* Emerson Drive Wants to Give YOU a iPod Nano!
All you have to do to get an i-Pod Nano from Emerson Drive is to sign up HERE!
* Get Your Deluxe Emerson Drive Fan Club Membership Now!
If you are tired of the old Emerson Drive Fan Club Membership and looking for something exciting, check out their new DELUXE membership. For $35 you get the basic membership packet, plus a t-shirt OR tote bag, a keychain, a membership card and a light up necklace. For more information about the E-drive fan club, go here now!
* Emerson Drive presses on through loss of bassist
Canadian country stars Emerson Drive have admirably pressed on in the wake of the sudden death of former bassist Patrick Bourque last fall, remaining highly visible in Nashville — they played a free show at Sommet Center in November and talked to The Tennessean last week about progress on their new album while appearing at the Nashville Film Festival.
You'll have to pay for their Sunday concert at the Ryman Auditorium (116 Fifth Ave. N., 458-8700), but it's for a good reason: Jammin' to Beat the Blues is a benefit for the Mental Health Association of Middle Tennessee and will also feature Heidi Newfield, formerly of Trick Pony, and country rocker Jonathan Singleton.
The show starts at 7:30 p.m.; tickets are $29.50.
—DAVE PAULSON, STAFF WRITER
(Tennessean.com)
* Emerson Drive to play at benefit
When Emerson Drive takes the Ryman stage Sunday to sing their hit "Moments," it will be a painful reminder of the importance of the night's mission: raising money for Mental Health Association of Middle Tennessee.
Emerson Drives headlines the 10th annual Jammin' to Beat the Blues, a 7:30 p.m. show that also features Heidi Newfield and Jonathan Singleton.
"Moments" tells the story of how a homeless man prevents a young man from committing suicide. In July 2007, the band had a party celebrating the No. 1 hit, and that same month, Patrick Bourque, 29, left the group amicably because he wanted to get off the road. Two months later, he killed himself.
"The irony in that song now is unbelievable some nights," Emerson Drive's Brad Mates said. "This song has taken on a whole new meaning every single night we play it onstage. There's not one person up there playing this song who doesn't think about it throughout the night."
The band is dedicated to raising awareness about depression. Brad says one in four people in America have signs of mental depression. "Everybody goes through something a little bit different," he said. "Sometimes you can see the signs right off the start; sometimes they are very masked. Sometimes people don't talk and sometimes they do talk about problems."
Tickets are $29.50 and available through the Ryman or Ticketmaster.
(Tennessean.com)
* Bank On It: Emerson Drive in Charitable Spirit
Emerson Drive's fan club party, which will take place June 5 in Nashville, will be as much about giving back to the community as it will the band meeting its most fervent followers. Frontman Brad Mates will visit a local junior high school to deliver fan-contributed supplies that some of the underprivileged students might not have, and the Drive will once again collect donations for the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.
(Countrynow.com)
* Drive to the Track To Hear Emerson Sing Anthem
Emerson Drive will be acquainting themselves with a few racetracks, as they deliver "The Star-Spangled Banner" prior to the start of auto races. One of the three will take place in Newton, Iowa, on April 19, while another is set for Dover, Del., on June 1, which comes one day after the Drive play a benefit in Dover for Autism Speaks. Meanwhile, the quintet's next album is due early this fall.
Music News Nashville
(Countrynow.com)
* A Good Opportunity: Chill With Emerson Drive in Vegas!
If you love movies, country music and Emerson Drive, click here to find out how you can win a trip to the ACM Awards, where you'll film a documentary about hanging out with the Canadian quintet. Speaking of the Drive, their No. 1 hit, "Moments," has topped Australia's country chart. Also -- Brad Mates & Co. will give a concert following the Kansas City Royals' July 26 home game against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays
(Countrynow.com)
* Emerson Drive Gets Its Game On
April 4, 2008 - It's a good thing the guys in Emerson Drive like baseball, because they'll see plenty of it next week. The band will appear at two home openers in the Midwest Monday and Tuesday, singing the national anthem in Chicago and Kansas City. "This is going to be fun," lead singer Brad Mates says. "I'm a big baseball fan, and season openers are always exciting. It's a real honor to be part of these opening days for the White Sox and for the Royals. Plus, they've given us great seats — not a bad way to spend an afternoon or two."
During Monday's game in Chicago's U.S. Cellular Field, featuring the visiting Minnesota Twins, Brad will sign autographs and give away souvenirs with his bandmates: fiddler David Pichette, piano player Dale Wallace, guitarist Danick Dupelle and drummer Mike Melancon. When the New York Yankees visit Kansas City's Kauffman Stadium the next day, the band will follow the opening rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" by leading the crowd in "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" during the seventh-inning stretch.
They won't be the only country stars visiting major-league ballparks this week. Jack Ingram is also on tap to provide the anthem Monday at the Houston Astros' home opener, and Neal McCoy does the honors Tuesday for the Texas Rangers in Dallas.
