Jade Eagleson recently won the 'Canadian Country Music Award for Rising Star' in Calgary, Alberta. With a powerful stage presence and deep resonating voice, the future is shining bright. I had a wonderful conversation in learning a little bit more from this genuine, highly-talented and hard working singer.
Where are you from Jade?
Jade: I'm from a town called Millbrook, Ontario.
Farm town, family?
Jade: Yes, I have one brother and two sisters, so it was hectic growing up around the house, but it was more-so with extended cousins and all the other folks
coming into the family house, and it keeps it a full house, but it's always nice.
Lots of music?
Jade: Yes, my mom, to this day, is still a musician. I took a lot of influence from her and my grandfather on my dad's side who used to play guitar and sing. I took a lot of influence from him as well. It was on both sides, and some of my uncles play and stuff as well.
When did you first feel you could make a career in music?
Jade: It wasn't for awhile you know, because I was raised with 'You got to work with your hands and get your hands dirty to make clean money'. I was kind of raised that way and eventually I was like you know what? I want to follow my passions and at least give it a shot. I was about nineteen or twenty when I moved back home from working in plumbing, and took a crack at country music and realized it's my true passion.
You write as well?
Jade: Yes.
What propels you to write a song?
Jade: It's very interesting, because you can come up with your own idea, but if that's a subject that personally relates to you, it's not necessarily always going to work in the 'writing room'. So that's one of those songs where you are going to sit down and write yourself, and then if you need help, you call in the 'big guns' to help finish it. When you go into a large writing room, there's tons of brilliant minds and tons of incredibly intelligent people that come with hooks or you might have a hook, and you build ideas off that.
Does the process come easy?
Jade: If you write something in like three hours and it's good, you might be shocked. It could be eight hours or longer, once you've gone through every variable, and you've spent that much time with it, you know it's going to be decent.
Music first or lyrics?
Jade: It's always different, you might have a hook, or sometimes lay in a guitar riff, and you write over that riff.
Musicians you admire?
Jade: I've always been a huge fan of Canadian artists. Paul Brandt for one, Jason McCoy, but my favourite of all time is Shania Twain for sure.
GET OUT!
Jade: (big smile)
I'm a huge Shania Twain fan!
Jade: Oh man! I could talk about her all day!
I grew up listening to Shania Twain and she is one of my favourites.
Jade: She is incredible!
She is incredible. I think she... I could go on, now the interview is about me!
Jade: (laughs)
I find she opened up a whole new avenue for country music.
Jade: She totally did! A lot of people frowned on her for going pop, but realistically every single one of her songs has a fiddle in it or steel guitar, or something super traditional and true to country music and you don't get a lot of that these days.
You really don't.
Jade: Shania took country music and put a shot of steroids in it. She is the Queen.
Would you ever like to do a song with her?
Jade: I would be super honoured to be able to do that.
I think you should and you both would sound awesome together!
When you get some days off, what do you like to do?
Jade: When I do get days off, music is a passion and it's work, so you can kind of conflict the two. I like to sit and pull out my telecaster and go over some riffs, go over some solos or I might write, but my favourite thing to do is hang out with my fiancé,
Congratulations by the way!
Jade: Thank you!
Five quick questions:
Movie you enjoy?
Jade: I'm a huge fan of Lord of the Rings! Hands down my favourite series. Close second would probably be Braveheart.
TV show?
Jade: The Andy Griffith Show.
Song you love?
Jade: Got to go back to Shania Twain. 'Any Man of Mine' has got to be my favourite song of all time, so I'll just continue with that for the rest of my days.
Favourite food?
Jade: My favourite food is chicken or steak.
Season?
Jade: Definitely summer.
Future projects?
Jade: We finished three new songs, so we are just waiting for those to be mixed and mastered and flipping them on the radio.
For more information and artist updates:
*The CCMA AWARDS 2019, September 8th were held in CALGARY ALBERTA at the Scotiabank Saddledome
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September 5, 2019 was a very special day for Country Music Legends, Ian Tyson and Sylvia Tyson. Coinciding with the CCMA Awards weekend in Calgary, it was a ceremony celebrating their induction into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame at Studio Bell. Honouring their strong songwriting skills and distinguished musical careers. Studio Bell is the home of the National Music Centre.
