BLOGGING THOUGHTS

I have really enjoyed posting blogs about country music and public relations. It was always easy to find an article about a country artist hosting a charity event. I like knowing that there are celebrities out there who do not let fame go to their head. Instead, they take the time to give back to their community.

I have learned that public relations articles usually have a positive tone. A lot of the articles I found had a positive theme, but I know that this is not always the case. Fortunately, I did not find many articles that had to do damage control. Many of the articles were written to inform the public about upcoming events that country artists were hosting. The purpose was to either get them involved with the event or simply let them know that good things are being done in the country music community.

The skills I have gained at the blogging site have been very beneficial. It has been good to learn how to insert links and pictures. It was also neat to create a profile, and choose a background for my blog. There are things you can learn about a person's personality from their blog.

I really have enjoyed the blogging process, and I think blogging will continue to become more popular in the future. It is a great way for people to express their feelings. However, you have to be careful about what you read because most blogs are not credible sources. I am sure that I will come in contact with blogging again in the future, and it will be great to have some experience with this growing phenomenon!

YOUNG MAKES CHRISTMAS COME EARLY

Chris Young recently announced his involvement with the annual Billy Yates Countriest of the Country Charity Show. The event will take place at the Ernest Tubb Texas Troubadour Theater in Nashville on Wednesday, June 6th.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to Christmas for the Children. This non-profit organization, located in White House, Tennessee, raises money throughout the year to take local underprivileged children Christmas shopping.

The event is sponsored by the Billy Yates International Fan Club. Even though it began only three years ago, many consider it to be the best Country Music show during the CMA Music Festival.

The show is sure to be action packed. Other guests for the event will include Joe Diffie, Tammy Cochran, Michael Peterson, Highway 101, Billy Ryan, and many more.

This article is very positive for Chris Young as well as the other artists performing at the show. If there is ever a chance to help children in need, celebrities should try to participate because it shows that they care about our country’s future. The overall goal of this article is to let the public know that Young and other country artists are willing to share their good fortune with others. The public will appreciate the fact that these artists can bring a smile to a child’s face simply by doing what they love to do.

To view the full article, click here.

SHELTON HOSTS 'RAINDANCE'

On April 22-24, country music star Blake Shelton’s 2nd Annual Raindance Charity Event will take place in his hometown of Ada, OK. The event will last three days and will include sporting events like an archery tournament and team roping. The event will conclude with a concert by Shelton, Steve Holy, Neal McCoy and Craig Morgan. These four men will also be signing Shelton’s Takamine guitar to be auctioned off online on Tuesday, April 24th and run through the month of May.

Last year’s event raised over $133,000 for the victims of Oklahoma’s 2005-2006 struggle with drought and wildfires. After Shelton witnessed first hand the destruction of family farms and livestock, he decided to host Raindance. “When I saw how some of my Oklahoma neighbors were so deeply affected by natural disasters - it got me to thinking about how I could help – I felt I had to do something. RAINDANCE is a good fit for me, I enjoy all the events and hopefully so do a lot of other people,” said Shelton .

Raindance has partnered with the Oklahoma Lumbermen’s Association and their relief program, Project Rebuild, to distribute aid throughout the 28 counties of Oklahoma.

This is a great PR article for Shelton. It shows that he is genuinely concerned about the well-being of his hometown and its residents. The public will be thrilled about this event and think highly of Shelton because he is going back to his childhood town in its time of need. The Oklahoma drought and wildfires really affected him, so he has decided to use his fame for a good cause. The overall goal of the article is to inform the public of his generosity. He has not let celebrity status get to his head.

To view the full article, click here.

WRIGHT FIGHTS FOR MUSIC EDUCATION!

Chely Wright recently announced the date for the 7th Annual Reading, Writing & Rhythm Benefit Concert. The event will take place Tuesday, June 5, at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville, TN.

The event kicks off this year’s CMA Music Festival and includes a silent auction. Wright established Reading, Writing & Rhythm in 1999, and it has since become one of the most prominent music education programs in the nation.

The objective of the program is to improve the quality of music education in America’s public schools and raise public awareness about the importance of educating our youth about music.

So far, performing artists will include Keith Anderson, Emerson Drive, Kellie Pickler, Mindy Smith, Taylor Swift, Trent Tomlison, and Chris Young. There will be more artists performing, but these artists will be surprise special guests.

Last year’s event raised over $100,000 for the charity and since the program started, the charity has donated gifts of music, musical instruments, and services valuing just over $1 million to schools and students throughout the nation.