(GACTV.com)
* They Should Be Singing: Em Drive Get Baseball Gigs
Georgia and Texas aren't the only states whose Major League Baseball teams will kick off the 2008 season country-style, as Emerson Drive will hit both Illinois and Missouri next week to help the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals celebrate their home openers. Brad Mates & Co. will perform the national anthem, and lead fans through the seventh inning stretch, in the Windy City on Monday, and in K.C. on Tuesday.
(countrynow.com)
* Mike and Heather Melancon in Country Weekly
Check out the latest Country Weekly (w/Blake Shelton on the cover) -- April 7th-- for a couple wedding photos of Emerson Drive drummer Mike Melancon and his lovely wife Heather. The two were married on the beach in Mexico on January 30th. Congrats to the newlyweds!
* 2008 ACM Nominee Emerson Drive Headlines the 10th Annual Jammin’ to Beat the Blues Benefit Concert
Emerson Drive and the MHAMT team up on April 27th for a must-see Nashville event at the Historic Ryman Auditorium.
Emerson Drive’s first Number One hit, “Moments,” was recently nominated for a Grammy Award and an Academy of Country Music (ACM) Award. The group also received an ACM nomination for Top Vocal Group of the Year.
Join us for this great concert for a great cause! Tickets on sale Saturday, March 15th at 10 am at all ticketmaster outlets, Kroger, Macy’s and the Ryman Auditorium Box Office (615 –255–9600).
Jammin’ to Beat the Blues, Mental Health Association of Middle Tennessee’s (MHAMT) annual concert benefit, has raised awareness and funds for the non-profit organization and its services since 1999. This signature fundraiser started as a singer/songwriter showcase at the now defunct 328 Performance Hall. Through tremendous support from Nashville’s economic and music communities, Jammin’ found a new home at the historic Ryman Auditorium in 2002, featuring different artists to raise funds for MHAMT’s many services and outreach programs.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* ACM Nominations announced this morning!
This morning in Nashville the nominations for the upcoming ACM Awards were announced and Emerson Drive is excited to have received 2 nominations!! The band received their second consecutive nomination for Top Vocal Group and their first nomination for Song of the Year for "Moments."
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Another award nomination!
The nominations keep coming in for Emerson Drive. This time the nomination is for a Dove award. Emerson Drive is one of many artists nominated for Special Event Album for the CD "Songs 4 Worship: Country," in which E-drive sings their version of "I Can Only Imagine."
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Check out Emerson Drive's Full Throttle Performance
The guys performed an exclusive acoustic show for a select group of fans gathered at the WSIX Full Throttle Garage on Monday, February 25th. You can look through the photos, listen to the audio clips or watch the video clips from the show online through WSIX's web site.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Emerson Drive is a hit with the college crowd!
The Campus Activities Magazine honored Emerson Drive as the Best Major Performer (all genres) at this year's Reader's Choice Awards. The band has performed before thousands of college students across the country over the last few years and were excited to hear about the award.
"We have so much fun performing before the university crowds," states lead vocalist Brad Mates. "We love to be on stage so it's a great feeling to be recognized as an entertainer."
(EmersonDrive.com)
* SIte Update
Sorry for the lack of updates. I've been a little lazy. I'm a little behind on photos but I have put up some of my photos from my Emerson Drive road trips from last year. Feel free to check them out and I have others to come.
* Emerson Drive at the Grammys?
If you look on the tour page, Emerson Drive will NOT be at the Grammys this year. They are currently on a cancer benefit cruise. Tune into the Grammys on February 10th to see if the guys won their Duo/Group of the Year with Vocals nomination for "Moments." The award will not be televised but will be shown on the bottom of the television screen sometime during the night.
* Help Emerson Drive and win cool prizes!
Hop on the bandwagon and join Emerson Drive's new street team. Request, post on the message board, submit photos, play games and get points for prizes. Check it out now! Emerson Drive Street Team
* TV Alert: GAC Top 50 Countdown
Emerson Drive was invited to co-host a segment of GAC's Top 50 Countdown. Tune in during the below times to find out where "Moments" ended up on the countdown and what happened when the guys were allowed to co-host a part of the show!
Top 50 Part 1 Air Dates:
December 27th at 9 PM (ET)
December 28th at 1 AM (ET)
December 28th at 10 AM (ET)
December 28th at 4 PM (ET)
Top 50 Part 2 Air Dates:
December 28th at 9 PM (ET)
December 29th at 1 AM (ET)
December 29th at 10 AM (ET)
December 29th at 4 PM (ET)
Top 50 Part 3 Air Dates:
December 29th at 9 PM (ET)
December 30th at 1 AM (ET)
December 30th at 4 PM (ET)
Top 50 Part 4 Air Dates:
December 30th at 9 PM (ET)
December 31st at 1 AM (ET)
Top 50 Part 5 Air Dates:
December 31st at 9 PM (ET)
January 1st at 1 AM (ET)
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Emerson Drive Nominated for Reader's Choice Award
Midas Records Nashville recording artists and recent GRAMMY nominees Emerson Drive have been nominated for a Campus Activities Magazine Reader’s Choice Award in the category of “Best Major Performance.” The band performed at the National Association for Campus Activities’ (NACA) national convention in 2006 and 2007. As a result, the college circuit has played a major part of their touring schedule for the past few years.
