Ron Elliott - Steel Guitar Hall of Famer New Cd

Ron Elliott's new cd "GOLDEN HITS & SCARLET RIBBONS" was unveiled at the International Steel Guitar convention in St Louis Mo over Labor Day weekend. Ron was also inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame at the convention in 2009. If you are a fan of steel guitar, you will definately want to add this cd to your collection as a momento of Ron's induction.

Tracks include:
WHITE SPORT COAT
GONE
HAVE I TOLD YOU LATELY
LOVE IS NO EXCUSE
NOBODY'S DARLIN
AFRAID
MR. MOON
LEGEND IN MY TIME
TOO SOON TO KNOW
SOFT RAIN
JEALOUS HEART
SCARLET RIBBONS

In July 1966, Ron become a member of Stonewall Jackson's Minute Men. While with Stonewall, he played on the Grand Ole Opry; played on Country Music television shows with 'Wall'; recorded on many of Stonewall's sessions; and toured the U. S. and Canada.

After leaving Stonewall, Ron joined Grand Ole Opry's Jack Greene's Band, which later became the Jack Greene/Jeannie Seely Show with The Jolly Giants. In his eight years with the Jolly Giants, Ron played the Grand Ole Opry (both audio and TV) spots; played for the Grammy Awards when it was held in Nashville; played for the United Nations Show in Washington, D. C.; did recording sessions with both Jack Greene and Jeannie Seely; played many Country Music televison shows with Jack and Jeannie; played the last Saturday night at the Ryman Auditorium and the first Saturday night in the new Grand Ole Opry House, which was attended by the President of the United States and Jack, Jeannie and the Jolly Giants were the only act to perform in front of the President and First Lady; and he also played on the Jack and Jeannie live album which was the first live album to be recorded from the new Opry House.

In the mid 1970's Ron left the road and went to work at the Sho-Bud Guitar factory where he helped design new models, both steel guitars and amps. While working at Sho-Bud, Ron was instrumental in the design of the new Sho-Bud Super Pro with the aluminum necks and changing the body dimension. He also designed the A6th pedal on the Sho-Bud single neck that changes the E9th tuning to A6th, and helped with the design of the new Sho-Bud Stage/Studio 500 amp. During his time with Sho-Bud, which became Sho-Bud/Baldwin/Gretsch, he held seminars for promotion and sales of the steel guitar in Tennessee and Arkansas; and taught steel guitar lessons. He also designed and wrote an instructional manual for the Sho-Bud Maverick that included audio.

When Ron was not touring or working steady with a band, he free lanced and toured with Ernest Tubb; Kitty Wells; Cal Smith; Justin Tubb; Johnny Bush; Ray Price; Melba Montgomery and others. Ron spent the next eight years playing and touring with another Grand Ole Opry artist - Charlie Louvin. While a member of Charlie's band, he again worked on the Grand Ole Opry, both radio and TV spots. Their tour dates took them all over the U. S. and Canada. Ron had to leave Charlie's band when the Opry management made a new ruling about the size of the artist's bands and Charlie had to cut some of his band members.

Ron is very proud of the awards that have been presented to him. He has received an award from: PSGA (Pedal Steel Guitar Association); Golden Bar Award-BJS Bars; R. O. P. E. (Reunion of Professional Entertainers) Musician Of The Year Award and the Legends Award from NTSGA (North Tennessee Steel Guitar Association). Ron was inducted into the steel guitar hall of fame in 2009.

Brazos Valley Boys "So Rare"

The Brazos Valley Boys were created in 1946 by country music Hall of Fame legend, the late Hank Thompson, in his hometown of Waco, Texas. Since their inception the Brazos Valley Boys (BVB) have defied musical convention. They have been trend-setters and that practice continues today with their dynamic, innovative style. The BVB incorporate the American musical art forms of country, jazz, Dixieland, blues and big-band swing to produce their own brand of western swing music: an energetic, eclectic style that has broad appeal.

Along the way the BVB have become one of the most honored bands in musical history. Honors include BILLBOARD MAGAZINE’S "Touring Band of the Year"---14 YEARS IN A ROW! In 2004 the Brazos Valley Boys were the FIRST BAND to ever be inducted, as a unit, into the WESTERN SWING MUSIC HALL OF FAME!

