas Angel program, received national media attention for Cheri’s Chores, partnered with the Indianapolis Colts to host the Big Blue Drive-Through for tornado relief and was instrumental in efforts supporting the victims at the Indiana State Fair tragedy.

Rascal Flatts received the 2012 Artist Humanitarian award for their charitable contributions and humanitarian endeavors throughout their career. In 2010, the group donated $3 million to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt’s Pediatric Surgery Center. They currently serve as celebrity spokespersons for the national suicide prevention organization, The Jason Foundation, and have been members of the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet for the past seven years.

About the CRS Artist Humanitarian Award:
The CRB Artist Humanitarian Award was created in 1990 to honor those Country music artists who have exhibited exceptional humanitarian efforts during their career. Past recipients of the annual award have included Trace Adkins, Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Garth Brooks, Charlie Daniels and Kenny Rogers, among others.

About the CRS Radio Humanitarian Awards:
The CRB Radio Humanitarian Awards are presented to full-time Country radio stations for notable public service initiatives that improve the quality of life for the communities they serve. The annual awards are presented to stations in three categories: Large (markets 1-50), Medium (markets 51-130), and Small (markets 131+).

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Pictured below, CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award winners Rascal Flatts. L to R: RF’s Jay DeMarcus, RF manager Clarence Spalding, CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne, RF’s Gary LeVox, Radio Ink Magazine’s Lois Chooljian, CRS President Mike Culotta, RF’s Joe Don Rooney. Photo: Bev Moser.

licity@aristomedia.com

CRS 2012 Research Study Expands Focus Beyond P1 Listeners

2012-02-28T07:09:00.002-08:00

Study reminds Country radio to connect, understand non-P1 audience,

stresses importance of local DJs

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 22, 2012) Country Radio Seminar’s 2012 research study was delivered in front of a packed house at CRS 2012 on Wednesday, Feb. 22, providing a broader look into the attitudes and trends of Country radio fans beyond the core P1 listener.

This year’s study compiled data from a national survey of more than 1,000 Country fans ages 18-54. According to Edison Research, which conducted the study and presented the findings at CRS, 65 percent of Country fans qualified as “non-P1” listeners. Edison Research also performed and included in-depth video interviews with fans as part of its presentation.

Among the study’s key findings were:

- Local, live DJs are instrumental in the difference between radio and other music outlets like Pandora or Spotify.

- Both P1s and non-P1s are generally equally as enthusiastic about DJs and half of both groups say that DJs are a prime reason that AM/FM radio is better than internet radio.

- Non-P1s are more than twice as likely to have begun listening to Country music “in the last few years.”

- One in six non-P1s say that Country music from the 1960s and 70s is their favorite.

- Ninety percent of non-P1s feel that Country music makes a positive contribution to America. Four in five say that Country lyrics often express how they feel.

- Non P1s are more likely to go to church on a weekly basis than P1 listeners.

- Eighty-six percent of non-P1s perceive that Country music is becoming more popular.

- Non-P1s are much more likely to be aware of Pandora, iHeart or Spotify and much less likely to listen frequently to the radio.

“Country music remains a very healthy format and is actually becoming more popular, but one of the main points that I think this year’s survey drives home is that Country radio could do a better job at understanding and identifying its non-P1 listeners,” says Edison Research Co-founder and President Larry Rosin. “While it is understandable that P1 listeners should be a priority, the importance of the other 65 percent or so of your total audience cannot be underestimated. Our data also suggest that live, local DJs are one of the big advantages that radio has over internet and satellite outlets, and should be acknowledged as such.”

The full CRS 2012 Country Radio research study is now available online at: www.EdisonResearch.com.

Nashville Gears Up For CRS 2012 Feb. 22-24

2012-02-20T22:07:00.002-08:00

Country Radio Seminar punctuates in-demand event with sold out Hall of Fame ceremony and New Faces show

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 20, 2012) CRS 2012 is set to officially kick off its three-day seminar on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Nashville Convention Center in downtown Nashville.

With overall attendance at CRS increasing each of the past two years, CRS 2012 looks to continue that trend with a cutting-edge agenda and a number of convenience upgrades and entertainment options available. From an educational perspective, attendees can expect more than 30 panels and roundtable discussions, with dozens of industry-leading speakers and panelists, exhibits, in-depth research and endless networking opportunities with other Country radio professionals from around the country.

Entertainment and recreation options at this year’s seminar include the addition of more on-site showcases, after-hours events and special performances from some of the biggest stars in Country music. For the second year in a row, the Country Radio Hall of Fame ceremony and the seminar-closing New Faces of Country Music Show each sold out in advance of CRS.

“We have worked hard over the past couple of years to keep our seminar affordable while delivering more bang for our attendees’ buck,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “I think people are going to be surprised at some of the unique destinations and events we are offering on-site at CRS 2012 and the new sponsors that have made many of those upgrades possible. We are continuing to raise the bar at Country Radio Seminar, and without question, we have made great strides again this year in providing a total 360 experience for the thousands that attend this great event each and every year.”

A thumbnail summary of daily highlights, after-hours events and agenda items at CRS 2012 follows below.

Tuesday, Feb. 21:
CRS unofficially kicks off with the sold out Country Radio Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony at 6 p.m. The 2012 inductees are Beverlee Brannigan, Ron Rogers and Rusty Walker in the Radio category and Moby, Eddie Stubbs and Bill Whyte in the On-Air category. Glen Campbell is the Career Achievement Award recipient and Bob Kingsley is receiving the President’s Award. Sony Music Nashville and Sea Gayle Records are presenting the inaugural “Official Country Radio Hall of Fame After Party” at 8:30 p.m. in the Renaissance Hotel.

Wednesday, Feb. 22:
CRS 2012 officially begins with the keynote address, delivered at 9 a.m. by MTV co-founder and Clear Channel exec Bob Pittman. American Idol finalist Lauren Alaina will perform the national anthem. Presentation of the Artist Humanitarian (Rascal Flatts) and Radio Humanitarian awards (winners TBA) follows. Futurist David Houle will address attendees about trends affecting consumer behavior in his “FLOWS” panel, and the annual, expansive CRS research study is presented at 2:30 p.m. in conjunction with Edison Research.

This year’s UMG Nashville luncheon is held at the Ryman Auditorium, featuring a lineup including Laura Bell Bundy, Easton Corbin, Scotty McCreery, David Nail, Josh Turner, Lee Ann Womack and additional surprise guests. The KCRS Live! showcase features artist/songwriters Jim Collins, Andy Gibson, Aaron Lewis and Bobby Pinson. A full-band concert by Lady Antebellum is held Wednesday night at Municipal Auditorium, with complimentary transportation and special seating provided for CRS attendees.

Thursday, Feb. 23:
Thursday’s agenda topics include: diary methodology, PPM strategies, coaching air talent, evaluation and implementation of social media, case studies on brainstorming techniques, CMA’s “Year of Country Radio” presentation, a Country radio listener focus group, and the CRS 2012 research follow-up panel.

Iconic artist Alan Jackson performs at Thursday’s Capitol Nashville luncheon, and this year’s WCRS Live! lineup includes hit songwriters Matraca Berg, Natlie Hemby, Lori McKenna and Ashley Monroe.

Friday, Feb. 24:
Friday’s agenda is loaded with educational panels. Topics include: mobile device usage, marketing case studies, multi-format programming, the Digital University roundtable discussions, radio technology in automobiles, unique branding and promotional relationships, national digital strategies, artist visit dos and don’ts, small market programming, building effective brands, “hit record” analysis and more.

Friday’s musical lineup features a special performance from Faith Hill at the noon Warner Music Nashville luncheon and the seminar-closing, sold out New Faces of Country Music Show® at 6:30 p.m. The CRS 2012 New Faces performers are: Eli Young Band, Hunter Hayes, David Nail, Sunny Sweeney and Thompson Square.

CRS on-site services and conveniences include the debut of CRSnet, a free intranet service available for attendees to download panel and research materials, the CRS smartphone apps for Android, Blackberry and Apple products, free internet café and cell-phone charging station in the St. Jude Internet Cafe, complimentary coffee cart and the second floor networking lounge. The CRS media room is open on the first floor for approved media and artists.

On-site and after-hours destinations include The CRS Badge Bar in the Renaissance Ballroom, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley in the Belmont Room with performances from Rhett Akins, Casey Beathard, Jim Beavers, Corey Crowder, Tom Douglas, Marv Green, Ben Hayslip, David Lee, Wendell Mobley, Rivers Rutherford and Jeffrey Steele, Tenacity Records showcase with Bill Gentry and Darryl Worley, Black River Entertainment showcase with Sarah Darling, Due West, Craig Morgan and Glen Templeton and the New York Exchange Cadillac. The Show Dog Universal bus and the Black River Mobile Cigar Lounge are located in front of the Convention Center on Commerce St.

CRS is welcoming a record-setting number of sponsors at CRS 2012, including: ACM, Arbitron, Black River Entertainment, BMI, Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40, Capitol/EMI Records, City National Bank, Compassion International, CMA, Country Aircheck, Cumulus Media Networks, Curb Records, Digital Rodeo, GAC, HRT Records, Live Nation, Lucchese Boots, MDA, New York Rock Exchange, Operation Troop Aid, Radio Ink, R&J Records, Sea Gayle Records, SESAC, Show Dog Universal, Sony Music Nashville, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Suntrust Bank, Tenacity Records, UMG Nashville, United Stations Radio Networks, Warm Blanket Orphan Care International, Warner Music Nashville and World Vision.

A detailed schedule with descriptions of all panels and events can be viewed at www.CRB.org or accessed via the CRS 2012 smartphone application, available here. $499 walk-up registration is available, excluding admission to the sold-out New Faces of Country Music Show and Dinner. Single-day admission passes (excluding admission to the Lady Antebellum concert and New Faces show) are available on-site for $150. A $99 Unemployment Rate is also available. For more information about the Unemployment Rate, contact Kristen McRary at (615) 327-4487 or Kristen@CRB.org.

Rascal Flatts To Receive CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award

2012-02-10T07:42:00.001-08:00

Rascal Flatts To Receive CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 23, 2012) Big Machine Records’ Rascal Flatts has been named the recipient of the CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award, to be presented at Country Radio Seminar on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012.

The multi-platinum selling trio of Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney are receiving the honor based on their charitable contributions and humanitarian endeavors throughout the band’s career. In 2010, the group donated $3 million to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt’s Pediatric Surgery Center. They currently serve as celebrity spokespersons for the national suicide prevention organization, The Jason Foundation, and have been members of the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet for the past seven years.

According to CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne, “The board is very pleased to honor Rascal Flatts with the CRS Artist Humanitarian Award. They join a long, distinguished list of celebrities who have received this prestigious award since it was instated in 1990.”

Rascal Flatts will receive the CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award at 10:30 a.m. in the Nashville Convention Center immediately following the seminar’s Keynote Address. CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. $499 Regular Rate registration expires Friday, Jan. 27. On-Site registration increases to $599 effective Jan. 28. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register today.

About the CRS Artist Humanitarian Award:The CRS Artist Humanitarian Award was created in 1990 to honor those Country music artists who have exhibited exceptional humanitarian efforts during their career. Past recipients of the annual award have included Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, Trace Adkins, Randy Owen, Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Reba, Vince Gill, Garth Brooks and Charlie Daniels, among others. For more information about Country Radio Seminar and the CRS awards, visit:www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About Rascal Flatts:When Rascal Flatts debuted their first album on Big Machine Records, Nothing Like This, at No. 1 on the Country album sales chart, they became one of only four Country acts to debut six consecutive studio albums at No. 1. Since their musical debut in 2000, Rascal Flatts has sold more than 20 million albums and 25 million digital downloads, delivering 13 No. 1 singles to the top of the charts. In 2011, they were the most played band at Country radio and recently released the first single, “Banjo,” off a soon to be released project titled Changed, due out on April 3.

Rascal Flatts is the most awarded Country group of the past decade, with more than 40 trophies from the American Country Awards, Academy of Country Music, American Music Awards, Country Music Association, People’s Choice Awards and more. As one of the most sought after touring acts, Rascal Flatts has sold more than 6 million concert tickets in their career. They received the Make-A-Wish Shining Star Award in 2008 and the Nashville Symphony’s Harmony Award in 2007. They were also recipients of the Recording Academy Honors in 2007. For more information about Rascal Flatts, visit: www.RascalFlatts.com.

CRS Announces First Round of UMG Luncheon Performers, Prepares Debut of CRSnet Service

2012-02-10T07:38:00.001-08:00

CRS Announces First Round of UMG Luncheon Performers, Prepares Debut of CRSnet Service
Lauren Alaina, Ashley Monroe also confirmed to perform at CRS on-site events

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 8, 2012) Country Radio Seminar has confirmed its first round of UMG luncheon artists and added Lauren Alaina and Ashley Monroe to its already packed agenda of performers.

The first round of announced UMG luncheon artists are: Lauren Alaina, Laura Bell Bundy, Easton Corbin, Mallary Hope, Josh Kelley, Scotty McCreery, Randy Montana, Kip Moore, Kasey Musgraves, David Nail, Randy Rogers Band, Canaan Smith, Chris Stapleton, Josh Turner, Drake White and Lee Ann Womack. The UMG luncheon is held at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 22, inside the Ryman Auditorium. A to-go lunch will be provided in the Convention Center immediately prior to the event. More UMG luncheon artists will be announced soon.

Former American Idol contestant Lauren Alaina will officially kick off CRS 2012 with a performance of the national anthem at the seminar’s opening ceremonies on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 9 a.m. She will be accompanied by the U.S. Marine color guard for the flag presentation.

Singer-songwriter and Pistol Annies member Ashley Monroe has been added to the WCRS Live! showcase lineup. Monroe joins previously announced performers Matraca Berg, Natalie Hemby and Lori McKenna at the BMI and Country Aircheck-sponsored event on Thursday, Feb. 23, at 3:30 p.m.

CRSnet is a new, on-site intranet service debuting at CRS 2012. Powered by Pro X Media, the service is free and available to anyone inside the Convention Center with a WiFi-enabled device (smartphone, laptop, Tablet, iPad, etc). With one click, attendees may use CRSnet to directly download and stream a variety of materials from CRS sponsors and panelists at any time during the three-day seminar.

The on-site Badge Bar (formerly Connections Bar) has expanded inside the Renaissance Ballroom for CRS 2012. Sponsored by Cumulus Media Networks, City National Bank and GAC, the Badge Bar offers attendees a relaxing atmosphere and the lowest drink prices available on-site at CRS 2012.

CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center. $499 Regular rate registration (admission to New Faces show excluded) remains available at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About Country Radio Seminar:Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Faith Hill To Headline Warner Music Nashville Luncheon at CRS 2012

2012-01-31T07:40:00.000-08:00

Luncheon to be held on Friday, Feb. 24, at Nashville Convention Center

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 30, 2012) Warner Music Nashville’s Faith Hill has been confirmed to headline a special luncheon performance at CRS 2012 on Friday, Feb. 24.

The WMN luncheon will be held inside the Performance Hall at the Nashville Convention Center from noon – 1:50 p.m. CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012.

"I am privileged and humbled to have our superstar, Faith Hill, perform an intimate concert at Warner Music Nashville’s luncheon this year at CRS 2012," commented John Esposito, President and CEO of Warner Music Nashville. "Faith expands our imagination through exquisitely, well-crafted, heartfelt songs that only she can deliver. There is no equal, there is only Faith. I look forward to seeing all of you in February."

Adds CRS President Mike Culotta, "Our CRS attendees are in for a special treat at Friday’s luncheon. Faith Hill is one of the finest singers Country music has ever seen, and we are lucky to have this rare opportunity to see her perform in such an intimate setting. This is going to be a truly special event!"

CRS 2012 $499 Regular Rate registration is available at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com. Registration does not include a ticket to the New Faces of Country Music Show and Dinner, which is now sold out.

About Faith Hill:
With a voice as powerful as it is recognizable, Faith Hill has established herself as one of the music industry’s top vocalists. Her 17-year career has been highlighted by the sale of more than 30 million records worldwide, during which time she has celebrated 13 No. 1 singles and 20 No. 1 videos. Faith is a five-time Grammy Award winner and recipient of three Country Music Association Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, four American Music Awards, and four People’s Choice Awards. Her current single, “Come Home,” was released on November 9. A new album is due in stores in spring 2012.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Faith Hill

CRS 2012 New Faces Show and Host Hotel Sold Out

2012-01-30T11:11:00.000-08:00

Glen Campbell to receive CRS Career Achievement Award at Country Radio Hall of Fame event; limited tickets remaining

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 30, 2012) The CRS 2012 New Faces show and Renaissance Nashville hotel have sold out prior to Country Radio Seminar for the second year in a row.

As a result, the CRS Board of Directors has extended the $499 seminar registration rate, but registrations will no longer include a ticket to the New Faces of Country Music Dinner and Performance, held Friday, Feb. 24, at 6:30 p.m. in the Nashville Convention Center. Rooms at the Renaissance Nashville hotel, which serves as the host hotel for CRS and is located adjacent to the Convention Center, have also sold out.

“For the second consecutive year, we have sold out our New Faces show,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Since we are no longer able to offer New Faces tickets with CRS 2012 registrations, we have decided to extend our $499 Regular Rate, which had previously expired on Jan. 27. We are proud to put on such a unique and in-demand event that showcases some of the brightest new stars at our New Faces of Country Music Dinner and Performance.”

Additionally, tickets are limited for the Country Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and Ceremony, held on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 6 p.m. in the Nashville Convention Center Ballroom. The event includes presentations of the CRS President’s Award and Career Achievement Award. The 2012 Career Achievement Award goes to legendary artist Glen Campbell.

“Glen Campbell is an entertainer in every sense of the word,” says CRS President Mike Culotta. “His decades-long career in music, television and film has cemented his place among the icons in our format, and we are honored to recognize his pioneering efforts with the CRS Career Achievement Award.”

As previously announced, the CRS President’s Award recipient is Bob Kingsley, and the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees are Beverlee Brannigan, Moby, Ron Rogers, Eddie Stubbs, Rusty Walker and Bill Whyte.

CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center. Register for CRS 2012 at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS 2012 Rolls Out Stellar Lineup of Hit Songwriters For New After-Hours Destination, “Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley”

2012-01-30T07:53:00.001-08:00

Songwriting events take on increased role at Country Radio Seminar

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 26, 2012) Country Radio Seminar has rolled out a stellar lineup of hit songwriters for its new after-hours destination, “Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley,” held on the Wednesday and Thursday night of CRS 2012.

Casey Beathard, Jim Beavers, Corey Crowder, Marv Green, David Lee, Wendell Mobley and Rivers Rutherford are the Wednesday night (Feb. 22) performers, while Rhett Akins, Tom Douglas, Ben Hayslip and Jeffrey Steele will perform Thursday night (Feb. 23). The Acoustic Alley is open from 9:30 p.m. until midnight in the Belmont Room inside the Renaissance Hotel. Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40 and SunTrust Bank are sponsoring the new after-hours songwriter event.

“There's nothing better than hearing a favorite song sung by the writer,” says Kingsley. “For a music lover, that's as good as it gets!”

Only registered CRS 2012 attendees are allowed entry into Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley and the newly updated Badge Bar, sponsored by Cumulus Media Networks and City National Bank and located this year in the Renaissance Ballroom.

Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley strengthens an already impressive lineup of songwriter events at CRS 2012, including WCRS Live! (featuring BMI writers Matraca Berg, Natalie Hemby and Lori McKenna) and KCRS Live! (featuring R&J Records songwriter/performers Jim Collins, Andy Gibson, Aaron Lewis and Bobby Pinson).

CRS 2012 $499 Regular Rate registration expires this Friday, Jan. 27. On-Site registration increases to $599 effective Jan. 28. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register today.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Voting Now Open for 2012 CRS-Country Aircheck Awards

2012-01-30T07:49:00.001-08:00

Awards to be presented at CRS New Faces event

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 27, 2012) First-round nominations voting for the CRS-Country Aircheck Awards is now open through Tuesday, Feb. 2, at www.vote.countryaircheck.com

Semi-finalists in each category have been selected by a blue-ribbon committee of more than 50 Country industry professionals. Those semi-finalists will be voted on between now and Feb. 2, with the five finalists in each category being put to a final round of voting beginning Feb. 3. Winners will be announced on Friday, Feb. 24, at the CRS New Faces of Country Music® Dinner and Performance, co-sponsored by the Academy of Country Music and Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“The CRS-CA Awards have become a highly anticipated feature of the CRS New Faces of Country Music Dinner and Performance,” said Country Aircheck Publisher Lon Helton. “We’re excited to partner for the third consecutive year with CRS in honoring Country’s best.”