“We had a blast playing the college circuit over the past several years and we are honored to be recognized with a nomination from the students,” says Brad Mates, lead vocalist.
In 2007, Emerson Drive earned their first #1 song with “Moments,” received their first CMA Award nominations in the categories of “Video of the Year” for “Moments,” and “Group or Duo of the Year,” and were recently named GRAMMY nominees for “Best Country Performance By A Group or Duo with Vocals.” Emerson Drive is taking a small break from the road for the rest of the year as they record material for a brand new album set for release in 2008, but fans can keep up with the country quintet by visiting www.emersondrive.com or www.myspace.com/emersondrive.
Emerson Drive also hits the TV airwaves this holiday season to co-host a one hour segment of Great American Country’s Top 50 Videos of the Year with host Nan Kelly, which will air on December 28th 9pm eastern / 8pm central. It will also re-air in the marathon on January 1st 11:30am eastern / 10:30am central and will repeat in the marathon 3 times that day. Additionally, the segment will air on GAC on January 8th at 2:30pm eastern / 1:30pm central.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Second Harvest needs your help!
Second Harvest plans to fill 5.9 million bags of groceries for the holidays and they still need to fill 5 million bags for families facing hunger this holiday. I know that sounds like a lot, but with your help, we can help Second Harvest achieve their goal!
Right now the Second Harvest board of directors is offering a generous $250,000 matching grant to double the value of your gift. That means every $1 you will give will provide not 4 but 8 bags of groceries!
Happy Holidays and thank you for your gift to Second Harvest!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Christmas gets a country face
Even with only 11 shopping days until Christmas, those still in search of the perfect gift for the country music lover won't have a hard time finding it in Music City. Malls, tourist gift shops and online sites deliver a host of unique, country-themed items that any fan should be pleased to receive.
Christmas tree ornaments
• Country group Emerson Drive has a 3-inch ceramic double-sided tree ornament featuring a picture of the band. Priced at $12, it is available through the band's Web site, www.emersondrive.com
(EmersonDrive.com/Tennessean.com)
* TV Alert: WGN Superstation
Nashville, TN – Midas Records Nashville recording artists Emerson Drive will perform on Superstation WGN’s Noon Show this Friday, December 14th. They will perform their hit song, “Moments,” and give viewers a taste of their current single, “You Still Own Me.” The band is in the windy city for a show at Joe’s Bar later that evening.
Just last week, the band received their first GRAMMY nomination. They are up for "Best Country Performance By A Group or Duo with Vocals" for their #1 hit "Moments,” from the album COUNTRIFIED.
2007 has been a milestone year for Emerson Drive and 2008 holds even more promise, as the band kicks off a tour with Big & Rich in Canada and plans to release a new album in the new year.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* "Everyday Woman" debuts on Canada's Country Chart
This week "Everyday Woman" debuted on Canada's Top 50 Country Songs at #36 and is one of the most added songs of the week!
(EmersonDrive,com)
* Emerson Drive receives their first Grammy nomination
Nashville, TN -- Midas Recording artists Emerson Drive just marked another career milestone with a GRAMMY nomination this morning for “Best Country Performance By A Group or Duo with Vocals” for their #1 hit “Moments.”
“Wow, what a great way to wrap up 2007! We just found out about our nomination this morning while we were in the recording studio working on our new record. To be nominated in the same category with The Eagles, who are our heroes, as well as all of the other great artists in the category is a real honor for us. We are so grateful and now supercharged for the rest of the day!” commented Brad Mates, lead vocalist.
Emerson Drive continues their great day with a visit to Nashville’s Sommet Center this evening where the group will sing the American and Canadian National Anthems as the Nashville Predators face off with Vancouver’s Canucks. The guys will also stick around for the game which will make for an interesting experience since they are big Predators fans AND big Canuck fans. We’ll let you guess who they are going to be cheering!
The band is taking a break from the road right now, but not taking time off. They are in the studio working on their next release. They also took advantage of their time at home here in Nashville on Tuesday to drop by and sing a few songs at their favorite “in town gig,” The Grand Ole Opry. The band performed several songs including their #1 hit “Moments,” and their newest hit “You Still Own Me,” and received an impromptu request from the evening’s host Keith Bilbrey to perform yet another song for the packed house at the renowned Ryman Auditorium.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Tickets are going fast
If you are planning to purchase tickets to see Emerson Drive open for Big & Rich in January please purchase your tickets soon! The shows are selling out quickly and concert tickets make a great holiday gift!!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Emerson Drive opens for Martina McBride!
Emerson Drive is excited about opening the Ontario shows on Martina McBride's "Wake Up Laughing" Tour next March. Tickets for all Ontario dates go on sale this Friday, November 23rd!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Vote for Emerson Drive on GAC's Top 50 Videos of 2007!
