Pre-Release Hype Has Made The Climb

Hannah Montana, The Movie, opens nationwide today. It’s an extension of the TV show, but because this super-sized episode was largely filmed on location in Tennessee, there is a lot more country music throughout the movie. Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus star, but look for cameos from Rascal Flatts, Taylor Swift, Bucky Covington, and Marcel. The Flatts and Taylor pretty much play themselves as friends of "Miley" and each sing well-placed numbers. Bucky and Marcel can be seen as band members in Miley and/or Billy Ray's bands. Last night in Nashville, the red carpet premiere saw plenty of celebrity with children in tow: Sara Evans, Phil Vassar, Martina McBride, Clint Black and Big Kenny.

If country music infiltrating the tween pop world isn’t enough for you, how about more country music on the Great White Way? Dolly took 9 to 5 to Broadway, next up is Pure Country. Joe Nichols will play the lead role in the Broadway version of the film. Joe is supposed to be going to New York City at the end of October, so that the show can start in early 2010. Joe said the production is an updated version of the 1992 movie. Asked how he feels about stepping into a role originated by George Strait, Joe said, "It feels pretty amazing. He's been a hero of mine since I was a little kid so to come along behind him … on Broadway and do something that people dream their whole lives of doing is pretty amazing."

News From Around The Country
Keith Urban debuted Defying Gravity at the top of the sales charts. It’s the first of his albums to best the number three opening slot that he’s so familiar with. Toby Keith has reportedly backed out of his next movie project due to a production conflict with his annual USO tour. Taylor Swift donated her prom dress to an online auction that helps girls give and receive the dress of their dreams; it earned $1200. And finally, all that dancing seems to be paying off. With more than one-half million profile views, Chuck Wicks ranks as the number two country artist on MySpace for the past two weeks, second only to Carrie Underwood.

And your Harley photo of the day: Brad Mates from Emerson Drive: