* Check Out the Emerson Drive Media Player
Get the latest news, watch E-drive videos and more on their media player. Go here to watch!
* It's okay, we're wearing a cup
-- In honor of the Nashville Predators' appearance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the members of Emerson Drive, have been handed a special assignment.
They've asked by the NHL to escort the most revered trophy in professional sports, the Stanley Cup, down the red carpet at Monday's "2007 CMT Music Awards."
This could be a disaster in the making. The way things have been going for Carrie Underwood, she may go home with that bad boy.
(Countrynation.com)
* From The Tennesean
Members of Emerson Drive are sharing a date to Monday's 2007 CMT Music Awards: the Stanley Cup. Emerson Drive and Amy Grant are providing comments about the Stanley Cup pro hockey playoffs to the NHL.com blog. Amy can't go out on a date with Stanley because Vince Gill might get jealous.
* Chely Wright Invites Kellie Pickler, Taylor Swift to Fundraiser
Chely Wright has announced the first round of guests performing at her annual Reading, Writing & Rhythm benefit concert taking place June 5 at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville. Confirmed artists include Keith Anderson, Emerson Drive, Kellie Pickler, Mindy Smith, Taylor Swift, Trent Tomlinson and Chris Young. More artists will be announced later. Proceeds will benefit music education in public schools. "I have become graciously humbled and overwhelmed by the outpouring 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."
(CMT.com)
* Stars blog the puck for hockey playoffs
Celebrity hockey fans, starting today, are cheering on their favorite teams via blogs for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, which begin Wednesday. Stars will have individual blogs, moderated by Christie Brinkley. Among those playing along: The Office's Brian Baumgartner, Bones' David Boreanaz, singer Amy Grant, country group Emerson Drive, Nickelback bassist Mike Kroeger and actor Tom Cavanagh. The blogs can be found at nhl.com.
(USAToday.com)
* Mates, Grant Sounding Off on NHL Playoffs
Emerson Drive's Brad Mates and Amy Grant are among the celebrity hockey fans who will be posting individual blogs about their favorite NHL teams during the upcoming Stanley Cup Playoffs, and Brad already is predicting big things for the Nashville Predators. "Nashville has a team that can go all the way this year and maybe win the Stanley Cup," the Drive singer writes in his NHL blog.
(Countrynow.com)
* Emerson Drive on the Opry
Once again Emerson Drive hits the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and this time it's televised! Tune in on GAC Saturday night, April 7th to see the guys join Alison Krauss, Taylor Swift and Bucky Covington on the famed stage. No GAC? Tune in online at WSMOnline.com and listen in! Repeats air on GAC during the week. Check GACTV.com for airtimes.
* Juno Awards
The Juno awards (the Canadian Grammys) were held April 1st in Saskatoon, SK. E-drive was nominated for Country Recording of the Year for "Countrified" but lost out to George Canyon's "Somebody Wrote Love."
* GAC's On the Road with Emerson Drive
March 12, — Great American Country is helping the music hit the road this spring. The "GAC Presents Emerson Drive College Moments Tour" will travel to 20 collegiate venues across the United States, headlined by Midas Records Nashville recording artists Emerson Drive, who are nominated for a 2007 Academy of Country Music Award for "Top Vocal Group."
The tour opens at Oregon State University, Corvallis, Ore., on March 14.
"Sponsoring the 'Emerson Drive College Moments Tour' is just one more way that GAC delivers on its promise to bring fans the music of their favorite artists," says Scott Durand, vice president of marketing. "Whether in person or on-air, GAC is committed to being the No. 1 place for country music fans to see the artists they love."
At each tour stop, concert attendees can get into the spirit of Emerson Drive's current and fastest rising career single to date, "Moments," from the band's latest CD, Countrified, by sharing their most memorable college moment for a chance to win meet-and-greet with the band. The video for "Moments" is currently appearing on GAC's Top 20 Countdown show and is in the top 10.
"We've had so much fun playing for college audiences over the past several years," says Brad Mates, Emerson Drive's lead singer. "Our fan base is pretty vast in that we have folks of all ages at our shows. College audiences are some of the most enthusiastic crowds we play for. We can't wait to get back out there."
The "GAC Presents Emerson Drive College Moments Tour" delivers embellished production with full sound and lights as the band wins the crowd over with their stellar live show with performances from their current CD Countrified, such as "A Good Man" as well as hits from their previous releases, including the Top 5 hits "I Should Be Sleeping" and "Fall Into Me."
"After playing more than 100 college venues, Emerson Drive has built a phenomenal following on college campuses around the United States," says Jeff Gregg, of Creative Artists Agency (CAA). "This is the first time we have created a tour schedule dedicated solely to college campuses with the idea of giving them the full tour concert experience, so to have GAC partner with us on this project means a great deal as we continue to boost the band's rapport with its college fan base."
Stops for the "GAC Presents Emerson Drive College Moments Tour" include Colorado State University, Keene State College, Johnson & Wales University, Texas A&M Kingsville and more before the final stop at University of New Haven on May 4.
"GAC Presents Emerson Drive College Moments Tour" Dates:
March 14 - Oregon State University
March 21 - Maine Maritime College
March 22 - Bryant University
March 23 - Dickinson College
March 25 - Keene State College
March 26 - New England College
April 5 – Texas A&M Kingsville
April 11 – Colorado State
April 12 – Johnson & Wales
April 14 – Adams State College
April 19 – Shippensburg University
April 20 – Cabrini College
April 21 – Lebanon Valley College
April 22 – Valparaiso University
April 23 – Northern Michigan University
April 25 – Alfred State University
April 26 – Mansfield University
April 27 – Virginia Wesleyan College
April 28 – SUNY College at Oneonta
May 4 – University of New Haven
For more information on Emerson Drive please log on to emersondrive.com.
(GACTV.com)
* Emerson Drive Ready for Tour of U.S. Colleges
Move over, Kenny Chesney -- the guys in Emerson Drive are launching a college tour of their own, and it ain't a one-week job. The 20-date outing begins Wednesday at Oregon State University and lasts until a May 4 show at Connecticut's University of New Haven. "College audiences are some of the most enthusiastic crowds we play for," says frontman Brad Mates.
(Countrynow.com)
* Morgan & Co. Hit Road to CMA Fest
Craig Morgan, Eric Church and former Nashville Star winners Chris Young and Buddy Jewell are among the nine artists taking part in this year's Road to CMA Music Festival. The mini-trek, which currently comprises nine dates in April, features performances at Southern Wal-Marts, followed by autograph signings with fans. Also participating are Danielle Peck, Emerson Drive, Jeff Bates, Blue County and Ray Scott.
(Countrynow.com)
* Nine-City Tour Will Promote CMA Fest
Craig Morgan, Eric Church and Danielle Peck are among the artists who will perform at Wal-Mart store parking lots in April during a nine-city tour promoting the upcoming CMA Music Festival. Other participating acts include Jeff Bates, Blue County, Emerson Drive, Buddy Jewell, Ray Scott and Chris Young. In addition to the concerts, the artists will also greet fans and sign autographs. Each tour stop will feature one or two artists. Cities include: Atlanta; Birmingham, Ala.; Charlotte, N.C.; Charleston, S.C.; Fayetteville, Ark.; Jacksonville, Fla.; Memphis, Tenn.; Orlando, Fla.; and Raleigh, N.C. The 2007 CMA Music Festival takes place June 7-10 in downtown Nashville.
(CMT.com)
* A Hometown Welcome for Brad Mates of Emerson Drive
Emerson Drive front man Brad Mates returned to his hometown of Grand Prairie, AB on March 6th with buddies in tow for a performance at Crystal Centre for a crowd of over 1200 screaming fans. This was one of many stops on the band’s current Countrified Coast to Coast Tour across Canada which began on January 31st in New Brunswick and wraps up March 11th in Calgary, AB.
Big things aren’t just happening north of the border for this band. On Monday, they received an Academy of Country Music award nomination in the category of Top Vocal Group. The band has been the recipient of the award for Top New Vocal Group or Duo from the Academy of Country Music and they are honored to once again be recognized by the organization.
The recent surge in Emerson Drive’s career comes from their latest album, Countrified (produced in part by legendary Alabama band member Teddy Gentry) and the power behind their current single, “Moments.” The single, written by Sam & Annie Tate and Dave Berg, is the fastest moving of the band’s career and also sparked a relationship with Second Harvest Food Bank, who the band recently aligned with nationally to help promote hunger awareness in the United States.
You can also see Emerson Drivetonight (3/8) on GAC’s Country Music Across America as the show covers last week’s Country Radio Seminar in Nashville.
(AllAboutCountry.com)
* 36 Top Country artists To Participate In The Academy of Country Music 4th Annual Motorcycle Ride
The Academy of Country Music announced today that more than 36 all-star Country artists will participate in the Academy of Country Music 4th Annual Motorcycle Ride benefiting the Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund on Sunday, May 13, 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada. For the fourth time in the Motorcycle Ride’s history, Montgomery Gentry will host the event.
Artists participating in this year’s event are Keith Anderson, Dierks Bentley, Big Kenny of Big & Rich, Carolina Rain, Emerson Drive, Cory Gierman, Josh Gracin, Heartland, Steve Holy, Buddy Jewel, Little Texas, Montgomery Gentry, Craig Morgan, Heidi Newfield, John Nicholson, James Otto, The Road Hammers, Ray Scott, Trent Tomlinson, Trick Pony, Two Foot Fred, The Warren Brothers and Trent Willmon.
The Academy of Country Music Charity Motorcycle Ride will kick-off from one of the largest Harley-Davidson dealerships, Las Vegas Harley-Davidson. The riders will cruise through Nevada’s vast desert oasis and up along snowy mountain tops until they reach their final destination, the world famous Fremont Street. The sun will be begin to set upon a concert extravaganza that will feature past and present Academy of Country Music Award nominees and some of country’s best new artists. To register for this year’s Academy of Country Music Celebrity Motorcycle Ride please visit www.acmcountry.com. Registration fees start as little as $30, with proceeds benefiting the Academy of Country Music® Charitable Fund.
(AllAboutCountry.com)
* Artists React to ACM Nominations
March 6, 2007 — As the nominations for the 42nd Academy of Country Music Awards were being read yesterday morning on "The Early Show," country stars were working, traveling, even sleeping, but all were thrilled when they got the news of their recognition.
The guys of Emerson Drive were snoozing when they got word of their nomination. Lead singer Brad Mates said, "We are all back out on the road in Canada finishing up our tour here, and we received a phone call this morning while we were all still sleeping on the bus. What a great wake-up call! It feels wonderful to have this recognition from our peers."
(GACTV.com)
* Midas Records Rocked CRS
Midas Records Nashville rocked the Renaissance Hotel at CRS on Wednesday night with performances by award winning group Emerson Drive, newcomer, traditionalist Jon Wolfe and the expressive, blended vocals of’ emerging group Whiskey Falls. Also on hand for the festivities were DiVine, an elegant 9’ tall vine-woman who is part of the award winning live performance company Living Garden. Comedian/caveman Wix Wichman emceed the event.
(AllAboutCountry.com)
* Emerson Drive Moved by Food Bank Visit
February 26, 2007 — Emerson Drive's Brad Mates says the band's recent tour of the Middle Tennessee chapter of America's Second Harvest Food Bank was "a real eye-opening experience for all of us."
The band's current single "Moments," addresses the issue of homelessness, and the group is working to help Second Harvest educate fans about the problem of hunger by providing information tables and collection receptacles at their concerts. Still, Brad says, "We had no idea how many children are affected by this problem each day,"
Brad says the visit made the band "want to work harder to help Second Harvest get their message across."
(GACTV.com)
* 2007 CMA Music Festival Artist Lineup Grows
The excitement is building for 2007 CMA Music Festival, Thursday-Sunday, June 7-10 in Downtown Nashville as additional artists are added to the performance lineup. Last year more than 161,000 fans attended CMA Music Festival, winner of the International Entertainment Buyers Association’s 2006 LIVE! Award for Festival of the Year. Now in its 36th year, the Festival (formerly known as Fan Fair®) continues to spotlight the unique relationship between Country Music artists and their fans while raising much-needed funds to support music education in Metro Nashville’s public schools through the CMA’s charity campaign “Keep the Music Playing.”