About the CRS-Country Aircheck Awards: There are 21 total Radio Awards given, broken into four market classes: Major (1-25), Large (26-50), Medium (51-100) and Small (101+). Awards for each market recognize outstanding achievement in the Station, Market Manager/General Manager, Operations Manager/Program Director, Music Director and Air Personality/Show categories. There is one National/Syndicated Personality award presented.

There are six Record Label Awards presented: Platinum Label, Gold Label, VP/Promotion, Director/National Promotion, Regional Promotion and Independent Promotion Team or Executive.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

About Country Aircheck: Country Aircheck is the leading force in the Country radio trade publication industry as a multi-faceted news and information source. The Nashville-based company publishes several branded products including Country Aircheck Today, Country Aircheck Weekly, Country Aircheck's "The Adds," and Country Aircheck quarterly Print Publications. For more information, call 615-320-1450 or visit www.countryaircheck.com.

Alan Jackson To Perform At Capitol/EMI Records Nashville CRS 2012 Luncheon

2012-01-26T07:32:00.000-08:00

Alan Jackson To Perform At Capitol/EMI Records Nashville

CRS 2012 Luncheon

Luncheon to be held Thursday, Feb. 23, at Nashville Convention Center

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 25, 2012) Country music superstar Alan Jackson has been confirmed for a special luncheon performance at CRS 2012 on Thursday, Feb. 23.

The Capitol/EMI Records Nashville luncheon will be held inside the Performance Hall at the Nashville Convention Center from 12:30 – 2:20 p.m. CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012.

“This will be a very special experience from a Country music icon and a true American original,” said Capitol Nashville President and CEO Mike Dungan.

Adds CRS President Mike Culotta, “Alan Jackson’s success as a songwriter and as a performer is well-deserved and well-documented. Alan has built an extraordinary career by making exceptional music at a very high level for a very long time. We’re thrilled to have him perform at our Thursday CRS luncheon.”

CRS 2012 $499 Regular Rate registration expires Friday, Jan. 27. On-Site registration increases to $599 effective Jan. 28. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register today.

About Alan Jackson:
Alan Jackson is one of the most successful and respected singer-songwriters in music. He’s sold nearly 60 million albums worldwide, topped the Country singles charts 35 times and scored more than 50 Top 10 hits. He is a 17-time ACM Award winner, a 16-time CMA Award recipient, and a two-time Grammy-honored artist whose songwriting has earned him the prestigious ASCAP Founders Award and an induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame as a 2011 Songwriter/Artist inductee. Jackson has written or co-written 24 of his 35 No. 1 hit singles, placing him in the elite company of Paul McCartney and John Lennon among songwriters who’ve written more than 20 songs that they’ve recorded and taken to the top of the charts. Jackson is one of the 10 best-selling artists since the inception of SoundScan, ranking alongside the likes of Eminem and Metallica. Jackson’s latest hit, “So You Don’t Have to Love Me Anymore,” is from his forthcoming new album, which will be released in 2012.

About Capitol Records Nashville:
Capitol Records Nashville is one of Country music’s most prominent imprints, having been named Label of the Year by Billboard and Country Aircheck for three consecutive years and Music Row and Country Radio Seminar for 2009 and 2010. The label is part of EMI, the world’s largest independent music company, and is home to a roster of Country music legends, emerging artists and global superstars. In 2010, Capitol Records Nashville announced its newest imprint EMI Records Nashville, which is designed to be a sister label to Capitol Nashville.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS Contact:

Jeff Walker – AristoMedia – (615) 269-7071 x123 – jwalker@aristomedia.com
Christy Watkins – Aristo P.R. – (615) 269-7071 x124 – christy@aristomedia.com

Alan Jackson Contact:

Darlene Bieber - Schmidt Relations – (615) 851-4917 – darlene@schmidtpr.com

Capitol/EMI Records Nashville Contact:
Lori Christian – Capitol/EMI Nashville – (615) 269-2032 – lori.christian@emimusic.com

Sony Music Nashville and Sea Gayle Records Announce “Official Country Radio Hall of Fame After Party” Event Feb. 21

2012-01-24T10:28:00.000-08:00

Sony Music Nashville and Sea Gayle Records Announce “Official Country Radio Hall of Fame After Party” Event Feb. 21

Brent Anderson, Wade Bowen and Jerrod Niemann to perform

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 23, 2012) Sony Music Nashville and Sea Gayle Records are staging the “Official Country Radio Hall of Fame After Party” on Tuesday, Feb. 21, with performances from Brent Anderson, Wade Bowen and Jerrod Niemann.

The full-band showcase event will be held at 8:30 p.m. in the Music City Ballroom inside the Renaissance Nashville hotel, immediately following the Country Radio Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony.

“This is the first time that Sea Gayle Records and Sony Music Nashville have had the opportunity to collaborate on a special event. We are proud and excited to be able to bring the music of Brent, Wade and Jerrod to all CRS attendees. It is such an honor for us to celebrate this year’s Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees,” says Sony Music Nashville Chairman and CEO Gary Overton.

CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center in downtown Nashville, Tenn. $499 Regular Rate registration expires Friday, Jan. 27. On-Site registration increases to $599 effective Jan. 28. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register today.

About Brent Anderson:
Sea Gayle Records/Arista Nashville recording artist Brent Anderson has just been chosen as one of Billboard’s “Best Bets for 2012.” A Pascagoula, Mississippi native, Anderson co-penned his debut single, “Amy’s Song,” which is currently climbing Country airplay charts. At age 13, Anderson was fronting his own band, and by 17, his gift for songwriting caught the ear of Nashville, earning him his first publishing contract in 2005. A distinctive vocalist as well as a skilled guitarist, Anderson co-wrote all of the songs on his upcoming debut album, helmed by noted producer Frank Rogers (Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker). Fans can keep up with Brent Anderson online at www.BrentAndersonMusic.com and via Twitter: @Brents2cents.

About Wade Bowen:
Award winning singer/songwriter and lifetime road warrior Wade Bowen recently released his first single, “Saturday Night,” from his forthcoming studio album on Sea Gayle/BNA Records. Thirteen years after launching his career at Stubb’s Barbecue in Lubbock, Texas, Bowen’s new music isn’t a debut; it’s more like a fresh start on a bigger stage. Bowen has made a living of 200-plus nights a year on the road and patient grassroots fan development. With nine No. 1s on the Texas Music Chart, multiple awards including 2009 Texas Music Awards’ Male Vocalist of the Year and the 2010 Lone Star Music Awards’ Live Act of the Year, three studio albums and a Live At Billy Bob’s CD/DVD combo at the iconic club in Fort Worth under his belt, the Texas native is currently in the studio recording his first album for a major Country label. Visit www.WadeBowen.com for more information.

About Jerrod Niemann:
Sea Gayle/Arista Nashville recording artist Jerrod Niemann launched a trio of hits with his acclaimed album, Judge Jerrod & The Hung Jury, which included “One More Drinkin’ Song,” the Gold-certified “What Do You Want,” and the Platinum No. 1 single, “Lover, Lover.” Co-produced by Niemann, Judge Jerrod & The Hung Jury was one of The New York Times’ Top 10 Albums of 2010 and featured Niemann as a writer on 10 of the 12 songs. Upon release, the album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums sales chart and remained the only major-label debut to hit No. 1 on the chart all year. Niemann has quickly become a fan and industry favorite, earning award nominations from the ACM, CMA, CMT and the American Country Awards, while headlining his own shows and touring with such artists as Dierks Bentley and Brad Paisley. Jerrod is currently at work on a new album and on the road with Miranda Lambert’s “On Fire” tour. Keep up with Jerrod online at www.jerrodniemannofficial.com and on Twitter: @jrodfromoz.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Brent Anderson

Wade Bowen

Jerrod Niemann

CRS Provides Unique Educational Opportunities With Lineup of Expert Panelists

2012-01-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

CRS Provides Unique Educational Opportunities With Lineup of Expert Panelists

$499 Registration expires THIS FRIDAY, Jan. 27

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 24, 2012) CRS 2012 has recruited some of the brightest minds in the Country radio and entertainment industries for its upcoming seminar, held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

Among the industry leaders and experts scheduled to appear at CRS 2012 are:

John Dimick/Lincoln Financial Media - Panel: “PPM: What's New, Now and Next?”
Philippe Generali/Media Monitor and Mediabase – Panel: “PPM: What's New, Now and Next?”
Gregg Baldinger/Director of NHL Radio (National Hockey League) – Panel: “Social Media 201” and “Digital University-Digital Advertising Programs/Cross Promotions”
Thompson Square – Panel: “Social Media 201”
Daniel Anstandig-McVay New Media – Panel: “Digital University-Listener Driven Radio”
Paul Slack/Splash Media – Panel: “Social Media 101” and “Digital University-SEO/SEM”
Todd Cassetty/Hi Fi Fusion - Panel: “Digital University-Creative Digital Content”
Jason Hill/CMT.com – Panel: “Digital Univeristy-Radio Websites”
John Ousby/Vtuner – Panel: “Digital Dashboard: New Technologies=New Opportunities”
Owen Grover/Iheart Radio – Panel: “Digital Dashboard: New Technologies=New Opportunities”
Michelle Avary/Toyota – Panel: “Digital Dashboard: New Technologies=New Opportunities”
Dermot McCormack/MTV Networks – Panel: “Big Picture: Radio's National Digital Strategy”
Kathleen Bricketto/Beasley Broadcast – Panel: “Big Picture: Radio's National Digital Strategy”

Other previously announced speakers and panelists include keynote speaker/MTV co-founder/Clear Channel exec Bob Pittman, renowned futurist David Houle, CMT’s Stephen Linn and “Twitter For Dummies” co-author Laura Fitton.

CRS 2012 $499 Regular Rate registration expires Friday, Jan. 27. On-Site registration increases to $599 effective Jan. 28.

CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register today.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Rascal Flatts To Receive CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award

2012-01-23T09:37:00.001-08:00

Rascal Flatts To Receive CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 23, 2012) Big Machine Records’ Rascal Flatts has been named the recipient of the CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award, to be presented at Country Radio Seminar on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012.

The multi-platinum selling trio of Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney are receiving the honor based on their charitable contributions and humanitarian endeavors throughout the band’s career. In 2010, the group donated $3 million to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt’s Pediatric Surgery Center. They currently serve as celebrity spokespersons for the national suicide prevention organization, The Jason Foundation, and have been members of the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet for the past seven years.

According to CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne, “The board is very pleased to honor Rascal Flatts with the CRS Artist Humanitarian Award. They join a long, distinguished list of celebrities who have received this prestigious award since it was instated in 1990.”

Rascal Flatts will receive the CRS 2012 Artist Humanitarian Award at 10:30 a.m. in the Nashville Convention Center immediately following the seminar’s Keynote Address. CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. $499 Regular Rate registration expires Friday, Jan. 27. On-Site registration increases to $599 effective Jan. 28. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register today.

About the CRS Artist Humanitarian Award:
The CRS Artist Humanitarian Award was created in 1990 to honor those Country music artists who have exhibited exceptional humanitarian efforts during their career. Past recipients of the annual award have included Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, Trace Adkins, Randy Owen, Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Reba, Vince Gill, Garth Brooks and Charlie Daniels, among others. For more information about Country Radio Seminar and the CRS awards, visit: www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About Rascal Flatts:
When Rascal Flatts debuted their first album on Big Machine Records, Nothing Like This, at No. 1 on the Country album sales chart, they became one of only four Country acts to debut six consecutive studio albums at No. 1. Since their musical debut in 2000, Rascal Flatts has sold more than 20 million albums and 25 million digital downloads, delivering 13 No. 1 singles to the top of the charts. In 2011, they were the most played band at Country radio and recently released the first single, “Banjo,” off a soon to be released project titled Changed, due out on April 3.

Rascal Flatts is the most awarded Country group of the past decade, with more than 40 trophies from the American Country Awards, Academy of Country Music, American Music Awards, Country Music Association, People’s Choice Awards and more. As one of the most sought after touring acts, Rascal Flatts has sold more than 6 million concert tickets in their career. They received the Make-A-Wish Shining Star Award in 2008 and the Nashville Symphony’s Harmony Award in 2007. They were also recipients of the Recording Academy Honors in 2007. For more information about Rascal Flatts, visit: www.RascalFlatts.com.

Jim Collins, Andy Gibson, Aaron Lewis, Bobby Pinson to Headline KCRS Live! Showcase at CRS 2012

2012-01-16T10:32:00.000-08:00

Jim Collins, Andy Gibson, Aaron Lewis, Bobby Pinson to Headline KCRS Live! Showcase at CRS 2012

Showcase to be held Wednesday, Feb. 22, sponsored by R&J Records

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 12, 2012) – Jim Collins, Andy Gibson, Aaron Lewis and Bobby Pinson have been announced as the lineup at this year’s KCRS Live! showcase, to be held Wednesday, Feb. 22, at CRS 2012.

Nashville-based independent label R&J Records is sponsoring KCRS Live! The showcase will be held from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. inside the Nashville Convention Center in rooms 204-205.

“R&J Records is thrilled to be hosting KCRS Live! again this year,” says R&J Records’ Bill Catino. “Our industry and lives would be pretty boring without the music, and it all begins with a song. We have an amazing lineup again this year, which includes BMI Songwriter of the Year Bobby Pinson, hit writer Jim Collins, R&J/DMP artist/songwriter Andy Gibson, and last but not least, Rock superstar Aaron Lewis, whose performance last year at KCRS Live! had everyone waiting to hear more.”

CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. $499 Regular Rate registration expires Friday, Jan. 27. On-Site registration increases to $599 effective Jan. 28. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register today.

About the 2012 KCRS Live! songwriters and artists:

About Jim Collins – Jim Collins has written some of Country music’s biggest hits for Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley and Jason Aldean.

About Andy Gibson - R&J/DMP artist and songwriter Andy Gibson’s debut release as a songwriter was “Don’t You Wanna Stay” for Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson. His latest hit single is “Wanna Make You Love Me.”

About Aaron Lewis - Rock superstar Aaron Lewis has sold more than 14 million albums to date, including more than 300,000 copies of his 2011 R&J Records debut Country release, Town Line. Lewis will perform cuts at KCRS Live! from his new, soon-to-be released Country album, produced by R&J Records President James Stroud.

About Bobby Pinson – BMI Songwriter of the Year Bobby Pinson has penned hits for Sugarland, Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn, Rascal Flatts, Blake Shelton and more.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Jim Collins

Andy Gibson

Aaron Lewis

Bobby Pinson

CRS $499 Regular Rate Set to Expire Friday, Jan. 27

2012-01-10T08:53:00.002-08:00

CRS $499 Regular Rate Set to Expire Friday, Jan. 27
On-Site Registration Rate increases to $599 Jan. 28

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 9, 2012) Only a few weeks remain until the $499 Regular registration rate expires on Friday, Jan. 27, for CRS 2012, to be held Feb. 22-24, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. Concurrently, the $99 Unemployment Rate will end on this date as well.

Beginning Saturday, Jan. 28, the CRS 2012 registration price increases to the seminar’s $599 On-Site Rate.

The on-site $99 Unemployment Rate will be available for walk-up registrants, but advance Unemployment Rate registrations must be received at the CRS offices for processing no later than Jan. 27. Contact Kristen McRary at (615) 327-4487 or Kristen@CRB.org for registration materials. Proof of unemployment may be subject to verification.

Country Radio Seminar is the premier educational and networking event for the Country radio and music industry, offering three days of informative panels, prominent speakers and intimate performances from some of today’s biggest stars and emerging artists. Registration for CRS 2012 is currently available on the CRS website atwww.CountryRadioSeminar.com or by contacting the Country Radio Seminar offices at (615) 327-4487.

About Country Radio Seminar:Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visitwww.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio

All-Star Lineup Announced for WCRS Live! at Country Radio Seminar 2012

2012-01-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

All-Star Lineup Announced for WCRS Live! at Country Radio Seminar 2012
BMI and Country Aircheck-sponsored showcase to feature Matraca Berg, Natalie Hemby and Lori McKenna

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 4, 2012) – Country Radio Seminar will proudly feature three of Nashville’s most successful songwriters—Matraca Berg, Natalie Hemby and Lori McKenna—for its WCRS Live! songwriter showcase, to be held Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, at CRS 2012.

The event, sponsored by BMI and Country Aircheck, will take place from 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. CST on the second floor of the Nashville Convention Center during Country Radio Seminar.

“This lineup presents a rare opportunity to experience the work of three of Nashville’s best,” says BMI Assistant VP Dan Spears. “To have Matraca Berg, Natalie Hemby and Lori McKenna sharing the same stage is incredible. But the event will also serve to highlight the vital contributions made by women throughout the music and radio industries, while acting as the perfect complement to ‘Rising Through the Ranks,’ a program that BMI pioneered with the Radio Advertising Bureau. Each year, BMI awards 25 scholarships to female radio executives to attend a Nashville workshop on executive management best practices. The tremendous success of Matraca, Natalie and Lori will be a great reminder of the enormous successes enjoyed—and driven—by women throughout our industries.”

CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. $499 registration is currently available atwww.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About the 2012 WCRS Live! songwriters:

Matraca Berg - Matraca Berg’s songs have been cut by artists including Reba McEntire (“The Last One to Know”), Patty Loveless (“I'm That Kind of Girl”), Trisha Yearwood (“Wrong Side of Memphis”), Martina McBride (“Wild Angels”), the Dixie Chicks (“If I Fall You're Going Down With Me”), Deana Carter (“Strawberry Wine”) and Gretchen Wilson (“I Don’t Feel Like Loving You Today”). Berg has released three albums as a solo artist, including her critically acclaimed 2011 release, The Dreaming Fields.

Natalie Hemby – Nashville native Natalie Hemby has had songs recorded by an impressive list of artists, including her recent successes with Miranda Lambert (“Baggage Claim,” “Fine Tune,” “White Liar,” “Only Prettier,” “The Airstream Song,” “Virginia Bluebell”) and cuts for Lee Ann Womack (“The Bees”), Randy Montana (“Assembly Line”), Eli Young Band (“Mystery in the Making,” “The Fight,” “How Quickly You Forget”), Amy Grant (“Overnight”), Carrie Underwood (“Play On”) and Trace Adkins (“Timing Is Everything”).

Lori McKenna - Singer-songwriter Lori McKenna has had cuts recorded by Faith Hill (“Stealing Kisses,” “Fireflies,” “If You Ask”), Keith Urban (“The Luxury of Knowing”), Sara Evans (“Bible Song”), Tim McGraw (“I’m Workin’”), Alison Krauss (“My Love Follows You Where You Go”), Jimmy Wayne (“True Believer”) and Pop singer Mandy Moore (“Most Of Me,” “Latest Mistake,” “Can’t You Just Adore Her?”) among others. As a solo artist, McKenna has toured with Faith Hill and Tim McGraw and released six studio albums, including Bittertown, Unglamorous and 2011’s Lorraine.

About Country Radio Seminar:Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Country Radio Seminar to Offer Country Radio and Consumer Research Study at CRS 2012

2012-01-03T12:33:00.000-08:00

Country Radio Seminar to Offer Country Radio and Consumer Research Study at CRS 2012

Research data conducted and presented by Edison Research

(Nashville, Tenn. – Nov. 30, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has commissioned a comprehensive Country music research study for presentation at CRS 2012, with data focusing on a broader spectrum of Country music fans than previous CRS research studies.

The extensive research surveys more than 1,000 randomly selected male and female Country music listeners, ages 18-54, from a representative sample of Country music fans across the U.S.

This year’s research was commissioned by Country Radio Seminar to provide a comprehensive look at today’s usage of Country music, including specific data on listening habits, music discovery trends and technology usage. The presentation will also include video interviews conducted with Country music fans from around the country.

New Jersey-based market research firm Edison Research is conducting the study and will present its results during the CRS research panel at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 22. CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center. The CRS research study is sponsored by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“This year's research presentation takes an expanded view of the Country music consumer from two different perspectives: a large, national perceptive study and individual one-on-one focus interviews with consumers from multiple markets,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “This unique approach will provide the macro look at the marketplace and the micro view from the individual perspective. The results will provide CRS attendees with actionable tools to improve their business performance.”

Adds CRS Board member and CRS Research Committee chair Joel Raab, “This year, our study looks beyond Country P-1s to study the universe of Country music fans to get a better understanding of how Country radio fits into the new media world. Our goal is to provide radio with the tools to grow and thrive in this landscape, and this study, with its comprehensive look at the Country radio consumer, certainly accomplishes that.”

$499 registration for CRS 2012 is currently available at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or (615) 327-4487.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

About Edison Research:
Edison Research conducts survey research and provides strategic information to radio stations, television stations, newspapers, cable networks, record labels, Internet companies and a broad range of other organizations. Edison Research is the sole provider of election exit poll data for six major news organizations: ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox, NBC and the Associated Press. Edison Research works with many of the largest American radio ownership groups, including Entercom, Clear Channel, Hubbard, CBS Radio, Bonneville and Dial Global; and also conducts strategic and opinion research for a broad array of companies including Time Warner, Google, Yahoo!, Sony Music, the Voice of America, See Saw Networks and Zenithmedia. Edison Research has a 17-year history of thought-leadership in media research and has provided services to successful media properties in South America, Africa, Asia, Canada and Europe.