Great American Country wants YOU, the fans, to decide the Top 50 Videos of 2007, and Emerson Drive’s nominated! Their video for “Moments" is among the over 100 videos nominated. Voting runs now through Dec. 7, 2007 and fans can vote for their favorite videos once per day.
GAC's Top 50 Videos of 2007 on-air countdown kicks off on Dec. 27 at 9 pm ET and runs each night through New Year's Day. GAC is offered on Ch. 167 on DISH Network and on Ch. 326 on DIRECTV; check your local cable listings.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* "Moments" awarded Video of the Year
Emerson Drive opened the Inspirational Country Music Awards with their first #1 hit, "Moments," last night at the Acuff Theatre in Nashville, TN. After their performance was finished the band headed to their seats in the audience only to be called back to the stage to accept the Video of the Year honors from the Christian Country Music Association!
This is the second Video of the Year award win for "Moments." The hit video was given it's first honors in September with a Video of the Year award presented by the Canadian Country Music Association. The next stop is the CMA Awards later this week where they are nominated for Vocal Group and Video of the Year (for "Moments"). Can they make it three in a row? Tune into ABC on November 7th to find out!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* TV Alert: CMT Stacked
CMT's latest STACKED episode highlights all 5 of the 2007 CMA Video of the Year Nominees. Tune in to see Martina McBride, Carrie Underwood, Emerson Drive, Brad Paisley and Kenny Chesney!
CMT Stacked Air Times:
Monday, November 5th at 11:00 AM ET/PT
Tuesday, November 6th at 7:30 AM ET/PT
Tuesday, November 6th at 1:00 PM ET/PT
Wednesday, November 7th at 9:00 AM ET/PT
Wednesday, November 7th at 10:30 AM ET/PT
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Country and ABC Stars Light Up The 2007 CMA Awards
NASHVILLE - ABC stars James Denton, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and Kate Walsh were announced today as segment hosts for "The 41st Annual CMA Awards," which airs live on Wednesday, Nov. 7 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET), on the ABC Television Network from the Sommet Center in Nashville.
"It will be exciting for our viewers to see actors they admire from other ABC television programs making an appearance on the CMA Awards," said CMA Chief Operating Officer Tammy Genovese. "Their participation as hosts brings a whole new level of excitement and interest to the program."
In addition, CMA Vocal Group and Horizon Award nominated Little Big Town will perform, Album of the Year nominee Dierks Bentley will present, and Vocal Group and Music Video of the Year Nominee Emerson Drive will present CMA Awards in Pre-Tel Festivities.
Presenting trophies including acknowledging the CMA Broadcast Award winning stations and radio personalities prior to the live broadcast is Emerson Drive. They received two nominations this year for Vocal Group of the Year and Music Video of the Year for their No. 1 hit "Moments," which was directed by Steven Goldmann.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Emerson Drive featured on ChevyNation.com
Emerson Drive is featured in Chevy Nation's coverage of the photo shoots for the 2008 CMA Chevy Calendar. Check out the video clip and find out why Brad Mates selected Emerson Drive as the name of the band!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Big & Rich confirm Emerson Drive as opening act
Last week Big & Rich confirmed that Emerson Drive and Terri Clark will open for them on their 2008 Canadian tour next January. The tour is produced by Live Nation and ticket sales begin on Friday, October 26th!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Check out November...
Earlier this year Emerson Drive was selected to appear in the 2008 CMA Chevy Calendar. The guys were happy to spend a morning during the CMA Music Festival week on location at the Ryman Auditorium smiling for the camera and taping an exclusive interview with ChevyNation.com!
The 2008 CMA Chevy Calendar features Emerson Drive, Sara Evans, Phil Vassar, Rodney Atkins and several more of country's hottest stars. It has been included as an insert in several publications including Country Weekly, NASCAR Illustrated, People Magazine and Progressive Farmer. The calendar can also be downloaded through www.countryweekly.com!
"I actually asked for November because that's when I was born," commented keyboard player Dale Wallace. "That's cool that we were selected for that month."
You can now view the interview online by visiting www.chevynation.com and clicking on the Chevy Groove Section. Then just go to the 11th month and you can view the behind the scenes footage from the photo shoot at the Ryman!
Posted 10/23/2007 (EmersonDrive.com)
* Emerson Drive Help Celebrate the Grand Ole Opry’s 82nd Birthday
Nashville, TN – Tune in to GAC TV on Saturday, October 20th as Midas Records artists Emerson Drive help the Grand Ole Opry celebrate its birthday during their 82nd Birthday Bash. Emerson Drive’s performance will include their latest chart climber, “You Still Own Me” and a very special performance of their #1 song “Moments” dedicated to the band’s former bass player who passed away last month, Patrick Bourque.
Saturday’s performance also marks the debut of the Opry’s broadcast on XM Radio, the Grand Ole Opry’s new home on satellite radio.
Opry Live airs Saturday, October 20th at 8:00 p.m. EDT on GAC TV and on XM Satellite Radio’s “Nashville” channel, channel 11.