“I have become graciously humbled and overwhelmed by the outpour of support by my friends in music,” said Wright. “The music community is a caring and giving one and the success of the event is truly reflective of that.”

This year’s event is being sponsored by: American Airlines, BB&T Financial, BMI, Best Buy, Flavour, Harley Davidson of Cool Springs, Shure Mics, Wildhorse Saloon and XM Satellite Radio.

This is a very positive article for Wright because it shows not only that she is giving back to the community, but that the event was her idea. She took the initiative to start this program, and it is still running strong. She has gotten her fellow country artists to help her out with this program. She is using her fame for a great cause. Also, it really shows her love for music. The overall goal of the article is to inform the fans that music education is important to Wright, and she will do whatever she can to contribute to the cause.

To view the full article, click here.

MESSINA MAKES VETERANS WEEK

On Thursday, April 5th, Jo Dee Messina will perform at the Snowmass Convention Center for the 21st National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. The week long event, which kicked off yesterday (April 1st), is being held in Snowmass Village, Colorado. In addition to performing for the event, Messina will also be around a few days to help out with the clinic itself.

“During my USO tour in Italy a base commander told me about this clinic and I knew instantly that I wanted to help out any way that I could,” said Jo Dee. “I think it’s amazing that these soldiers do not allow their injuries to slow them down but instead continue to display courage and face challenges by participating in this clinic.”

The National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic allows disabled veterans to participate in activities like skiing, snowmobiling, sled hockey, and scuba diving. The event is hosted by The Department of Veterans Affairs, which offers recreational therapy programs at 155 hospitals. The Disabled American Veterans, a nonprofit organization with more than one million wartime disabled veterans, is co-sponsoring the event.

This is a very positive event for Messina to take part in. Again, when the public sees a superstar using their talent for a good cause, they see those celebrities in a positive light. The overall purpose of the article is to educate the public that Messina is choosing to give back to the community. She is devoting her time and talent to this cause because she cares about helping people. She will definitely get positive feedback!

To view the full article, click here.

PECK SUPPORTS FAMILIES IN NEED
Tonight at 7pm, Danielle Peck will perform a benefit concert to kick off the first “Safe Haven Homeless Family Awareness Week” in Nashville, TN. “An Evening with Danielle Peck and Friends” will include country artists Keith Anderson, Julie Roberts, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Blue Country, and Emily West.

The event, sponsored by 3rd & Lindsley, The Nashville Scene, and Still Working Music, is being held at the 3rd & Lindsley venue. The cost is a donation of $8.00, and children are free. The purpose of this concert is to recognize that there are many homeless families in Middle Tennessee who need help and support.

“We are fortunate to have a talented performer like Danielle Peck supporting our mission. She has made a great impact on the families we serve through her philanthropic efforts as well as volunteerism,” said Bruce Newport, Safe Haven Family Shelter’s Executive Director.

This is a very positive article for Peck because it shows how generous she is. She is willing to use what she does for a living for a good cause. She truly cares about helping people, and the public always appreciates it when those who have been fortunate in their lives reach out to those who haven’t been so lucky. The overall goal of this article is to inform the public of the upcoming event, so that they might participate in giving back to the community. Peck made the right decision in being a part of this charitable event.

To view the full article, click here.

WRIGHT'S JOURNEY OVERSEAS
On Wednesday March 7, Chely Wright returned from a 10-day journey overseas as part of the Stars for Stripes 2007 Tour. Wright visited military camps in Kuwait and Iraq to perform for the troops. This was not Wright’s first visit to Iraq, as she has visited and performed in 14 different Stars for Stripes shows. In addition, she has taken military tours in Korea and Japan.

Wright comes from a military family, making her willingness to support military troops a very personal decision.

“My grandfather served in the Army during World War II. My father was in the Navy during Vietnam, and my brother is currently an active duty U.S. Marine. Aside from the fact that I have a military history, I am just one of those Americans who is extremely thankful for the sacrifices of our service men and women. These individuals are my brothers and sisters, and I just feel like supporting our military overseas is part of my personal duty.”

Wright’s journey began on February 24, 2007 at Camp Buehring—a camp that is the “last stop” for the troops before they enter Iraq for deployment. She then traveled from base to base to meet and perform in front of thousands of men and women in uniform.

“Every time I make this trip as part of the Stars for Strips Tour, it’s difficult for me to leave. I can see the genuine appreciation in each and every one of their eyes. And as long as they are there, I will continue to go back.”

