Let the CRS Festivities Begin

Yesterday opened the annual mash-up of the country music industry with country radio programmers known as CRS - Country Radio Seminar. Play nice, boys and girls. The yearly affair in Nashville gives insiders on both sides musical fence a chance to meet, discuss, and debate. The days are filled with industry workshops, and the nights are filled with music. Traditionally, noteworthy news is revealed during the week. So let’s run down the highlights – like Carrie Underwood singing the National Anthem. Trace Adkins handed off the torch for the 2011 Artist Humanitarian Award to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Ashton Shepard announced that she is expecting her second child. Her first son, James, is five years old.

Universal Music Group held its 2nd Annual Luncheon at the Ryman Auditorium. Following the tradition that began in 2010, nearly the entire roster of the label groups artists came out to perform a song – or two – each. Seen at this year’s event, Sugarland, Randy Montana, Josh Kelley, Ashton Shepard, Easton Corbin, Billy Currington, Gary Allan, David Nail, Laura Bell Bundy, Lee Ann Womack, Josh Turner, Randy Rogers Band, and Jamey Johnson. Newcomers Canaan Smith, Dani Flowers, Kip Moore, Coldwater Jane, and Mallory Hope were introduced. Legendary Vince Gill, who has had a 30-year relationship with MCA Records performed two songs, and the show was closed with a surprise visit by Lionel Richie, dueting with Darius Rucker. No doubt a live preview of his upcoming country duets album.

Blake Shelton hosted the 2011 Music City Jam. Blake noted that it used to be called the Super Faces Show, “until they asked me to do it.” Through the night, Blake performed his hits as well as a few covers for the unscripted show. Those in attendance were treated to Blake’s versions of “My Baby’s Got Good Timing,” “East Bound and Down,” and “Escape (The Pina Colada Song).” Blake’s guests for the night included, Luke Bryan, Chris Young, The Band Perry, Frankie Ballard, Brett Eldredge, and Laura Bell Bundy.