Word on the Street – May 21

Jason Michael Carroll – Play Ball!

Although Jason Michael Carroll sings about going without sleep, Chicago Cubs fans will need the country music singer to be well-rested and focused for his debut at Wrigley Field. Carroll has been asked to perform the National Anthem and throw out the first pitch of the Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates game Tuesday at the friendly confines. He will also lead the crowd in “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the seventh inning stretch. chicago.cubs.mlb.com

Can’t make the game? Catch Carroll the following night at Joe’s Bar where he will perform for US99′s Eight Shows at Joe’s Series. More info on us99.com.

2009 CMT Awards – The Final Round!

2009 CMT AwardsTuesday marked the beginning of the final round of fan-voting for the 2009 CMT Music Awards. At the top of this year’s nomination list are Sugarland in the lead with five final nominations and Brad Paisley and Taylor Swift tied in a close second with four nominations each. Fans have till June 14 to log-on to CMT.com and cast their vote.

The music video focused awards show will premiere live on Tuesday, June 16 at 7 p.m. CDT on CMT and CMT.com. This year’s show includes performances by Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban and British rockers Def Leppard.

For information on voting or to view the artists nominated, visit CMT.com.

State Fair Lineup Announced

Illinois State FairState Fair officials announced the Grandstand entertainment lineup for the 2009 Illinois State Fair. This year’s fair themed “An All American Fair,” boasts a solid lineup including some of today’s hottest country music artists. Josh Turner with Jamey Johnson and Chuck Wicks will take the stage on August 16. Montgomery Gentry with Kellie Pickler and James Otto will follow on August 21. Grandstand entertainment tickets range from $15 – $30 (slightly more day-of) and are available from the Grandstand Ticket Office starting June 6. The annual fair runs from August 14 – 23 and is located at 801 East Sangamon, Springfield. illinoisstatefair.info

Sugarland Soundstage Date Announced

Country Weekly Magazine reported the pre-recorded Sugarland Soundstage performance is set to air on PBS networks, July 2. The “intimate-live concert” style television show was recorded at Chicago’s very own WTTW Studios back in early April. The Soundstage Series kicks-off June 18. countryweekly.com

Going on this Weekend:

Catch the Eli Young Band with Joey & Rory and the Carter Twins on Friday at Joe’s Bar, Chicago. George Strait with Blake Shelton and Julianne Hough on Saturday at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater, Tinley Park. Leann Rimes is also in town on Satuday at the Stardust Events Center at BlueChip Casino, Michigan City, Ind. Her performance is soldout.

If you’re not headed to one of the above concerts, head down to Navy Pier for the start of the Summer Beer Garden and Fireworks show. Summer is here! navypier.com

***

Well that’s the word on the street. Don’t forget, Taylor Swift is the subject of a Dateline NBC special set to air on May 31.

Have a wonderful and safe Memorial Day weekend. My sincere gratitude to all the brave Men and Woman who made the ultimate sacrifice to serve and protect our great Nation.

Scott

Avatar of Scott Winterroth, Editor About Scott Winterroth, Editor

Scott Winterroth is CountryMusicChicago.com Online Editor & Publisher. What started with a borrowed Garth Brooks Greatest Hits album in the early '90s and listening to US99.5, Chicago's country music radio station, has escalated into an outright obsession for country music. In order to share his love and passion with others, he created Country Music Chicago. Scott's vision for CMC is to organize Chicago's country music scene, promote local talent and help Chicago become the premier country music destination outside the city of Nashville.

  • OttoSweetHeart

    I love James Otto SO much!!! (big smile)

    God bless you and him always!!!

    Holly in East Tennessee