NYCountry Swag Takes Nashville Archives

NYCountry Swag Takes Country Radio Seminar: A Full Recap

The 49th Country Radio Seminar (CRS) took place this past week in Nashville, Tennessee at The Omni Hotel in Downtown Nashville. CRS is an annual three-day convention where country music and the radio industry gather to exchange ideas, set trends, introduce brands, launch artists and make decisions that affect every aspect of the genre’s future. The seminar includes new music from rising artists as well as some of the most established artists in the business.

Here are some highlights of our week down in Nashville including photos of our favorite artists. Head to our Instagram to see more exclusive content and videos.

During the opening ceremonies, attendees gathered in one of the Omni’s ballrooms to honor their sponsors for the week as well as to award Dierks Bentley with the 2018 Artist Humanitarian Award. Humbled by this award, Bentley took the stage to thank the committee who chose him and explain that he is happy to use his platform for a greater good. He received recognition for his charity work with his Miles & Music for Kids concert and the accompanying motorcycle ride. Over the last 10 years, the organization raised over 4 million dollars.

Next up, our team headed to Broken Bow Records’ showcase which included the signing of a brand new act, Everette The Band as well as performances from each of their talented stars including Walker McGuire, Lindsey Ell, Dustin Lynch, Granger Smith and Jimmie Allen.

Closing out the night of incredible music, Jason Aldean took the stage to perform “Tattoos On This Town”, “Any Ol’ Barstool” and his brand new single “You Make It Easy” for the attendees.

Aldean and Allen then headed to the Amazon Music & CRS Monday Night Showcase where they performed and Garth Brooks joined Aldean on stage for an epic duet of “Friends in Low Places”.

Heading down to Broadway, we stopped by Dierks Bentley’s brand new Bar, Whiskey Row, for a performance from Hot Country Knights, Bentley’s parody 90’s cover band. Fellow Universal Music Group labelmates Jordan Davis, Kassi Ashton, Maddie and Tae, Jon Pardi, Travis Denning, took the stage to sing classic 90’s hits including “Boot-Scootin’ Boogie”, “Any Man of Mine”, “Sold” and “Lesson in Leavin'”.

Tuesday, Day 2 of the seminar was filled with 26 artists, performing their new music for the radio and media attendees. Every year the UMG Luncheon which takes place at the historic Ryman Auditorium is a highlight of the week and this year was certainly no different. After grabbing our boxed lunch, we headed inside to sit 4th row ready for some incredible music. Performers at the luncheon included newcomers, Jordan Davis, Kassi Ashton, Travis Denning, and Brandon Lay. Each of the rising artists that have just been signed to Universal Music Group were so grateful for the opportunity to play the on the historic stage for the most prestigious names in radio. Other acts to perform were Kip Moore, Darius Rucker, Dierks Bentley, Maddie & Tae, Jon Pardi and Luke Bryan. Highlights included Vince Gill singing a new song he wrote about sexual misconduct and the powerful movement happening in the world and keeping with the theme, Keith Urban singing his latest single “Female” with Nicolle Gaylon who co-wrote the song.

Next up we stopped by the NASH FM Nashville campus to visit our friends Ty, Kelly & Chuck and Elaina and Shawn from Nash Nights Live. Then we headed back to the Omni to catch the Sony Showcase. This guitar pull or acoustic round featured some of Sony’s biggest acts as well as newly signed artists. The first round included Chris Young, Walker Hayes, LANco, Luke Combs and Cam. Each took turns singing their radio singles and Cam even performed a haunting version of a song she wrote with pop singer Sam Smith called “Palace”. The second round featured Brad Paisley, Kane Brown, Mitchell Tenpenny, and Maren Morris. Morris sang her very first radio number one, “I Could Use a Love Song” as well as “Rich” which impacts country radio today.

We then headed to the Warner Suite to catch one of our favorite rising artists, Cale Dodds perform his latest singles “People Watching” and “Take You Back”.

Our final day of the seminar concluded with two shows at the theatre in the Omni hotel. The first was Big Machine’s Luncheon which featured a remarkable performance by the newest artists to join their label Trent Harmon and Tyler Rich. Thomas Rhett also performed his latest single “Marry Me” and Brett Young played his no. 1 hits. Making their official comeback as a duo, Sugarland sang their smash “Baby Girl”, “Stuck On You” and their new single “Still the Same”.

The culmination of three great days ended with New Faces, a critically acclaimed event which features the brightest rising country acts of the previous year. This year was no different, taking the stage with their full bands to each play three of their most popular hits was Carly Pearce, Michael Ray, Midland, Lauren Alaina and Luke Combs.

