After dodging a bunch scrutiny by the surrounding neighborhood and special approval from Chicago’s City Hall, country music power trio Rascal Flatts made history as the first country artists to play Chicago’s very own Wrigley Field. A concert that went on to sell-out with a mere 37,000 fans that cool July evening in 2009.

Three years later, it looks like country music is being called back to the ballpark as the CMA Entertainer of the Year, Brad Paisley, is headed to the north side confines on Saturday, June 9, 2012, with a home-run of a lineup.

Miranda Lambert, Chris Young, The Band Perry and Jerrod Nieman will joining Mr. Paisley on the Chicago-stop of his 2012 Virtual Reality World Tour.

Tickets go on sale to the general public starting tomorrow (Jan. 27) at 10 a.m. through Live Nation and Tickets.com.

Brad Paisley’s  ”American Saturday Night”:

Brett Eldredge

Our hometown boy is coming home…just in time for the holidays.

One of country music’s fastest rising stars Brett Eldredge will appear at Joe’s Bar this Friday, and in an exclusive interview with Country Music Chicago, Eldredge says an appearance at the venue was high on his list of Christmas must-haves.

“Believe it or not, this is my first time playing Joe’s Bar,” says Eldredge, who last came through the Chicago area while on tour with country legend Willie Nelson. “I’ve been bugging my manager and agent that out of all of the bars I’ve been playing, I definitely didn’t want to miss the chance to play at Joe’s. It’s my city and it’s my home, and I am ready to get up on that stage and get a little crazy.”

In fact, Eldredge says he spent many a Sunday afternoon watching football and basketball games at Joe’s before he started to make a name for himself in Nashville. A native of Paris, Illinois, (Map Below) Eldredge attended Elmhurst College just before the country music industry began calling his name.

“I used to love going downtown around the holidays and seeing all the lights,” recalls Eldredge, who plans to release a record of new material sometime in early 2012. “My friends and I always said we wanted to go ice skating too…but as of yet, we haven’t. Maybe this time we will end up giving it a try.”

While Eldredge is scheduled to play a number of bar dates through mid December, he is looking forward to heading back home to Paris, IL to spend time with family and friends.

“On Christmas Eve night, you will find me standing up in the same choir loft I have sung from since I was just a 12 year old boy,” he says. “My family fills off nearly half of the church. Afterwards, we head home to eat, drink and be merry. I also like to carve out some time to go ice fishing while I’m there. I know it doesn’t sound too exciting…a bunch of guys standing around looking into a hole in the ice, but for me, it’s a good time.”

Tickets are still available for the show, and Eldredge promises a song list that goes far beyond the song “Raymond”, a tearjerker of a song but one of his biggest hits to date.

“I can have a serious side, and I love my family…but there is another side of me that likes to have a whole lot of fun,” he laughs. “Every day, I get to wake up and play music, and I can’t wait to share that with the fans that come out to Joe’s. Especially during the holidays, people want to forget everything else that’s going on, and partake in a little holiday cheer.”

BRETT ELDREDGE with Drake White

WHEN: Friday, December 9, 2011 – 8PM

WHERE: Joe’s Bar, 940 W. Weed St., Chicago (21+)

TICKETS: $8 – joesbar.com // ticketweb.com

Map of Paris, IL:

Brett Eldredge: “Raymond”

For David Nail, his drive into country music fandom had been nothing but a caution light. Nail’s first formidable release into country radio hit back in May of 2009 with “Redlight”, off the album “I’m About To Come Alive”, which garnered the Missouri native a spot in the top 10 on the country music charts. At that time, it appeared to be what would become a big green light for the artist.

Since then, Nail managed hitch on to some major touring acts like Lady Antebellum and even snagged a cut written by Kenny Chesney, which would eventually end up as a radio release and music video. The single “Turning Home”, did receive a considerable amount of airplay and garnered Nail a nomination for a Best Male Country Vocal Performance by the Recording Academy, only managed to turn up a top 20 back in the middle part of 2010. Which was too bad considering to-date it’s probably the best use for Nail’s vocals as they tend to fall middle-of-the-road between country and pop.