All of Edison Research’s industry studies can be found on the company’s Web site at www.edisonresearch.com and can be downloaded free of charge.

CRS $99 Unemployment Rate Returns, Submissions For Radio Humanitarian Awards Now Open

2012-01-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

CRS $99 Unemployment Rate Returns, Submissions For Radio Humanitarian Awards Now Open

(Nashville, Tenn. – Dec. 7, 2011) For the third straight year, the $99 Unemployment Rate is being offered at Country Radio Seminar, to be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center.

Available through Jan. 27, 2012, the $99 Unemployment Rate provides CRS attendees access to more than 30 on-site educational panels and roundtable discussions. Tickets to the Lady Antebellum show, New Faces of Country Music Show® and daily luncheons must be purchased separately at additional cost.

“As our industry continues to weather the effects of an unpredictable economy, we felt it was the right thing to do to offer the Unemployment Rate again this year at CRS 2012,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “We are lucky enough to be in a position to extend some help to those currently without a job in Country radio, and the networking opportunities at CRS cannot be stressed enough. I’m looking forward to a day soon when we won’t need an Unemployment Rate at Country Radio Seminar.”

An on-site $99 Unemployment Rate will be available for walk-up registrants, but advance Unemployment Rate registrations must be received at the CRS offices for processing no later than Jan. 27. Contact Kristen McRary at (615) 327-4487 or Kristen@CRB.org for registration materials. Proof of unemployment may be subject to verification.

Submissions are now being accepted through Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, for the Radio Humanitarian Awards. The awards are presented at CRS to full-time Country radio stations for their efforts to improve the quality of life for the communities they serve. Awards are presented to stations in Large (markets 1-50), Medium (markets 51-130) and Small (markets 131+) categories for public service performed between Nov. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2011.

Applicants should submit a brief written presentation (two pages maximum, including photos) to humanitarian@crb.org, summarizing the details of the station’s community service efforts performed during that period.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Bob Kingsley to be Honored with President's Award at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony Feb. 21

2012-01-03T12:26:00.000-08:00

Bob Kingsley to be Honored with President's Award at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony Feb. 21

(Nashville, Tenn. – Dec. 12, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has announced radio veteran Bob Kingsley as the CRS 2012 President’s Award recipient.

The President's award will be presented during the Country Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and Awards ceremony, held on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at 6 p.m. CST in the Nashville Convention Center Ballroom. The event also serves as the unofficial kick-off to Country Radio Seminar, held Feb. 22-24.

The President's Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the marketing, production, growth and development of the Country Radio Seminar and the multiple services that Country Radio Seminar provides to the Country radio and music communities.

“Without the hard work and innovation of Bob Kingsley, Country radio today would be very different,” says CRS President Mike Culotta. “Bob Kingsley has been an avid supporter of Country radio, and he has been the most consistent advocate of Country Radio Seminar throughout its history. We are excited to present Bob with this year’s CRS President’s Award.”

As previously announced, the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees are Beverlee Brannigan, Moby, Ron Rogers, Eddie Stubbs, Rusty Walker and Bill Whyte.

About Bob Kingsley:
Bob Kingsley is the host and executive producer of “Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40.” A two-time winner of CMA’s National Broadcast Personality of the Year award, Kingsley has also received Billboard’s Network/Syndicated Program of the Year award a remarkable 16 times. He was chosen as ACM’s National Broadcast Personality of the Year in 2007 and was voted National Air Personality of the Year in 2009 and 2010 by Country Radio Seminar and Country Aircheck. After serving as host and producer of the iconic “American Country Countdown” radio show since 1978, Kingsley launched his Country Top 40 program in 2006. He continues to produce and host specials like his highly popular “Christmas in America” special and an annual, year-end countdown show. Kingsley was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 1998.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS 2012 President’s Award recipient Bob Kingsley

CRS 2012 New Faces of Country Music Show Performers Announced

2011-11-29T08:43:00.000-08:00

(Nashville, Tenn. – Nov. 28, 2011) Hunter Hayes, David Nail, Sunny Sweeney, Thompson Square and Eli Young Band have been announced as the CRS 2012 New Faces of Country Music Show® performers.The 2012 New Faces of Country Music Show will be held Friday, Feb. 24, 2012, at Country Radio Seminar inside the downtown Nashville Convention Center. Co-sponsored by the Academy of Country Music and Muscular Dystrophy Association, the annual new artist showcase event officially closes out the three-day seminar and remains one of the most anticipated performances each year at CRS. Tickets to last year’s New Faces show sold out more than six weeks prior to CRS 2011.“The future of Country radio happens every twenty minutes on the New Faces of Country Music Show! Radio has spoken clearly with this year’s wonderful lineup of Hunter Hayes, David Nail, Sunny Sweeney, Thompson Square and Eli Young Band for the crown jewel of CRS 2012,” says New Faces Committee Chair John Crenshaw.

CRS sponsor Lucchese Boots is proudly providing each New Faces performer with a custom-made pair of Lucchese Boots.

The $499 Regular Registration rate for CRS 2012 is currently available at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About Country Radio Seminar:Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

New On-Site Destinations Announced for CRS 2012

2011-11-09T09:51:00.000-08:00

New On-Site Destinations Announced for CRS 2012

St. Jude Internet Café, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley and CRS Badge Bar offer attendees improved conveniences, entertainment options

(Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 31, 2011) Country Radio Seminar continues to improve the CRS experience for its attendees with this year’s addition of a new Internet café, after-hours songwriters in the round and an updated, professionally redesigned lounge.

For the first time ever, Country Radio Seminar is offering free, on-site Internet with its new St. Jude Internet Café. Sponsored by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the café serves coffee and beverages and provides free wireless or wired Internet access for all CRS attendees. Cell phone charging stations are also available in the café.

On the Wednesday and Thursday night of the seminar, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley will be open for after-hours acoustic entertainment. Hosted by radio legend Bob Kingsley, the venue will showcase performances from some of Nashville’s top songwriters. Sponsored by Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40 and co-sponsored by SunTrust Bank.

The private CRS Badge Bar has been expanded and completely redesigned for CRS 2012 by nationally recognized Nashville party planner Randi Lesnick. Featuring new décor and furniture, a fully stocked bar and a modern, relaxed atmosphere, the Badge Bar is open to CRS attendees only. Sponsored by Cumulus Media and City National Bank.

“These new destinations at CRS 2012 were created to provide greater conveniences and more entertainment options for our attendees. People no longer have to go back to their room at the hotel to charge their phone or get online,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “We received so much positive feedback about the debut of our Badge Bar last year that we decided to take it a step further and have it completely redesigned and updated. It’s a great place to relax and catch up after a long day of panels. Bob Kingsley's Acoustic Alley is going to feature some of Country music’s greatest songwriters without ever having to leave the hotel.”

Limited time, $399 Early Bird registration is currently available for CRS 2012 through Nov. 15 at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or by calling (615) 327-4487.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit  www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS 2012 Offers More Than 30 Educational Panels and Roundtable Discussions

2011-11-04T06:51:00.000-07:00

CRS 2012 Offers More Than 30 Educational Panels and Roundtable Discussions

Industry experts lead panels on branding, mobile media, talent coaching, marketing strategies, more

(Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 26, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has expanded its agenda for CRS 2012, offering attendees more than 30 educational panels and roundtable discussions led across the board by prominent industry experts and innovators.

In addition to previously announced appearances from keynote speaker/MTV co-founder/Clear Channel exec Bob Pittman, renowned futurist David Houle, CMT’s Stephen Linn and “Twitter For Dummies” co-author Laura Fitton, additional “can’t-miss” panels and panelists at next year’s seminar, held Feb. 22-24, 2012, include:

Jacobs Media Going Mobile Presentation: Get Smart!
The Jacobs Media presentation is a comprehensive presentation of how consumers use mobile media and its impact today and in the future. This audio/visual presentation employs examples of real consumers using and interacting with their mobile devices. Hosted by Fred Jacobs, Classic Rock format pioneer and founder of audience research and radio consultancy, Jacobs Media.

Branding: What It Really Is and How to Build One:
Forbes contributor and Chief Strategist at branding/consumer engagement agency Access Brand Strategies, Paul Jankowski helps define what a brand is and effective ways attendees can build theirs. His book, “How to Speak American: Building Brands in the New Heartland,” calls out ad agencies on the coasts for their dismissive attitude towards the “New Heartland,” the biggest cultural segment in the U.S. This panel explores the role that core values play in buying behavior and in listener engagement with Country radio.

Turbo Charging Your High Octane Air Talent:
Veteran talent coach and former morning radio pro Steve Reynolds of The Reynolds Group conducts a training session for managers and programmers who coach talent in PPM markets. Using tools like The Wheel of Content© and The Scorecard©, Reynolds educates managers on how to talk to their air talent to improve what they're doing and help them perform better with the new measurement.

Brainstorming To Win:
Led by Executive VP/The Center for Sales Strategy’s Matt Sunshine, this panel outlines step by step brainstorming techniques using real world case studies. Attendees will learn how brainstorming can help them achieve marketing goals and execute successful promotions. Programs Sunshine has authored for the 28-year sales performance consulting company include the Interactive Insight webinar, the Digital Sales Accelerator and the Facilitator’s Certification Workshop.

Marketing That Gets Advertisers Results:
Another panel hosted by The Center for Sales Strategy’s Matt Sunshine, this panel focuses on the Marketing Strategy Model. Sunshine explains this five-step model and then examines case studies to give seminar attendees actionable knowledge they can utilize with specific clients.

Limited time, $399 Early Bird registration is currently available for CRS 2012 through Nov. 15 at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or by calling (615) 327-4487. An online version of the CRS 2012 agenda can also be viewed on the website. CRS reserves the right to modify or change the agenda at any time.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

New On-Site Destinations Announced for CRS 2012

2011-11-04T06:47:00.000-07:00

New On-Site Destinations Announced for CRS 2012

St. Jude Internet Café, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley and CRS Badge Bar offer attendees improved conveniences, entertainment options

(Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 31, 2011) Country Radio Seminar continues to improve the CRS experience for its attendees with this year’s addition of a new Internet café, after-hours songwriters in the round and an updated, professionally redesigned lounge.

For the first time ever, Country Radio Seminar is offering free, on-site Internet with its new St. Jude Internet Café. Sponsored by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the café serves coffee and beverages and provides free wireless or wired Internet access for all CRS attendees. Cell phone charging stations are also available in the café.

On the Wednesday and Thursday night of the seminar, Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley will be open for after-hours acoustic entertainment. Hosted by radio legend Bob Kingsley, the venue will showcase performances from some of Nashville’s top songwriters. Sponsored by Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40 and co-sponsored by SunTrust Bank.

The private CRS Badge Bar has been expanded and completely redesigned for CRS 2012 by nationally recognized Nashville party planner Randi Lesnick. Featuring new décor and furniture, a fully stocked bar and a modern, relaxed atmosphere, the Badge Bar is open to CRS attendees only. Sponsored by Cumulus Media and City National Bank.

“These new destinations at CRS 2012 were created to provide greater conveniences and more entertainment options for our attendees. People no longer have to go back to their room at the hotel to charge their phone or get online,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “We received so much positive feedback about the debut of our Badge Bar last year that we decided to take it a step further and have it completely redesigned and updated. It’s a great place to relax and catch up after a long day of panels. Bob Kingsley's Acoustic Alley is going to feature some of Country music’s greatest songwriters without ever having to leave the hotel.”

Limited time, $399 Early Bird registration is currently available for CRS 2012 through Nov. 15 at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or by calling (615) 327-4487.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Country Radio Stations to be Recognized at CRS 2012 for Response and Relief Efforts

2011-10-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

Oct 12, 2011
Country Radio Stations to be Recognized at CRS 2012 for Response and Relief Efforts

Country Radio Stations to be Recognized at CRS 2012 for Response and Relief Efforts

Now accepting materials for
“Radio Responds: A Tribute to Country Radio”

Country Radio Seminar is honoring the perpetual crisis management efforts of Country radio with its “Radio Responds: A Tribute to Country Radio” presentation at CRS 2012.

CRS is requesting digital format materials from any and all stations around the country that will be included in a special salute honoring Country radio and shown at various events throughout the seminar, to be held Feb. 22-24 in downtown Nashville, Tenn. These materials can include presentations, news video, on-air aircheck segments or anything that effectively demonstrates a station’s efforts to help those in need.

“Country radio is unmatched at recognizing and meeting the needs of its communities, especially in times of crisis,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Recent natural disasters and economic hardship have put communities in almost every market in the country at risk, and Country Radio Seminar wants to recognize these stations’ service, action and compassion in dealing with these unfortunate situations.”

Please send materials in digital format only to: RadioResponds@CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters. Connect with CRS via Twitter or on Facebook.

2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

2011-10-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Oct 24, 2011
2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

(Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 24, 2011) Beverlee Brannigan, Moby, Ron Rogers, Eddie Stubbs, Rusty Walker and Bill Whyte are the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees.

Beverlee Brannigan, Ron Rogers and Rusty Walker are the 2012 Radio category inductees, and Moby, Eddie Stubbs and Bill Whyte are the On-Air category inductees. The class of 2012 will be officially inducted at a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at 6 p.m. CST inside the Nashville Convention Center.

The Country Radio Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony unofficially kicks off Country Radio Seminar each year. Lucchese Boots is a proud sponsor of the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame and will be providing each inductee this year with a custom made pair of Lucchese Boots.

The Country Radio Hall of Fame is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the radio industry over a 20-year period, 15 of which must be in the Country format. CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information about CRS and the Country Radio Hall of Fame.

About the 2012 Radio Inductees:

Beverlee Brannigan – Beverlee Brannigan’s career began at the college radio station at Northwestern University. She joined WOKQ as an air personality, and in 1979 became the Program Director/personality for KJJY, where she enjoyed tremendous success for the next 20 years. Brannigan also programmed stations KRUU, KHKI and KMXM. Since 2003, she has served as Operations Manager for six stations in Wichita and Program Director for three, including market leader KFDI, which won CMA Station of the Year in 2003. Brannigan is widely considered by the industry to be a trailblazer for women in Country Radio programming.

Ron Rogers – Ron Rogers began his broadcasting career at KTBC AM-FM-TV while a student at the University of Texas. His lengthy career spans the entire spectrum of the radio business. He has held positions as Program Director at WACO, Sales Manager at KNOW, General Manager at KOKE, and President/Co-Owner at KLAW, KVET and KASE. He has served on numerous industry and community boards and is the recipient of several broadcasting and community awards. He was inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame in 2004.

Rusty Walker – Rusty Walker has either programmed, advised, created, consulted, overseen, served as a strategic partner or performed as an air personality for more than 750 Country radio stations since he started his radio career in 1970. In total, there are fewer Country stations in rated markets that Walker hasn’t worked with than those he has. A few of his personality and Program Director stints include: WQYK, WQIK, WZZK and KFKF. He has been recognized with numerous national industry and community awards, including a seven-year consecutive run as Billboard’s Consultant of the Year. His program consulting firm, Rusty Walker Programming, remains one of the industry’s most influential.

About the 2012 On-Air Inductees:

Moby – Moby is a 40-year veteran air personality whose career began at the age of 15 in his hometown of Crossville, Tenn. For 10 years, he was a major force in the Rock format every morning in Houston and Dallas (KSSR, KLOL, KEGL). Moby then moved to Atlanta and WKHX, where he proceeded to win a major morning battle in the Country format and enjoy success for the next decade. Moby is the recipient of numerous national Air Personality awards, including winning Billboard's Major Market Country Morning Show of the Year five times. He formed his own syndication company in 2004 and continues today to be heard on Country stations around the nation.

Eddie Stubbs – Celebrated air personality Eddie Stubbs has been the longest tenured evening host on Nashville’s legendary 650AM WSM since the station went to an all Country format in 1979. He is recognized nationally as the announcer of the Grand Ole Opry, a position he has held for more than 16 years. He also serves as the on camera announcer for the Marty Stuart Show on RFD-TV and serves on the CMA and IBMA committees. He won the CMA Large Market Broadcast Personality of the Year award in 2002. Stubbs is well respected among his peers for his vast knowledge of the history of Country music.

Bill Whyte – Bill started his career as a teenager on KCPR, “Kow Pasture Country Radio,” in Missouri. His career spans successes at WUBE, WMIL, WSM-FM and WFMS. He has won multiple national Air Personality awards, hosted syndicated shows, and is also a singer-songwriter. He has won numerous broadcast awards including the CMA Award for Best Large Market Personality. He's been nominated for a CMA Award twice and won an AIR Award for best new Morning Show in Nashville.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters. Connect with CRS via Twitter or on Facebook.

Six-time Grammy Award-Winning Trio Lady Antebellum to Perform Special Show During CRS 2012

2011-10-25T08:17:00.000-07:00

Oct 24, 2011
Six-time Grammy Award-Winning Trio Lady Antebellum to Perform Special Show During CRS 2012

Six-time Grammy Award-Winning Trio Lady Antebellum to Perform Special Show During CRS 2012

Band makes special statement of appreciation to Country radio with a donation to support CRS programs

(Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 19, 2011) CRS 2012 attendees will have a special seat for Lady Antebellum’s Nashville concert on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012.

In a show of appreciation to Country radio, the six-time Grammy Award-winning trio has allocated a block of seats for Country Radio Seminar attendees as a way to say thank you for supporting the band throughout their career.

“We feel like it was just yesterday when we heard our first single on the radio for the first time. Here we are four years later with so much gratitude and love in our hearts for our friends at Country radio,” said Lady A's Hillary Scott. “With our Own The Night Tour going on this spring, we thought what better time to play Nashville than during CRS...we want this to be a huge party to celebrate our relationship with Country radio, our hometown, and OWNING THE NIGHT!”

The band is also making a donation to help support all CRS programs, including its scholarship, seminar and the Country Radio Hall of Fame.

“The direct relationship that Country radio has with its artists is unparalleled in this business,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Country Radio Seminar has always strived to strengthen those relationships, and we are deeply appreciative of Lady Antebellum’s generosity and recognition of those efforts. This show marks the first of several upcoming artist announcements we have planned in the coming months as CRS continues to evolve and create new and exciting events at the most comprehensive Country radio industry event in the world.”

All CRS 2012 attendees will receive a ticket to the show in their on-site registration packets. Shuttle buses will transport attendees to and from the venue following the seminar’s Artist/Attendee Welcome Reception at the Nashville Convention Center on Wednesday evening.

CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in Nashville, Tenn. $399 Early Bird registration is still available for a limited time. To register, visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or call (615) 327-4487.

Lady Antebellum 2012 tour dates have just been announced. For a full schedule of dates, visit www.LadyAntebellum.com.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters. Connect with CRS via Twitter or on Facebook.

About Lady Antebellum:
Lady A’s record-breaking third disc, OWN THE NIGHT, debuted at the No. 1 position on Billboard’s Top 200 chart last month, becoming the biggest first week debut by a Country artist this year. Their current hit, “We Owned The Night,” is the album’s second single and follows their fifth career No. 1 hit, “Just A Kiss.” The trio’s previous two albums have sold over five million albums across the globe, spawned four No. 1 hits, scored six GRAMMYs and over a dozen other award show trophies. The group is currently nominated for Vocal Group of the Year for the 45th Annual CMA Awards, Favorite Country Band, Duo or Group for the 2011 American Music Awards and will be honored as one CMT’s five Artists of the Year in December.

Just A Few Weeks Remain to Take Advantage of CRS 2012 $399 Early Bird Rate

2011-10-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Oct 17, 2011
Just A Few Weeks Remain to Take Advantage of CRS 2012 $399 Early Bird Rate

Just A Few Weeks Remain to Take Advantage of CRS 2012 $399 Early Bird Rate

Cheapest registration rate of the year set to expire Tuesday, Nov. 15

(Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 17, 2011) Only a few weeks remain before the $399 Early Bird registration rate expires on Nov. 15 for CRS 2012, to be held Feb. 22-24, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 16, the CRS 2012 registration price increases to the $499 Regular Rate.

Country Radio Seminar is the premier educational and networking event for the Country radio and music industry, offering three days of informative panels, prominent speakers and intimate performances from some of today’s biggest stars and emerging artists. Registration for CRS 2012 is currently available on the CRS website at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or by contacting the Country Radio Seminar offices at (615) 327-4487.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters. Connect with CRS via Twitter or on Facebook.