Overall, Country Radio Seminar was an incredible three days for New York Country Swag, being a small part of bringing new country music to listeners and followers in New York City and beyond. We are already looking forward to next years seminar!

Make sure to follow us on Instagram for more pictures and videos from the incredible events.

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Thanks for supporting Country Music in NYC!

Click Here to learn more about NYCountry Swag
+ Follow our Country Music Adventures on Instagram, @NYCOUNTRYSWAG!

– Team NYCountry Swag

The Enchanting Magic of The Grand Ole Opry

We are sure that you have heard the name Grand Ole Opry before but few people understand the sheer magnitude of what it feels like to stand in that building surrounded by the rich Nashville history of country music. The Opry began as a simple radio broadcast back in 1925 and still to this day is broadcast on live radio. Among a few other venues throughout the early years, the Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville was the home of the show until 1974 when it moved to its newly built Grand Ole Opry House.

Earlier this month, the New York Country Swag team was treated to an incredible VIP backstage tour of the Opry. Walking through those hallowed halls, you feel the presence of all of the artists who have stepped into the circle, laughed backstage and made their mark on country music. We were taken through the special entrance where all of the artists enter for the evening, past the wall of names of all of the current members and their mailboxes where fans can write letters and have it reach the artist directly.

Each dressing room is unique, with the decor emulating the reason for the room. One room that is particularly special is the “Into the Circle” which is set aside for artists to prepare for their debut Opry performance. The walls are lined with photographs of the Opry’s most memorable moments including Garth Brooks, Little Jimmy Dickens, Carrie Underwood and Randy Travis hugging and much more.

Making your way to the side of the stage you can look out on the packed house each night, listening to their favorite artists who are standing in the same wooden circle that has stood the test of time.

On that particular night, artists Maddie & Tae, Chris Janson, Brooks and Dunn and Keith Urban were among a few of the artists to take the stage. Highlights of the night included Brooks and Dunn performing together at the Opry for the first time in many years to sing “Believe”, “Red Dirt Road” and “My Maria”. Closing out the night, Keith Urban performed with just his guitar, putting a different spin on his hits including “Wasted Time” and “Blue Ain’t Your Color”. Inviting Chris Janson to the stage, to duet on John Michael Montgomery’s 1995 No. 1 hit, “Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident)” the performance was definitely one to remember.

New Yorkers are going to get the opportunity to experience the Grand Ole Opry right here at home with the opening of Opry City Stage in Times Square. The first home away from home, this authentic venue will have four levels of music and southern hospitality allowing fans from all over the world a chance to experience a real country music show. Be sure to follow along to find out more information on the opening and events here and on their social media (Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.)

For more on our ‘New York Country Swag Takes Nashville’ experience, click here.

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Thanks for supporting Country Music in NYC!

Click Here to learn more about NYCountry Swag
+ Follow our Country Music Adventures on Instagram, @NYCOUNTRYSWAG!

– Team NYCountry Swag

NYCountry Swag Heads To NASH FM Studios in Nashville

October 24, 2017/in Blog, NYCountry Swag Takes Nashville /by Christina Bosch

Whether you are in New York City, Nashville, Michigan or Florida NASH FM’s morning show with Ty Kelly & Chuck and Nash Nights Live are syndicated throughout the country, blaring through your radio with the best country music and interviews with your favorite artists.

During out ‘New York Country Swag Takes Nashville’ Experience, New York Country Swag took a tour of the studios where the magic happens, where artists are interviewed and where plenty of antics happen. We happened to be sitting in on the live Ty Chuck & Kelly Mornings show which was #WicksWednesday, both Ty Bentli and Kelly Ford were dressed as Chuck Wicks. We got to see the behind the scenes of the show, listen to a #10-minutetune written by guest, Ayla Brown, about the new mystery Oreo competition and hear some of our favorite songs.

The morning also included a tour of additional Cumulus studios including Kix Brooks’ very own studio where he records American Country Countdown. The space is filled with photos and memorabilia throughout the years that Kix has collected from friends, fans, and artists. Elaina Smith and Shawn Parr also work out of the Nash Studios recording their night show, Nash Nights Live.

We loved getting a chance to meet the Nashville crew, introduce them to New YorkCountry Swag and explain the story behind our Hero Collection.

In New York, catch Ty, Chuck & Kelly Mornings weekdays from 5:00 AM- 10:00 AM and Nash Nights Live with Shawn & Elaina weekdays from 7:00 PM-Midnight.