Trace Adkins, Rodney Atkins, Dierks Bentley, Big & Rich, Vince Gill, Alan Jackson, LeAnn Rimes and Gretchen Wilson are among the latest additions to the star-packed performer lineup. Additional artists added as performers include: John Anderson, Jeff Bates, John Berry, Blue County, Lane Brody, Sarah Buxton, Laura Bryna, Donovan Chapman, Earl Thomas Conley, Bucky Covington, Cowboy Crush, Amy Dalley, Dusty Drake, Katrina Elam, Emerson Drive, Jace Everett, Flynnville Train, Todd Fritsch, Josh Gracin, The Grascals, Andy Griggs, Ty Herndon, Little Texas, Ashley Monroe, Megan Mullins, Gary Nichols, Jerrod Niemann, Michael Peterson, Povertyneck Hillbillies, Julie Roberts, Ray Scott, Jeffrey Steele, Aaron Tippin, Trent Tomlinson, Trick Pony, Gene Watson, Bryan White, Jett Williams, Trent Willmon, Mark Wills and Darryl Worley.
“The CMA Music Festival artist performer lineup truly reflects the diversity of our format,” said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. “We have today’s hitmakers, legends and rising stars from the worlds of contemporary and traditional Country, bluegrass and more. If you want to experience the best of Country Music, you’ll find it everywhere you turn during CMA Music Festival.”
Performers already announced include Jason Aldean, Bomshel, Catherine Britt, Luke Bryan, Sonny Burgess, Carolina Rain, Eric Church, Cole Deggs & the Lonesome, 2007 CMA Global Country Artist Award winner Adam Harvey, Heartland, Jypsi, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Blaine Larsen, Little Big Town, The Lost Trailers, Martina McBride, Neal McCoy, Reba McEntire, The Oak Ridge Boys, Jamie O’Neal, Jake Owen, Danielle Peck, Pirates of the Mississippi, Sugarland, Pam Tillis, Carrie Underwood, The Wreckers and Chris Young. Additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks, and surprise artist performances are also being planned.
Tickets for 2007 CMA Music Festival, Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10, in Downtown Nashville are available now. To order tickets for the 2007 CMA Music Festival call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); visit CMAfest.com to download an order form to fax or mail; visit .ticketmaster.com to buy online or charge-by-phone at (615) 255-9600.
(AllAboutCountry,com)
* GAC's Q&A- 2/28/07
Q: How are things going in Canada with Emerson Drive?
(Danielle, Hickory, NC)
A: Danielle, even though the band, Emerson Drive, moved to Nashville permanently a few years back and are currently working on becoming U.S. citizens, they have not cut their Canadian roots. They continue to win Canadian music awards and tour more in Canada than many other former Canadians do. Lead singer, Brad Mates told me recently, "Instead of slipping into Canada for a half dozen dates and then out, we make runs of 30 cities or more." The cool thing for band is, when they become U.S. Citizens they won't lose their Canadian citizenship since that country allows dual citizenship.
(GACTV.com)
* GAC's Q&A- 2/14/07
Q: I have met the guys of Emerson Drive and they are great! Their music is fantastic and they contribute to so many great causes! Why don't they get the recognition they deserve?
(Kelly, Silver Gate, MT)
A: Well Kelly, Emerson Drive may yet get their due below the border. This Canadian-bred band is very popular north of the border in their homeland. But they have yet to break it big in the USA. They almost did in 2001 and 2002 when they scored back-to-back Top 5 hits with "I Should Be Sleeping," and "Fall Into Me." But even though that showed they were great on stage while opening for Shania Twain, they weren't able to string together any more big hits in the U.S. Buoyed by their continued success in Canada, Emerson Drive are poised to release new music below the border and try once again to establish a career in the U.S. with their new album, Countrified. Check into all things Emerson Drive at emersondrive.com.
(GACTV.com)
* Canada's Juno Awards Happen On April 1
This year's nominees for Canada's Juno Awards include Gordie Sampson ("Jesus Take The Wheel") for Songwriter, and Carolyn Dawn Johnson (Love & Negotiation) and Emerson Drive (Countrified) for Country Recording of the Year. The show is set for April 1 from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
(AllAboutCountry.com)
* Emerson Drive Sell Out Shows Across Canada
Midas Records Nashville recording artists Emerson Drive, are nominated for a 2007 “CMT Music Video Award” in the Group Video of the Year category for their poignant video “Moments.” The band’s newest single release “Moments” is racing up the Country radio charts and touching hearts in the U.S and Canada and promises to be their biggest career song yet. It is already at #15 on Mediabase in Canada and in the Top 40 in the United States. “We are having fun traveling throughout Canada and seeing all of our fans here. They are amazing and they have shown incredible support to us and our music. We appreciate them very much,” says Brad Mates, lead vocalist for the group. Emerson Drive’s exciting live show is now carrying full production with sound and lights and fans can experience the incredible musicianship of this hot group. Emerson Drive has joined forces with CMT Canada to present this tour throughout their Canadian homeland coast to coast, from now through March on their “COUNTRIFIED Coast to Coast Tour.”
Jan. 31 Moncton, NB – Rockin’ Rodeo –SOLD OUT
Feb. 2 Dartmouth, NS – The Rodeo Lounge – SOLD OUT
Feb. 3 Truro, NS – Cobequid Education Center – SOLD OUT
Feb. 6 Ottawa, ON – The Bronson Center
Feb. 7 Whitby, ON – Johnny B’s
Feb. 8 Brantford, ON - JackHammers
Feb. 9 Port Elgin, ON – Queens Bar and Grill
Feb. 10 London, ON – Norma Jeans Feb. 12 Mount Forest, ON – The Old Roxy Theatre
Feb. 13 Peterborough, ON – Sin City
Feb. 14 Barrie, ON – Random Ranch Night Club
Feb. 15 Guelph, ON – Cowboy Bar
Feb. 16 Sudbury, ON – Fraser Auditorium
Feb. 17 Thunder Bay, ON – The Community Auditorium
Feb. 22 Brandon, MB – North Forty Saloon
Feb. 23 Winnipeg, MB – McPhillips St. Station Casino
Feb. 24 Regina, SK – Casino Regina
Mar. 4 Kelowna, BC – Kelowna Community Theatre
Mar. 5 Kamloops, BC – Interior Savings Centre
Mar. 6 Grand Prarie, AB – Crystal Centre
Mar. 7 Edmonton, AB – Cowboys
Mar. 8 Ft. McMurray, AB – Cowboys
Mar. 9 Calgary, AB – Dear Foot Inn & Casino / Chrome Showroom
Mar. 10 Calgary, AB – Dear Foot Inn & Casino / Chrome Showroom
(AllAboutCountry.com)
* Emerson Drive Gets A Great ‘Harvest’
Emerson Drive had some special guests at their recent Green Bay, Wisconsin concert, representatives from America’s Second Harvest –The Nation’s Food Bank Network. The band and Midas Records/Nashville recently partnered with the largest hunger relief organization in the United States, to raise awareness to help wipe out hunger in America. Inspired by the lyrics of “Moments”, the new hit single from their current album Countrified and the storyline of the song’s poignant music video, Emerson Drive wanted to help give back by aligning with this national organization.