For more information and schedules, visit www.emersondrive.com or their MySpace page at www.myspace.com/emersondrive.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Tennessean coverage from ASCAP Awards
Chuck Wicks, RCA's newest recording artist and star of Fox's reality television show Nashville, was one of the first to hit the carpet Monday night. Dressed head-to-toe in black, a dapper-looking Chuck had plenty to smile about. He said Nashville is coming back to television Nov. 9, he just found out his debut single "Stealing Cinderella" is top 25 and he is hitting the road with Brad Paisley at the first of the year.
Chuck wasn't the only breakthrough artist on the carpet. Two members of Emerson Drive also showed up. Brad Mates and Danick Dupelle made one their first public appearances since the unexpected death of former bandmate Patrick Bourque about three weeks ago.
"We're moving on, but it's been a long two-and-a-half weeks," Brad said. "We've been off the road for a couple of weeks, and it's tough. We've never been though something like this before. We're just shaking our heads, but we have a great group of people around us, and when we get back on the road I think it's going to be very comforting."
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Stars Help Restore Opry House
October 2, 2007 – The one-hour DIY to the Rescue: Grand Ole Opry premieres Sunday, Oct. 7, at 9 p.m. ET. Little Jimmy Dickens, Hal Ketchum, Jimmy Wayne and Chris Young also pitch in, while Dierks Bentley, Josh Turner, Craig Morgan, Rodney Atkins, Terri Clark, Emerson Drive and others offer their thoughts on the Opry’s importance. The renovations, which took place earlier this year, included upgrades to furniture, flooring and lighting, among other features. The special will repeat throughout October.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* Emerson Drive on CMT Listening Party at CMT.com
Emerson Drive's song "I Can Only Imagine" is now up on the listening party for "Songs for Worship: Country" on CMT.com.
* Paisley, Swift Lead New Music Weekly Nominees
Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Montgomery Gentry, Luke Bryan and Tracy Lawrence have scored two nominations apiece for New Music Weekly's 2007 New Music Awards. Others in the running for honors include Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw, Sugarland, Jack Ingram, Big & Rich, Martina McBride, Little Big Town, Bucky Covington, Emerson Drive and Kellie Pickler. The ceremony will take place Nov. 10 in Hollywood.
Country Group/Duo of the Year:
Big & Rich
Brooks & Dunn
Little Big Town
Emerson Drive
Montgomery Gentry
Pirates of the Mississippi
Sugarland
(Countrynow.com)
* A Celebration of the Life of Patrick Bourque
A Celebration of the Life of Patrick Bourque has been planned to honor the former Emerson Drive bass player who passed away suddenly at his home in Montreal, Quebec on September 26th. The memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 9th at 11:00 AM at the Belmont Church located at 68 Music Square East in Nashville, TN. The service will be open to the public. In lieu of flowers, we encourage memorial contributions to the Mental Health Association of Middle Tennessee (2416 21st Avenue South, Suite 201, Nashville, TN 37212). All gifts received will be designated to support the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network.
(EmersonDrive.com)
* "Moments" receives third Video of the Year nomination
The nominations for the Inspirational Country Music Awards were announced last week and Emerson Drive is honored to be included in the Video of the Year category along with 4 other country artists.
This is the third Video of the Year nomination for "Moments," Emerson Drive won the Video of the Year award from the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) in September and they are nominated for a CMA Award in the same category (the CMA Awards take place in November 2007).
Inspirational Country Music Awards
Video of the Year Nominees
Anyway, Martina McBride
God Don’t Make Mistakes, Jamie O’Neal
I’ll Wait For You, Joe Nichols
Moments, Emerson Drive
Mountains, Lonestar
(EmersonDrive.com)
* From the Emerson Drive Family
September 26th, 2007
While en route to a show in Nebraska, Emerson Drive band members learned early this morning that their friend and former band member Patrick Bourque died suddenly last night at his home in Canada. His body is at a hospital at this time and no official details have been made available as to the circumstances surrounding his death. The brothers of Emerson Drive are shocked and grieving. Patrick was the band's bass player until he resigned in August. He had been living and working in Canada since leaving Emerson Drive.
(EmersonDrive.com/Splash! Publicity)
* CCMA Awards Air on GAC
Watch Emerson Drive perform "Moments" and take home three CCMA awards from Regina, Saskatchewan Sunday, September 23 at 8 p.m. ET on GAC.
* Emerson Drive Takes Home Three Awards at CCMA Awards
Emerson Drive started off the 2007 CCMA Awards in Regina, Sask. with a great performance of their #1 song, "Moments." It was a great night for the band as they took home three out of the four major awards they were nominated in: Group/Duo of the Year, Video of the Year (Moments) & Song of the Year (Moments). Congrats to the E-drive guys!
* Longtime Tour Manager Comes off the Road
According to the fan club, E-drive Road Manager Mark Oglesby has now retired from road life. Mark will remain employed by Emerson Drive and will work in the office. The new road manager is Barry LaFoy. Welcome!