This is definitely a positive public relations article. The Iraq war is a sensitive subject with many people. The fact that Wright is willing to travel overseas during this dangerous time and perform for troops is very admirable. The public likes to see that Wright is using her fame for a great cause. She is giving the troops a chance to relax and have fun for a while as she performs. The overall goal of this article is to inform the public that Wright cares about what is going on in our country. She is not saying she agrees or disagrees with the war, but she is trying to push Americans to support our troops regardless of their political affiliation.

To view the full article, click here.

TERRI CLARK'S MARRIAGE ENDS
Terri Clark and husband Greg Kaczor filed for divorce last Friday in Nashville. The “amicable parting” took place at The Davidson County Courthouse. The couple has known each other for 10 years, as Kaczor worked as Clark’s Tour Manager. Because of the current situation, Kaczor has opted out of this position.

In her statement, Clark explained, “This is very sad. Greg is one of my dearest friends and a wonderful person, and we are sorry that we’re here. This is an amicable split, and we appreciate everyone’s concern and respect for our sorting this out.”

Both parties have asked that their privacy be observed during this challenging time. Clark explained, “No big drama…just a couple heavy hearts. Anyone who’s ever been here, I am sure, understands.”

This article serves as a positive form of public relations for a negative situation. Terri Clark chose to make a statement and educate the public about her current situation. She realizes that as a celebrity, her private life will be discussed in the media. For that reason, she chose to address the situation and let the public know about her divorce. The statement she made was very positive, referring to her ex-husband as one of her “dearest friends.” The overall goal is to get the word out that even though Kaczor and Clark are splitting, it is an “amicable parting.”

To view the full article, click here.

WILSON IS "BACK TO THE BARS"
Gretchen Wilson went back to her roots last week by performing at smaller venues in her “Back to the Bars” Tour. Having played to huge crowds for several years, Wilson decided to revisit the intimacy of local bars. All the while, Wilson managed to raise over $163,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“This is how I grew up, singing in bars. I miss that intimacy. I’ve loved playing stadiums and arenas, don’t get me wrong, but when you are in a club, you can actually see and touch the fans. Their reaction to the music is immediate. The biggest bonus, though, is to be able to raise money for some very worthwhile organizations,” stated Wilson.

The week began in Austin, Texas, at Graham Central Station, where Wilson and KASE radio partnered to raise money for Make-A-Wish. Next up was an Albuquerque performance at a local restaurant to benefit St. Jude. Other stops included Oklahoma City and Little Rock. The final event on Friday night in Memphis drew over 600 fans and raked in $108,000 for St. Jude.

This article is very positive public relations for Gretchen Wilson. Not only is she reconnecting with fans by playing smaller venues, she is also raising money for charities at the same time. Fans like to know that they are valued, and Wilson is proving that she appreciates the support she receives from fans. She is also letting fans know that fame has not gotten to her head. She is giving back to the community in a big way, and her generosity is well-noted. The overall goal of the article is to educate the community about Wilson’s connection with her fans and inform the public of her kindness towards two very valuable organizations.

To view the full article, click here.

PAT GREEN WORKS WITH ST. JUDE'S
Country star Pat Green recently took part in the annual St. Jude Radio Training Seminar in Memphis. With nearly 900 attendants, this seminar involved people from around the country. Those involved are all dedicated to the life-saving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research.

Green was deeply touched by his visit to the hospital and his involvement with the cause.

"I know for sure that I would like to go back there when there are no cameras or press, just to be there in whatever capacity I can be useful,” explained Green.

As both a father and a spiritual man, the children of St. Jude had a real impact on him. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital finds cures and saves children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Families never pay for treatments not covered by insurance, and families without insurance are never asked to pay.

This is a very positive public relations article. The quotes given by Pat Green truly show his commitment to and respect for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This uplifting piece of writing gives readers an idea of how Pat Green uses his influence for a good cause. The public loves to read about celebrities giving to charities in general, but the response becomes even more intense when children are involved. The overall goal of the article is to educate the public about Pat Green’s latest gift to the community. It shows off his generosity, leaving the public pleased.

To view the full article, click here.

TRACE ADKINS HELPS WITH 'MAKEOVER'
Trace Adkins recently teamed up with ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition to make one family’s dreams come true. Adkins will appear as a special guest on the Emmy-Award winning reality show, as the design teams presents a family with a brand new renovated home.