Five Country radio industry veterans have been announced as next year’s core panel moderators at CRS 2012, to be held Feb. 22-24, 2012

2011-10-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

Sep 28, 2011

Five Country radio industry veterans have been announced as next year’s core panel moderators at CRS 2012, to be held Feb. 22-24, 2012.

CRS 2012 Panel Moderators Announced

Three new and two returning moderators to host panels at Country Radio Seminar, held Feb. 22-24

(Nashville, TN – Sept. 26, 2011) Five Country radio industry veterans have been announced as next year’s core panel moderators at CRS 2012, to be held Feb. 22-24, 2012.

Making their debut as moderators at next year’s Country Radio Seminar are Beverlee Brannigan (KFDI/Wichita, KS), Marc Chase (NuVoodoo Media Services) and Bob Richards (WLHK/Indianapolis, IN). Returning CRS moderators are Dan Halyburton (McVay Media) and Charlie Morgan (WLHK/Indianapolis, IN). Between them, the five industry pros will oversee and direct nearly 20 educational panels over three days at CRS 2012, held inside the downtown Nashville Convention Center.

“Last year at CRS 2011 we debuted our idea of having five ‘core’ panel moderators, which really worked out well and helped streamline our seminar’s agenda,” says CRS Agenda Committee member Annie Sandor. “The number of panels we have scheduled at CRS 2012 has actually increased from last year, so we are excited about offering our attendees even more bang for their buck. I know Beverlee, Bob, Charlie, Dan and Marc will bring a wealth of insight to these topics as well.”

The $399 Early Bird registration rate for CRS 2012 remains in effect for a limited time. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com to register or call (615) 327-4487.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS 2012 Digital Liners Registration Deadline For Stations is Oct. 7

2011-10-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

Sep 6, 2011
CRS 2012 Digital Liners Registration Deadline For Stations is Oct. 7

CRS 2012 Digital Liners Registration Deadline For Stations is Oct. 7

Lady Antebellum, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan among stars already confirmed.

(Nashville, Tenn. – Sept. 6, 2011) The clock has started ticking for radio stations to register and take advantage of the digital liners program offered through Country Radio Seminar 2012, to be held Feb. 22-24, 2012.

The deadline for stations wanting to receive all-digital, custom liners must register for CRS 2012 by Friday, Oct. 7, 2011. Artists already confirmed to participate and record liners include: Kix Brooks, Luke Bryan, Ronnie Dunn, Eli Young Band, Faith Hill, Lady Antebellum, Tim McGraw, Montgomery Gentry, Joe Nichols, Jerrod Niemann, Blake Shelton, Josh Thompson, Carrie Underwood and more. Stations are required to limit liner requests to a total of 225 characters.

“One of the many benefits Country radio takes away from CRS each year is the customized digital liners program,” says CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Many of our format’s biggest stars participate, and we have already gotten more artist commitments at this point in the registration process than ever before.”

CRS 2012 Early Bird registration is now available for a limited time for $399 at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com. CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

Direct digital liner radio inquiries to Kristen McRary at (615) 327-4487 or Kristen@CRB.org. For artist inquiries, contact Chasity Crouch at (615) 327-4487 or Chasity@CRB.org.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS Raises Bar on the Learning Curve at Country Radio Seminar 2012

2011-10-25T08:06:00.000-07:00

Aug 30, 2011
CRS Raises Bar on the Learning Curve at Country Radio Seminar 2012

CRS Raises Bar on the Learning Curve at Country Radio Seminar 2012

Three-day seminar looks to the future of Country radio with emphasis on research, social media, new CRS Digital University.

(Nashville, Tenn. – Aug. 29, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has raised the bar on the learning curve at CRS 2012, emphasizing the importance of social media and market research in next year’s agenda of educational panels and presentations.

CRS 2012, held Feb. 22-24 in downtown Nashville, is offering an array of panels that are tailored to attendees based on their social media prowess. “Social Media 101” is an entry-level panel covering the basics of sites like Facebook and Twitter, while “Social Media 201” is a more advanced session, exploring revenue opportunities, analytics and how to grow your radio audience through social media.

Making its debut at CRS 2012 next year is the CRS Digital University, a series of eight roundtable discussions covering topics such as social media sites, website development, search engine optimization, smartphone applications, interactive radio, online marketing and digital revenue. CMT’s Stephen Linn opens the Digital University with a strategy plan that all attendees can benefit from.

Additionally, Laura Fitton, co-author of “Twitter for Dummies” and CEO of the site OneForty.com, will share her expertise in the “Social Media 101” panel and in the Digital University discussions. Recently acquired by HubSpot, Fitton’s company is responsible for the creation of social media management platform, SocialBase.

For 2012, CRS has scheduled multiple Country radio research studies as part of its agenda. These national studies will focus on the habits and opinions of the Country radio listener and consumer and provide attendees with the most in-depth research presented at CRS to date.

CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne declares, “We are really upping the ante at CRS 2012 when it comes to our focus on technology, social media and research. Our current $399 Early Bird Rate is a steal, and with several events selling out last year, I would strongly encourage everyone to register now. Get to CRS in February so you don’t get your butt kicked in the Spring Book!”

Clear Channel Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms Bob Pittman officially kicks off CRS 2012 with his keynote address on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Pittman will address the future of Country radio and the evolving digital landscape in the radio and record industries. Pittman has served as CEO at AOL Networks, Quantum Media, Time Warner Enterprises and MTV Networks, where he led the team that created MTV.

Limited time, $399 registration is currently available for CRS 2012 at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or by calling (615) 327-4487. For more information, an online version of the CRS 2012 agenda can be viewed at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com. CRS reserves the right to modify or change the agenda at any time.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS Now Accepting Nominations For 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame

2011-08-16T09:08:00.001-07:00

Aug 9, 2011
CRS Now Accepting Nominations For 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame

CRS Now Accepting Nominations For 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame

Deadline for nominees to return applications to CRS offices is Sept. 9

(Nashville, Tenn. – Aug. 8, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has opened the nomination process for the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame.

Nominations can be submitted here at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com. As nominations are processed, Country Radio Seminar officials will provide each nominee with an official application. This application must be returned to the CRS offices no later than Friday, Sept. 9, 2011.

“No other event highlights the accomplishments and contributions of those who have meant so much to the Country Radio industry than the annual Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony. This is the time to be sure that worthy candidates are nominated and included in the process for 2012,” says CRS Hall of Fame Chairman Charlie Morgan.

Nominees may include air-checks, press clippings, awards listings and other materials for consideration. Applications received after Sept. 9 will be held for consideration for the 2013 Hall of Fame class. A selection committee of Country radio and industry veterans, as well as members of the Country Radio Hall of Fame determines the Hall of Fame class each year.

The 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and induction ceremony is held Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center.

On-Air Personality Hall of Fame Criteria:

* Must have at least a 20 year on-air career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format.
* Significant contributions to the growth and development in the Country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Country music as an art form.

Radio Hall of Fame Criteria:

* Must have at least a 20 year career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format.
* Significant contributions to the growth and development of the Country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Country music as an art form.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

CRS Previews Can’t-Miss Agenda Elements for Country Radio Seminar 2012

2011-08-16T09:01:00.001-07:00

Aug 1, 2011
CRS Previews Can’t-Miss Agenda Elements for Country Radio Seminar 2012

CRS Previews Can’t-Miss Agenda Elements for Country Radio Seminar 2012

Radio experts, research, panels, music, networking, awards, Early Bird registration offer unparalleled value at CRS 2012

(Nashville, Tenn. – Aug. 1, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has highlighted several can’t-miss elements from its agenda for CRS 2012, to be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the downtown Nashville Convention Center.

Each year, Country Radio Seminar offers an outstanding and exclusive mix of expert panelists, speakers, research, music and networking to its attendees. An early look at the three-day CRS 2012 agenda includes the following educational and entertainment opportunities.

Keynote Address: Bob Pittman, Clear Channel’s Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms, kicks off CRS 2012 with the keynote address on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Among other positions, Pittman has served as CEO at AOL Networks, Quantum Media, Time Warner Enterprises and MTV Networks, where he led the team that created MTV.

Research: CRS has commissioned a far-reaching national Country radio study, which will debut exclusively at Country Radio Seminar 2012.

Panels: Social media, digital transition challenges, promotion strategies, branding and ratings are among the informative panel topics covered at CRS 2012, including the latest in PPM and radio diary technology.

Social Media: CRS 2012 has scheduled multiple panels on the growing importance of social media in Country radio, including a beginner and advanced session on today’s social media marketing applications.

Musical Performances: A special Wednesday night performance event is debuting at CRS 2012, along with Friday’s popular New Faces show and awards, the PRO songwriter showcases and three label luncheon concerts. Additional surprise performances to be announced.

Networking and Socializing: CRS 2011 saw more than 2,600 industry professionals attend Country Radio Seminar, providing invaluable networking opportunities. Additionally, the private CRS lounge is returning with a new design and a new name: The CRS Badge Bar.

Early Bird Registration Rate: Limited time, $399 registration is currently available for CRS 2012 at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or by calling (615) 327-4487.

Awards: The Country Radio Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony unofficially kicks off CRS 2012 in the Nashville Convention Center on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012. Artist and Humanitarian awards will be announced and the CRS/Country Aircheck awards will be presented during the New Faces of Country Music Show®.

For more information, an online version of the CRS 2012 agenda can be viewed at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com. CRS reserves the right to modify or change the agenda at any time.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Bob Pittman, Clear Channel’s Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms, Announced as CRS 2012 Keynote Speaker

2011-08-16T08:58:00.001-07:00

Jul 25, 2011
Bob Pittman, Clear Channel’s Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms, Announced as CRS 2012 Keynote Speaker

Chairman of Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Platforms
Bob Pittman
Bob Pittman, Clear Channel’s Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms, Announced as CRS 2012 Keynote Speaker

MTV co-founder to kick off Country Radio Seminar with keynote address Wednesday, Feb. 22

(Nashville, Tenn. – July 25, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has announced Clear Channel’s Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms and MTV co-founder Bob Pittman as the CRS 2012 keynote speaker.

Pittman was appointed Chairman of Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Platforms in Nov. 2010, where he, alongside Clear Channel Radio’s CEO John Hogan and team, lead the development of a comprehensive, integrated digital strategy for Clear Channel in the radio business. A 35-year entertainment industry veteran and founding member of New York-based private investment firm Pilot Group, LLC, he will deliver the keynote address to officially kick off Country Radio Seminar at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 22. CRS will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

Pittman’s extensive background in radio and television includes CEO positions at AOL Networks, Quantum Media, Time Warner Enterprises and MTV Networks, where he led the team that created MTV. He has also served as COO of America Online, Inc. and AOL Time Warner. Among other recognition, Pittman was named one of Advertising Age’s “10 Marketers Who Changed American Culture” and “50 Pioneers and Visionaries of TV” and one of Life magazine’s “Five Original Thinkers of the ’80s” and “50 Most Influential Boomers.”

“Bob Pittman’s resume speaks for itself,” says CRS President Mike Culotta. “His experience in radio, television and marketing will undoubtedly provide our CRS attendees with unique insight into the issues the Country radio industry is facing today. We are once again anticipating another informative keynote address at Country Radio Seminar, and we encourage everyone to do themselves a favor and attend.”

Pittman began his career programming radio stations in Pittsburgh, Chicago and eventually WNBC in New York City. In 1999, he was inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame, and in 2002 he received the International Radio and Television Society’s Gold Medal. He has also served as CEO of Six Flags Theme Parks and Century 21 Real Estate.

Past Country Radio Seminar keynote speakers have included Scripps Networks’ CEO Ken Lowe, money management expert Dave Ramsey, marketing guru Seth Godin, retired U.S. General Tommy Franks and recording artist Bon Jovi.

CRS 2012’s limited-time, $399 Early Bird registration is now available. To register, visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center. Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information. Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Bradley Gaskin Performs at Mt. Richmore in Conjunction with CRB/CRS Meetings

2011-08-16T08:57:00.001-07:00

Jun 23, 2011
Bradley Gaskin Performs at Mt. Richmore in Conjunction with CRB/CRS Meetings

Bradley Gaskin Performs at Mt. Richmore in Conjunction with CRB/CRS Meetings

(Nashville, Tenn. – June 23, 2011) In conjunction with the CRB/CRS agenda and board committee meetings at the downtown Renaissance Hotel, Columbia Nashville artist Bradley Gaskin performed for a gathering of industry executives and CRB agenda and board members on Wednesday, June 22, at John Rich's Mt. Richmore residence in Nashville, Tenn. Rich produced Gaskin's current single, "Mr. Bartender."

Pictured below, l to r: CRB board member/Sony Music Nashville's Skip Bishop, artist/producer John Rich, Sony Music Nashville CEO Gary Overton, Columbia Nashville artist Bradley Gaskin, CRB President Mike Culotta, CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne, Columbia Nashville's Jimmy Rector. Photo: Kristen England.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615.327.4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2012 will be held February 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

CRB, Inc. Announces New Directors of Brand Marketing and Strategic Partnerships

2011-08-16T08:25:00.001-07:00

May 23, 2011
CRB, Inc. Announces New Directors of Brand Marketing and Strategic Partnerships

CRB, Inc. Announces New Directors of Brand Marketing and Strategic Partnerships

(Nashville, Tenn. – May 23, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced Michelle Tigard Kammerer and Cheri Lynn Martin as CRB’s newly appointed Directors of Brand Marketing and Strategic Partnerships, effective June 6, 2011.

Michelle Tigard Kammerer comes to Country Radio Broadcasters with more than 10 years’ experience in the music industry, including nearly seven years at the Nashville branch of worldwide booking and talent agency, Creative Artists Agency. As chairman of the prominent Nashville fundraising event, Young Nashville Party, Kammerer helped secure sponsorships with local and national brands, including Coca-Cola, Loews Hotels and Virgin America Airlines, among others. Kammerer owns a Bachelors of Science degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Friends University in Wichita, KS.

“I am honored to join the CRB team. I have attended Country Radio Seminar many times and know its vast reach and relevance within the music industry,” says Kammerer. “I am excited to help continue that great legacy, as well as bring new ideas, partnerships and opportunities to CRS 2012. See you there!”

Cheri Lynn Martin joins CRB from Seattle, Wash., where she specialized in A&R Development at Pledge Music. Martin developed relationships and wrote campaigns and proposals for marketing companies, managers, record labels and national brands, including Warner Bros. Records, Sony Music Nashville, Capitol Records, Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital and more. From 2006-2010, Martin ran her own promotions and marketing firm, where she promoted artists including Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, Sugarland and Phil Vassar. Martin also spent time as a National Promotion Director with RCA Label Group.

“Exploring and securing strategic sponsorships for the Country Radio Seminar is truly a dream position,” says Martin. “I am honored to work on this legendary event with such a great group of people at Country Radio Broadcasters, and with such a dynamic partner as Michelle. I'm looking forward to being part of the team for CRB.”

Adds CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne, “I am extremely excited to have Michelle and Cheri join our team as we continue our evolution of Country Radio Broadcasters. They both bring a wealth of experience, enthusiasm, and creativity in serving our sponsors and organization. Look forward to some amazing new concepts for CRS 2012 and beyond!”

Michelle Tigard Kammerer

Cheri Lynn Martin

CRS 2012 is Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. For more information, visit www.CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Now Accepting CRS 2012 Agenda Committee Applications

2011-08-16T08:22:00.001-07:00

Mar 21, 2011
Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Now Accepting CRS 2012 Agenda Committee Applications

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Now Accepting CRS 2012 Agenda Committee Applications

Deadline to submit application is April 1

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 21, 2011) Following its recent success with CRS 2011, which saw a 22 percent increase in attendance, CRB, Inc.® is now accepting applications through April 1, 2011, for its 2011-2012 CRS Agenda Committee.

The CRS Agenda Committee is made up of volunteer professionals from all areas of the Country radio and record industries. The committee is primarily responsible for planning events for the upcoming year’s Country Radio Seminar. Prospective applicants must be available to attend agenda meetings in Nashville on June 23-24, 2011. Applicants are also expected to attend panels and meetings at CRS 2012, held Feb. 22-24, 2012.

Visit www.CRB.org to download the Agenda Committee application and fax or email the completed form by April 1 to Sheree Latham at (615) 329-4492 or Sheree@CRB.org.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

Results of CRS 2011 Country Radio P1 Research Study Now Available Online

2011-08-16T08:20:00.001-07:00

Mar 9, 2011
Results of CRS 2011 Country Radio P1 Research Study Now Available Online

Results of CRS 2011 Country Radio P1 Research Study Now Available Online

View the complete study at CRB.org, ColemanInsights.com

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 9, 2011) The complete results of the Country radio P1 research study presented at CRS 2011 are now available online at CRB.org and ColemanInsights.com.

Sponsored by Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. and the Country Music Association, the in-depth study polled 5,000 12- to 64-year-old P1 Country radio listeners about their music consumption habits, new media usage and the overall state of Country Music. A parallel study, which polled music and radio executives, was also conducted to gauge industry perceptions versus those of the consumer.

North Carolina-based media research firm Coleman Insights conducted the research. Results were trended against the last CRB-commissioned Country radio P1 study, presented at CRS in 2007.

The 2011 study suggests that consumers perceive the overall health and appeal of Country Music as significantly more positive than industry professionals do. Eighty-three percent of Country P1s perceive that they are “listening more” to Country radio today than one year ago, with 51 percent suggesting the reason why is because “Country Music is better” now.

New media usage among Country radio consumers appears to be growing at a comparable rate to the rest of the population. Seventy-five percent of Country radio P1s own an Internet-connected PC or Mac computer, two-thirds own a game console, half own an iPod or mp3 player and nearly 50 percent own a smartphone device.

Additionally, radio is still the medium that makes consumers feel “most connected” to Country Music and remains the most consistent means of new music discovery for them. However, more than one-third of P1s have used new music discovery service, Pandora, and indicate that they are “likely” to use it in an automobile if available.

“We are pleased to present the complete findings of our 2011 Country radio listener P1 study to the public,” says Coleman Insights CEO Warren Kurtzman. “We hope that the data collected from more than 5,000 core listeners helps the Country radio industry continue in its growth and encourages it to explore new opportunities, particularly in the new media marketplace. Country radio remains healthy today, and its future looks bright.”

Adds CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne, “The results of this year’s study marks a positive step in our understanding of the Country radio consumer. It also provides a wealth of information that we can use going forward to strengthen our relationships between Country radio and our listeners.”

Participants in the CRB 2011 Country radio listener P1 study were polled via email and online questionnaires between Feb. 7-18, 2011.

To view the complete findings of the 2011 CRB Country Radio P1 listener research study, visit www.CRB.org or www.ColemanInsights.com.

Digital Rodeo Closes Out CRS 2011 with “British Invasion” Show

2011-08-16T08:18:00.001-07:00

Mar 8, 2011
Digital Rodeo Closes Out CRS 2011 with “British Invasion” Show

Digital Rodeo Closes Out CRS 2011 with “British Invasion” Show

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 8, 2011) Digital Rodeo closed out Country Radio Seminar 2011 with a themed “British Invasion” show, held Friday, March 4, at downtown Nashville venue Cadillac Ranch. More than a dozen Country artists were on hand to cover songs of their choice from the "British Invasion" era of the '60s.

Performers included: Katie Armiger, Burns and Poe, Sarah Darling, Due West, Ashley Gearing, The Harters, Jacob Lyda, One Night Rodeo, Julie Roberts, Adam Tefteller, Tiffany, Bryan White, Mark Wills.

About DigitalRodeo.com:
DigitalRodeo.com is the premier country news, music and lifestyle site for country music fans everywhere. Community membership is free and offers fans and artists alike the opportunity to connect with each other, upload and download audio and video, watch exclusive DigitalRodeo.com content and stay updated on what’s happening in the world of country music. For more information, visit www.DigitalRodeo.com.

Digital Rodeo Director of Marketing and Promotions, John Pyne, poses with artists following the Digital Rodeo "British Invasion" show, which officially closed out CRS 2011 at Cadillac Ranch. Pictured l to r: Ashley Gearing, Pyne, Tiffany and Sarah Darling. Photo: Bev Moser.

CRS 2011 Photo Highlights

2011-08-16T08:17:00.001-07:00

Mar 7, 2011
CRS 2011 Photo Highlights

CRS 2011 Photo Highlights

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 7, 2011) Country Radio Seminar 2011, held March 2-4 at the Nashville Convention Center, was packed from morning to night with educational panels, speakers, luncheons, research presentations, performances and endless networking opportunities. Here are a few selected photos of CRS 2011 highlights.

View the official CRS 2011 online photo gallery at www.flickr.com/AristoPR

On Wednesday, March 2, Arista Nashville recording artist Carrie Underwood helped officially kick off CRS 2011 with a performance of the national anthem immediately prior to the seminar's keynote address, delivered by Scripps Networks CEO Ken Lowe. Pictured l to r: CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, Underwood, Lowe and CRB President Mike Culotta. Photo: Bev Moser.

