Country Universe

Discussion: Recommend a Track

November 14, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 17

The title track from Iris Dement’s album The Way I Should promotes a philosophy that I can get behind. Responding to nameless critics, she justifies the choices she’s been making with clear-eyed confidence: A ghost

Say What? – Whitney Pastorek (Entertainment Weekly)

November 14, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 44

Between the live blog and Blake’s excellent post-mortem, there isn’t much left to be said about Wednesday’s CMA Awards. But Whitney Pastorek from Entertainment Weekly made some points in her CMA Wrap-up that are worthy

CMA Awards Review

November 13, 2008 Guest Contributor 58

Last night, the CMA stamped its approval on the leading contemporary country stars of today. Congratulations to Kevin for commandeering the most popular live blog in Country Universe history. Here is a series of highlights

Discussion: Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Singers

November 13, 2008 Guest Contributor 8

In the most recent edition of Rolling Stone, an esteemed panel of journalists, executives and artists were assembled to name the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. The list is based on a singer’s vocal

2008 CMA Awards Live Blog

November 12, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 254

2008 CMA Winners Entertainer: Kenny Chesney Male Vocalist: Brad Paisley Female Vocalist: Carrie Underwood Album: George Strait, Troubadour Vocal Duo: Sugarland New Artist: Lady Antebellum Vocal Group: Rascal Flatts Song: Jennifer Nettles, “Stay” Single: George

Country Universe Staff: 2008 CMA Predictions

November 12, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 19

This afternoon, the Country Universe staff is following up last night’s personal picks with our actual predictions about who will win tonight. Check back tonight at show time to join the live blog and mock

Country Universe Staff: 2008 CMA Personal Picks

November 11, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 20

As we gear up for tomorrow night’s CMA Awards Show, the staff of Country Universe share our personal picks in all categories. Check back tomorrow for our predictions in each category. Our third annual Live

Review: George Strait, “River of Love”

November 11, 2008 Guest Contributor 6

Country icon George Strait follows the title track of his latest album, Troubadour, with the new, calypso-laced “River of Love.” Troubador is light on radio-friendly material, and MCA leaves the Patty Loveless duet (“House of Cash”) and

News: Terri Clark Returns to Her Roots

November 11, 2008 Guest Contributor 11

Reba McEntire isn’t the only country star recharging her creative batteries with a career change this month. In an announcement on her website last week, Terri Clark informed her fan club that she would be

News: Reba McEntire signs with Valory Music

November 11, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 11

Wow. Country superstar Reba McEntire has ended her 25-year association with MCA Nashville and signed with the Valory Music Co. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The move reunites 2007 Billboard Woman of the