Some of the finest musicians and biggest names in western swing music have graced the stage and recording studio as Brazos Valley Boys. They have come from diverse musical backgrounds including jazz, country and the big swing bands and have brought their unique talents to the BVB sound. Today’s BVB continue that tradition with their own trademark contemporary sound and extraordinary talent. You can download tracks from the Brazos Valley Boys at www.buckatune.net

"I've had the opportunity to hear the Brazos Valley Boys several times, and I've always come away impressed with a lot of things: the virtuosity of the members, their mastery of styles ranging from classic country to big-band pop, their uncluttered but creative arrangements, the infectious energy and fun they have together on stage. Western swing music may have been created more than 70 years ago, but there are still a few bands out there good enough to be doing exciting new things with it, while remaining true to its style and spirit. You can put the Brazos Valley Boys right at the top of that short but influential list."

John Wooley, entertainment writer, Tulsa World

"I’ve always been proud that Brazos Valley Boys is synonymous with quality western swing music. That legacy is perpetuated today and will be into the future by Morey and the Brazos Valley Boys."

Hank Thompson, (from 2006), Member Country Music Hall of Fame

Johnny Lyon "Winds of Change"

Johnny Lyon and the Country Nu-Notes, are determined to continue the important, articulate and unique message that Country Western Music was founded upon. In the traditions of pioneers like Bob Wills, Hank Williams, Ray Price, Willie Nelson, Lefty Frizzell and George Jones, these artists are striving to tell and re-tell purely American stories despite an ever-increasing, fad-driven, consumer culture. Johnny Lyon is still "REAL TEXAS COUNTRY". The consummate professional performer, Johnny has entertained thousands of Country Music fans with brilliant renditions of the True Country Classics.Johnny Lyon's cd "Winds of Change" is now available at www.buckatune.net

ECMA (European Country Music Assoc announces award nominees

The European Country Music Association just announced the nominees for the 2009 awards.

Song of the Year
Frizzell & Friends. This Is The Time
Alan Jackson. Small Town Southern Man
Alan Jackson. Good Time
Hermann Lammers Meyer. Never Ending Song Of Love
Danni Leigh. Quarter Over You

Artist of the Year
Alan Jackson
Robert Mizzell
Hermann Lammers Meyer - Available at www.buckatune.net
Brad Paisley
Danni Leigh

Male Vocalist of the Year
Alan Jackson
Arly Karlsen
Robert Mizzell
Hermann Lammers Meyer - Male Vocalist of the Year
Brad Paisley

Female Vocalist of the Year
Pam Tillis
Danni Leigh
Liz Talley
Taylor Swift
Allison Janisse

Best Album Of The Year
Alan Jackson - Good Time
Frizzell & Friends
Mark Chesnutt - Rollin With The Flow
Darius Rocker - Learn to Live
George Strait - Troubadour

Indie Album of the Year
Arthur Kleiner - Ticket to Nashville
Darlene Olson - Stay Up and Fight
TJ Stuart - Rosin on the bow
Dolly Parton - Backwoods Barbie
Allison Janisse - Journey

European album Of The Year
Anni Filt - Tender Moments
George McAntony - Bridge to el Dorado
Hallur - Pickin' Time in Nashville
Hermann Lammers Meyer - 1961 – A Love Song
Rhythm' Train - Bad to the Bone

Vocal Collaboration of the Year
Frizzell & Friends
Peter & The Rowers with Joe Diffie
Annette Hawkins & Kim Copedo
Robert Mizzell & Philomena Begley
Troy Cook Jr. & Tracey K. Houston

Duo of the Year
Paul & Helen Mateki
Gary & Carol Bibb
The Bellamy Brothers
The Benn Sisters
Annette Hawkins & Kim Copedo

Band/Group of The Year
Peter & The Rovers
The Eagles
Michael Thomason Band
The Big Bull Band
Jeff Treece Band

European Artist of the Year
Arly Karlsen
Robert Mizzell
Hermann Lammers Meyer
Dave Sheriff
Peter & The Rowers

