Kitty Wells: True Queen Of Country Music

Many know her from the response song "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels" but what most people don't realize is that Kitty Wells led the way for many women in country music and other genres across the board.

Most people know her professionally as Kitty Wells, but to family she was Ellen Muriel Deason. On Monday July 16 2012, country music lost one of the last great honky tonk artists of her time period. Without the music of Kitty Wells, there would not be a Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Dixie Chicks, Miranda Lambert etc. Kitty opened pathways for other genres as well. There would not be Joan Jett, Patti Smith, Heart, Janis Joplin, Melissa Ethridge, Alanis Morrisette, Grace Potter, and even pop artists such as Brittany Spears, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry.

She began singing at an early age and playing guitar. Then she started performing with her husband Johnnie Wright and his duo Johnnie & Jack on the Louisiana Hayride show. Soon Wells was signed to a record label but dropped because record labels at the time was not pushing for women on the music scene. Many record companiesdidn't want to release other female records or sell them until Wells proved herself. She had a lot of pressure on her but did not let it phase her one bit.

At the time that Kitty came out with "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels", it was a time women were not taken seriously in music. In 1952, that song was almost banned from the Grand Ole Opry and many radio stations across America, but with sales dominating, stations began playing it and it became a hit. This was a rebuttal to Hank Thompson's "Wild Side of Life." It became so much of a hit in country music that it crossed over into the pop charts. The boys on music row said it was too racy, and people wouldn't like it. What happened? It spoke to people. Kitty was the voice for many women across America. 

In 1976, she was elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame. She was the third country music artist and eighth woman to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. This is what gave her the title "Queen of Country Music."

She paved the way for so many women in music by speaking from her heart in everything she did. She will be greatly missed but her music will live on forever.

Country with An Edge: Sonia Leigh

With a voice between Loretta Lynn and Melissa Ethridge or Janis Joplin, one might think she doesn't fit into country music, but you can tell it is in her roots. Coming off a power packed performance today at the Bud Light stage during CMA Fest 2012, Sonia Leigh had the place groovin' with her melodies, and rockin' non stop the entire time. She brings a slight edge with her voice.

Opening up for artists such as Zac Brown Band and Uncle Kracker, Sonia has plenty of experience behind her. Not only is she a tremendous stage performer, she takes control of the guitar. Her personality will become part of you. If you ever get the chance to see her, I highly recommend it.

Her debut album, 1978 December, was released on Southern Grounds records back in September of last year, but I'm definitely looking forward to new things coming from Sonia Leigh. Right now, fans can vote on CMT.com for her new video "Bar", a track from her album. Her song "My Name is Money" is one that will get stuck in your head, and that's definitely not a bad thing. Check it out.

For more information on Sonia Leigh, check out www.sonialeigh.com

Sammy Arriaga: Soulful and Smooth

Just 20 years old, Sammy Arriaga, has a voice of experience. His smooth baritone sound will sooth and serenade you for hours. Now, you may recognize his name. He auditioned for American Idol with a chance to perform in front of the judges and even advanced. Unfortunately the road for American Idol was short. That's when he turned to Nashville. You may have even seen him perform in Nashville at Rippy's Bar & Grill.

A Miami, Florida native brings his Latin heritage to country music. His soulful voice will make girls swoon and the guys a bit jealous. Under Nashville management, Sammy is making a name for himself meeting new fans every week and making new fans out of those who are graced with his presence. He has a strong charisma that is refreshing.

When talking about the artists that have been playing LP Field this week, he said he would love the chance to perform there, but he would like to perform just with himself and his guitar. Not only is Sammy a talented singer, he is very talented with guitar. Sammy says he looks up to Keith Urban not only because of guitar, but his voice. With similar range, Sammy can pull off any song and put his own twist to it.

I thoroughly enjoyed Sammy's performance at Rippy's Bar & Grill on Broadway today. It was very refreshing to hear a voice like his. Watch out for him - he's going places.

For more information on Sammy Arriaga check out his website www.sammyarriaga.com  

Review: CMA Fest 2012

If you love country music, then Nashville is the place to be. All of your favorite artists performing in one city, within blocks of each other. I don't think that there's a quiet spot. Fans from all over the world have travelled to Nashville, Tennessee for CMA Music Festival.

This year, the temperatures are not near as bad as they were last year, which is a good thing. I've noticed there hasn't been as many people in town this year. Maybe they are holding out for the night concerts at LP Field? 

Sightings from today: Eric Paslay, Carla (from ABC's The Chew), Jaime Fox, Bo Bice, and more! Taking a quick lunch then back out to Broadway it is! Make sure to check out our photos on our facebook page. We'll be updating them often. Also follow us on Twitter! @CountryMuseBlog

Last night was the first concert from LP Field to kick off the first day of CMA Fest 2012. Artists that came together for power packed concert were:
- Brad Paisley
- Miranda Lambert
- Jason Aldean
- Kellie Pickler
- David Nail

- Glen Campbell

- Lauren Alaina

- Zac Brown Band
- Lady Antebellum

Check back for pictures from last night's show!

Rumor Has It

No - we aren't talking about Adele here, but rumor has it that something different will be done for the CMT Awards on Wednesday. While Eric Church was doing a rehearsal tonight, it was overheard that there could possibly be outdoor performances during the awards as well as be broadcast outside for fans to watch outside the arena. Nothing is confirmed yet, but the press conference is tomorrow and we'll know more. Stay tuned!

Essential Items for CMA Fest

We've compiled a list of essential CMA Fest items that will help make your experience even better!

1. Your CMA Fest 2012 credentials
2. Sunscreen - no one wants to be a lobster. Make sure you have a small tube with you during the day in case you need to reapply it. *I got a travel pocket size at Wal-Mart for $0.97!!
3. Water (or beer if you're like Chris Young and conserving water) - lots and lots of it... your choice.
4. Sunglasses
5. Plastic poncho in case of rain
6. Camera - don't want to miss out on pictures of your favorite artists!
7. No worries, no stress - just have a great time and be safe!!

It's That Time Of Year

It's that time of year again! CMA Fest 2012!!! It's been a while since we posted last, but get prepared for an article overload of fantastic country music. We have all the exclusive look behind CMA Fest and little things you may not get to see. Pictures will be posted on our facebook page - so make sure you keep up with that. Also, check out our twitter @CountryMuseBlog - we will be posting extra items there.

This week will rock... country style, of course.

See ya in Nashville!