For more from our ‘New York Country Swag Takes Nashville’ Experience, click here.

Midland Reaches #1 with “Drinkin’ Problem” & Celebrates at The Sutler

October 24, 2017/in Blog, NYCountry Swag Takes Nashville /by Christina Bosch

Friends, family, and members of the industry lined the wall of The Sutler bar and restaurant in Nashville Wednesday, October 11th to join the trio, Midland, co-writers Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne who also produced the song along with Dan Hough to celebrate their debut single hitting the number one spot on the charts. “Drinkin’ Problem” was the first single off of their first full-length album, On The Rocks.

As a part of New York Country Swag Takes Nashville week, we were invited to attend this prestigious event and take part in the festivities. The afternoon was co-sponsored by BMI and ASCAP the performance rights organizations.

Among the speakers at the event, Scott Borchetta, head of Big Machine Records, Midland’s label took the stage to congratulate all involved saying “One of these days, we’re going to look back and say, ‘Do you remember when Midland had their first No. 1?”

The event ended with each member of the band taking the microphone to emotionally thank everyone in the room and each other for this accomplishment. The band heads out for the CMT On Tour with Jon Pardi and Runaway June and then will join The Breakers Tour with Little Big Town and Kacey Musgraves. For the full list of tour dates click here.

Check out more from our ‘New York Country Swag Takes Nashville’ Experience here.

Russell Dickerson’s Sold Out, Album Release Party in Nashville

October 24, 2017/in Blog, NYCountry Swag Takes Nashville /by Christina Bosch

Russell Dickerson has been working towards releasing a debut country album for over seven years. Last Friday his dream came true and Yours, hit shelves and was available digitally everywhere. To celebrate the release of his album, Dickerson played to a sold-out crowd in Nashville during his album release week. The Exit/In in Nashville has been open for 46 years and is a staple venue in the Nashville.

Prior to his set, Dickerson attended an industry party at the bar next to the venue and New York Country Swag was delighted to be invited. He greeted his guests, family members, and team while the line of fans to get into the venue loomed around the block. Dickerson got the room’s attention by standing on a chair to thank his wife Kailey, his family, his team and all of the members of the industry who supported him and got him to this moment. “I do want to say a thank you for, even coming out tonight to celebrate with us, we’ve been going at this for coming up on seven years and now I finally get to release an album to the world full of songs that we wrote together about the people we love,” he says emotionally to the gathering. As a surprise, Norbert Nix from Triple Tigers, Dickerson’s record label, stood next to him to and held up a plaque saying “Russell, your single “Yours” is certified gold!” A record is American RIAA-certified Gold when a single or album that has sold 500,000 units. Proudly, he held up the plaque over his head, pure excitement on his face as the room filled with cheers.

The incredible night only continued when everyone made their way next door to the venue to watch Hannah Grey Ellis, who co-wrote “Would You Love Me” with Dickerson, which is featured on Yours,. The sold-out venue was lined with fans as “Twentysomething” opened the set. Singing all 11 tracks off the new record including “Billions”, “Low Key” and a fan favorite, “MGNO” the set was high energy and filled with great songs. Dickerson is a true performer, he gives it all during his live shows and his fans and everyone around him can’t help but feed off of his energy.

Check out our First Impression of Yours, and be sure to catch Dickerson at one of his upcoming shows, full list of dates here.

For more on our ‘New York Country Swag Takes Nashville’ Experience click here.

What to do in Nashville…Yoga with Baby Goats Dressed in Halloween Costumes?

October 24, 2017/in Blog, NYCountry Swag Takes Nashville /by Christina Bosch

Nashville’s hottest trend is Goat Yoga. Yes, you heard that right, a yoga class that has baby goats running around posing for pictures on your back during downward dog. This new phenomenon taking Nashville by storm was started by a family in Brentwood TN.

“Goat Yoga Nashville was inspired by a family member who has a high-stress job as a fireman and happens to loves Goats & Yoga.” the bio on their website says. “So we decided what a better way to honor him and help others de-stress than to start our very own Goat Yoga class in the Nashville area. Thus Goat Yoga Nashville was born.”

New York Country Swag knew that this innovative trend had to be worked into our 3 days in Nashville so we ventured 30 minutes outside of the city to attend an early morning class. The simple patch of land designated for the class is gated in and for the month of October, all of the goats are dressed in little Halloween costumes. As Michael Jackon’s “Thriller” is played over the speakers, the baby goats come running down the dirt road to enter the make-shift studio and immediately interact with the attendees.