European Song Of The Year
Dave Sheriff. A Friend In Need
Robert Mizzell. You're Why God Made Me
Arly Karlsen. The Day I Found You
Hermann Lammers Meyer. What Goes On
Tommy Young. Everybody Loves A Cowboy

Compilation Service of the Year
Stardust
TSP
Hillcrest - Mp3s Available at www.buckatune.netGlory Train
Mark Trail Music
Nite*Sky

Record Label Of The Year
Comstock
WIR
Arista
BSW
AGR

Country Music Promoter/s
Ross Allen
Rhonnie Scheuerman
BlueSprings Music International
Globe Concerts AS Norway
James Allen

Christmas Recording
Judy Kanyo. Mistletoe, My Cowboy And Me
Pam Tillis & Mel Tillis. The Rockin' Christmas Medley
Paul & Helen Mateki. Christmas Dreamin'
Julie Taylor. I Wanna Sit On Santa's Lap
Patty Parker. La Noche Buena-It's Christmas Eve

Company Of The Year
Rhon & Bob Promotions (Artists Promotion)
Spins Tracking System (Chart Tabulation)
James Allen Promotions (Artists Promotion)
Music Row Publications (Publications, Charts, Infos)
Carolyn Taylor White (Graphic Designer)

Radio Award (To DJs or Stations)
Pete Smith (UK, Radio DJ because of his retirement of the waves)
Johnny DaPiedade (France, because of his internationally radio show Big Cactus Country)
CMR Nashville (One of Europe's leading internet stations and excellence thru its website)
BBC (Because of the excellence thru their country music radio shows)
Radio Country Club (France). Excellent work from its 24 h/7 d radio station.

Music Row Publications (Publications, Charts, Infos)
Countryfr.com (Website dedicated to promoting country music, in French)
Americana Music Association (For its developing of the Americana music market thru the last years)
Manolo Fernandez and Toma 1 (Spain), (because of his more of 30 years dedicated to country and americana music)
Up Country Magazine (UK), for being one of the leading country music & line dance magazines in the world.

Newcomer Artist of the Year
(to the entertainer that has developed its great work for the first time to the European market)
John Maines Jr.
Dick Barnes
Clelia Adams
Gary & Carol Bibb
Declan Nerney

Steel Guitarist Mike Sigler mp3s

Steel guitarist Mike Sigler now has mp3s available at www.buckatune.net
More mp3s will be coming soon from Mike.

Mike has been playing the Steel Guitar Since the age of 10,   (Mike Says)  "my dad had traded for an old Clark single neck steel when i was young.. I fell in love with it and the sound it made."

Mike learned to play steel guitar with his family band and was playing for clubs and square dances by the age of 12.  When Mikes family moved to Arizona he was about 13, and this is how he learnedto Play the C6th Swing Neck.  By the time Mike was in his late teens, His family moved back to Ohio. At this time Mike was still working with some local artist as well as some national artist.

Mike has played with many artist as well as many other milestones he is proud of such as......The Grand Ole Opry,  Ryman Auditorium,  Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree,  International Steel Gutar Convention,Many Steel Guitar Shows Around The Country.Most Recent Artist include: Holly Dunn, Ray Pillow, Lynn Anderson, Michael Martin Murphy and many more!
More information at: www.freewebs.com/sigler10

Western Swing Society Hall of Fame Festival

Western Swing Society Hall of Fame Festival
Thursday October 1, 2009 - Sunday October 4, 2009
Machinists Hall
2749 Sunrise Blvd
Rancho Cordova, California 95691
Western Swing Society Hall of Fame Festival to Induct new Hall of Fame Members.

The listeners and dancers will be entertained by several Western Swing bands from the Southwestern and Pacific Western states, and by morning and late night jam session sets where musicians from the different bands get together and produce spontaneous music.There will be 15 Western Swing Bands from all over the US playing for your enjoyment. You will have plenty of time to get pictures & autographs of all of the performers.