* BREAKING NEWS: Another Emerson Drive Departure
According to Tricia at the fan club, Emerson Drive bassist, Patrick Bourque, has left the band. He is well and at home with his family but will not be returning to Emerson Drive. No reason was given for his departure. A new bassist, Arlo, is out on the road with E-drive. To send Patrick a message, e-mail tricia@emersondrive.com and I'm sure she'll pass your message on to Patrick. Good luck, Patrick. We will miss you!
* E-drive Gets Inked
To celebrate the recent success of their first #1, "Moments," Emerson Drive went to LA to get tattoos. To watch the process of their art, watch TLC on Tuesday, September 4th. They also perform "Moments" in the studio as well.
* New Video on the Way
Emerson Drive will be shooting a new video soon for "You Still Own Me." More details coming at a later date. However, with their busy schedule, there will NOT be one for "Testify."
(EDFC)
* Craig Ferguson Date Change
Because of time restraits, Emerson Drive's appearance on The Late, Late Show With Craig Ferguson got moved to Monday, August 6th. The E-drive guys will be performing their #1 single "Moments."
* Emerson Drive Proud of CCMA Noms
August 2, 2007 — Emerson Drive's recent Canadian Country Music Association Awards nominations were a validation of sorts for the guys, who have paid their dues for years. "It's funny because we seem to take a little bit of flack every once in a while for certain things," lead singer Brad Mates tells Dial-Global. "Over the last seven years, being able to live in Nashville and have a record deal in the U.S., we're able to tour 95 percent of the time down here. It's nice, obviously, to get back home and play some of the shows that we do and to show people what we've accomplished. We're the first Canadian band ever to have a No. 1 in the U.S. So it's nice to be able to say that we've made a little bit of history, I guess, and to show the naysayers years ago that this is really something that is working."
In addition to their nominations as a group, each musician in the band is nominated for the 2007 CCMA All-Star Band Awards. The winners will be revealed on September 10 at the Brandt Centre in Regina, Saskatchewan.
The "2007 Canadian Country Music Association Awards" will air across Canada on September 10 at 8 p.m. (9 p.m. AST & 9:30 p.m. NF) on CBC TV, in the U.S. on Great American Country (GAC), and in Australia on Country Music Channel (CMC).
For more on the CCMA Awards, visit ccma.org.
(GACTV.com)
* Canadian Country Music Award Noms Announced
August 2, 2007 — Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Terri Clark and Emerson Drive are the favorites among this year's list of talented CCMA nominees. Terri and Carolyn Dawn, each with five nominations, will compete for Female Artist of the Year. Emerson Drive, with nominations in four major categories, will go up against the Wilkinsons for Group or Duo of the year. Album of the Year nods went to artists including Carolyn Dawn for Love & Negotiation and Emerson Drive for Countrified.
The "2007 Canadian Country Music Association Awards" will air across Canada on September 10 at 8 p.m. (9 p.m. AST & 9:30 p.m. NF) on CBC TV, in the U.S. on Great American Country (GAC), and in Australia on Country Music Channel (CMC).
For the complete list of nominees, visit ccma.org.
(GACTV.com)
* Canadian CMA Nominees Announced
Wed. August 01.2007 6:57 PM EDT
George Canyon, Shane Yellowbird and Emerson Drive are among the leading nominees for the Canadian Country Music Association Awards. Nominations were announced Wednesday (Aug. 1) and will be awarded on Sept. 10 in Regina, Saskatchewan. Canyon and Yellowbird brought in five nominations each. Emerson Drive, Paul Brandt, the band Doc Walker, Brad Johner and Carolyn Dawn Johnson earned four nominations each. In addition, Terri Clark joins Brandt, Canyon, Doc Walker and Johnson as nominees for the Fans Choice Award.
(CMT.com)
* Music Row Tips Its Hat to Writers of Emerson Drive's "Moments"
Sam and Annie Tate, Dave Berg Feted at Two Parties
By: Edward Morris
"Moments" stretched into hours Monday afternoon (July 30) as workers on Music Row took time off to attend back-to-back No. 1 parties for the recent Emerson Drive hit of that title.
ASCAP set the festivities in motion at 3 p.m. with a celebration at its Nashville headquarters for "Moments" co-writer Dave Berg. Afterward, the celebrants streamed up the street for a 5 p.m. bash at SESAC, a competing performance rights organization, to honor the song's other writers, Sam and Annie Tate. ....more
(CMT.com)
* Plea from EMERSON DRIVE
"Vote For Us in the 2007 AboutCountry Awards:
Emerson was nominated for Best Group, and Moments was nominated for Song of the Year over at About.com. Please head over and vote as many times as you possibly can so we can move forward to the second round!!! We need tons of help, so tell everyone you know!!
Thanks for all the help and support!!!!"
(Emerson Drive MySpace)
* Happy Birthday Brad and David!
Happy Birthday wishes go out to Brad Mates, who turned 29 on July 21st and David Pichette, who turned the big 3-0 on July 23rd. Happy Birthday guys!