Proceeds of more than $75,000, from Adkins recent concert in Austin, Texas, went toward paying off the current mortgage of a local couple. Out of their six children, five have been diagnosed with varying degrees of autism. The episode will include portions of Adkin’s concert, and the family’s new home will better meet the needs of their children. The Episode will air Sunday, February 18 at 8pm.

This article is a form of public relations because it informs the public about how a country superstar is giving back to the community. The public will find it heartwarming that country superstar, Trace Adkins, used his influence for a good cause. He is helping a family in need, which makes this article a very positive piece of public relations. The overall goal of the exposure is to give the public a positive image of Adkins. They will be happy to hear that Adkins is helping make the dreams of a very special family come true. Adkins will benefit from this exposure because it portrays him as generous.

To view the full article, click here.

STARS SPIN THE ‘WHEEL' FOR CHARITY
Country music singer Steve Azar will appear on Wheel of Fortune Monday, February 12, as part of “Country Music Stars Week.” Azar, and other country stars, will be paired with a country music fan contestant.

Celebrities will donate their winnings to their favorite charities, with a minimum of $10,000 going to the charity of their choice. Azar is playing for the St. Cecilia Foundation, a nonprofit corporation helping charitable organizations provide aid to sick, disadvantaged, and abused children.

“Country Music Stars Week," taped at the Charleston Area Convention Center, in South Carolina, will also include stars like Trisha Yearwood, Eddie Montgomery (Montgomery Gentry), and Michael Britt (Lonestar).

Britt will play for The AdoptaPlatoon Soldier Support Effort, a nonprofit 501C-3 organization ensuring needed mail support to military members and the promotion of patriotism in our schools and communities.

This article is a form of public relations because it is educating the public about country music stars who are giving back to the community. It is positive publicity because everyone likes to hear that stars are helping those in need. The country music scene, specifically the stars in the article, are keeping the respect of old fans, and gaining the respect of new ones. The overall benefit of this article is positive.

To view the full article, click here.

KEITH URBAN EXTENDS A THANK YOU
After spending three-months in the Betty Ford Center for treatment of alcohol abuse, Keith Urban posted a video message on his Web site, extending thanks to his fans, family, and friends. Urban announced that he felt love and support during rehab and that he “never felt alone.”

After a live appearance on a German television series, Urban sat down to tell his story. Urban explained to viewers what exactly led him to seek treatment and how the experience taught him valuable life lessons.

Bouncing back fast, Urban is set to play his first U.S. show of 2007 on Feb. 8 in Chicago. Dates in April have also been set for Germany and the U.K. In June, he will tour in the U.S. and Canada.

This article is a form of public relations because it gives Keith Urban good publicity after a negative event in his life. The video he posted to his website is a type of crisis management, because he wants his fans to know that he has fixed his mistake. If he had not made a statement thanking his fans, they would be disappointed.

The overall goal of the article is for Keith to regain his good name. This is positive public relations because Keith’s message directly addresses his fans and thanks them for their support. When fans see how grateful Urban is and how he has recovered, they will continue to support him through hard times.

To view the full article, click here.

SPEED & SOUND EVENT BENEFITS CHARITIES
Country music recently teamed up with NASCAR for a fun-filled, two-day event in downtown Nashville. On Friday and Saturday (Jan 12-13), Sound & Speed brought celebrities from the country music and racing scene together to raise money for two charities: The Victory Junction Gang Camp and charities of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Kyle Petty, NASCAR veteran, and his wife Pattie, founded the Victory Junction Gang Camp, which offers fun camping experiences for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses.

Celebrities at Sound & Speed took part in autograph sessions, interviews, and a major concert. On Saturday night, the Gaylord Entertainment Center hosted such country music stars as Joe Dee Messina, Josh Turner, Rodney Atkins, Craig Morgan, and many more.

Other events included “Gears and Guitars,” an auction featuring music and racing memorabilia, and three-hour long storytelling sessions with NASCAR and country music legends.

This article is a form of public relations because it educates the community about how country music is contributing to charities through the Sound & Speed event. The overall goal of the exposure is to inform country music fans that their favorite celebrities are giving back to the community. This article gives the country music scene good publicity. CMT.com posted this article to win over the hearts of new country fans and keep the loyalty of those who already follow country music.

To view the full article, click here.

Welcome to Blogging!

I have chosen Country Music as my theme because it is one of my favorite areas of entertainment. I listen to it constantly and I enjoy attending concerts and hearing about new country artists.