On Thursday evening the music will begin at 5:00 p.m. and continue until 1:30 a.m. the following morning. On Friday and Saturday the music starts at 9:00 a.m. and continues until 1:30 a.m the following morning. On Sunday morning the music will start at 9:00 a.m. and will continue until after midnight, except during the Hall of Fame induction ceremony which takes place between 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. In the ceremony,new nominees, performers, and others who have made significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of Western Swing Music, will be inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame.

Ticket Info: Admission to the Festival: (Thursday night is free)
Friday will be $5, Saturday and Sunday are $10 each, or you can pay $20 in advance for all three days. Questions about the event, the lodging, etc. should be directed to (916) 974-1236. Website: http://www.westernswingsociety.org

Johnny Lyon Austin Sessions

Johnny Lyon and the Country Nu-Notes, are determined to continue the important, articulate and unique message that Country Western Music was founded upon. In the traditions of pioneers like Bob Wills, Hank Williams, Ray Price, Willie Nelson, Lefty Frizzell and George Jones, these artists are striving to tell and re-tell purely American stories despite an ever-increasing, fad-driven, consumer culture. Johnny Lyon is still "REAL TEXAS COUNTRY". Johnny's cd "The Austin Sessions" is now available as individual tracks at www.buckatune.net

Tracks on this cd include:
TWO EMPTY GLASSES
BIG BLUE DIAMONDS
CINDERELLA
STATUE OF A FOOL
SEND ME THE PILLOW
YOU ARE MY SPECIAL ANGEL
THIS SONG IS JUST FOR YOU
WHAT A WAY TO LIVE
GREEN SNAKES
YOU GAVE ME A MOUNTAIN

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Brazos Valley Boys

The Brazos Valley Boys 60th anniversay cd is now available as mp3s at www.buckatune.net This is a must have for any western swing fan!

The Brazos Valley Boys were created in 1946 by country music Hall of Fame legend, the late Hank Thompson, in his hometown of Waco, Texas. Since their inception the Brazos Valley Boys (BVB) have defied musical convention. They have been trend-setters and that practice continues today with their dynamic, innovative style. The BVB incorporate the American musical art forms of country, jazz, Dixieland, blues and big-band swing to produce their own brand of western swing music: an energetic, eclectic style that has broad appeal.

Along the way the BVB have become one of the most honored bands in musical history. Honors include BILLBOARD MAGAZINE’S "Touring Band of the Year"---14 YEARS IN A ROW! In 2004 the Brazos Valley Boys were the FIRST BAND to ever be inducted, as a unit, into the WESTERN SWING MUSIC HALL OF FAME!

Some of the finest musicians and biggest names in western swing music have graced the stage and recording studio as Brazos Valley Boys. They have come from diverse musical backgrounds including jazz, country and the big swing bands and have brought their unique talents to the BVB sound. Today’s BVB continue that tradition with their own trademark contemporary sound and extraordinary talent. (reprint from www.brazosvalleyboys.com)


"I've had the opportunity to hear the Brazos Valley Boys several times, and I've always come away impressed with a lot of things: the virtuosity of the members, their mastery of styles ranging from classic country to big-band pop, their uncluttered but creative arrangements, the infectious energy and fun they have together on stage. Western swing music may have been created more than 70 years ago, but there are still a few bands out there good enough to be doing exciting new things with it, while remaining true to its style and spirit. You can put the Brazos Valley Boys right at the top of that short but influential list."

John Wooley, entertainment writer, Tulsa World

"I’ve always been proud that Brazos Valley Boys is synonymous with quality western swing music. That legacy is perpetuated today and will be into the future by Morey and the Brazos Valley Boys."

Hank Thompson, (from 2006), Member Country Music Hall of Fame

Ron Elliott inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame

Ron Elliott was inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame September 2009. Some of Ron's music is available at www.buckatune.net and more of his music will soon be added. Here is biography of Ron(reprint from ron elliott's website):

Born in Salisbury, Maryland, Ron has been playing music in bands since he was thirteen years old. His first professional performance was in 1953 when he worked with Hawkshaw Hawkins on his Gibson Console Grand steel guitar. Later in 1955, while serving with U. S. Army in Germany, he had his '53 triple neck Fender shipped to him and he played with Special Services for the Armed Forces U.S.O. Tours. Upon returning home from the service he again played in local bands and worked as a D.J. on the local radio station WICO, where played and promoted records that had steel guitar on them.