Representatives from the Wisconsin branch of America’s Second Harvest were on site during Emerson Drive’s show to educate fans about the organization and ask for their support. America’s Second Harvest will also have a presence at select cities on Emerson Drive’s upcoming North American tour.
(AllAboutCountry.com)
* Canadian Rising Star Shane Yellowbird to Join E-drive on their Canadian Tour
On the heels of his phenomenal success in 2006, Alberta's Shane Yellowbird is set to tour across Canada with established performers Emerson Drive.
Joining two of Alberta's most exciting musical exports, the power-packed concert series kicks off in Ottawa on February 6 and ends in Calgary on March 10, with 21 stops from Ontario to B.C.
"I'm totally ecstatic about it," says Yellowbird. "I've known Brad (Emerson Drive vocalist Brad Mates) for a while now. To go on tour with these guys – it's awesome."
"Shane Yellowbird will be a great addition to our show," comments Gerry Leiske of Emerson Drive's management company. "We are proud to have him as our guest artist and are looking forward to a lot of great shows!"
(306 Records)
* Emerson Drive Hits the Road
Check out the tour page for Emerson Drive dates in both Canada and the US. The guys have a busy tour season ahead with dates scheduled all the way into late summer.
* Countrified “Moments!”
The homepage at www.emersondrive.com has been changed to a page that gives you the chance to purchase a copy of Countrified and get a free copy of the “Moments” video on DVD! You can get both the CD and DVD for under $15!! Only 100 DVDs are available so make your purchase soon!
(EDFC)
* “Moments” debuts on GAC’s Top 20!
This week “Moments” entered the Top 20 Countdown on GAC! Emerson Drive’s latest video debuted at #13 and we need your votes to get the video to the top of the charts!! Don’t forget that you can vote every 24 hours!! Let’s get “Moments” to #1!!
(EDFC)
* Wednesday, January 17th: Help Emerson Drive on CMT Power Picks!!!
From now until Thursday at 2 PM central (3 PM eastern) go to cmt.com and vote for Emerson Drive's "Moments" vs. Kenny Chesney's "There Goes My Life." The winning video will be played FIRST on Thursday's Power Picks Episode.
* Have You Helped Emerson Drive Today?
Check out the daily "Emerson Drive To Do" list here and do your part in getting them to the top of the charts!
* Get COUNTRIFIED With Emerson Drive on their Canadian Countrified From Coast to Coast Tour
Starting in February and running through mid- March, Emerson Drive will be going coast to coast in their native Canada, starting in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia on February 2nd and ending in Calgary, Alberta on March 10th. Special merchandise will be available on this tour as well, so don't miss out!
* Canadian Fans: Win Emerson Drive Tickets from CMT Canada!
Want to see Emerson Drive in their homeland, but are broke? Then enter CMT Canada's "Win Emerson Drive Tickets" on their website CMT.ca. Only open to Canadian residents (except the residents of Quebec). To enter, see the dates offered, and read the rules, go here.
* Emerson Drive on GAC’s Masters Series re-airing
Check out Emerson Drive on GAC’s Masters Series re-airing on January 17th at 10 AM and 3 PM (eastern).
(Emerson Drive Fan Club/GACTV.com)
* Get Your Very Own Emerson Drive toolbar!
Need to search the web? Get your own Emerson Drive Toolbar for your computer. It was designed by the team at Midas Records, so it is legit. Get it here now.
(Emerson Drive Fan Club)
* Midas Records Nashville and Acclaimed Group Emerson Drive Have Joined Forces with America's Second Harvest to Raise Awareness for Feeding the Hungry
LOS ANGELES, CA. (Midas Records Nashville) -Midas Records Nashville and the band Emerson Drive will partner with America's Second Harvest - The Nation's Food Bank Network, the largest hunger relief organization in the United States, to raise awareness for feeding those in need. Inspired by the lyrics of 'Moments,' the second single from their album Countrified, and the storyline of its music video, the group sought an organization that can help people that have fallen on hard times.
Food banks with the Second Harvest Network will staff information tables and collection receptacles that will be present at Emerson Drive concert venues next year. The group will also appear in public service announcements for the organization.
According to Emerson Drive's lead singer Brad Mates, 'Thanks to our fans, we've had a blessed career. Getting involved with a great organization like America's Second Harvest is our way help out those less fortunate.'
America's Second Harvest - The Nation's Food Bank Network is comprised of more than 200 member food banks and food-rescue organizations serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The America's Second Harvest Network secures and distributes more than 2 billion pounds of donated food and grocery products annually.
'Hunger exists in nearly every community in this country, and it's within our ability to bring an end to hunger in America with greater awareness of this issue,' said Vicki Escarra, President and CEO of America's Second Harvest. 'We are thankful to Emerson Drive for stepping up and helping hunger relief gain greater visibility in this country.'
(Top 40 Charts)
* Emerson Drive Helps The Hungry
January 3, 2007 — Emerson Drive, whose current single, "Moments," highlights the homeless problem, have joined forces with America's Second Harvest — The Nation's Food Bank Network. Inspired to help by the song's lyrics and the storyline of its music video, the group sought an organization that reaches out to people who have fallen on hard times.
Food banks with the Second Harvest Network will staff information tables and collection receptacles at Emerson Drive concert venues next year. The group will also appear in public service announcements for the organization.
"Thanks to our fans, we've had a blessed career," says Emerson Drive's lead singer Brad Mates. "Getting involved with a great organization like America's Second Harvest is our way help out those less fortunate."
Second Harvest is the largest hunger relief organization in the United States with more than 200 member food banks and food-rescue organizations serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. It distributes more than 2 billion pounds of donated food each year.
(GACTV.com)
* E-drive Videos on CMT Power Picks
On Monday, January 8th, Emerson Drive's "A Good Man" goes against Shooter Jennings and on Tuesday, January 9th, it's round FOUR between "Moments" and Rascal Flatts' "Life Is a Highway." Log onto the CMT Power Picks pages at CMT.com and vote!