* Emerson Drive to perform for US Military
Emerson Drive's current single, "Moments," has inspired fans from all walks of life including the military. In recognition of the impact the song has had on both veterans and active duty military personnel the band will perform an exclusive show at the Wadsworth Theatre in Brentwood, CA on July 17th. Details regarding the event will be released soon and available through a voice message system at 310-226-6132. If you are a veteran or currently serving in any branch of the military and would like to attend the show please call the voice message system or check back on the Emerson Drive web site!
(EmersonDrive.com)
* E-drive Fiddler David Pichette is HOT HOT HOT!
Congratulations to our favorite fiddler, David Pichette! He made the countdown of Country Weekly's #20 Hottest Men. David rounds out the list at #20. Way to go fans for showing the country music world what they are missing out on. No doubt David's smile had a little to do with that (and maybe his fiddle playing did too!)!
(E-drive FC)
* Have # 1, Get Inked and End Up on TV!
The Emerson Drive guys have decided to mark their first recent #1 single, "Moments," by getting some body art! July 3rd the guys will be in L.A. getting tattoos and performing "Moments" for a new show to be airing on TLC.
According to the fan club, "Yes, all 6 of the guys will be getting a tattoo to commemorate their first #1 single in the USA! The process will be filmed for the brand new LA Ink TV show that will begin airing on TLC this fall. The exact air date has not been determined yet. To kick-off the show Emerson Drive will perform an unplugged version of "Moments" in the studio..."
(E-drive FC)
* New Canadian Single Selected!
And the new Canadian single will be.... drumroll..... "TESTIFY!" It will go to Canadian radio soon so get those dialing/e-mailing fingers ready.
As of now, Tricia (from the FC) knows no plans for videos being made for either "Testify" or "You Still Own Me (the US single)."
* Emerson Drive Scores a Talk Show Appearance!
According to the E-drive Fan Club, Emerson Drive is set to appear on CBS' The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson on August 3rd. They are set to perform "Moments." Let's hope other talk shows will come in soon!
(E-drive FC)
*Single Review from AllAccess.com
Emerson Drive
You Still Own Me
Midas
These Canadian crooners have followed up their first #1 with a solid mid-tempo tune that proves they are definitely not a one hit wonder. This song has a nice laid back feel that makes it a great choice for the hot weather most of us are enduring. These guys have talent to spare and they pick great material that is well suited for them. This song will fit easily into your play list right between the core acts that you play. Let's make these guys into the stars they should be. Impacting now.
(AllAccess.com)
* New US Single Coming in July
According to AllAccess.com, for the third single off their "Countrified" CD, Emerson Drive has chosen "You Still Own Me," which will come out to radio on July 16th. Canadian fans will remember the single by (co-writer) Johnny Reid.
* Check Back for LOTS of Photos!
I have a ton of photos from shows in February, March, the CMA Music Festival and more, and I'm trying to get those out ASAP. Keep checking back!
* Hit Us Up on MySpace.com
Emerson Drive: Kick My Countrifried Soul has a new home on MySpace.com! We are in the process of creating a better page as a companion to this site. If you want to hop on board, go to www.myspace.com/kickmycountrifiedsoul
* Emerson Drive Hits #1 For the First Time In Career With "Moments"
Emerson Drive recently celebrated their very first #1 single with "Moments." The song hit the top spot on the Billboard, Radio and Records and Mediabase 24/7 charts. Making it even more special for the band is that it hit the top spot during the week of CMA Music Festival, so Emerson Drive celebrated with fans all over the globe, and it was a big party!
* E-drive Hits the CMA Music Festival HARD & Give in the Process
CMA Music Festival is one constant week of no sleep and the guys of Emerson Drive were no exception to that. They started out the week helping Lonestar and others raise money for St. Jude's through bowling and meeting with fans. They continued their week by doing other benefits, such as Chely Wright's Reading, Writing & Rhythm benefit and helped serve food with Second Harvest on National Hunger Awareness Day, and helped the Opry with its Opry Trust Fund benefit at the Ryman and also did their part to help Second Harvest at their fan club party by asking fans to bring a jar of peanut butter to replenish the supply food banks lost with the recent peanut butter recall. They also helped Little Big Town raise money for the T.J. Martell Foundation by partaking in their Harley ride and helped Martina McBride and the YWCA by donating a jacket Dale wore in the "If You Were My Girl" video to her self-run auction. The guys also signed tons of autographs, hit the Grand Ole Opry, the Riverfront and the Hard Rock Cafe stages and was also presented plaques for their first #1 single.
* Emerson Drive Surprised by Impact of "Moments"
May 21, 2007 — Emerson Drive had high hopes for their latest single, "Moments," but lead singer Brad Mates admits the group was unprepared for the fast pace at which it is climbing the country charts, icebergradio.com reports.
"I knew that it was gonna get a good reaction, and it's an impact song," Brad says, "but honestly we didn't realize how much of an impact it was gonna have on people out there, and now [we're] feeling the momentum over the last eight weeks."