In 1964, he and a local band from Salisbury traveled to Nashville, Tennessee and recorded a session at the Starday Studio. Later in 1964 he joined Mel Price's Sante Fe Rangers band and they played military bases throughout the U. S. In 1965 he joined Jimmy Case's Cherokees and also played military bases throughout the U. S. and in Iceland, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

In July 1966, he left the Cherokees and moved to Nashville, Tennessee to become a member of Stonewall Jackson's Minute Men. While with Stonewall, he played on the Grand Ole Opry; played on Country Music television shows with 'Wall'; recorded on many of Stonewall's sessions; and toured the U. S. and Canada.

After leaving Stonewall, Ron joined Grand Ole Opry's Jack Greene's Band, which later became the Jack Greene/Jeannie Seely Show with The Jolly Giants. In his eight years with the Jolly Giants, Ron played the Grand Ole Opry (both audio and TV) spots; played for the Grammy Awards when it was held in Nashville; played for the United Nations Show in Washington, D. C.; did recording sessions with both Jack Greene and Jeannie Seely; played many Country Music televison shows with Jack and Jeannie; played the last Saturday night at the Ryman Auditorium and the first Saturday night in the new Grand Ole Opry House, which was attended by the President of the United States and Jack, Jeannie and the Jolly Giants were the only act to perform in front of the President and First Lady; and he also played on the Jack and Jeannie live album which was the first live album to be recorded from the new Opry House.

In the mid 1970's Ron left the road and went to work at the Sho-Bud Guitar factory where he helped design new models, both steel guitars and amps. While working at Sho-Bud, Ron was instrumental in the design of the new Sho-Bud Super Pro with the aluminum necks and changing the body dimension. He also designed the A6th pedal on the Sho-Bud single neck that changes the E9th tuning to A6th, and helped with the design of the new Sho-Bud Stage/Studio 500 amp.

During his time with Sho-Bud, which became Sho-Bud/Baldwin/Gretsch, he held seminars for promotion and sales of the steel guitar in Tennessee and Arkansas; and taught steel guitar lessons. He also designed and wrote an instructional manual for the Sho-Bud Maverick that included audio.

When Ron was not touring or working steady with a band, he free lanced and toured with Ernest Tubb; Kitty Wells; Cal Smith; Justin Tubb; Johnny Bush; Ray Price; Melba Montgomery and others.

Ron spent the next eight years playing and touring with another Grand Ole Opry artist - Charlie Louvin. While a member of Charlie's band, he again worked on the Grand Ole Opry, both radio and TV spots. Their tour dates took them all over the U. S. and Canada. Ron had to leave Charlie's band when the Opry management made a new ruling about the size of the artist's bands and Charlie had to cut some of his band members.

For about the next seven years he had a day job that kept him from touring with a group or playing the steel guitar shows like he wanted to do. During these years he still found a way to play his guitar and entertain the folks by joining Johnny Carver's Nashville All Star Band. They played for a dance every Saturday night in Lebanon, Tennessee for almost thirteen years, until Johnny sold the venue. The band regrouped with a new name, The Music Masters and moved to the V.F.W. in Gallatin, Tennessee where they still play every Saturday night.

Currently, Ron is now able to play the steel guitar shows and is looking forward to playing as many shows as possible. If he is not out of town playing a steel show - you can catch him at the dance in Gallatin.

Ron is very proud of the awards that have been presented to him. He has received an award from: PSGA (Pedal Steel Guitar Association); Golden Bar Award-BJS Bars; R. O. P. E. (Reunion of Professional Entertainers) Musician Of The Year Award and the Legends Award from NTSGA (North Tennessee Steel Guitar Association).

Ron is proud to be able to say that his first trip to Nashville as a musician was to record a session at Starday Studio in 1964 and then in 1966 his first time go to to the Grand Ole Opry was to play on it as a member of Stonewall Jackson's band, The Minute Men.