Lionel Richie made a surprise appearance at Universal Music Group Nashville's CRS 2011 luncheon at the Ryman Auditorium on Wednesday, March 2. The Pop and R&B superstar stopped in at the CRS Connections Lounge after his performance. Pictured l to r: UMG's Katie Dean, CRB Agenda Committee member John Paul, Clear Channel/Milwaukee's Kerry Wolfe, Richie, CRB Board member Keith Kaufman, UMG Sr VP/Promotion and CRB Board member Royce Risser and UMG's Ken Robold. Photo: Bev Moser.

Warner Music Nashville artist Blake Shelton was this year's headlining act at the ACM and Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40-sponsored CRS 2011 Music City Jam, held on Wednesday, March 2. Shelton's musical guests during the show included Frankie Ballard, The Band Perry (ACM Top New Vocal Duo or Group Award winners), Luke Bryan, Laura Bell Bundy, Brett Eldredge and Chris Young. Pictured l to r: The Band Perry, Shelton, Eric Church (ACM Top New Solo Vocalist Award winner), Luke Bryan and Academy of Country Music CEO Bob Romeo. Photo: Bev Moser.

The CRB and CMA co-sponsored the CRS 2011 Country Radio research study, conducted by media research firm Coleman Insights. The results were presented during the CRS research panel on Thursday, March 3, at the Nashville Convention Center. Pictured l to r: CMA Market Research Director Greg Fuson, CRB President Mike Culotta, Coleman Insights VP Sam Milkman, CMA VP/Strategic Partnerships Sherri Warnke, Coleman Insights President/CEO Warren Kurtzman, Coleman Insights VP Chris Ackerman and CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. Photo: Bev Moser.

The annual New Faces of Country Music Show, co-sponsored by MDA and Country Aircheck, closed out CRS 2011 on Friday night, March 4, at the Nashville Convention Center. This year's performers were: The Band Perry, Lee Brice, Jerrod Niemann, Steel Magnolia and Josh Thompson. Pictured l to r: CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne, Country Aircheck's Lon Helton, Reid Perry, Josh Thompson, Kimberly Perry, Neil Perry, Lee Brice, MDA National Goodwill Ambassador Abbey Umali, Steel Magnolia's Meghan Linsey, Jerrod Niemann, Steel Magnolia's Joshua Scott Jones and CRB President Mike Culotta. Photo: Bev Moser.

CRS 2011 Attendance Jumps 22 Percent

2011-08-16T08:14:00.001-07:00

Mar 7, 2011
CRS 2011 Attendance Jumps 22 Percent

CRS 2011 Attendance Jumps 22 Percent

New CRB Officers, Board Members Announced

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 7, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced an overall attendance figure of 2,649 registrants at CRS 2011, resulting in a 22 percent increase over last year’s event.

The total number of CRS 2011 attendees was divided into 2,004 full registrants (attendees, exhibitors, panelists and sponsors) and 645 participant registrants. Participant registrants are attendees that register for individual CRS events or purchase single day seminar passes. Total attendance for CRS 2010 was 2,181 and CRS 2009 was 2,106.

“I think this year’s attendance numbers speak directly to the success of Country Radio Seminar 2011,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Since 2009, our attendance has shown a 25 percent growth, which is extremely encouraging, particularly in a struggling economy. Our Country Radio Hall of Fame event and our New Faces show both sold out, and our panelists, speakers and talent continue to set a high standard of excellence in the Country radio industry. We’re excited about the momentum CRS has provided for the rest of 2011 and into next year’s seminar.”

Changes to the CRS Agenda Committee and CRB Board of Directors have been announced. The newly elected CRB Board officers and CRS Agenda Committee leaders are as follows:

CRB President: Mike Culotta (WQYK / Tampa, Fla.)
CRB Vice President: R.J. Curtis (Country Aircheck / Nashville, Tenn.)
CRB Secretary: Carole Bowen (WKIS / Miami, Fla.)
CRB Treasurer: Jeff Walker (AristoMedia/Marco Promotions / Nashville, Tenn.)
CRS 2012 Agenda Chair: Annie Sandor (Curb Records / Miami, Fla.)
CRS 2012 Vice Chair: Clint Marsh (Talking Stick Communications / Warsaw, Ind.)

“The energy at CRS this year was off the charts!” says CRS 2012 Agenda Chair, Annie Sandor. “Everyone I talked to could really feel it as well. You saw it in the panels, the live performances and the conversations between friends. It’s such an awesome feeling to be a part of an amazing event like Country Radio Seminar. We’re ready to roll up our sleeves and start planning for CRS 2012 already!”

Three members who were previously appointed by the CRB President have been elected back to the CRB Board of Directors. Clarence Spalding (Spalding Entertainment / Nashville, Tenn.) and Johnny Chiang (KKBQ / Houston, Texas) were elected to 3-year terms, and Dan Halyburton (RadioTime / Palo Alto, Calif.) was elected to a one-year term.

Other CRB Board members re-elected for three-year terms include: Carole Bowen, R.J. Curtis, David Haley, Clay Hunnicutt, Royce Risser, Tim Roberts and Jeff Walker.

Skip Bishop (Sony Music Nashville / Nashville, Tenn.) was elected to fill a one-year term.

Newly re-elected CRB President Mike Culotta also appointed three new CRB Board members: John Esposito (Warner Bros. / Nashville, Tenn.), Brian O’Connell (Live Nation / Nashville, Tenn.) and Jerry Phillips (Big River Broadcasting / Florence, Ala.).

Continuing their terms on the CRB Board are: Jim Asker, Tom Baldrica, Becky Brenner, Joel Burke, Natalie Conner, John Crenshaw, Mike Dungan, Keith Kaufman, Renee Leymon, Mike McVay, Charlie Morgan, Joel Raab, Denise Roberts, John Shomby, John Zarling and Director Emeritus Charlie Monk.

“CRS 2011 was a tremendous success for our Board, our attendees and the Country radio industry,” says CRB President Mike Culotta. “From the insightful Country radio research presentation, to our CRS smartphone applications, to the new Connections Lounge, this year’s seminar integrated a lot of new ideas to ensure Country Radio Seminar remains innovative and relevant as we move forward towards next year’s CRS 2012.”

CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. Visit www.CRB.org for more information about Country Radio Seminar and the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.

To view an online photo gallery of events and panels from CRS 2011, visit: www.flickr.com/AristoPR

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

2011 CRB-Country Aircheck Awards Presented at CRS New Faces of Country Music Show

2011-08-16T08:11:00.001-07:00

Mar 4, 2011
2011 CRB-Country Aircheck Awards Presented at CRS New Faces of Country Music Show

2011 CRB-Country Aircheck Awards Presented at CRS New Faces of Country Music Show

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 4, 2011) The second annual CRB-Country Aircheck Awards were presented Friday night, March 4, during the CRS New Faces of Country Music Show® at Country Radio Seminar 2011.

CRB President Mike Culotta co-presented the awards with Country Aircheck’s Lon Helton in between performances at the New Faces show inside the Nashville Convention Center.

The 2011 CRB-Country Aircheck Award winners are:

Major Market Country Radio Station – WUSN/Chicago

Large Market Country Radio Station – WMIL/Milwaukee

Medium Market Country Radio Station – WIVK/Knoxville

Small Market Country Radio Station – WUSY/Chattanooga

-----------------------------------

Market Manager/GM, Major Market – Natalie Conner, WXTU/Philadelphia

Market Manager/GM, Large Market - Tom English, WSIX/Nashville

Market Manager/GM, Medium Market - Thom Mandel, WQMX/Akron

Market Manager/GM, Small Market - Ken Salyer, WKSF/Asheville

-----------------------------------

Major Market OM/Program Director - Mike Culotta, WQYK-FM/Tampa

Large Market OM/Program Director - Keith Kaufman, WSIX/Nashville

Medium Market OM/Program Director - Mike Hammond, WIVK/Knoxville

Small Market OM/Program Director - Rob Kelley, WQHK/Ft. Wayne

----------------------------------

Major Market Music Director – TIE - Marci Braun, WUSN/Chicago and Ginny Rogers, WKLB/Boston

Large Market Music Director - TJ McEntire, KBEQ/Kansas City

Medium Market Music Director - Dave Taft, WBCT/Grand Rapids

Small Market Music Director - Brian Hatfield, WKSF/Asheville, NC

----------------------------------

National Air Personality - Bob Kingsley, Country Top 40

Major Market Personality - Lisa Dent & Ramblin' Ray, WUSN/Chicago

Large Market Personality - Gerry House & The House Foundation, WSIX/Nashville

Medium Market Personality - Andy And Allison, WIVK/Knoxville

Small Market Personality - Dan, Dude And Lori Mae, WQHK/Ft. Wayne

---------------------------------------------

Platinum Record Label – Capitol Records

Gold Record Label - Big Machine Records

VP/Promotion - Jack Purcell, Big Machine

Director/National Promotion - George Briner, Valory

Regional Promoter - Erik Powell, Big Machine

Independent Promoter - Nine North

New Face Of Country - John Esposito, Warner Music Nashville

Radio awards were divided into four markets: Major (1-25), Large (26-50), Medium (51-100) and Small (101+). Awards for each market recognized outstanding achievement in the Station, General Manager, Program Director, Music Director and Air Personality categories. There was also one National Personality award presented.

Record Label awards included a Platinum award (given to a label with an affiliated distribution company), a Gold award (given to a label with external distribution), and one award each in the VP/Promotion, Director/National Promotion, Independent Promoter and Regional Promoter categories. Additionally, a discretionary New Face of Country award was given to an emerging professional who has made a specific impact in the Country radio or Country music industry in the previous 12 months.

About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format.

About CRS: The Country Radio Seminar (CRS) is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. CRS takes place at the Nashville Convention Center in downtown Nashville, Tenn. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.

About Country Aircheck: Country Aircheck is the leading force in the Country radio trade publication industry as a multi-faceted news and information source. The Nashville-based company publishes several branded products, including Country Aircheck Today, Country Aircheck Weekly, Country Aircheck's "The Adds," and Country Aircheck quarterly Print Publications. For more information, call (615) 320-1450 or visit www.CountryAircheck.com.

CRB Hands Out Humanitarian Awards on Opening Day of CRS 2011

2011-08-16T08:10:00.001-07:00

Mar 3, 2011
CRB Hands Out Humanitarian Awards on Opening Day of CRS 2011

CRB Hands Out Humanitarian Awards on Opening Day of CRS 2011

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 3, 2011) On the opening day of CRS 2011, Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® handed out its Artist, Radio and Tom Rivers Humanitarian Awards during a special ceremony inside the Nashville Convention Center.

The 2011 CRB Artist Humanitarian Award was presented to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill for their ongoing efforts to aid those affected by the Nashville floods in 2010. The couple was particularly instrumental in organizing the star-studded Nashville Rising flood relief concert at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena in June 2010. Last year’s winner, Trace Adkins, presented the award to Hill and McGraw.

The 2011 CRB Radio Humanitarian Award winners were KWJJ/Portland, Ore. (Large Market), WIVK/Knoxville, Tenn. (Medium Market) and WCTY/Norwich, Conn. (Small Market). CRB President Mike Culotta and RadioInk’s Lois Choolijan presented the awards.

Large Market Winner: 99.5 KWJJ/Portland, Ore. -
KWJJ’s community efforts in 2010 included its annual sponsorship of the Portland Rose Festival, St. Paul Rodeo, July 4th Celebration Parade, Portland Police Department Celebrity Golf Tournament, Annual Bite of Oregon, Canned Food Drives and its various efforts to support Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

Medium Market Winner: 107.7 WIVK/Knoxville, Tenn. -
WIVK’s humanitarian initiatives have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for organizations in the Knoxville area, including The Love Kitchen, Red Cross March for the Military, The United Way, Children’s Hospital, Coats for the Cold and the city’s annual Christmas parade. WIVK and its listeners were among those who generously donated their resources to the Nashville flood victims in 2010.

Small Market Winner: 97.7 WCTY/Norwich, Conn.
WCTY raises funds each year for The United Way, Wounded Warrior Project, MADD, the Women’s Center of S.E. Connecticut and the Plainfield Rotary Foundation, among others. In 2010, WCTY collected more than 30,000 pounds of food with its Big Y Food Drive in Eastern Connecticut.

The 2011 Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award was presented to NRG Media President and CEO, Mary Quass. NRG Media owns and operates 45 radio stations in Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Illinois. Quass has been recognized by Radio Ink Magazine as one of the 40 Most Powerful People in Radio for six consecutive years and was listed as the No. 1 Most Influential Women in Radio in 2007. Her community efforts are exemplified through her various office and board appointments with organizations including: the National Association of Broadcasters, United Fire and Casualty Company, Bayliss Media Foundation, All Saints Parish Foundation, Entrepreneurial Development Center, United Way Board of Trustees and Mercy Medical Center, among others. CRB Board member/WYCD PD Tim Roberts presented Quass with the award.

About the CRB Artist Humanitarian Award:
The CRB Artist Humanitarian Award was created in 1990 to honor those Country music artists who have exhibited exceptional humanitarian efforts during their career. Past recipients of the annual award have included Trace Adkins, Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Garth Brooks, Charlie Daniels and Kenny Rogers, among others.

About the CRB Radio Humanitarian Awards:
The CRB Radio Humanitarian Awards are presented to full-time Country radio stations for notable public service initiatives that improve the quality of life for the communities they serve. The annual awards are presented to stations in three categories: Large (markets 1-50), Medium (markets 51-130), and Small (markets 131+).

About the Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award:
The Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award is given at the discretion of the Country Radio Broadcasters Board of Directors to recognize an individual in the Country Radio industry who has displayed a magnanimous spirit of caring and generosity in service to their community. This award is named in honor of CRB Board member Tom Rivers, who died in 2004 at age 38 of bronchial asthma. Rivers, known for his work at WQYK, Tampa/St. Petersburg and WUSN, Chicago, was highly regarded for his public service.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Inducts 2011 Class Into Country Radio Hall of Fame

2011-08-16T08:09:00.001-07:00

Mar 2, 2011
Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Inducts 2011 Class Into Country Radio Hall of Fame

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Inducts 2011 Class Into Country Radio Hall of Fame

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 2, 2011) The 2011 class of the Country Radio Hall of Fame was officially inducted last night, March 1, at a sold-out ceremony and dinner held inside the Nashville Convention Center.

Dale Carter, Barry Kent and Lee Rogers were inducted in the On-Air Personality category, while Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam (posthumous) and Bill Payne were the three Radio inductees. Other awards presented during the ceremony included the CRB Career Achievement Award, given to The Judds, and the CRB President’s Award, presented to Joe Galante.

The Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremonies unofficially kick off Country Radio Seminar each year. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4 in Nashville, Tenn. For more information, visit www.CRB.org.

The 2011 class of the Country Radio Hall of Fame, President's Award winner and Career Achievement Award winners. Top row L to R: Bill Payne, Charlie Cook, Joe Galante (President's Award), Naomi Judd of The Judds (Career Achievement Award), Barry Kent, Dale Carter, Lee Rogers. Bottom row, L to R: Country Aircheck's R.J. Curtis, the three daughters of Dene Hallam, CRB President Mike Culotta and CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. Not pictured: Wynonna Judd. Photo: Bev Moser.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Radio Promotion Award Winners

2011-08-16T08:07:00.001-07:00

Mar 1, 2011
Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Radio Promotion Award Winners

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Radio Promotion Award Winners

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 1, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. has announced its 2011 Radio Promotion Award winners. Given out each year at Country Radio Seminar, the awards are presented to stations in the Large, Medium and Small Market categories.

Large Market Winner: KUPL / Portland, Ore.
KUPL’s “Free Money Friday” paired two of the station’s advertising clients to create a successful cross-promotion. Customers who picked up KUPL bumper stickers at one client location would receive a text message directing them to the second client’s promotion and location, where customers could win up to $500. The promotion generated increased sales for the clients and doubled the radio station’s texting database.

Medium Market Winner: WQMX / Akron, Ohio
WQMX utilized the power of social networking to conduct its “Zac Brown Look-A-Like Contest” in the summer of 2010. Listeners submitted photos through the station’s Facebook page for a chance to win front row seats and a backstage “eat and greet” with the Zac Brown Band.

Small Market Winner: KZPK / St. Cloud, Minn.
In 2010, KZPK staged its biggest benefit concert ever during Central Minnesota’s summer FireFest event. The show featured performances from Little Big Town, Emerson Drive and Bomshel, raising more than $50,000 for the city of Cold Spring’s Fire and Rescue Relief Association.

The Radio Promotion Awards will be presented during the “90 Executable Ideas in 50 Minutes” panel on Thursday, March 3, inside the Nashville Convention Center.

Stations are judged on the creativity and implementation of their promotions, held from Nov. 1, 2009 – Dec. 31, 2010. Winners are evaluated on promotion objective, presentation style, effect on cume and overall success of the promotion.

Radio Promotion Award winners receive a free trip to Country Radio Seminar, including airfare (up to $500 of actual cost), hotel accommodations and registration fees.

About CRB:
Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. $499 On-Site registration (excluding a ticket to the sold out New Faces Show) is available at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

Nashville Gears Up For CRS 2011: “Where Connections Are Made”

2011-08-16T08:06:00.001-07:00

Feb 28, 2011
Nashville Gears Up For CRS 2011: “Where Connections Are Made”

Nashville Gears Up For CRS 2011: “Where Connections Are Made”

Country Radio Seminar 2011 is March 2-4 at the Nashville Convention Center

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 28, 2011) Music City is gearing up this week for the biggest Country radio industry event in the world as CRS 2011 prepares to kick off on Wednesday, March 2, in downtown Nashville.

Proclaimed “Country Radio Week” by Mayor Karl Dean, CRS 2011 is held March 2-4 at the Nashville Convention Center. This year’s theme is “Where Connections Are Made,” a reference to the social, educational and professional networking opportunities afforded to the thousands who attend the three-day seminar each year. Planned and executed by Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc., the annual event brings the best and brightest educators, innovators, speakers and performers in the Country radio industry to Nashville.

“This year, we are really stressing the networking aspect of Country Radio Seminar,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “We’ve offered deeply discounted rates to make the seminar more affordable for those hit hardest by the economy, and for those still unable to attend, we’ve placed more emphasis on our social media initiatives to keep them abreast of what’s going on at CRS. Our goal has always been to share information and provide a forum for professionals in this industry to interact with each other so that Country radio remains a healthy and vital component of the music industry.”

CRS 2011 is packed with educational panels, prominent speakers, research presentations, awards, exhibits and intimate performances from some of Country music’s biggest stars and emerging artists. A thumbnail summary of agenda highlights follows below.

Tuesday, March 1:
The Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner unofficially kicks off CRS each year. The 2011 inductees are Dale Carter, Barry Kent and Lee Rogers (On-Air Personality) and Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam and Bill Payne (Radio). The Judds are receiving the 2011 Career Achievement Award and Joe Galante is receiving the President’s Award. This year’s ceremony and dinner has sold out.

Wednesday, March 2:
Country music superstar Carrie Underwood officially opens CRS 2011 with a performance of the national anthem, followed by the keynote address, delivered this year by Scripps Networks CEO Ken Lowe. Presentation of the Tom Rivers Award and the Artist and Radio Humanitarian Awards follow the keynote address. Wednesday’s key panels include a session on digital media and its effects on the business of radio and records, a tutorial on conducting on-air interviews, and the “Show Me the Money” panel, an eye-opening look at the economics of the music industry. Attendees will get an opportunity to review actual financial figures from the radio, record and artist perspective.

Wednesday’s performances include the second annual UMG luncheon at the Ryman Auditorium with scheduled appearances from: Gary Allan, Laura Bell Bundy, Hayes Carll, Coldwater Jane, Easton Corbin, Billy Currington, Dani Flowers, Vince Gill, Mallary Hope, Jamey Johnson, Josh Kelley, Randy Montana, Kip Moore, David Nail, Randy Rogers Band, Ashton Shepherd, Canaan Smith, Sugarland, Josh Turner, Lee Ann Womack and special surprise guests. The afternoon KCRS Live! songwriter showcase features Aaron Lewis, LoCash Cowboys, Rivers Rutherford and Jeffrey Steele. Blake Shelton headlines the Music City Jam™, which closes out Wednesday’s events at the Convention Center.

Thursday, March 3:
Thursday is loaded with educational panels, case studies, focus groups and research presentations. A sample of Thursday’s panels include: 90 Executable Ideas in 50 Minutes, Strengthening Partnerships Through Social Media, What Radio and Records Don’t Know About Each Other, From the Mouths of the Consumer (focus group), Creating Successful Marketing Programs Using Country Radio (case study) and more. The CRB and CMA-sponsored research presentation examines new media trends and usage as it pertains to both the Country music consumer and the Country music professional.