Heading into modern day, Nail currently sits on the airplay charts with “Let It Rain”, the first single off of his upcoming album release. Although, looking back at Nail’s music, this track is a bit recycled when it comes to his typical tempo and sound while it is continuing to build upon his not quite country, not quite adult-contemporary. For an artist that still trying to find that right way to roll, it does provide some familiarity for what you could consider his existing fan base. Some thing that will hopefully be key in the upcoming months as he prepares for a new album release.

“The Sound of a Million Dreams”, which is due to be available for digital download starting November 15, marks Nail’s second commercially released album since his debut released two years ago. A much deserved release that brings considerable anticipation for a first listen.

Catch David Nail at Joe’s Bar on Saturday, Oct. 1.

It’s been awhile since Joshua Scott Jones and Meghan Lindsey graced our television screens to compete in the CMT series, Can You Duet?. While here in Chicago, we’ve had a few opportunities to catch the duo, better known as Steel Magnolia, in the Windy City, a lot has happened personally for the two since they last played on Illinois soil.

For one half of the duo, this Illinois soil is not all too foreign for the now Nashville-based duo. While chatting with the two during their recent stop at Country Thunder USA, I had to ask Jones about his little known Illinois roots.  A native of Charleston, Illinois, Jones explained his fondness for Chicago as he spent many nights in the area while gigging at the northwest suburban Durty Nellie’s nightclub.  He remarked, not in a country band but growing up in downstate Illinois, country music is a natural thing for him.  It’s obvious that Jones is multifaceted when it comes performing to music, especially since he hooked up with one very talented Louisiana girl, Meghan Lindsey.

We talked about their recent release of the duo’s debut, self-titled album and how  it finally made its public appearance earlier this year.  They filled me in on their strict touring schedule which puts the two on the road a lot. You may recall the two paid Illinois a visit when they stopped at the Pontiac Crystal Palace back in February.

My chat with the two wasn’t all about the past, in fact it wasn’t too long after the duo publicly announced their big news about a future gig – and we’re not talking about a concert.  In June, the duo announced they’re planning a 2012 wedding to finalize their long-term engagement.  Lindsey remarked that while they’re excited to finally tie the knot, they’re really busy touring around the country and hope to get all together soon.

Well Meghan and Josh, congratulations, but you’re going to have to put those wedding plans aside for at least one more night.  On Saturday, the two will return to headline Joe’s Bar. Joined by the The McClymonts and Tyler Farr as openers.  Doors open at 7PM and tickets are $10 available through ticketweb.com or at the Joe’s Box office.

Concert Details:

Steel Magnolia with Tyler Farr and The McClymonts (21+)

WHERE: Joe’s Bar – 940 W. Weed Street, Chicago

WHEN: Saturday, September 3, 2011 – 7PM

TICKETS: $10 ticketweb.com or Joe’s Box office

When it comes to summer country music festivals, there’s no competition for Country Thunder. A stellar four-day lineup of some of the biggest names in modern country music combined with all of the qualities of the great outdoors, it’s a country lovin’ paradise. Situated just north of the Illinois border in Twin Lakes, Wisc., the Shadow Hill Ranch, where the festival is held, is second-to-none when it comes to area country music fan retreats. Now in it’s 19 year, this well-oiled, fun machine leaves nothing behind – well except maybe US99 – when it comes to making some of the best country music summer fun.

For this year, the figures continue to look well rounded. With country music stars Lady Antebellum, Zac Brown Band, Martina McBride and Rascal Flatts on tap as headliners for the festival’s main stage, this leaves all four nights propped with well-named “hot” act. In addition to the headliners, supporting acts such as Steel Magnolia, Charlie Daniels Band, Neil McCoy, Darius Rucker, Easton Corbin, Sara Evans and Josh Turner, to name a few, pack the 21 artist lineup scheduled for this year. Not to mention the “Frat House” stage featuring a host of named regional and local acts included on the ticket.

Country Thunder 2011 general admission “lawn” ticket prices range from $60 – $200 at the gate and range from one-day pass to a full four-day pass. Parking and onsite camping additional. Check for availability.

