What a wonderful few weeks I’ve had this spring and summer! Since turning my attention to country music, I’ve been primarily, reviewing new and independent artists who are just breaking into the business—often sending me their very FIRST CD’s! But more recently, and due in large part to some of the wonderful people I’ve met through the internet, I’ve had the privilege AND honor of becoming acquainted with the music of some of Nashville’s "older" and legendary performers. Many of these great artists have sent me their albums,
both in pre-release and newly released works.

In fact, I’ve received so many, that it’s getting difficult to keep up! I usually write an article or review, sometimes with an interview, on each individual CD I listen to. But I have to admit, I am somewhat overwhelmed and yes, even awestruck, at the amount of great music I’ve been hearing!! So, I’ve decided to take a slightly different approach with my work, this time, because I don’t want to miss this chance to let every country music fan out there, know thatR EAL COUNTRY MUSIC is very definitely still alive and kickin’!! I know we don’t get to hear it often enough, and I’m aware of the difficulties (more aware every day!) on Nashville’s "music row". So please, take a few minutes out of your day, to read about some of the BEST music I’ve heard, since being re-introduced to country, some 10 years ago.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve taken some quiet time out of each night, settled in, and listened to some good ol’ country music. And all I can say is, what a PLEASURE it’s been!!

First up, lets talk about the great Ernie Ashworth. You all probably know Ernie’s work, and if you do, maybe you’ve had a chance, by now, to hear "ERNIE ASHWORTH AND FRIENDS". It’s being played all over Europe (here in the states, too, if you have a station that still plays "traditional" country), and it’s one terrific album!! And about as PURE country as it gets. To be very honest with ya, I wasn’t really prepared to like this one SO MUCH! But this was some of the best work I’ve heard in country music--anywhere! I can’t really express the gratitude I feel to Ernie and his graciousness in sending me this album (and the sweetly signed photo). It’s gonna remain a highlight for me. I truly hope that everyone will make a special effort to pick up this new CD, I know you’ll enjoy it. Check out his website at www.ernieashworth.com. This album has such great warmth and spirit, and truly stands out in my growing collection of REAL country.

Another performer, as well as producer/writer, and—well, just plain talented guy..I’d like to tell you about is T. Jae Christian. www.universal-sound.com (oh, and you’ll find lots of other great artists on his website, too!) T. Jae sent me several CD’s, some great examples of artists on his label, Universal Sound Records, including one of his own, "MARRIAGE ON
THE ROCKS, and other heartaches" (thanks, TJ, for the special signature). What a great time I had, listening to this album! T. Jae’s bio reads like a who’s who in Country Music. He’s been a prolific songwriter through the years, and many country legends such as Charlie
Pride, Roy Orbison, and Jeannie Pruitt, have recorded his songs. Even as the "new pop-country" has grown and moved into the Nashville scene, T.Jae has continued his work and stuck by his traditional roots. This newest album release proves his loyalty AND his talents are not wavering. An additional treat on this CD, is the introduction of a new Universal artist, Chance Martin. WOW!! I was really amazed when Chance began belting out "It’s You"! I had to read the CD jacket again, to be sure I wasn’t listening to the great Johnny Cash! What an amazing voice this guy has! And he sings with a humorous tone that almost lets the listener SEE that twinkle in his eye. I KNOW I want to hear more from Mr. Chance Martin in the future, and so will you all, when you hear it. Among the many other artists I’ve listened to on the Universal label, were Charlie Shearer, Lawrence Allen, Mindy Miller, Paul Alan Coons, Curt Ryle (outstanding!), and Billy Keeble. All were super talents, and I had a great time listening to all of them. I can’t even imagine why we don’t hear these folks on U.S. radio, DAILY!! Some are new, some have been around awhile, but all are impressive.

Another great experience has been getting acquainted with and hearing the works of Glynn Martin. His latest CD, "TAKE A RIDE ON REAL COUNTRY", was just tremendous. It really brought back some memories too. See, both my dad, and grandfather, were railroaders, and since having recently lost my dad to cancer, I was very susceptible to this kind of nostalgia. I need to throw another big "THANKS" out there to Glynn. If you’re readin’ this, GB, you KNOW how much I enjoyed your music—but maybe this will confirm it for ya! Find Glynn’s music on his website, www.martincountry.com. This guy is GREAT, and deserves your time and ear. Love ya, GB!!

Speakin’ of nostalgia, and taking a slight detour from "country music", as we know it, if you’re the kind of person who holds a real special place in your heart for patriotism and remembrances of the "old days", you really MUST visit the website of another very fine artist and writer, Clyde Hady. www.signsoflove.com Clyde’s CD, entitled "INDEPENDENCE 2000, millennium of freedom", is truly one of the most genuine pieces of work, I’ve ever heard. He leaves no doubt in your mind that his love for his country remains strong, through thick and thin. And when he speaks "The Declaration of Independence", you’ll be hard-pressed not to get a little choked up. But he doesn’t let us off that easily—nope—he then quotes "The Gettysburg Address"!! Here, we have a true Patriot. Clyde Hady is, undoubtedly, a man who believes so strongly in his country and has so much respect for the men and women who served it, that he has been and is, willing to
stand up and be heard—tirelessly and without a hint of selfishness. I truly hope that y’all with take the time to visit Clyde’s beautiful website, and if possible, purchase this CD. It’s one that every collector of "Americana" should own. You’ll want to play it every time you want to honor a vet, or put up your flag, or remember the lives of those who came before us. A lot of hard work and diligence went into this album, and it shows. Thanks, CH! We appreciate your undying love for the USA!

Well, folks, that’s my opinion for now. I’ll keep listenin’ to REAL country music, and to ALL forms of music, and I’ll keep writin’ what’s in MY heart. I hope you’ll do the same. You don’t have to agree with me, or take MY word for anything. Check it all out for yourself! Cause remember……it’s only....