Country Universe

A Conversation With Suzy Bogguss

August 29, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 5

Earlier today, I had the opportunity to talk with award-winning singer-songwriter Suzy Bogguss, who has a new album being released on September 4. Sweet Danger is a jazz-flavored project that showcases her trademark vocals in

Garth Brooks, “More Than a Memory”

August 29, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 20

The big guy returns with a solid single. He sounds great on the verses, and I love the way the chorus builds. I’m pretty sure I hear Trisha helping him get to those high

Bucky Covington, “It’s Good to Be Us”

August 29, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 12

He’s much stronger when tackling upbeat material, and it’s hard not to find his enthusiasm on this song contagious, even if the lyrics themselves are as conventional as country music gets. It’ll sound good loud

Ashton Shepherd, “Takin’ Off This Pain”

August 29, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 43

Ever wondered what Jennifer Nettles would sound like if she performed traditional country? Or Gretchen Wilson with more emotive, expressive vocals? Ladies and gentlemen, meet Ashton Shepherd. She’s got a cold beer in her left

Contest: Outguess Country Universe – CMA Nominations

August 25, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 20

I’m feeling a little generous, my friends, and bankrolling a fun little contest here. Over the past few days, I’ve made predictions for eight categories in the upcoming CMA Awards. Do you think you can

Eagles, “How Long”

August 24, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 11

When they reunited for the Hell Freezes Over tour and record, they put out a few new songs, but none of them sounded like vintage Eagles. This single does. The harmonies, the country-flavored guitar work,

Keith Urban, “Everybody”

August 24, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 11

It goes without saying that Keith Urban is a distinguished vocalist, even though he tends to get a lot more attention for his master guitar work. It’s his vocal talent that powers this inspirational ballad.

Halfway to Hazard, Halfway to Hazard

August 24, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 2

Halfway to Hazard Halfway to Hazard Shrieking diva syndrome. It’s an affliction that has corrupted many a talented female vocalist. They mistake screaming for singing, intensity for interpretation. They errantly believe that the louder

CMA Forecast: Entertainer of the Year

August 23, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 46

In the final edition of CMA Forecast, I’m taking a look at the Entertainer of the Year category. Will this be the year that some new faces are in the running for the first

Kenny Chesney, “Don’t Blink”

August 23, 2007 Kevin John Coyne 15

“A hundred years goes faster than you think. Don’t blink.” This is the sage advice given by a man on the television screen, being interviewed on his 102nd birthday. He’s asked to reveal the secret