Ron and wife, Leslie reside in Madison, Tennessee. They have three daughters, Edie, Cheryl, Nancy and one son, R. P.; six grandchildren; two great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter. Ron has passed his musical legacy on to his son, who plays lead guitar, works for Gibson Guitar and recently designed a new guitar for Gibson.

Ron is a 32° Scottish Rite Mason belonging to John B. Garrett Lodge #711; a Shriner belonging to Al Menah Temple; a member of American Legion Post #82; a member of North Tennessee Steel Guitar Association; Pedal Steel Guitar Association; and R.O.P.E. (Reunion of Professional Entertainers) which he helped start in 1983 and has membership card #2.

Ron is a very patriotic, sincere person and has the ability to reach out to the audience and hold their attention with his soulful, smooth playing along with his great wit and humor. He definitely is a people player who loves playing for them and they love him.

Country Artist Ray Harrision Releases new cd!

Album: Scratchin' The Surface
Artist: Ray Harrison
Label: Country Discovery
MP3s available at www.buckatune.net

Ray Harrison's brand new CD is DYNOMITE! With a generous cast of legendary musicians and Rays silky, seasoned country voice, this is a sure-fire winner!Read more from Mike Gross of "Swingin' West" radio program:

A wonderful voice, awesome musicians and 12 great songs describe succinctly this brand new CD by this talented Arizona vocalist. Another highlight of this CD is Steel Guitar Hall of Fame legend John Hughey playing steel on 10 of the 12 cuts on one of his last sessions before his recent untimely passing. Another wonderful steel guitarist, Mike Headrick is heard on steel on Does he Love You Like I do and Ray Pennington's Somewhere Out in Texas from the great Ray Price. As a side note, John Hughey's widow, Jean said that John had an advance copy of this CD in his player constantly.

The album also features the fiddle of Joe Caverlee and the guitars of Al Bruno. Tim Atwood is the pianist, Mark Beckett is heard playing drums and Ben Brogden is the bassist.

The album opens with Harlan Howard's Another Bridge to Burn and then goes on to Cindy Walker's The Day You Left me, originally from Eddy Arnold. Ray takes off on Western Swing standards The Old Water Mill recorded by both Milton Brown and Jimmie Revard back in the 1930s and Tommy Duncan's Time Changes Everything originally sung by Tommy with Bob Wills. Another one from the great Ray Price is April's Fool. You Belong to Me was written by Western Swing legends Pee Wee King and Redd Stewart and scored quite well in the 1950s for pop music's Jo Stafford, Patti Page and Sue Thompson. Ray borrows I Never Go Around Mirrors from country music superstar Merle Haggard and Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins' Western Swing classic Heart of a Clown from the late Wade Ray. Also brought back is a fantastic version of recently deceased songwriter Lawton Williams' Farewell Party which originally was done by the great Johnny Bush with Jimmy Day on steel and later became a huge Gene Watson hit. The album closes with Stuart Hamblen's It is no Secret, a hit for both Stuart and Jo Stafford.

Lonnie Spiker Unapologetically Honky Tonk CD

If you really want to know who Lonnie Spiker is, you need not go any further than the title of his latest album "Unapologetically Honky Tonk". Musicians on this cd include familiar names: Bobby Flores, Randy Reinhard, and others. Johnny Bush also performs on one track.

Though born in Pennsylvania he now maintains a home in Austin TX as well as Nashville TN. But one listen will tell you he is pure Texas Honky Tonk. In his early years he had the privilege of opening several shows for Marty Robbins along with 23 other major artists. He’s toured the country working for other acts as a bass and lead guitar player. Shortly after moving to Nashville he wrote several Canadian hits with co-writer Ron Demmans. He scored 3 Texas and European hits off of his 2002 album "My Future Ain’t What It Use To Be". And now in April of 2005 his "Unapologetically Honky Tonk" is destined for even higher ground with excitement already building from those who have heard advanced cuts of this album. It is sure to move Lonnie and his music to a much larger audience than ever.

A songwriter, performer and recording artist Lonnie has a list of other interests including scuba diving, flying, karate, reading philosophy and studying physics.

Make it a point to see Lonnie live in concert and download mp3 tracks from Unapologetically Honky Tonk at www.buckatune.net