* "Moments" is in the top-40 after only 2.5 weeks on the charts!
Go out and request "Moments" at your local radio station now! It's already top-40 and climbing!
* "Good Man" almost in Top-20. Request Now!
Emerson Drive's "A Good Man" has almost hit the top-20 on US radio. Please continue to call your stations and request the song!
* "Countrified" Debuts on Charts
"Countrified" debuted on the Billboard Country Albums Charts at # 35. Go out and get your copy of this awesome CD now!
* "Countrified" in stores NOW!
"Countrified," the new Emerson Drive CD, is finally in stores in the U.S. Go get your's now! The U.S. version is enhanced, and allows you to link with other Emerson Drive fans!
* Listen to "Countrified" before you buy!
Unsure if you want to buy the new Emerson Drive CD and would like to listen to it first? Check it out in it's entirety on CMT.com and AOL.com
* "Countrified" Exclusives
Yahoo! Music: Beginning this coming week you can purchase "Devil Went Down To Georgia" a full week early! "Devil" is the last cut on COUNTRIFIED and if you've ever been to an Emerson Drive show you know how incredible their version of the hit song is! Visit the free Yahoo! jukebox at http://music.yahoo.com/jukebox for all of the details!
iTunes: If you check out iTunes right now you can purchase the band's current single, "A Good Man," for only $.99! Lots of fans have already downloaded the song so now is the time for the rest of you to add the hit song to your iPod! A special iTunes Canada Emerson Drive Celebrity playlist will be added on September 12th for all of the fans from Emerson Drive's native Canada to check out! Make sure that you check out the celebrity playlist and show iTunes Canada how much we love Emerson Drive!!
MTV Urge: Although the MTV Urge Celebrity playlist will be a little bit shorter than the iTunes Canada list this is the chance for all of the US Emerson Drive fans to see what kind of music each individual band members enjoys listening to! Emerson Drive's Celebrity Playlist will be available beginning September 26th on www.urge.com!
(Emerson Drive Fan Club)
* Emerson Drive on CMT's 330 Sessions!
Check out "stripped down" versions of some new Emerson Drive songs at CMT.com!
* "Countrified" in stores Tuesday, September 19th!
Emerson Drive's new CD, "Countrified," will be in stores September 19th! Go out and get a copy or two!
* US Fans: Promote Emerson Drive by Joining their Official I-Squad
Promote Emerson Drive and win prizes. Join here today!
* Happy Birthday to Danick Dupelle & Patrick Bourque
Happy Birthday to Danick and Patrick, who celebrate in September. Patrick celebrates his 29th on September 27th and Danick celebrates his 33rd on September 29th!
* Fractured Ribs for Emerson Keyboardist
A recent accident involving a four-wheel vehicle left Emerson Drive keyboardist Dale Wallace with two broken ribs. The good news is that the sextet didn't have to cancel any of the shows it's playing to promote Countrified, which arrives Tuesday. "It's really hard to play and sing right now but I'm just thankful I didn't mangle my hands!" says Dale.
(Countrynow.com)
* Emerson Drive Member Injured
September 15, 2006--Emerson Drive keyboardist Dale Wallace, who recently won a spot in the 2006 CCMA All Star Band, was recently injured while enjoying some much needed time off with fellow band members. The guys were spending some time four-wheeling when Dale rolled his vehicle, just a few feet in front of Emerson Drive’s Danick Dupelle. "It was dark and the grass had gotten really wet," says Dale. "It’s really hard to play and sing right now but I’m just thankful I didn’t mangle my hands!"
Wallace suffered from two fractured ribs, but as always for these guys, the show must go on. They perform tonight in Charlottetown, PEI in Canada and then head to Las Vegas for KWNR’s Double Down Throwdown on Saturday at the Orleans Arena. Upcoming stops for the band include: Ventura, CA, Riverside, CA, Greenville, SC, Savannah, GA and more, to promote Countrified, their debut release from Midas Records, in stores September 19.
(GACTV.com)
* Canadian Country Music Awards air TONIGHT-- 9/11/06 on CBC Canada & GAC
The CCMA awards will air tonight on CBC and GAC. Emerson Drive are up for two awards (Video of the Year -- "A Good Man" and Group of the Year), and will close the show with their performance of their next Canadian radio single, "Countrified Soul." Brad and Dale will also present the Kraft Cheese Fans Choice Award (Entertainer of the Year), as they did last year. Check local listings for airtimes.
* Congratulations Dale & David!
Dale and David won the awards for the 2006 Canadian Country Music All Star Band for their respective instruments. Both guys also won the award last year. Congratulations guys!
* New Emerson Drive singles/videos coming in a couple months
Canadian fans will be treated to "Countrified Soul" as the new Emerson Drive single, while the U.S. gets "Moments" as their new single. Both will have videos and both should be out before the holidays, according to the Emerson Drive Fan Club.
* Emerson Drive in Country Weekly- Part 2
Check out the latest Country Weekly (with Toby Keith on the cover) for a one page Emerson Drive article, which talks about their latest single, "A Good Man" & new CD, "Countrified."
* Emerson Drive in Country Weekly
Check out page four of the current issue of Country Weekly. It includes a photo of Emerson Drive's recent trip to St. Jude's Childrens' Hospital. The issue's cover features Brad Paisley and his horse.
* Emerson Drive No Boy Band
August 21, 2006--Emerson Drive may sing about being a good man, but some critics in the past have called them a boy band. X Radio wondered if the guys took offense at that title. "It's been used a lot in the past," says lead singer Brad Mates. "But it's funny because our live shows [have] won a lot of people over who had a first impression about the group in the past. And then they come and see the show and they just kinda come back up to you and say, 'I had no idea. I had no idea.' So they're thankful that they got to see our live show and that's something that we'll continue to do down the road--always concentrate on being a live act."
(GACTV.com)
* Emerson Drive to Play Opry Stage
Once again, Emerson Drive will be on the stage of the Grand Ol' Opry. Tune in to WSMOnline.com on Tuesday, August 22nd and listen!
* Happy Birthday Mike!
Happy 28th Birthday to Mike Melancon, who celebrates on August 13th! :)
* Emerson Drive to Release New Album on Sept. 19
Wed. August 09.2006 6:51 PM EDT
Emerson Drive will release a new album, titled Countrified, on Sept. 19 on Midas Records Nashville. The first single, "A Good Man," is already a hit in their native Canada, where the album was released in July. Formerly signed to DreamWorks Nashville, Emerson Drive's hits include "I Should Be Sleeping" and "Fall Into Me." The Midas roster also includes Steve Azar and newcomers Michelle Rene and Lindsey Grant.