Think this is a lot? You’re right in some areas but luckily we’ve run some numbers for you to justify.

Country Thunder, By the Numbers:

• Approx. hours of non-stop music: 25 (Mainstage only)
• Number of artists scheduled to perform: 21
• Miles from Chicago: 67
• Average cost per lawn ticket: $116
• Approx. amount paid if purchase a ticket to each individual artist separately: $735
• Average high temperature in the forecast for the festival: 89.75 degrees – Smokin!

This former Chicago Public Schools teacher turned Nashville recording artist, Katie Quick, is no stranger to Country Music Chicago. From her early days playing for Yard Fulla Cars here in Chicagoland, to her move to Nashville to pursue her recording career, we’ve had the extreme pleasure, to watch in awe, while Quick grew as an artist and followed her dreams.

And all of her hard work and determination has paid off. On Tuesday, Quick will release her sophomore album titled “Valley Between Love”, an album the artist has independently been working on since her move last year. Quick discusses her decision to move from Chicago to Nashville in pursuit of music.

“Not only did I want to write songs, I wanted to write great songs and I wanted to dig deeper into my soul and heart than I ever had before,” said Quick. “I wanted the listeners of my next record to know me, the good, the bad and everything in between. I wanted to spend my days co-writing with great writers, learning from industry veterans and networking, so that during my nights, I could take all of the new knowledge I was acquiring and put it to use in my own songs.”

Since her departure from the Windy City, it’s been a semi-clear path for Quick in Nashville. With her focus on writing and determination for a new album, Quick quickly got to work writing and eventually teamed up with Chip Hardy — a veteran Music Row producer for the likes of George Strait, Reba McEntire, Waylon Jennings — and “Valley Between Love” was born.

Throughout this process, Chicago’s was of course still top-of-mind for Quick and the album’s pre-release track, “Chicago Summer Nights” explores memories of growing up in The Windy City.

“Chicago Summer Nights is a reflecting back on my days growing up in Chicago. To me there was always something magical about a Chicago summer night that doesn’t compare to anywhere else in the world,” said Quick. “However, anyone that has ever moved on from one place, to another can connect with this song in reminiscing of the days gone by.”

Soon, Quick will have another Chicago almost-summer night to write about. On Saturday, the country singer is making a special stop at Chicago’s Joe’s Bar, 940 W. Weed, for an exclusive album release party starting at 8PM. Tickets are available through ticketweb.com and the Joe’s Bar Box Office.

Download “Valley Between Love” on iTunes:

Concert Information:

Katie Quick with Jeremy Buck and the Bang

WHEN: Saturday, May 14, 2011 | 8PM

WHERE: Joe’s Bar, 940 W. Weed Street, Chicago (21+)

TICKETS: $8 – Ticketweb.com

For one night only, the UIC Pavilion will become an extension to the north side venue for special Joe’s concert featuring the modern country-rocker/bluegrass aficionado Dierks Bentley with special guests Josh Thompson and Miss Wille Brown.

When asked why the UIC Pavilion and not at the bar, the venue commented that Chicago country fans would agree that the Bentley tour would be a sweet concert and didn’t want to pass on this opportunity for their fellow fans. Bentley could play the smaller bar venue, but then only a handful of fans would be able to enjoy it compared to the much larger stadium venue. A few handshakes later, Bentley is now bound for this downtown venue for a special performance billed under Joe’s Live.

If Bentley can mix it up with a bluegrass album, I guess Joe’s Bar can shake it up with a larger venue.

WIN TICKETS TO THIS SHOW: Dierks Bentley @ UIC

Concert Information:

Dierks Bentley with Josh Thompson and Miss Willie Brown

WHEN: Sat. April 30, 2011 | 7PM

WHERE: UIC Pavilion: 525 South Racine, Chicago, IL 60607

TICKETS: $30 General Admission; $25 reserved seating -  ticketmaster.com (On sale now)

While driving through our great city, listening to some of Strait’s music, it led me to the comparison of another “local” legacy not in country music. A few months back, when Chicago’s Mayor Richard M. Daley announced he wasn’t seeking another term as the City’s CEO, a cloud of uncertainty quickly loomed over me. Like Strait and McEntire, who have ruled country music for the past 20-plus years, in my lifetime a Mayor named Daley had always called the shots in ‘da Windy City.