Performance events include the Sony Music Nashville luncheon, featuring Ronnie Dunn and Joanna Smith. Dallas Davidson, Jerrod Niemann and Whitey Shafer headline the WCRS Live! songwriter showcase, and the Broadjam Acoustic Showcase features Mark Croft.

Friday, March 4:
Friday offers attendees a variety of panels, including: Leadership Skills and Management Secrets, Video Saved the Radio Star, Inside the Brand with the Decision Makers, PPM: Pardon the Interruption, Building Revenue with Social Media, Concerts: Connect the Dots Between Ratings, Revenue and Promotions and the popular Town Hall wrap-up panel.

Friday’s musical performances includes Luke Bryan at the Capitol Records Nashville luncheon, followed in the evening by one of Country Radio Seminar’s most anticipated events, the sold out New Faces of Country Music Show®. The CRS 2011 New Faces lineup is: The Band Perry, Lee Brice, Jerrod Niemann, Steel Magnolia and Josh Thompson. The Digital Rodeo “British Invasion” Show closes out CRS 2011 at Cadillac Ranch. Performers include: Katie Armiger, Burns and Poe, Sarah Darling, Due West, Ashley Gearing, Josh Gracin, The Harters, Jacob Lyda, One Night Rodeo, Julie Roberts, Adam Tefteller, Tiffany, Bryan White, Mark Wills and more.

A detailed schedule with descriptions of all CRS 2011 panels and events can be viewed at www.CRB.org or accessed via the new CRS 2011 smartphone application. Available for iPhone, Android and Blackberry, the app provides seminar attendees with an expanded CRS agenda, featuring panel descriptions, speaker bios, live performances, post-CRS nightlife activities, a map of downtown Nashville and the ability to rate individual panels and panelists.

CRB is also upgrading its social media initiatives at CRS 2011. Throughout the three-day seminar, CRB will post Facebook and Twitter updates from the Convention Center about specific panel highlights, artist performances, special guests and more. Ongoing video blogs from CRS will be posted at CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. $499 On-Site registration (excluding a ticket to the sold out New Faces Show) is available at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRS Implements New Technology, Social Media Elements Into Annual Seminar

2011-08-16T08:05:00.001-07:00

Feb 23, 2011
CRS Implements New Technology, Social Media Elements Into Annual Seminar

CRS Implements New Technology, Social Media Elements Into Annual Seminar

Interactive CRS agenda application created in partnership with Country Aircheck now available for smartphone users

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 23, 2011) Country Radio Seminar 2011 is providing more social media options to its attendees this year and offering a new interactive agenda smartphone application, created in partnership with Country Aircheck.

The CRS 2011 application, or “app,” provides seminar attendees with an expanded CRS agenda, featuring panel descriptions, speaker bios, live performances, post-CRS nightlife activities and a map of downtown Nashville. Users can create their own customized CRS schedule, rate the panels and post updates and reviews directly to their social media profiles.

“The new CRS app integrates all things CRS into your smartphone,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “I think our attendees will quickly appreciate all of the enhanced features this app offers, without having to carry around multiple schedules and agendas to find out where they want to go or how to get there. It’s all right here in the palm of your hand.”

The CRS 2011 app is currently available for download on all iPhone and Android platforms, with a Blackberry version coming soon. Download the Android application here and the iPhone app here.

“Last year, Country Aircheck partnered with the CRB to create the CRB-CA Awards, and this year, we're proud to work with the CRB in delivering CRS 2011 registrants the seminar's first ever smartphone app,” says Country Aircheck’s Lon Helton. “Every session, every panelist, and every after-hours event is included, so everyone can customize their week to maximize their CRS 2011 experience. It's cool, it's easy - and it's on your phone!”

CRS 2011 is also upgrading its on-site social media initiatives. Throughout the three-day seminar, CRB will post Facebook and Twitter updates from the Convention Center about panel highlights, artist performances, special guests and more. Ongoing video blogs from CRS 2011 will be posted at CRB.org.

CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. For more information, visit www.CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. $499 On-Site registration (excluding a ticket to the sold out New Faces Show) is available at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRS Spotlight: Five Highlighted Panels at CRS 2011

2011-08-16T08:01:00.001-07:00

Feb 15, 2011
CRS Spotlight: Five Highlighted Panels at CRS 2011

CRS Spotlight: Five Highlighted Panels at CRS 2011

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 10, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has released information on five recently updated panels at Country Radio Seminar 2011, to be held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

The three-day seminar is the premier educational and networking event for the Country radio and music industry, offering attendees access to 24 informative panels, countless valuable networking opportunities, prominent speakers, research presentations and intimate performances from some of today’s biggest stars and emerging artists.

Panels at CRS 2011 cover a broad range of topics relevant to today’s Country radio industry, including: social media and digital innovations, PPM, music video, brand strategies, leadership skills, consumer research studies, concert promotions and revenue, ad sales, PD multi-tasking, the relationships and economics of the radio and record industries, on-air interviews and much more. Here is a thumbnail look at five highlighted CRS 2011 panels.

Wednesday, March 2:

The Digital Life: Doing Business In An Increasingly Digital World (11:30 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.) - Media and technology expert Shelly Palmer presents the latest info on what consumers are doing in terms of using tech-gadgets, websites and mobile devices, as well as an overview of media consumption trends. Learn what new devices are impacting consumers, learn where consumers are going to get entertainment, learn about changes and development in existing media platforms, and most of all, learn where the future competition will come from. Presenter: Shelly Palmer (Live Digital with Shelly Palmer).

Show Me The Money: The Economics of the Radio and Music Industry (3 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.) - Everything you want to know about the economics of the radio and music industry will be revealed in this in-depth look at the bottom line for both industries. This panel presents the real numbers - from gross to net - for radio, records and artists, and addresses how the money flows from label to artist to management. Moderator: Erica Farber (The Farber Connection, LLC). Panelists: Ken Robold (UMG), Chuck Flood (Flood, Bumstead, McCready & McCarthy, Inc.), Tom English (Clear Channel Radio).

Thursday, March 3:

Strengthening Partnerships Through Social Media with Radio P1s (2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
- This panel provides specific knowledge about how social media can help stations build brand loyalty, ratings and a sense of community. This is accomplished through online demonstrations and idea-driven discussions on how social media works to drive station listening. Highlights of this panel include examples of what consumers respond to, what planning and resources are required, how to develop creative partnerships with sponsors and artists, and using mobile applications with the sales department. Moderator: Dan Halyburton (McVay Media). Panelists: Sloane Cavitt (Show Dog-Universal), Pinky Gonzales (Carazel Inc.), Stephen Linn (CMT), Jennie Smythe (Girlilla Marketing), Roy Elkins (Broadjam).

Friday, March 4:

The Art of War: Strategies for Offense and Defense (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) - This panel offers both a historic look and mentoring approach on how to program in a heated format battle. Learn how legendary stations have survived and how successful new stations changed the status quo. Learn the most important aspects of safeguarding your station’s revenue and events from direct attacks and also how to identify weakness in a competitor. Moderator: Dan Halyburton (McVay Media). Panelists: Kevin Christopher (Tyler Media/KJKE), William B. Fletcher (Fletcher, Rowley and Riddle, Inc.), Lee Abrams.

Concerts: Connecting the Dots Between Ratings, Revenue and Promotions (2:00 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.) - This panel demonstrates how concert promotion is a winning situation for all involved and covers many platforms. Learn how to grow revenue, ratings and sell tickets through examples of successful synergy. Understand how concerts can be a great NTR opportunity on multiple levels: web, text, video, etc. Discover how partnering with clients with compelling content can be to your advantage and help you better understand the area of touring and concert promotion. Moderator: Charlie Morgan (Emmis Communications). Panelists: Natalie Conner (WXTU), Tim Roberts (WYCD), Brian O’Connell (Live Nation).

A detailed schedule and descriptions of all CRS 2011 panels is available at www.CRB.org. CRB, Inc. reserves the right to modify or change the agenda as speakers, performers and panelists are added or removed.

The CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show is sold out. A reduced $399 registration rate remains in effect through Friday, Feb. 18. The On-Site rate increases to $499 on Feb. 19. Registration fees do not include access to the New Faces show. Contact the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487 or at www.CRB.org for registration materials.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration (excluding a ticket to the recently sold out New Faces Show) is available through Feb. 18 at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRB, Inc. Announces Opening of Connections Bar® and Networking Venue at CRS 2011

2011-08-16T07:59:00.001-07:00

Feb 7, 2011
CRB, Inc. Announces Opening of Connections Bar® and Networking Venue at CRS 2011

CRB, Inc. Announces Opening of Connections Bar® and Networking Venue at CRS 2011

Exclusive access bar open to CRS 2011 registrants only

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 7, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced the opening of the Connections Bar® and networking venue for CRS registrants at CRS 2011, to be held March 2-4, 2011.

The Connections Bar is open to Country Radio Seminar attendees with valid CRS 2011 registration badges only. Located in the downtown Nashville Renaissance Hotel near the pedway leading to the Convention Center, the venue provides a place for seminar attendees to relax and network with other professionals in the Country radio industry.

“The debut of Connections is a dream come true as an alternative, exclusive location for our attendees to meet, network, relax and be with friends, all in the convenience of the Renaissance hotel,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “This is the culmination of a lot of work and vision over the past year, and the early reaction to this move has been very positive.”

Co-sponsored by GAC and Citadel Media, the Connections Bar remains open from 4 p.m. – 2 a.m. each day during CRS 2011. Designed by Nashville-based party planner Randi Lesnick of Randi Events, Connections features a full-service, top-end bar, special food menu, music and video. A ribbon cutting ceremony officially opens the venue at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 2.

“I can’t tell you how excited Citadel Media is to be a co-sponsor of the new Connections lounge at CRS this year,” says Citadel Media VP Programming and Distribution, Bryan Switzer. “Having been a part of many of the changes to CRS through the years, I applaud the CRB for continuing to create new and diverse ways for participants to interact and conduct business, as well as an opportunity to reconnect with old friends. I’ve no doubt Connections is going to be a huge success, and we’re proud to be part of its introduction at CRS 2011!”

CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. For more information on CRS 2011 events, agenda items and panels, visit www.CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration (excluding a ticket to the recently sold out New Faces Show) is available through Feb. 18 at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

Luke Bryan to Perform at Capitol Records Nashville Luncheon at CRS 2011

2011-08-16T07:57:00.001-07:00

Feb 4, 2011
Luke Bryan to Perform at Capitol Records Nashville Luncheon at CRS 2011

Luke Bryan to Perform at Capitol Records Nashville Luncheon at CRS 2011

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 3, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced Luke Bryan as this year’s Capitol Records Nashville luncheon performer at CRS 2011.

The Capitol Records Nashville luncheon is held Friday, March 4, from noon – 1:50 p.m. in the CMA Performance Hall inside the Nashville Convention Center.

“With No. 1 hits like ‘Do I’ and ‘Rain is a Good Thing,’ and his current Top 5 single, ‘Someone Else Calling You Baby,’ Luke Bryan has proven to be one of the hottest new acts in Country music,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Country radio recognized Luke’s talent when he broke onto the scene a few years ago, and now we are thrilled to have him perform for us at the Capitol Records Nashville luncheon at CRS 2011.”

Adds Capitol Records Nashville President/CEO Mike Dungan, “Luke delivers one of the best live performances in Country music. We are proud and excited to feature him at our luncheon!”

CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. For more information on CRS 2011 events, agenda items and panels, visit www.CRB.org.

About Luke Bryan:
Luke Bryan, the 2010 ACM Top New Artist, released his sophomore album, Doin’ My Thing, on Capitol Records Nashville in October 2009, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard Country Albums chart. The Gold® certified album includes his No. 1 singles, "Do I" and "Rain Is A Good Thing," as well as his currently rising Top 5 single, "Someone Else Calling You Baby." Bryan hit the road earlier this month opening for Rascal Flatts on their "Nothing Like This" tour and later this spring he opens for Tim McGraw’s "Emotional Traffic" tour. Visit www.LukeBryan.com for more information.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration (excluding a ticket to the recently sold out New Faces Show) is available through Feb. 18 at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRS 2011 Research Study Finds State of Country Music Healthy, New Media Engagement Growing

2011-08-16T07:56:00.001-07:00

Feb 3, 2011
CRS 2011 Research Study Finds State of Country Music Healthy, New Media Engagement Growing

CRS 2011 Research Study Finds State of Country Music Healthy, New Media Engagement Growing

Country Radio still king for consumers, new music discovery

(Nashville, Tenn. – March 3, 2011) The results of the CRB Country radio research study presented today at CRS 2011 provided a wealth of encouraging news for Country radio and the Country Music industry.

The comprehensive study, sponsored through a partnership between Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. and the Country Music Association, polled 5,000 P1 Country radio listeners about their consumption habits and the state of Country Music in general. Nearly 200 industry professionals were also polled to gauge their insight and perceptions about the Country format versus those of the consumer.

The “big picture” findings from the study, conducted by North Carolina-based media research firm Coleman Insights, concluded that consumers perceive the overall state of Country Music as significantly more positive than professionals in the industry do. Additionally, radio is the medium which makes consumers feel “most connected” to Country Music and remains the most consistent means of new music discovery for them. New media usage in Country Music continues to increase among all age demographics, showing growth patterns consistent with those in other formats. Complete findings from the study will be available at CRB.org and ColemanInsights.com on Wednesday, March 9, at 10 a.m. CST.

“I was extremely excited about the research data presented at CRS this year,” says CRB Board member and Chair of the CMA Research Committee, Rusty Walker. “As a result of the study’s innovative approach and its thorough questionnaire process, the findings by Coleman Insights will help all facets of the Country Music industry in better serving its customers, listeners and fans.”

The 2011 study surveyed a sample of 12- to 64-year-old P1 Country radio listeners across the U.S. and their usage of new media devices, including social media websites, smartphone applications and radio station and artist websites. Data was trended against the findings from the last national Country radio P1 study presented at CRS, conducted in 2007. Participants in this year’s study were polled between Feb. 7-18, 2011, via email and online questionnaires.

“This year’s study confirmed that the overall perception of Country Music by its core consumers was extremely positive, and the general health of Country radio is still strong,” says Coleman Insights President and COO Warren Kurtzman. “Listeners are continuing to find new means of consuming Country Music through emerging technologies, but this study seems to indicate they are not undermining Country radio’s connection with its listeners.”

Findings from the study were presented March 3 at the CRB research panel during CRS 2011. Coleman Insights VPs Chris Ackerman and Sam Milkman presented the data, and CMA Market Research Director Greg Fuson announced the study as a piece of CMA’s continuing research to help identify and define the Country Music consumer.

For more information about the 2011 CRB Country Radio P1 listener research study, visit www.CRB.org or www.ColemanInsights.com

Ronnie Dunn to Headline Sony Music Nashville Luncheon at CRS 2011

2011-08-16T07:53:00.001-07:00

Feb 2, 2011
Ronnie Dunn to Headline Sony Music Nashville Luncheon at CRS 2011

Ronnie Dunn to Headline
Sony Music Nashville
Luncheon at CRS 2011

Joanna Smith also slated to perform

(Nashville, TN. – Feb. 2, 2011) Arista Nashville’s Ronnie Dunn is confirmed to headline the Sony Music Nashville luncheon at CRS 2011. This year, CRS will be held March 2-4, with the Sony Music Nashville luncheon taking place Thursday, March 3, from 12:30 p.m. – 2:20 p.m. in the CMA Performance Hall inside the Nashville Convention Center.

“We’re so proud to have Ronnie Dunn headlining our CRS luncheon,” remarked Sony Music Nashville Chairman and CEO, Gary Overton. “He’s one of the finest writers and vocalists we have in the format, and he’ll be previewing some amazing new music for everyone to hear.”

Also performing at the luncheon is Columbia Nashville newcomer Joanna Smith.

“Joanna has a voice and a personality that radiate star quality,” Overton continued. “She’s one of our bright young talents, and we’re thrilled to have her open our show.”

A reduced $399 Early Bird registration rate for CRS 2011 remains in effect through Friday, Feb. 18. The On-Site rate increases to $499 on Feb. 19. For more information on CRS 2011 events, agenda items and panels, visit www.CRB.org. CRS 2011 is March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

About Ronnie Dunn:
One of the most acclaimed voices in Country music, Ronnie Dunn exploded across the airwaves this week with his stirring new single, “Bleed Red.” The song shipped to Country radio this past Sunday and immediately emerged as the most-added new single of the week. “Bleed Red” is the first music from Dunn’s debut solo album, slated for release later this year. Dunn will make his first televised performance of the song on The 46th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards on April 3rd. Produced by Dunn, “Bleed Red” marks the beginning of a new chapter in Dunn’s career. As one half of Brooks & Dunn, the most successful duo in Country music history, Dunn helped define the Country landscape over the past 20 years with 23 #1 singles and more than 30 million albums sold. The digital single for “Bleed Red” will release February 8. Keep up with Ronnie and listen to the single online now at www.RonnieDunn.com.

About Joanna Smith:
Joanna Smith grew up in the small Georgia farm community of Crestview, Unincorporated. She knew she was destined to sing Country music when at age five she told a judge at a talent contest, “I am already a Country music singer, but I don’t get to get onstage much.” Smith now gets to take the stage often and honed her live skills with a 5 year stint at the famous Tootsies Orchid Lounge in downtown Nashville. She signed with Columbia Nashville and her single "Georgia Mud" is set to climb the country charts. She was recently named one of Billboard Magazine’s “Artists To Watch In 2011,” and one of the “New Faces On The Music Scene” by Variety Magazine.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration (excluding a ticket to the recently sold out New Faces Show) is available through Feb. 18 at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

Songwriter showcase sponsored by Stroudavarious Records, Bob Kingsley to host

2011-08-16T07:52:00.001-07:00

Feb 1, 2011
Songwriter showcase sponsored by Stroudavarious Records, Bob Kingsley to host

Diversity Key to Lineup at CRS 2011 KCRS Live! Event

Songwriter showcase sponsored by Stroudavarious Records, Bob Kingsley to host

(Nashville, Tenn. – Feb. 1, 2011) – Stroudavarious Records has assembled a diverse lineup of songwriters and artists for its CRS 2011 KCRS Live! showcase, including Bob DiPiero, Aaron Lewis, LoCash Cowboys and Jeffrey Steele.

The KCRS Live! showcase is to be held Wednesday, March 2, from 4 p.m. – 5:20 p.m. CST in the Nashville Convention Center during CRS 2011. Nashville-based independent label, Stroudavarious Records, is sponsoring the event for the first time.

“I am so pleased to present such a tremendous group of writers at KCRS Live!” says Stroudavarious Records CEO James Stroud. “These artists are all coming at this from different places and with different perspectives, but all of them are at the top of their craft and represent the best of what Nashville has to offer.”

This year’s KCRS Live! host is award-winning radio personality and host of Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40, Bob Kingsley.

About the 2011 KCRS Live! songwriters and artists:

Bob DiPiero - For the past 20 years, Bob DiPiero has helped define the best that is Music Row. A legendarily funny and compelling performer, he is one of a handful setting the bar for present-day songwriter/entertainers. Bob is also a key part of the city's new leadership, a board member of the Country Music Association, a Leadership Nashville alumnus and former Nashville Songwriters Association, Inc. president who brings the creative and business communities together as few can.

Bob is one of Nashville's most consistent and prolific writers of hits, and he remains at the top of his profession more than two decades after hitting No. 1 on the charts for the first time in 1983. The reason is a pure love of the creative process. As a raconteur, he may have no equal among his peers, and as a musical ambassador and bridge-builder, he has helped make Nashville a port of call for legendary performers from all genres, writing with Neil Diamond, Carole King, Johnny Van Zant and Delbert McClinton, among many others.

Aaron Lewis - Country music comes naturally for Aaron Lewis. In fact, the Staind frontman never strayed very far from Country. It's something that he grew up with. It's something that he comes back to. It's something that inspires him. It's something that's in his blood. Hints of that are present in the stripped honesty and acoustic melodies of Staind hits such as “Outside,” “It's Been Awhile,” and “So Far Away.”

With Aaron Lewis at the helm, Staind has amassed a loyal multitude of fans, selling over 13 million records to date. Those fans have followed Aaron as he has embarked on numerous solo acoustic tours in recent years, performing both Staind classics as well as an ever-changing array of material from songwriters he admires. Aaron premiered his debut solo single, “Country Boy,” for those audiences in the fall of 2010 to overwhelming response, and the recent video release for this single has already accumulated well over 2 million views between YouTube and CMT.com alone.

Aaron’s debut solo EP, Town Line, will be released March 1 via Stroudavarious Records.