(CMT.com)
* Emerson Drive Rack Up CCMA Nominations
Congratulations to Emerson Drive, who have been nominated for a few CCMA (Canadian Country Music Awards) nominations, which were announced today (8/2/06). Nomations are as follows:
* Group or Duo of the Year
* Video of the Year - A Good Man
* All Star Band
Dale Wallace - KeyboardsDavid Pichette - FiddleMike Melancon - DrumsDanick Dupelle - Guitar* Manager of the Year - Gerry Leiske (Emerson Drive)
(CCMA.org)
* New Photos Coming This Weekend
I have a bunch of recent Emerson Drive photos that I hope to get up this weekend. If you have any recent photos of the guys that you want to share, please e-mail me and I will include those as well.
* "Countrified" Debuts on Canadian Charts
Congratulations to Emerson Drive, who debuted at # 10 on Canada's Country Albums charts, and for debuting at # 60 on the Canadian All Genres Charts.
* "A Good Man" Finds Success in Canada
The single and video for "A Good Man" do well for Emerson Drive in their homeland. The video recently hit the # 1 spot on CMT Canada, and the single peaked at # 6 on radio. Congratulations!
* EMERSON DRIVE ON THE TOP 20
July 21, 2006 - Brad Mates is happy that he and the guys of EMERSON DRIVE have been given another chance to have some new music played on the radio with their song “A Good Man.” Brad hopes that people listening to the song will actually hear what it has to say: “It’s got a great message in the song. It’s basically just about anyone in life that, you know what do you want to be remembered by when you’re laid down to rest? A father, a brother, a neighbor and a friend – he was a good man. And I think this, you know, reaches out to anyone young, old… I know that when I pass on if my friends, or my children are talking about me years after, all the positive things, that’s what you want to be remembered by. You want to do whatever you can. Be positive while you’re here and this song, you know, has it all in it.” We were lucky enough to catch up with the boys at the Calgary Stampede and they talked about this song and all sorts of other stuff so be sure to tune into the Chevy Top 20 all weekend long to see the guys in action!
(CMTCanada.com)
* EMERSON'S DRIVING THE MESSAGE HOME
July 13, 2006 - The boys of EMERSON DRIVE are thrilled to see their latest hit, A Good Man, playing on the airwaves. But lead singer BRAD MATES hopes people out there will listen to the song and really hear the meaning behind it. As he says to countrykickers.com, the tune is geared to anyone in life who wonders how they will be remembered after they are laid to rest. Mates reflects, "I think this reaches out to anyone young, old ... I know that when I pass on if my friends, or my children are talking about me years after, all the positive things, that's what you want to be remembered by." And what does the message of the song suggest for people and their time on earth? Mates says, "You want to do whatever you can. Be positive while you're here." A Good Man is obviously striking a chord with music lovers as the song has hit #2 on CMT's Chevy Top 20. Tune in this weekend to see where it lands next!
(CMTCanada.com)
* Happy Birthday David & Brad
Birthday wishes go out to David Pichette, who celebrates his 29th birthday on July 21st. Brad Mates is also celebrating his birthday in July. He turns 28 on July 23rd. Happy Birthday, guys!
* New CD Released to Canada/CD Release Date To the US
Emerson Drive has released their new "Countrified" CD to Canada. The CD came out on July 11th and includes the top-10 Canadian single "A Good Man.' Go out and get your copy (copies) now!
"Countrified" will be released in the US on September 19, 2006. "A Good Man" is a top-40 single in the US. This is Emerson Drive's 3rd CD, it's 1st with new record label Midas Records, Nashville.
* EMERSON DRIVE
2006 CMA Music Festival Schedule
MONDAY, JUNE 5th
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Cops & Jocks Celebrity Softball Game
The softball game will benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).Tickets go on sale Friday, May 26th for $10. They can be purchased at Wilson Bank and Trust or at the gate the night of the game.
Directions: Take I-40 to Mt. Juliet Exit 226. At the top of the ramp go right to the red light and turn left. The park is one mile on the left. Follow the signs.
Appearing: Brad Mates and Dale Wallace of Emerson Drive along with more than a dozen other country music and sports celebrities!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7th
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Fan Club Party
This year's fan club party will be at Whiskey Island (inside the Red Iguana). The direct entrance to Whiskey Island is on Third Street South (just south of Broadway). A paid parking lot is located behind the club. Tickets for the party are available to fan club members only (information available in the fan club section of the web site).
8:00 PM - CMA Music Festival Block Party
Party begins at 3:30 PM and concludes with Emerson Drive's appearance at 8:00 PM. The band will play a 30 minute set for fans gathered in the Gaylord Entertainment Center on the corner of Broadway and 5th Avenue South. The event is free and open to the public!
THURSDAY, JUNE 8th
10:00 AM-11:00 AM - Grand Ole Opry Booth
All six members of Emerson Drive will be signing autographs at the Grand Ole Opry booth inside the Nashville Convention Center. Tickets are still available for the event online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-CMA-Fest. Make sure that you stop by and visit with the band!
11:00 AM-12:00 PM - Crisco Booth
All six members of Emerson Drive will be signing autographs at the Crisco booth inside the Nashville Convention Center. Tickets are still available for the event online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-CMA-Fest. Make sure that you stop by and visit with the band!
12:00 PM -1:00 PM - Y'All Magazine Booth
All six members of Emerson Drive will be signing autographs at the Y'All Magazine booth inside the Nashville Convention Center. Tickets are still available for the event online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-CMA-Fest. Make sure that you stop by and visit with the band!
4:05 PM -4:25 PM - CMA Music Festival Riverfront Park Performance
Emerson Drive will heat up the Riverfront Park stage with a 20-minute high-energy set for all CMA Music Festival attendees. Make sure that you arrive early enough to get a great seat! Tickets are still available for the event online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-CMA-Fest.
FRIDAY, JUNE 9th
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM - Country Weekly booth
All six members of Emerson Drive will be signing autographs at the Country Weekly Magazine booth inside the Nashville Convention Center. Tickets are still available for the event online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-CMA-Fest. Make sure that you stop by and visit with the band!