While the legacy of Mayor Daley is now one for the history books, Strait and McEntire are still making it. Today, the Country Music Association announced that McEntire is the newest “modern era” inductee to their Country Music Hall of Fame. The announcement comes bittersweet to the the country music singer who was absent in Nashville today at the induction ceremony.  McEntire’s father is hospitalized for a recent stroke and McEntire is bedside with him while he suffers a coma induced by the stroke.

On Saturday, Strait and McEntire are expected reign over Rosemont’s Allstate Arena for a one-nighter with Lee Ann Womack. While no official communication has been received, it’s uncertain at this point, it’s if McEntire will attend Saturday’s performance.
CONCERT INFORMATION:

George Strait with Reba McEntire and Lee Ann Womack

WHEN: Saturday, March 5, 2011 – 7PM

WHERE: Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd, Rosemont

TICKETS: $39 – $89 – ticketmaster.com

Bound for Chicagoland to warm up your February nights, these hunky country music stars are capable of revving anyone’s motor. So on Friday, it’s down to what you’re into!  The longhaired, dark-eyed Jake Owen is set to return to the northwest suburban Sears Centre for the special post-concert for the Professional Championship Bullriders Tour. While the short haired, blue-eyed David Nail will hammer in his charm at Joe’s Bar.

So ladies… Take your pick. If you want to witness a bunch of cowboys getting thrown off of one mean bull then the Sears Centre it is. If you’re looking more towards witnessing one cowboy trying to prove he’s no bull then we’ll see you at Joe’s Bar. Guys… Looks like you’re out of luck this weekend unless you’re willing to ride the bull.

CONCERT INFORMATION:

Jake Owen at the Professional Championship Billriders Tour | Would Tour Finale V

WHEN: Friday, February 4, 2011 – 7:30PM

WHERE: The Sears Centre Arena – 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates

TICKETS: $8 – $50 (All Ages and tickets good for both bullriding and concert) searscentre.com

David Nail with Josh Hoge at Joe’s Bar

WHEN: Friday, February 4, 2011 – 7PM

WHERE: Joe’s Bar – 940 W. Weed, Chicago

TICKETS: $10 (21+) joesbar.com

While country music’s next renaissance man may sound like he heralds from the honky tonks of yesteryear, Whitey Morgan found his hard-working blues in a recession-ruined factory town closer to Motown rather than crazy town. In fact, while his music may resemble the outlaw country that once put parts of Nashville on the map, Whitey Morgan and the 78’s appears to be keeping their distance from what was once the mecca for the working man’s blues. Morgan’s sophomore album, released as “Whitey Morgan and the 78’s”, was recorded in upstate New York and published by Chicago-based Bloodshot Records.

Morgan himself is a product of Flint, Mich, and through his music, and a few select covers, he uncovers the woes of modern day life in a town laden with empty factories and relents on the harsh reality of struggling just to get by. Practically picking up from right where outlaw country music left off.  Accompanied by a pedal steel predominant throughout the album, Morgan’s tunes of hard work, and even harder drinking, are strong enough to make the even the fathers of outlaw country proud.

With Nashville’s convoluted idea of what the make up country music in the 2010’s, it’s refreshing to hear an artist take a chance on a sound that has ultimately been pushed to the wayside, ironically, much like the industrial towns of the North. Unfortunately for Morgan, and ultimately country music fans, it’s unlikely will ever be able to break into today’s “mainstream” country radio.  So it’s up to albums and live performances to get your shot of this.

Are artists like Morgan a slight hope for the revitalization of honky tonk country? For now, we’ll just have to wait and see.

Catch Whitey Morgan and the 78’s live a Martyr’s on Jan. 18.

Concert Information:

Whitey Morgan And The 78s

WHERE: Martyr’s – 3855 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago

WHEN: January 18, 2011 – 8PM (21+)

TICKETS: $8 – martyrslive.com

Watch: Buick City Blues