If you aren’t a yogi and have never been to a class before, fear not, the class is very basic and the instructor was extremely helpful in teaching you the primary poses. While it is certainly not the most relaxing class we have been too, it was definitely the most fun.

The goats are friendly and sweet, eating leaves off of branches that they provide and posing for photos. Melody, the owner, and her adorable family walk around coaching the goats to pose on your back and make sure everyone is enjoying themselves.

If you are planning a trip to Nashville definitely make sure to include a class in your itinerary, the experience is one of a kind. Click here for more information.

Check out more of our ‘New York Country Swag Takes Nashville’ Experience here.

Where to Eat/Drink in Nashville: FGL House, Perfect for “Party People”

October 24, 2017/in Blog, NYCountry Swag Takes Nashville /by Christina Bosch

There are plenty of bars along the downtown Nashville strip, a ton of places with live music and good drinks or food, however, if you are looking for a unique experience head to FGL House. The four-story venue lives and breathes Florida Georgia Line. The duo opened the restaurant/bar earlier this year and fans from all over the world are walking through the doors to experience this one of a kind venue.

The walls are lined with memorabilia, certified records and even iconic outfits the duo has worn in the past. The rustic woodwork, incredible art and overall vibe of the atmosphere allow patrons to feel like they are hanging out at FGL’s home. Every level has a unique feel, there are even chandeliers made up entirely of wooden guitars.

The appropriately titled “Cruise” rooftop level offers an amazing view of downtown Nashville and is a great place to hear live music. If you are here for the food, the kitchen delivers some incredible appetizers and entrees’, created by the band’s very own tour chef. During our lunch at the venue, we were treated to the Bavarian Jumbo Pretzel with a special mustard aioli and queso blanco and the delicious Dirty Kettle Chips topped with smoked pulled pork, crispy bacon, chives, smoked cheddar queso and drenched in bbq sauce.

With so many options to choose from including Southern Fish Tacos to Shrimp and Grits, ultimately the New York Country Swag team decided on the Nashville Hot Chicken salad, dressed with a delicious cilantro ranch and the “No Joke Mac N’ Cheese” which has thick bacon, beer pulled chicken, smoked white and yellow cheddars, and cavatappi pasta.

If you are only visiting to enjoy some drinks, you must try out the FGL House signature cocktails. Check out our New York Country Swag Make-a-Long below to learn about three cocktails off their menu including “Tip It Back”, “Get Your Shine On” and “Party People”. For more cocktails and their full menu check out FGLHouse.com

New York Country Swag was happy to dine at FGL House as a part of our New York Country Swag Takes Nashville trip earlier this month. We will definitely be back!

Where to Eat in Nashville: The Grilled Cheeserie Will Melt Their Way Into Your Heart

October 24, 2017/in Blog, NYCountry Swag Takes Nashville /by Christina Bosch

There are many things to love about the great city of Nashville and food is absolutely up there on the list. Of course, Nashville has plenty of BBQ joints that will fulfill any out of towners craving for delicious southern food, however, if you are looking for something different and equally as satisfying you MUST head to The Grilled Cheeserie. In the heart of Hillsboro Village, the establishment just opened their very first brick and mortar restaurant back in January. Previously, The Grilled Cheeserie Truck would travel to multiple locations around Nashville, feeding hungry tourists, patrons and artists alike. The famed truck was also featured on Food Network’s popular, “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” with Guy Fieri.

With their ever-changing specialty melt menu, featuring the above fall favorite, Harvest Melt, which has double cream brie, roasted free-range turkey, maple roasted squash, pumpkin seed pesto on multigrain bread, patrons can expect to try a something new each time they visit. One of our favorites to try was the Pimento Mac & Cheese that has housemade pimento cheese, local cheddar, macaroni, tomato and bacon bits on country white sourdough bread. They also offer the most delicious tomato soup, the perfect pairing for any grilled cheese sandwich.

Make sure to leave room for dessert. Our favorite was the Campfire S’more, toasted smoked sugar marshmallow, Nutella, salty honey graham crumble on brioche. The marshmallow is gooey and mixed with the Nutella, it is the perfect fall favorite sweet treat.

Don’t forget to stop by their milkshake bar on the way out, featuring delicious concoctions including the Caramel Apple Float, Frozen Mexican Hot Chocolate and the Milkshake of the Moment -“Count Chocula Black & White”.

The food is delectable, the restaurant itself is clean, the staff is super friendly. New York Country Swag was happy to dine at The Grilled Cheeserie as a part of our New York Country Swag Takes Nashville trip earlier this month.