Brad said that in addition to the amount of airplay it's receiving, "Moments" is eliciting all kinds of personal response from fans. "It's really cool to hear feedback from people on the road and then in the office now, getting e-mails in," he says. "The great thing about country music is the lyrics always seem to ring true to a lot of people and it's great to hear different stories."
"Moments" sits at No. 3 this week on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song is included on Emerson Drive's 2006 album, Countrified.
(GACTV.com)
* Fellow Artists Embrace Chely Wright's Concert
May 22, 2007 — Chely Wright, whose 2007 Reading, Writing & Rhythm Benefit Concert will take place June 5 at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville, has lined up an impressive roster of sponsors and artists.
Keith Anderson, Emerson Drive, Kellie Pickler, Mindy Smith, Taylor Swift, Trent Tomlinson, Clay Walker, Danielle Peck and Chris Young will perform, and as usual Chely promises some "special surprise guests" as well.
"I'm especially excited because we have the opportunity to perform with our peers in front of family, friends and fans to raise awareness surrounding the importance of music education for our nation's youth," said Clay. "It's going to be a great night for a very worthy cause."
"I'm pleased in the invitation to be part of such a wonderful and inspiring event," Danielle said. "Music is such an important part of everyday life and I applaud Chely's charge to make it so as part of our children's education."
"I'm looking forward to participating in this fun event," Kellie said. "Music is fun and should play in the background of every child's life."
Last year's event raised more than $100,000, and since its inception just seven years ago, the charity has donated gifts of music, musical instruments and services valued at just over $1 million to schools and students nationwide.
(GACTV.com)
* Carrie Underwood Among Stars Greeting Fans at CMA Music Fest
Mon. May 21.2007 6:13 PM EDT
Carrie Underwood, Gretchen Wilson, Big & Rich, Rodney Atkins and Josh Turner are among the dozens of country acts who will be signing autographs at the upcoming CMA Music Festival in Nashville. The sessions will take place in the Fan Fair Exhibit Hall in the Nashville Convention Center. Among the dozens of other acts announced for the signings include Country Music Hall of Fame member Bill Anderson, John Anderson, Rodney Atkins, Cowboy Troy, Emerson Drive, Josh Gracin, the Grascals, Steve Holy, Jack Ingram, Jason Michael Carroll, Craig Morgan, Jamie O'Neal, LeAnn Rimes, Julie Roberts, Sawyer Brown, Ricky Skaggs, Taylor Swift, Trent Tomlinson and Tanya Tucker. The CMA Music Festival takes place June 7-10.
(CMT.com)
* Emerson Drive Taking the Stage at the Hard Rock Cafe during CMA Music Festival
Why Sleep? CMA Music Festival After Hours is Making Noise in '07
© 2007 Country Music Association, Inc.
CMA Music Festival is the party that never ends, at least for the late-night crowd Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10, in Downtown Nashville with a record 17 clubs and bars participating in 2007 CMA Music Festival After Hours.
After Hours kicks in when the lights dim at LP Field following the Nightly Concerts.
Setting the tone for each night’s revelers will be “The Official CMA After Hours Kick- Off Concerts.” The Kick-Off Concerts will be held at 11:00 PM/CT Thursday through Saturday, June 7-9 following the Nightly Concerts at LP Field in the Hard Rock Café parking lot (area opens at 10:30 PM). The Kick-Off Concerts are free and open to the public and the CMA Street team will be on hand to pass out goodies.
The get ’em rockin’ lineup includes PovertyNeck Hillbillies, Thursday, June 7; Lantana, Friday, June 8; and Emerson Drive, Saturday, June 9. Artists subject to change.
After Hours participating sponsors include DigitalRodeo.com, Gallo Family Vineyards, and Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino, Tunica.
(CMA Exclusive Newsletter)
* Moments is #1!
Congratulations to Emerson Drive for scoring a #1 on the Music Row Charts with "Moments!"
* Number TWO and Climbing
Could Emerson Drive get their first #1 radio single in the US? Only time will tell. "Moments" is currently #2 on the Mediabase charts and #3 on the Billboard and Radio & Records Charts!
* Faith Hill, Toby Keith, Martina McBride Added to ACM Show
Faith Hill, Toby Keith, Martina McBride and Big & Rich are the final performers announced for the 42nd annual Academy of Country Music Awards show taking place Tuesday (May 15) in Las Vegas. Big & Rich will be joined by R&B vocalist John Legend, who is featured on "Eternity," a track from the duo's upcoming album, Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace. The ACM also announced Thursday (May 10) that Shania Twain will also participate in the show, marking her first awards show appearance in two years. Just announced as presenters are Sara Evans, Heartland, Craig Morgan, Joe Nichols, Kellie Pickler, Chris Young, Brad Mates (Emerson Drive) and Darius Rucker (Hootie & the Blowfish). Other newly-announced presenters include CSI: Crime Scene Investigation stars Gary Dourdan and Eric Szmanda, Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw, former professional volleyball player and model Gabrielle Reece, actress Emma Roberts and actor Luke Wilson. CBS will telecast the awards show live from the MGM Grand.