11:15 AM -12:15 - GAC Booth
PMAll six members of Emerson Drive will be signing autographs at the Great American Country (GAC) booth inside the Nashville Convention Center. Tickets are still available for the event online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-CMA-Fest. Make sure that you stop by and visit with the band!
5:00 PM - Autograph Signing at Hard Rock Cafe Stage (Sponsored by CINCH Jeans) All six members of Emerson Drive will be signing autographs at the CINCH Jeans booth by the Hard Rock Cafe Stage. Make sure that you stop by and visit with the band!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Fieldin' a Good Lineup
Danielle Peck and Jimmy Wayne lead the list of country artists who will participate in Wednesday's second annual CMA Music Festival Kick-Off Parade. That event will be followed by the CMA Block Party, featuring performances from Little Big Town, Emerson Drive and others. Meanwhile, Montgomery Gentry will headline the sixth annual NBC Daytime After Hours Party, a June 10 fiesta loosely affiliated with the Festival.
(Countrynow.com)
* Come early, stay late
-- Next weeks "CMA Music Festival" just got 24-hours bigger -- with an extra day of free concerts and activities taking place in Downtown Nashville.
The festival kick-off parade begins next Wednesday (6/7) with a surprise multi-Platinum act leading the parade as Grand Marshal.
Following the parade, the innaugural "CMA Block Party" will take place at Gaylord Entertainment Center Plaza, with music by Emerson Drive, The Grascals, Little Big Town, Pinmonkey and others.
(Countrynation.com)
* Emerson Drive drives 8,000 to stage
Things got rowdy outdoors when several country acts hit stages in the downtown Fremont Street Experience area, drawing thousands of country fans and curious onlookers.
One of the best: Emerson Drive, a comeback band that drew nearly 8,000 people by putting together the perfect combination of its hits, new songs and covers . . . sometimes in the same tune.
In the set-closing cover of "Devil Went Down to Georgia," the band threw in some Led Zeppelin licks and the crowd went wild.
In fact, Emerson Drive ("Fall Into Me") often samples songs, which draws a strong reaction each time, lead singer Brad Mates said.
"They say, 'You're teasing us! Play the whole song!' "
(BradAboutYou)
* EMERSON DRIVE PLAY FOR CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION
May 7, 2006 - EMERSON DRIVE landed in Milwaukee recently to play a special benefit concert for radio station WMIL to help raise funds for the Child Abuse Prevention Fund. The show, held at Kelly’s Bleachers in Wind Lake, Wisconsin raised over $5000 for the cause, as well as another $400 for an auctioned off dinner with the band. E.D. is gearing up for the release of their new Midas Records album this summer and the video for “A Good Man” is rising up the charts, currently #16 on CMT’s Chevy Top 20. The guys will also hit the stage of the Grand Ole Opry on the 9th to perform “A Good Man”.
(CMTCanada.com)
* Watch an Emerson Drive Podcast
Go to KVOO's site and watch the guys do 4 songs acoustically.
* New Official Website for Emerson Drive
EmersonDrive.com has a new look. Go check it out!
* Watch the "A Good Man" Video!
Go to Emerson Drive's page on CMT.com and watch their new video for "A Good Man" now! Brad's playing the guitar!
* New Video
Emerson Drive shot their new video for "A Good Man" in Ontario this past week. It will hit CMT (US & Canada) and GAC in the next few weeks.
(March 24th)
* "Crisco Presents The Road To CMA Music Festival" Brings Country Music Concerts To Wal-Mart Stores In April
Jason Aldean, Steve Azar, Jeff Bates, Blue County, John Corbett, Emerson Drive, Jace Everett, Jamey Johnson, Little Big Town, Lila McCann, Jamie O'Neal, Danielle Peck, Julie Roberts, Ray Scott And Mark Wills Bring Taste Of Legendary Music Event To 10 Cities
NASHVILLE - Thousands of fans from around the globe journey each June to Nashville for CMA Music Festival, the "crown jewel of Country Music festivals" according to USA Today. But this year, fans in 10 cities won't have to wait.
As a precursor to the main event, "Crisco® Presents The Road To CMA Music Festival" will visit 10 Wal-Mart stores in as many cities in April, bringing a taste of the legendary festival direct to the fans. In each city, two to three Country Music artists will perform in the Wal-Mart parking lot before meeting the fans and signing autographs - a hallmark of CMA Music Festival since it began in 1972 as Fan Fair®.
"Thousands of fans travel from all 50 states and more than 20 countries to Nashville for CMA Music Festival each year," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. "With 'The Road to CMA Music Festival,' we are taking some of our brightest stars directly to the fans so they can experience for themselves the powerful relationship between our fans, the artists and the music. And of course, we want them to join us in Nashville in June to experience the Festival on a large scale, too."
Artists participating in the tour include Jason Aldean, Steve Azar, Jeff Bates, Blue County, John Corbett, Emerson Drive, Jace Everett, Jamey Johnson, Little Big Town, Lila McCann, Jamie O'Neal, Danielle Peck, Julie Roberts, Ray Scott and Mark Wills.
The markets include Atlanta, Ga.; Charlotte, N.C.; Dallas, Texas; Fayetteville, Ark.; Jacksonville, Fla.; Orlando, Fla.; Raleigh, N.C.; San Antonio, Texas; Tampa, Fla.; and Tulsa, Okla. Before each performance, the events will feature family activities for kids of all ages, including karaoke and free giveaways from CMA Music Festival, Crisco®, Greased Lightning® and Southwest Airlines. One local Country radio station (or two stations, in the case of Atlanta and Jacksonville) in each market will be involved in promoting the events.
Family-friendly entertainment is also the foundation of 2006 CMA Music Festival, which takes place Thursday-Sunday, June 8-11. The event features more than 70 hours of live musical performances; more than 30 hours of autograph signings; family activities; celebrity sports competitions; and much more, earning its reputation as the Country Music fan's dream destination.
"Crisco® Presents the Road to CMA Music Festival" tour dates are as follows. The pre-event activities will begin at 4:00 PM with the concerts beginning at 7:00 PM at all locations. Artists are subject to change.
4/6/06 - Tulsa
Wal-Mart
220 S. State Hwy. 97 S.
Sand Spring, OK 74063
Featuring: Blue County, Emerson Drive
Radio Partner: KWEN
(emersondrive.com)
* MEDIA ALERT: Emerson Drive Coming on Strong
Nashville, TN – Emerson Drive’s newest single A Good Man is breaking records with “the battle of the single” on country radio stations across the country. The “Bunkhouse Brawl,” on station KIIM-FM in Tucson, Arizona, retired the song as champ after 5 nights in a row of winning the song battle. The nationally syndicated radio program After Midnite with Blair Garner played the song and it was “picked” at 93% by listeners.