LoCash Cowboys - LoCash Cowboys ushered in the summer of 2010 with “Here Comes Summer,” their debut Top 40 Country single that brandished every ounce of their trademark energy. The band’s current single, “Keep In Mind,” displays a softer, more philosophical side. Both songs will be featured on their Stroudavarious debut album, This Is How We Do It, a fitting introduction to a compellingly charismatic and multi-faceted duo.

Comprised of band members Chris Lucas and Preston Brust, the duo is aware of the dichotomy between their larger-than-life on-stage personas and their humble small town roots, referring to it as something that helps make them relatable to their ever-expanding audience. They also realize they are blessed to be a part of something that brings them so much professional satisfaction and personal focus, citing that the LoCash in their name reflects the importance of remembering who you are and where you came from.

This Is How We Do It is set for a late Spring release on Stroudavarious Records.

Jeffrey Steele - Jeffrey Steele is an extraordinary songwriter who can boast having over 500 songs cut in the past eight years by over 100 artists, with more than 80 Top 10, Top 5, and No. 1 songs combined, over 35 million plays on radio and television, and 95 singles released from more than 75 Gold and Platinum albums. Some of the biggest stars in country music have cut his songs, including Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Trace Adkins, Montgomery Gentry, Diamond Rio, LeAnn Rimes, Randy Travis, Lonestar and many more.

Jeffrey is the recipient of more than 50 writer awards, including those from the CMA, ACM, BMI and NSAI. He has been nominated for several Grammys and a Golden Globe. He is also a multi-platinum producer of Montgomery Gentry, Keith Anderson, John Waite and LoCash Cowboys. In his own words, Jeffrey is “a lover of words and stories of life and tradition.”

For more information on CRS 2011 events, agenda items and panels, visit www.CRB.org. CRS 2011 is March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration (excluding a ticket to the recently sold out New Faces Show) is available through Feb. 18 at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

Digital Rodeo Invites CRS 2011 Attendees to Celebrate “British Invasion,” Nashville-Style

2011-08-16T07:47:00.001-07:00

Feb 1, 2011
Digital Rodeo Invites CRS 2011 Attendees to Celebrate “British Invasion,” Nashville-Style

Digital Rodeo Invites CRS 2011 Attendees to Celebrate “British Invasion,” Nashville-Style

Performance applications now being accepted for third annual CRS wrap-up show, to be held at Nashville’s Cadillac Ranch on Friday, March 4

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 31, 2011) Digital Rodeo is once again staging its annual Country Radio Seminar wrap-up event with this year’s themed “British Invasion” show, to be held Friday, March 4, at downtown Nashville venue Cadillac Ranch.

For the third year in a row, social network and Country lifestyle site DigitalRodeo.com is partnering with Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. to sponsor one of the most unique performance events at CRS. The seminar-closing show typically features nearly two-dozen Country artists performing material from a non-Country genre or musical theme. This year, participants are covering songs from the “British Invasion” era of the 1960s, although songs from more contemporary U.K.-based artists will also be considered for inclusion.

Digital Rodeo’s “British Invasion” show is open to credentialed CRS attendees only and kicks off at 10:30 p.m. CST or immediately following the CRS New Faces of Country Music® Show and Dinner at the Nashville Convention Center. Performers in previous years have included: Laura Bell Bundy, Julianne Hough, Miranda Lambert, Jamie O’Neal, James Otto, Julie Roberts, Blake Shelton, Jimmy Wayne, Emily West, Chris Young and many more.

“Digital Rodeo has worked hard to put on a show that is creative in its concept and its appeal to the artists,” says Digital Rodeo Director of Marketing and Promotions, John Pyne. “We dedicate a substantial amount of time and resources each year to produce this show so that these acts can make a memorable impression and benefit from such a unique opportunity at CRS. We understand that Nashville is a town of relationships, and Digital Rodeo is committed to helping promote the music and artists and remain a trusted partner in this business. This is going to be an exciting event!”

Adds Sharon Allen, CRB Director of Sponsorship Sales, “We are excited to have Digital Rodeo partner with us again this year for another fabulous event. The past two years have provided some truly memorable moments, from Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert singing ‘If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me)’ to Laura Bell Bundy performing an electrifying version of Tina Turner’s ‘Proud Mary,’ complete with costumed dancers. The British Invasion theme should really push this year’s performers to come up with some interesting choices. CRB is proud to help put on such a unique show with Digital Rodeo to close out CRS each year.”

Publicists, labels and booking agents wishing to submit an artist for consideration should contact Digital Rodeo Director of Marketing and Promotions, John Pyne at John.Pyne@DigitalRodeo.com. Participating artists and hosts will be announced in the coming weeks.

About DigitalRodeo.com:
DigitalRodeo.com is the premier country news, music and lifestyle site for country music fans everywhere. Community membership is free and offers fans and artists alike the opportunity to connect with each other, upload and download audio and video, watch exclusive DigitalRodeo.com content and stay updated on what’s happening in the world of country music. For more information, visit www.DigitalRodeo.com.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration (excluding a ticket to the recently sold out New Faces Show) is available through Feb. 18 at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

UMG Nashville Luncheon Talent Announced For CRS 2011

2011-08-16T07:44:00.001-07:00

Feb 1, 2011
UMG Nashville Luncheon Talent Announced For CRS 2011

UMG Nashville Luncheon Talent Announced For CRS 2011

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 31, 2011) For the second year in a row, Universal Music Group Nashville is offering an expanded lineup of talent for its CRS 2011 luncheon at the Ryman Auditorium, to be held Wednesday, March 2, 2011.

The 2011 UMG Nashville luncheon lineup includes: Gary Allan, Laura Bell Bundy, Hayes Carll, Coldwater Jane, Easton Corbin, Billy Currington, Dani Flowers, Vince Gill, Mallary Hope, Jamey Johnson, Josh Kelley, Randy Montana, Kip Moore, David Nail, Randy Rogers Band, Ashton Shepherd, Canaan Smith, Sugarland, Josh Turner and Lee Ann Womack. A number of special guests are also scheduled to appear.

The UMG Nashville luncheon kicks off at 12:30 p.m. A "to-go" barbecue lunch will be served on the second floor lobby inside the Convention Center, with beverages available across the street at the Ryman. All UMG Nashville performances during the luncheon will be held inside the Ryman auditorium. Only credentialed CRS attendees are permitted to attend this event.

“When we planned the UMG CRS show last year, we had no idea how well it would be received,” says UMG Sr. VP Promotion and host of last year’s event, Royce Risser. “Each artist performed one acoustic song on the historic stage of the Ryman, creating a number of magical moments that people still talk about a year later.”

“The feedback from both attendees and our artists was overwhelming and seems to indicate that this is the start of a new marquee event at CRS,” continues Risser. “Unfortunately, Luke Lewis chose the same host as last year. Sorry about that.”

Thursday’s CRS luncheon is sponsored by Sony Music Nashville, and Friday’s luncheon is sponsored by Capitol Nashville. Talent for these events will be announced this week.

A reduced $399 Early Bird registration rate for CRS 2011 remains in effect through Friday, Feb. 18. The On-Site rate increases to $499 on Feb. 19. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. Contact the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487 or at www.CRB.org for registration materials.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration is available through Feb. 18 at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

Submission Deadline for CRB 2011 Radio Humanitarian and Radio Promotion Awards Extended to Feb. 11

2011-08-16T07:42:00.001-07:00

Jan 28, 2011
Submission Deadline for CRB 2011 Radio Humanitarian and Radio Promotion Awards Extended to Feb. 11

Submission Deadline for CRB 2011 Radio Humanitarian and Radio Promotion Awards Extended to Feb. 11

(Nashville, Tenn. - Jan. 27, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has extended its deadline to accept applications for the 2011 Radio Humanitarian and Promotion Awards from Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2011.

The Radio Humanitarian Award is presented to stations in Large, Medium and Small market categories for public service performed between November 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010. Stations must submit a brief written presentation (two pages maximum including photos) of their community service efforts during the eligibility period. Entries for the Radio Humanitarian Award should be sent to humanitarian@crb.org.

The Radio Promotion Award is presented to stations in Large, Medium and Small market categories for the most creative and effective radio promotions held between November 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010. Stations must submit a one-page summary of their most successful promotion from the past year to be eligible for the award. Photos and videos are acceptable as part of a submission. Judging criteria includes: creativity, implementation strategy, effect on cume (if measured), goals achieved, and style of submission. All entries must be sent in PDF format to promotions@crb.org.

All applicants for the Radio Humanitarian and Radio Promotion Awards must include their name, city, station call letters, daytime phone number and market size in their submissions.

The awards are presented during CRS 2011, to be held March 2-4, 2011 in Nashville, Tenn.

Country Superstar Carrie Underwood to Perform National Anthem at CRS 2011

2011-08-16T07:40:00.001-07:00

Jan 28, 2011
Country Superstar Carrie Underwood to Perform National Anthem at CRS 2011

Country Superstar Carrie Underwood to Perform National Anthem at CRS 2011

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 27, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. has announced that one of the most powerful vocalists in Country music, Carrie Underwood, will perform the national anthem at CRS 2011, to be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn.

Underwood’s performance officially opens CRS 2011 at the Nashville Convention Center on Wednesday, March 2, at 9:30 a.m. CST. This is the first time she has performed the national anthem at Country Radio Seminar.

“Wow. What else can I say? What a way to kick off Country Radio Seminar 2011!” says CRB President Mike Culotta. “We are very appreciative and very excited to welcome one of the biggest superstars in Country music to our event. Carrie is certainly going to get us started in style!”

Carrie Underwood is a five-time Grammy Award winner, a member of the Grand Ole Opry, a two-time reigning Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year and a three-time CMA and ACM Female Vocalist winner. Since her debut in 2005, Underwood has amassed more than 13 million in album sales and has placed 13 No. 1 singles on the charts.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show Sold Out

2011-08-16T07:38:00.001-07:00

Jan 24, 2011
CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show Sold Out

CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show Sold Out

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 24, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. has announced the CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show® is sold out.

“This year’s paid seminar registrations have significantly exceeded our numbers from last year at this time,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Unfortunately, that means that we have already met capacity for our New Faces show and cannot continue to include tickets for that event in our three-day registration packages. Therefore, any CRS 2011 registrations sold from this point on will not include a New Faces ticket. As a result, we are reducing our registration price back to the $399 Early Bird Rate, effective immediately.”

Additionally, no individual tickets may be purchased for the New Faces of Country Music Show. As previously announced, the CRS 2011 registration price will increase on Feb. 19 to the On-Site Rate, which has been discounted this year to $499.

The downtown Renaissance Nashville Hotel, which operates as the Country Radio Seminar’s host hotel, is reporting that it has limited availability remaining for March 2-4. Those planning to attend CRS and stay at the Renaissance hotel are advised to book their room immediately. In order to receive the CRS discounted room rate, individuals must be paid registrants of CRS 2011. The preferred rate expires Feb. 4 if rooms are still available at that time. Contact the Renaissance Nashville Hotel at (615) 255-8400.

The CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music performers are: The Band Perry (Republic Nashville), Lee Brice (Curb Records), Jerrod Niemann (Sea Gayle/Arista Nashville) Steel Magnolia (Big Machine Records) and Josh Thompson (Columbia Nashville).

The New Faces of Country Music Show takes place Friday, March 4, at 6 p.m. CST. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. For more information, visit www.CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRB, Inc.® Once Again Offers Special $99 Unemployment Rate to CRS Attendees

2011-08-16T07:37:00.001-07:00

Jan 19, 2011
CRB, Inc.® Once Again Offers Special $99 Unemployment Rate to CRS Attendees

CRB, Inc.® Once Again Offers Special $99 Unemployment Rate to CRS Attendees

$99 rate provides access to more than 20 educational events at CRS

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 18, 2011) Following its debut prior to last year’s CRS 2010, Country Radio Broadcasters has once again approved a $99 Unemployment Rate for CRS 2011, to be held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville.

Effective immediately and available through Friday, Feb. 18, CRB’s Unemployment Rate provides CRS attendees access to more than 20 educational seminars and panels, as well as all exhibits. Tickets to the Music City Jam™, New Faces of Country Music Show® and daily luncheons must be purchased separately at additional cost.

“This special $99 rate helped out more than a few of our CRS attendees last year,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “Although the economy is slowly turning around, there is still a lot of uncertainty and turnover in our industry. The CRB board felt it was appropriate to offer our Unemployment Rate again this year to help those looking for a job, and attending CRS is obviously a huge step in that effort.”

The current $499 Regular Rate also expires Feb. 18. The $599 On-Site Rate goes into effect Saturday, Feb. 19 and runs until CRS 2011 opens March 2 at the downtown Nashville Convention Center.

Contact Kristen McRary at (615) 327-4487 or Kristen@CRB.org for all registration materials. Proof of unemployment may be subject to verification by CRB, Inc. to qualify for the $99 Unemployment Rate.

For more information, a detailed schedule and descriptions of CRS 2011’s panels and confirmed panelists can be viewed at the Country Radio Broadcasters website: www.CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRB and CMA Partner to Present Comprehensive New Media Research Study at CRS 2011

2011-08-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

Jan 10, 2011
CRB and CMA Partner to Present Comprehensive New Media Research Study at CRS 2011

CRB and CMA Partner to Present Comprehensive New Media Research Study at CRS 2011

Survey to measure realities of Country Music consumers' new media usage vs. perceptions of Country Music industry

(Nashville, Tenn. - Jan. 3, 2011) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® and the
Country Music Association have partnered to present a new research project
at CRS 2011, emphasizing new media usage in today's primary Country Music consumer demographic.

The comprehensive study surveys both Country Music consumers and
professionals in the Country Music industry, making it unique from previous
research projects presented at CRS. The parallel study not only tracks the
actual new media engagement and usage by the Country Music fan, but also the
perception of those trends by programmers, managers, artists and other
executives within the Country Music industry.

"I think one of the most interesting things about this year's study is that
it's going to poll people within our industry, not just fans and radio
listeners," said Rusty Walker, president of Rusty Walker Programming. "It
will be interesting to see how accurate we are in predicting the popularity
of new media in the daily lives of our listeners. I'm betting there will be
some surprises there."

The 2011 study dissects the awareness, interest in and usage of new media
devices, social media, smartphone applications and radio station and artist
websites in the Country Music consumer's daily life. It also polls
participants on topics including music consumption, interaction with and
purchase of music via new media outlets, radio listening versus television
and Internet usage, and adoption trends of services such as Netflix, Skype
and standard texting.

"How Country Music consumers integrate new media into their daily lives
seems to be changing at a rapid pace," said Greg Fuson, CMA Market Research
Director. "This research study is a great opportunity for us to truly gain
insights on how today's consumer is using the new media to interact with
music."

The study, conducted by North Carolina-based media research firm, Coleman
Insights, covers a cross-section of 18- to 54-year-old Country radio
listeners who will be polled via online interviews. A significant sample of
industry professionals will be contacted as well. Surveying begins in
January 2011 to ensure the most current findings are represented. The
CRB/CMA research presentation panel is to be held Thursday, March 3, 2011,
at 11 a.m. in the Nashville Convention Center.

The annual CRB/CMA research presentation continues to be one of the premier
panels offered at Country Radio Seminar and provides valuable insight into
important issues facing the Country radio industry. CRS 2011 is held March
2-4, 2011. The $499 Regular Registration rate is currently available at
www.CRB.org

g/> or through the Country Radio Broadcasters offices at (615) 327-4487.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit
organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the
world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and
promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be
obtained at: www.CRB.org

g/> or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and
promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio
Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS
2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently
available online at www.CRB.org

g/> or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

About CMA:
More than 6,000 music industry professionals and companies around the globe
are members of the Country Music Association. Formed in 1958 as the first
trade association for a single genre of music, the organization's objectives
are to serve as an educational and professional resource for the industry
while advancing the growth of Country Music around the world. This is
accomplished through CMA's strategic imperatives - CMA Music Festival and
the CMA Awards. For information about CMA visit www.CMAworld.com

ld.com/> .

About Coleman Insights:
Coleman Insights, headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina,
with offices in Philadelphia and Hamburg, Germany, is a firm that has helped
media properties build strong brands and develop great content since 1978.
Its clients include hundreds of media properties in North America, South
America, Europe and Asia, including those owned by CBS Corporation, Sony
Corporation, Emmis Communications, The Walt Disney Company, Lincoln
Financial Media, Clear Channel Communications, EMI, Radio One, Warner Music
Group, NPR, Astral Media, Bonneville International Corporation, Vivendi SA,
Citadel Communications, Grupo Radio Centro, Sandusky Radio, Lagardère
International, Beasley Broadcast Group, Grupo Prisa, Mid-West Family
Broadcast Group, Salem Communications, The Mondadori Group, Connoisseur
Media, Corporación Radial del Perú, South Central Communications, SBS
Broadcasting, Maverick Media and Hubbard Broadcasting. Additional
information about Coleman Insights is available at www.ColemanInsights.com

ninsights.com/> .

Steel Magnolia Added to CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show®

2011-08-16T07:34:00.001-07:00

Jan 10, 2011
Steel Magnolia Added to CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show®

Steel Magnolia Added to CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show®

(Nashville, Tenn. – Jan. 7, 2011) Big Machine recording act Steel Magnolia has been added to the CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show, Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® announced today. They join previously announced performers The Band Perry (Republic Nashville), Lee Brice (Curb Records), Jerrod Niemann (Sea Gayle/Arista Nashville) and Josh Thompson (Columbia Nashville).

The addition was made to accommodate Easton Corbin’s move to a performance slot at Country Radio Seminar’s UMG luncheon, to be held Wednesday, March 2. Additional UMG luncheon performers will be announced in the coming weeks.

“We are thrilled to welcome Steel Magnolia to our New Faces lineup this year,” said CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “With the successes of ‘Keep on Lovin’ You’ and ‘Just By Being You,’ they are certainly deserving of a spot on the New Faces of Country Music Show and we’re excited to have them.”

The New Faces of Country Music Show takes place Friday, March 4, at 6 p.m. CST. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. For more information, visit www.CRB.org.

About Steel Magnolia:
Shortly after winning Season 2 of CMT's Can You Duet, Steel Magnolia (comprised of Meghan Linsey and Joshua Scott Jones) saw its debut single, “Keep On Lovin’ You,” skyrocket into the Top 5 on the Billboard Country Songs Chart, breaking a more than six decades-old record. The Country sensations earned nine major music award nominations in 2010 and toured throughout the summer on Brad Paisley’s “H20 World Tour.” Steel Magnolia are 2011 Academy of Country Music Award nominees for “Top Vocal Duo or Group.” Steel Magnolia’s self-titled Big Machine Records debut album --- which also includes the hit power ballad “Just By Being You (Halos & Wings),” and new single, “Last Night Again,” is in stores this Tuesday, January 11th. Visit www.steelmagnoliamusic.com for more information.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRB, Inc. Announces New Faces of Country Music Show® Lineup at CRS 2011

2011-08-16T07:33:00.000-07:00

Dec 8, 2010
CRB, Inc. Announces New Faces of Country Music Show® Lineup at CRS 2011

CRB, Inc. Announces New Faces of Country Music Show®
Lineup at CRS 2011

(Nashville, TN – Dec. 1, 2010) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced the performers for its CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show® to be held Friday, March 4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center.

The 2011 New Faces performers are: The Band Perry (Republic Nashville), Lee Brice (Curb Records), Easton Corbin (Mercury Nashville), Jerrod Niemann (Sea Gayle/Arista Nashville) and Josh Thompson (Columbia Nashville).

The CRS New Faces of Country Music Show (co-sponsored by the CMA and the Muscular Dystrophy Association) is one of the three-day seminar’s most anticipated events. Five emerging artists who have achieved significant success at Country radio during the official qualification period are selected to perform for CRS attendees. Earlier this year, the CRB expanded its voting process to allow any employee of a commercial, full-time Country-formatted radio station to vote for the 2011 New Faces performers. Previously, only Country Radio Seminar registrants from the preceding year were allowed to vote.

“Our New Faces show is always one of the highlights of Country Radio Seminar because attendees get a chance to see some of Country radio’s brightest up-and-coming stars,” says CRB President Mike Culotta. “The CRB board chose to include more of the Country radio industry in the voting process this year, which we feel gives us a better understanding of what Country radio listeners out there are really responding to in terms of the newer acts. Congratulations to all of this year’s New Faces performers. I know it’s going to be a terrific show!”

The CRB-Country Aircheck Awards are also presented during the New Faces of Country Music Show. The awards, which debuted last year at CRS 2010, recognize those individuals that have demonstrated outstanding efforts in the Country radio and music industries in the past year. A total of 28 awards are presented during the New Faces show. The first round of nominations is currently open at www.CRBawards.com through Dec. 10.

The $499 Regular Registration rate for CRS 2011 is currently available at www.CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

Whitey Shafer, Jerrod Niemann, Dallas Davidson to Headline CRS 2011’s WCRS Live!

