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Sara Evans Strength, versatility and a spunky sense of adventure are qualities more often associated with literary heroines than successful country singers, but then there’s nothing typical about Sara Evans. Whether dominating country radio airwaves with one of her many hit singles or attracting a new legion of fans with her spirited turn on “Dancing With The Stars,” Evans’ drive, talent and determination have placed her in an elite class of artists who transcend musical genres to become a household name.
Blake Shelton Blake Shelton has shown steady growth and momentum since his impressive 2001 debut, which earned him the title of Radio & Records magazine’s breakthrough country artist that year. His hits run the gamut from sweet sentiments of “Austin,” and “The Baby” through Shelton’s powerful take on “Goodbye Time” and on to the hilarious “Some Beach” and the wildly original prison break story song, “Ol’ Red.”
Kellie Pickler Just two weeks before the release of her debut album, Small Town Girl, Kellie Pickler was still unpacking boxes in the decidedly uptown condominium she had leased in Nashville, her new hometown. “I came across photos from when I went to audition for American Idol, when I was standing in line with all those thousands of people in Greensboro. I just started crying. I couldn’t believe how things had changed in a year, and how unreal it seemed to be where I am.”
Bucky Covington Bucky Covington’s road to Nashville came down to convincing just one person. He had impressed millions wth his talent and charisma on “American Idol,” making it to the final eight during the 2006 season, but it was something else that sold him to Sawyer Brown frontman and producer Mark Miller. “There was a quality in his voice that was honest,” says Miller. “I believed him when he sang.” Covington has quickly become one the the most energetic and compelling entertainers in country music. Now, with the release of his debut single and album, America will get to witness the next step in Bucky’s emergence as one of country’s most genuine and exciting young performers.
Whiskey Falls This. Is. No. Ordinary. Band. Start with the vocals. Four-part harmony – is there such thing as four-part lead? - running from the the first verse to the final chorus. Then there’s the song itself. Smartly crafted and emothionally mature. Somewhat surprising from a new band that writes all its own material. The musicianship is world-class. The arrangement tighter than Tupperware. The production, well, let’s just say it more than measures up. Is it possible for a 14-month old band to have handled all those duties, too? Check, check and check.