The members of Emerson Drive don’t just know their stuff when it comes to music. They gave CMT Insider some workout tips for their segment called “Body Talk.” The band went to their favorite Nashville fitness center, Nashville Athletic Center, where they shared their workout secrets with the folks at CMT. At one point during the taping, lead singer Brad Mates was showing off his bench pressing technique when a little mishap occurred. He’s okay, but you’ll really want to see the show to find out what happened!
CMT Insider airs on CMT on Saturday March 11th 1:30pm ET/PT.
(emersondrive.com)
* Emerson Drive Hits Racing Circuit
Performing at Music City Motorplex
Nashville, TN – Midas Records Nashville recording artists Emerson Drive will perform a pre-race concert as part of the festivities for the ASA Challenge Series Spring Clash 200 on March 18 at Music City Motorplex in Nashville, TN.
Emerson Drive joins TDS as a sponsor for Trackside Charities and ASA veteran driver, Chad Wood. In addition to performing at the ASA Challenge Series opener, Emerson Drive will be entertaining ASA racing fans at future charitable events in Kalamazoo, Mich.; Milwaukee, Wis.; Odessa, Mo. and another race to be determined.
“We are honored to be a part of the great work being done by Trackside Charities. We are also racing fans and it’s going to be fun being involved in the ASA races,” says Brad Mates, Emerson Drive’s lead singer.
“We’re thrilled to have such talented musicians join in the charitable cause,” said TDS Corporate Communications Manager DeAnne Boegli. “Their ability to bring in crowds translates to more money for charity and adds yet another exciting element to this racing sponsorship.”
So what does driver Chad Wood think about his new sponsor and this Music & Motor Sports theme? “We’ll have some fun this summer,” said Wood. “Emerson Drive played at a Trackside Charities’ event last fall and rocked the place, so I’d like to say thanks to the racetrack promoters and the Varney’s for allowing us to provide our great racing fans this special treat.”
Trackside Charities is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting existing children's charities with their fund raising efforts. According to Trackside Charities' Director Gregg Burmeister, this will be a banner year. “Emerson Drive played at one of our Music and Motorsports charitable events last fall and put on an incredible show." Burmeister went on to say, “Their passion, energy and willingness to interact with the fans are exactly what we were looking for. I’m just ecstatic that these talented artists have agreed to help our cause.”
Before heading out to the race track on Saturday, Emerson Drive makes an appearance on the Grand Ole Opry on Friday evening, March 17th where they will perform their new single “A Good Man.” Their full length CD is due out in June.
(emersondrive.com)
* 93% of After MidNite radio listeners picked "A Good Man"
Popular radio program "After MidNite" played the latest single release from Emerson Drive, "A Good Man," on their March 8th program. The fans were then given the chance to call in and let their voice be heard. 93% of the fans "picked" the high-energy song while 7% "flicked" the song. 93%!!! What a great way to start with a new single! Go Emerson Drive!!!!
Wednesday, March 8th, 2006
"A Good Man " - Emerson Drive
93% PICKED
7% FLICKED
(emersondrive.com)
* A Good Man Review
The indies continue to step up to the plate to challenge the major leaguers.
EMERSON DRIVE/A Good Man
Writer: Keith Follese/Adrienne Follese/Victoria Shaw; Producer: none listed; Publisher: Midas/Midas Magic/Animal Planet/AvoRu/Multisongs/BMG, ASCAP/SESAC; Midas (www.emersondrive.com)
—Their best yet, thanks to some excellent songwriting. The chorus is killer.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* 1,000+ Fans Storm Radio Station To See Emerson Drive
WQMX-FM in Akron, OH held a listener appreciation party with hot country group Emerson Drive. The station sent out an email to invite members of their Country Club to visit the station for a performance from Emerson Drive and a chance to meet the band. The result of that email? Over 1,200 Emerson Drive fans were lined up for 2 blocks around the radio station, waiting to get in to see the band in a space that holds only 110 people.
The band’s response? Stay and play! The guys of Emerson Drive were not about to turn away eager fans, so they performed additional sets so everyone would get the chance to see a show.
After their 5th set, which ended just after 10:00pm, then signed autographs before departing.
Because the crowd was so large Emerson Drive was happy to oblige and agreed to play for as long as there were people waiting in line. Program Director, Kevin Mason and his employees went down the line asking people if they minded waiting for the next show and warned them that they may be waiting hours. The reply from folks was, “As long as we get to see Emerson Drive.”
“This turnout was amazing! We’ve done our Country Club listener appreciation concerts here at the station in the past and we always have a great attendance around 300, but this was unprecedented,” commented Mason.
(AllAboutCountry)
* New SIngle and Labelmate
Emerson Drive will release a new single called "A Good Man," their first single on their new label Midas Records, Nashville. The song will go to radio March 13th, and a CD will follow in the summer. Also, Emerson Drive got a familiar labelmate, when Steve Azar signed to the Midas label, which was announced at CRS.
* This Man and This Group
Clay Walker will deliver a performance during a lunch sponsored by his new label, Curb/Asylum Records, on the first day of the upcoming Country Radio Seminar, which begins Feb. 15 and concludes Feb. 17. Also slated to play at CRS are Canadian six-piece Emerson Drive, who will entertain during a showcase hosted by Midas Records Nashville, which is their new label.
(Countrynow.com)
* Unmistakibly Emerson Drive
... The label has signed veteran hitmaking country band Emerson Drive as its flagship artists. The group, which released two stellar albums on DreamWorks Records Nashville, is readying its debut with four producers at the helm: Midas A&R heads Keith Follese and Brad Allen, along with Alabama's Teddy Gentry and renown producer, Josh Leo. The band's first single hits radio February 2006 and the debut Midas album is slated for an early summer release. Keith Follese says the band has found a sound that's "rootsier and earthier" than their previous work, while remaining "unmistakably Emerson Drive."
Midas Records Nashville has also signed newcomer Lindsey Grant, who will open for Emerson Drive at the Midas showcase at the Feb. 2006 Country Radio Seminar.
(MusicNewsNashville)
* SEE EMERSON DRIVE ON "60 MINUTES"