2011-08-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

Nov 30, 2010
Whitey Shafer, Jerrod Niemann, Dallas Davidson to Headline CRS 2011’s WCRS Live!

Whitey Shafer, Jerrod Niemann, Dallas Davidson to Headline CRS 2011’s WCRS Live!

CRS songwriter showcase sponsored by BMI and Country Aircheck

(Nashville, TN – Nov. 8, 2010) – Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced Jerrod Niemann, Dallas Davidson and the legendary Whitey Shafer as the lineup for CRS 2011’s WCRS Live! songwriter showcase, sponsored by BMI and Country Aircheck.

“Once again, we’ve put together a perfect picture of the BMI family of Country hit makers – red-hot, rising star Jerrod Niemann, mega-hit songwriter Dallas Davidson and the legendary Whitey Shafer,” says Jody Williams, BMI Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations Nashville. “This will be a show that has it all from three of the finest songwriters Nashville has ever seen. BMI could not be more proud of all these guys. This is gonna be cool!”

Adds Country Aircheck’s Lon Helton, “Year after year BMI presents a top notch WCRS Live! with great songwriters and artists. We're proud to co-sponsor this 'must-hear' event with them.”

The WCRS Live! showcase is one of the performance highlights each year at Country Radio Seminar, held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville. WCRS Live! takes place Thursday, March 3, at 4:25 – 5:40 p.m. in the Nashville Convention Center.

For more information on CRS 2011, visit www.CRB.org.

About Whitey Shafer:
With a career spanning more than four decades, Whitey Shafer is one of Nashville’s most accomplished songwriters. Born and raised in Whitney, Texas, Shafer moved to Nashville in 1967, where he began a career that includes such hits as “The Baptism of Jesse Taylor” (Johnny Russell), “Tell Me Lying Eyes Are Wrong” (George Jones) and “I Wonder Do You Think of Me” (Keith Whitley). Along with Lefty Frizzell, the two legends collaborated together on songs like “That’s The Way Love Goes,” “I Never Go Around Mirrors,” “Bandy The Rodeo Clown,” “Lucky Arms,” “I Can’t Get Over You To Save My Life” and others. With help from a couple of his ex-wives, Shafer also wrote several hits for George Strait, including “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” and “All My Ex’s Live in Texas.” John Michael Montgomery, Lee Ann Womack and Kenny Chesney are just a few of the contemporary artists that have recorded Shafer’s compositions. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1989, Shafer lives near Nashville with his wife Tracy. Visit www.myspace.com/whiteyshafer for more information.

About Jerrod Niemann:
Judge Jerrod & The Hung Jury, Jerrod Niemann’s chart-topping debut album for Sea Gayle/Arista Nashville, is a far cry from a typical Country album. From the opening song, “They Should Have Named You Cocaine,” to his first No. 1 single, “Lover, Lover,” to his current single, “What Do You Want,” listeners find themselves in for an extraordinary ride. Niemann wrote or co-wrote most of the album’s songs with his friends, including Jamey Johnson and Dallas Davidson. Although Niemann had already experienced triumphs as a songwriter – having songs recorded by Garth Brooks, Jamey Johnson, Julie Roberts and Blake Shelton – he recorded Judge Jerrod & The Hung Jury out of a yearning to be a performer himself. He scored his first No. 1 hit with the song, “Lover, Lover” in 2010. A CMA New Artist of the Year nominee and three-time ACA nominee, Niemann will perform with Brad Paisley and Darius Rucker on the H20 Frozen Over Tour in January and February 2011. Visit www.jerrodniemannofficial.com for more information.

About Dallas Davidson:
Dallas Davidson arrived in Nashville in January 2004. His first cut was a song called “Kiss My Country Ass,” recorded by Rhett Akins and Hank Williams, Jr. However, it was an unconventional club-thumper that ignited Davidson’s career. Along with friends Jamey Johnson and Randy Houser, the trio wrote Trace Adkins’ mega-hit, “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” which topped charts and playlists in both dancehalls and dance clubs. His first trip to the top of the charts proved to be a harbinger of chart-climbing success. Since then, Davidson’s work has been recorded by Tim McGraw, Jamey Johnson, Jack Ingram, Josh Turner, Rodney Atkins, Blake Shelton and more. He has scored seven additional No. 1s, including Brad Paisley and Keith Urban’s “Start a Band,” Brooks & Dunn’s “Put a Girl in It,” Billy Currington’s “That’s How Country Boys Roll,” Joe Nichols’ “Gimmie That Girl,” Luke Bryan’s “Rain is a Good Thing,” Blake Shelton’s “All About Tonight” and his latest, Josh Turner’s “All Over Me.” Visit www.dallasdavidson.com for more information.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRB, Inc. to Honor The Judds, Joe Galante at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony March 1

2011-08-16T07:29:00.001-07:00

Nov 29, 2010
CRB, Inc. to Honor The Judds, Joe Galante at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony March 1

CRB, Inc. to Honor The Judds, Joe Galante at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony March 1

Hall of Fame tickets now on sale at CRB.org

(Nashville, TN – Nov. 29, 2010) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced legendary mother-daughter duo The Judds as its 2011 CRB Career Achievement Award recipient and industry executive Joe Galante as the recipient of the CRB President’s Award.

The awards are presented each year at the Country Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and Awards ceremony. This year’s awards are held on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at 6 p.m. CST in the Nashville Convention Center Ballroom. The event also serves as the unofficial kick-off to Country Radio Seminar, held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

The CRB Career Achievement Award is presented to an individual artist or act that has made a significant contribution to the development and promotion of Country music and Country radio through their creativity, vision, performance or leadership. The 2011 CRB Career Achievement Award recipient is The Judds.

“Since their arrival on the Country music scene in the early ‘80s, The Judds have been trailblazers, trendsetters and hit-makers, and they are still entertaining millions of fans around the world with their music,” says CRB President Mike Culotta. “Country radio would not be the same without these two fantastic ladies, and because of that, we are honoring them with the CRB Career Achievement Award.”

The President's Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the marketing, production, growth and development of the Country Radio Seminar and the multiple services that Country Radio Broadcasters provides to the Country radio and music communities. The 2011 President’s Award recipient is Joe Galante.

“Very few people have made as much of an impact in our industry as Joe Galante,” says CRB President Mike Culotta. “The acts that he has worked with during his almost 40 years in the business have also been some of Country radio’s biggest superstars. He has always been a friend to Country radio, and I have a feeling there are plenty more great things ahead for him in this business. It’s an honor to announce Joe Galante as our 2011 President’s Award recipient.”

The 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees are Dale Carter, Barry Kent and Lee Rogers in the On-Air Personality category and Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam and Bill Payne in the Radio category.

Advance ticket prices for the Hall of Fame ceremony and dinner are $100 for CRS 2011 registrants and $110 for non-registrants. The $125 on-site ticket price goes into effect on Feb. 15, 2011. Tickets are on sale now at www.CRB.org.

About The Judds:
Kentucky natives, The Judds, are one of the most successful Country music duos of all time, amassing 14 No. 1 hits and more than 60 industry awards, including multiple CMA, ACM and GRAMMY awards. After launching their career with Curb/RCA Records in 1984, The Judds sold 20 million albums in just six years. By 1989, The Judds were one of the top-grossing and most popular touring acts in America. Unfortunately, at the height of their career, Naomi Judd announced her impending retirement due to health complications. Their subsequent tour sold more concert tickets than any artist that year except for The Grateful Dead and The Rolling Stones. The pair reunited on Dec. 31, 1999, for a New Year’s Eve show, prompting a successful reunion tour in 2000. After a performance and encouragement from their fans at the 2009 CMA Music Festival, the duo decided to tour one last time for their 2010 tour, The Judds: The Last Encore. Visit www.thejuddstour2010.com for more information.

Earlier this year, the duo partnered with The Oprah Winfrey Network to launch an original television series that documents their preparations for their Last Encore tour. The show is scheduled to debut in 2011.

About Joe Galante:
Joe Galante began his career in the music business with RCA Records in New York in 1971, arriving in Nashville two years later as manager of administration. Galante’s rise saw him become the youngest man to lead a major Nashville label when he took over as head of RCA Nashville in 1982. In 1990, he was named president of RCA Records in New York, returning to Nashville four years later as chairman of RCA Label Group/Nashville, encompassing the RCA and BNA labels and adding the Arista Nashville imprint in 2000. Six years later, welcoming Columbia Nashville as its fourth imprint, the label group became Sony BMG Nashville, adopting the Sony Music Nashville name in 2009.

In April of 2010, after 39 years within the same label family, Galante announced his decision to step down from his post as chairman of Sony Music Nashville. Across a remarkable tenure, Galante helped launch the careers of Alabama, Clint Black, Kenny Chesney, Sara Evans, The Judds, Lonestar, Martina McBride, K.T. Oslin, Kellie Pickler, Carrie Underwood, Keith Whitley, Chris Young and many more, while his leadership bolstered the careers of such superstars as Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert and Brad Paisley.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRB, Inc. Requests Items for Country Radio Hall of Fame Online Auctions

2011-08-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

Nov 22, 2010
CRB, Inc. Requests Items for Country Radio Hall of Fame Online Auctions

CRB, Inc. Requests Items for Country Radio Hall of Fame Online Auctions

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® is currently requesting music memorabilia items for its annual Country Radio Hall of Fame online auctions.

The auctions are one of the primary ways CRB raises funds each year for the Country Radio Hall of Fame. The first round of auctions is currently open at www.CountryMusicMarketplace.com. Items for the second round are due at CRB no later than Friday, Dec. 17, 2010.

Previous year’s submissions have included gold records, autographed memorabilia and instruments, meet and greet opportunities, flyaway concert packages and dinners with artists. Each year, the Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony unofficially kicks off Country Radio Seminar in downtown Nashville.

CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center.

Securely packaged auction items may be hand-delivered or mailed to the CRB offices at 819 18th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37203. For additional information, please contact Chasity Crouch at the CRB offices at chasity@crb.org or (615) 327-4487.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

CRB, Inc. Announces Nominees and Expands Voting Process for CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show

2011-08-16T07:26:00.001-07:00

Nov 15, 2010
CRB, Inc. Announces Nominees and Expands Voting Process for CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show

CRB, Inc. Announces Nominees and Expands Voting Process for CRS 2011 New Faces of Country Music Show

Voting now open to all Country radio employees through Nov. 19

(Nashville, TN – Nov. 12, 2010) Effective immediately, Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® is opening and expanding its New Faces of Country Music Show® voting process to all Country radio station employees.

This year’s nominees are: The Band Perry, Lee Brice, Easton Corbin, Danny Gokey, Jaron and The Long Road To Love, David Nail, Jerrod Niemann, Steel Magnolia and Josh Thompson. The newly revised voting guidelines now permit any employee of a commercial, full-time Country formatted radio station to vote for the New Faces of Country Music Show performers. Vote for this year’s nominees here.

Previously, only Country Radio Seminar registrants from the preceding year were allowed to vote for the New Faces performers. The CRS New Faces committee approved the measure earlier this month.

“We opened up the New Faces voting process because we felt it was in Country Radio Seminar’s best interest to solicit input from as many people in our industry as possible,” says CRS New Faces Committee Chair, John Crenshaw. “We think this provides a much broader view of which artists Country radio is really excited about, and it also makes a greater effort to involve all those people that work so hard behind the scenes but aren’t always able to attend CRS.”

Voting remains open through Friday, Nov. 19. The 2011 New Faces show is held Friday, March 4, 2011, at 6:30 p.m. at the Nashville Convention Center.

The New Faces of Country Music Show (co-sponsored by the Country Music Association) is one of the most anticipated events at Country Radio Seminar, held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville. Five emerging artists that have achieved significant success at Country radio during the qualification period are selected to perform at the showcase event.

The official New Faces of Country Music Show qualification criteria from CRB.org are as follows:

1. The qualification period is November 1 - October 31 preceding the New Faces Show.

2. The artist(s) selected must have NEVER appeared on the New Faces Show. Solo performers that become a member of a group or duo, or a group or duo member that becomes a solo artist will be considered as an individual and separate artist, and is therefore eligible.

3. Acts must have had at least ONE Top 25 single on the The Mediabase Country Chart as published in Country Aircheck or at least ONE Top 25 single on the Billboard Country Chart during the qualification period.

4. Acts may not have more than two albums on the Billboard Country Top 50 Country Album chart, nor more than two albums that peaked above No. 50 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart (or corresponding Nielsen Soundscan-based chart) by the end of the qualification period.

For more information about Country Radio Seminar, visit www.CRB.org.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Limited time, $399 registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

Only Five Days Remaining to Take Advantage of CRS 2011 $399 Early Bird Rate

2011-08-16T07:24:00.003-07:00

Nov 15, 2010
Only Five Days Remaining to Take Advantage of CRS 2011 $399 Early Bird Rate

Only Five Days Remaining to Take Advantage of CRS 2011 $399 Early Bird Rate

Cheapest registration rate of the year set to expire Friday, Nov. 19

Only five days remain before the $399 Early Bird registration rate expires for CRS 2011, to be held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn.

The $399 price point is a 20 percent decrease from last year’s Early Bird Rate and the largest registration rollback in Country Radio Seminar history. Beginning Saturday, Nov. 20, the CRS 2011 registration price increases to the $499 Regular Rate.

Country Radio Seminar is the premier educational and networking event for the Country radio and music industry, offering three days of informative panels, prominent speakers and intimate performances from some of today’s biggest stars and emerging artists.

Registration for CRS 2011 is currently available on the CRB website at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. at (615) 327-4487.

CRS 2011 $399 Early Bird Rate Expires Nov. 19 $499 Regular Rate begins Nov. 20

2011-08-16T07:24:00.001-07:00

Nov 1, 2010
CRS 2011 $399 Early Bird Rate Expires Nov. 19 $499 Regular Rate begins Nov. 20

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CRS 2011 $399 Early Bird Rate Expires Nov. 19$499 Regular Rate begins Nov. 20

(Nashville, Tenn. – Nov. 1, 2010) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced that its $399 Early Bird registration rate for CRS 2011 expires on Friday, Nov. 19, 2010.

The $399 price point represents a 20 percent decrease from last year’s Early Bird Rate and the largest registration rollback in Country Radio Seminar history. The Early Bird deadline was not previously announced, as it had been in years past. The CRB Board of Directors has reported increased registration this year as a result of the initiative.

“The $399 rate is our outreach to address the economic impact everyone in our industry is dealing with, making it the most affordable CRS ever, and encourages our attendees to register early this year to take advantage of this great value,” says CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne. “It helps our committees in planning for the seminar and attendees still have close to three weeks to get this price before our Regular Rate goes up to $499.”

Registration for CRS 2011 is currently available on the CRB website at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. at (615) 327-4487. CRS 2011 is March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center.

About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at 615-327-4487.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

2011-08-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

Nov 1, 2010
Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Deadline for advance rate Hall of Fame tickets is Feb. 15

(Nashville, TN – Nov. 1, 2010) CRB, Inc.® has announced Dale Carter, Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam, Barry Kent, Bill Payne and Lee Rogers as its 2011 class to be inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame.

Dale Carter, Barry Kent and Lee Rogers are the 2011 On-Air Personality inductees. Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam and Bill Payneare the Radio inductees. The class of 2011 will be officially instated at a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center.

Advance ticket prices for the Hall of Fame ceremony and dinner are $100 for CRS 2011 registrants and $110 for non-registrants. The $125 on-site ticket price goes into effect after Feb. 15, 2011. Tickets are on sale now at www.CRB.org.

“The quality and quantity of applicants for the Hall of Fame is truly amazing. It is a great reminder of the impact and legacy that so many talented people have made through their careers in Country radio. We are thrilled to honor six such deserving individuals at this year's Hall of Fame dinner,” says Chairman of the Country Radio Hall of Fame, Charlie Morgan.

The Country Radio Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony unofficially kicks off Country Radio Seminar each year. CRS 2011 is March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center.

To purchase tickets to the dinner and induction ceremony, click here and download the registration form and return it to the Country Radio Broadcasters prior to February 2, 2010 or visit www.crb.org.

About the 2011 On-Air Personality Inductees:

Dale Carter – Dale Carter’s career in Country radio began in 1979 at WROZ in Evansville, Ind. He moved to WKDQ during his college days at the University of Southern Indiana, then took a job at WYNG in 1984, becoming the station’s program director at only 21 years old. The following year, he won the Beasley Group’s Program Director of the Year award. In 1992, Carter moved to WWYZ in Hartford, Conn., where he programmed the station and worked on-air for the next three years before settling into his current position as PD and morning show co-host at KFKF in Kansas City, Mo. He has been instrumental in KFKF’s charity efforts with St. Jude’s, raising more than $4 million since 1996. Carter has previously served on the CRS agenda committee, CRB Board of Directors and served as Chairman of the Country DJ Hall of Fame Committee. He has been nominated by the CMA eight times, once for Small Market Air Personality of the Year and seven times as Large Market Air Personality of the Year. He is currently a District 1 City Councilman in Blue Springs, Missouri, and the stadium voice for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Barry Kent – A native of West Terre Haute, Ind., Barry began his radio career at WWVR in 1969 working for WPFR before moving to WBOW AM/FM the following year where he became known as “Rockin’ Barry Kent.” In 1975, he became the station’s program director, and in 1980 WBOW-FM changed call letters to WBOQ and flipped to country. Kent moved to WTHI in 1982, where he served as program director and afternoon DJ. In the late ‘80s, he switched to the morning show and has remained there ever since. In 1989, the station bought WWVR, and Kent currently serves as operations manager of WTHI and WWVR, the first station he ever worked at. WTHI has been a St. Jude station since 1990, raising more than $1 million for the hospital. Kent hosts all 30 hours of the station’s St. Jude Radiothon.

Lee Rogers – Lee Rogers has worked in the radio business for more than 40 years. His first job in the Country format came in 1970 at KBAM in Longview, Wash. His career includes stops at KMPS (Seattle, Wash.), K102 (Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn.), WQIK (Jacksonville, Fla.) and KCBQ (San Diego, Calif.). For the last 13 years, Rogers has held the job as operations manager and morning show host at Portland, Oregon’s KUPL. Combining his Country radio career with his love of live music, Rogers has toured and performed with artists including Ernest Tubb, Hank Snow, Don Gibson, Keith Whitley, Minnie Pearl, Dwight Yoakam and Charlie Daniels.

About the 2011 Radio Inductees:

Charlie Cook – Charlie Cook began his Country radio career in 1972 at WSDS in Ypsilanti, Mich. In the ‘70s, Cook spent time at KLAK in Denver, Wheeling’s WWVA and WHN in New York. He was named “DJ of the Year” by Billboard in 1977. In 1980, he joined KHJ in Los Angeles, flipping the station to Country. Cook then went to KLAC before joining McVay Media in 1983 as Sr. VP of Country Programming, where he consulted more than 40 Country stations over the next 12 years. In 1996, Cook joined Westwood One as VP Programming/Formats, and in 2006 he joined Cumulus as VP Programming for the company’s 61 Country stations. Los Angeles’ KKGO hired Cook as Sr. Manager of Country Programming in 2008. Cook has previously served as president of both the ACM and CRB. In 2010 he was awarded the CRB’s President’s Award.

Dene Hallam – Dene Hallam (1954 – 2009) was one of only two programmers to win Billboard’s Program Director of the Year in two different formats (Country and Top 40). His Country radio career began as a program director at WFEC in Harrisburg, Pa., in 1977. Among the numerous stations Hallam programmed were New York City’s first FM Country station, WKHK, as well as WWWW (Detroit), WHN (New York), KKBQ (Houston), KYCY (San Francisco), WKHX (Atlanta) and WDAF (Kansas City). In 2007, Hallam returned to Atlanta, where he served as program director for the “Moby in the Morning” network until his death in 2009. While at KKBQ/Houston, Hallam was awarded Billboard’s Program Director of the Year award (Country format) in 1995.

Bill Payne – Bill Payne began his professional radio career in 1951 at only 12 years old, spinning records on “Bill Payne’s Record Shop” on KWHP in Cushing, Okla. By his early twenties, he had become an FM pioneer in Oklahoma, having built an operable radio station that broadcasted from inside his garage. In 1977, he purchased Tulsa’s KTFX and changed the format to Country, becoming the first FM Country station in Tulsa. Today, Payne owns five Country radio stations in Oklahoma, including KEOK/Tahlequah, KTLQ/Tahlequah, KITX/Hugo, KTNT/Eufaula and the relocated KTFX in Warner/Muskogee. Payne’s KITX has been nominated nine times for Marconi awards and received numerous awards from the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters.

The Country Radio Hall of Fame is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the radio industry over a 20-year period, 15 of which must be in the Country format.

About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.crb.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.