Photo Highlights below.
Ian Tyson and Sylvia Tyson - Studio Bell, Calgary Alberta
CSHF Executive Director Vanesa Thomas, Sylvia Tyson and National Music Centre President & CEO Andrew Mosker
Guitarist Danny Greenspoon, Sylvia Tyson and Vanessa Thomas
Sylvia Tyson performance
Producer and friend Fred Voss presentation to Ian Tyson
Ian Tyson
Vanessa Thomas, Ian Tyson and Andrew Mosker
Ian Tyson Performance
Corb Lund and Ian Tyson
The release of Ian and Sylvia 'The Lost Tapes' from Stony Plain Records debuted September 6, 2019. A composition of newly discovered music as well as versions of their classic songs never before heard.
*For more information: Studio Bell
National Music Centre - Calgary Alberta, Canada
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Venturing out on a very cold night to see The Arkells at the Scotiabank Saddledome, my first thoughts were random and ridiculous. Why does one even leave the house in a polar vortex? You just do, when you know it's going to be a positive, highly energetic performance from this highly talented band. Originating from Hamilton Ontario, the band's name is in honour of where they honed their craft, Arkell Street.
The evening quickly warmed up with opener Lord Huron, an indie/folk band based in Los Angeles and founded by lead vocalist Ben Schneider. The band's name was influenced from Ben's time spent at Lake Huron playing music around the campfire. Their sound is a warm, blending of vocals/instruments that are intoxicating, moody and mesmerizing, for example 'When The Night Is Over' from their 2018 release Vide Noir. Highly recommend seeing this band and/or checking out their songs.
Lord Huron lead singer - Ben Schneider
Lord Huron lead singer - Ben Schneider
The Arkells Rally Cry Tour is just what the frozen city of Calgary needed. Frontman/lead singer Max Kerman energized the Scotiabank Saddledome, utilizing a catwalk, as well as appearing on the opposite side of the arena, greeting fans and venturing through the crowd. Not feeling like going to work the next day? Max was handing out fictitious doctor notes to cover your possible next-day work absence. Gotta love that! The pace was non-stop and energizing throughout. This band is very personable and charismatic and knows hard work. From much smaller venues to the big city arenas of today, their well-deserved success is credited to their musical talents, drive and fanbase who are supportive and appreciate their dedication.
PHOTOS - ARKELLS RALLY CRY TOUR - CALGARY
Arkells lead singer Max Kerman
Arkells - Max Kerman Arkells Rally Cry Tour
Arkells Rally Cry Tour
Arkells Rally Cry Tour
Arkells Rally Cry Tour
Arkells Rally Cry Tour
Arkells Rally Cry Tour
The concert covered the hits and songs from their latest release 'Rally Cry' which debuted October 2018.
Setlist
Relentless
Leather Jacket
Michigan Left
Never Thought That This Would Happen
Show Me Don’t Tell Me
No Champagne Socialist / Oh, the Boss Is Coming!
Eyes on the Prize
American Screams
People’s Champ
Kiss Cam
Only for a Moment
Come to Light
And Then Some
I’m Not the Sun
11:11
Saturday Night
Whistleblower
Knocking at the Door
Private School
Hand Me Downs
ENCORE
Dancing Queen (ABBA cover)
My Heart’s Always Yours
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*For information and tickets go to ARKELLS MUSIC
*For information and tickets go to LORD HURON
VENUE: SCOTIABANK SADDLEDOME
2019
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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The Calgary Folk Music Festival is kicking off in full gear for another summer of music greatness at Prince's Island Park. The Festival continues to be a favourite event for locals and tourists alike. This year brings out a diverse list of 70 artists from 13 countries, with 8 stages all within close walking proximity. Opening night opened with a brief rainstorm, but that didn't stop the hardy festival goers who were well-prepared. The sun came out and turned into a beautiful evening. Some first night photo highlights.
Passenger on Main Stage
Calgary's Local - Chad VanGaalen
Chad VanGaalen
Alvvays - Molly Rankin on Main Stage
Alvvays
Alvvays
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CALGARY FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL 2018 - July 26-29, 2018
Prince's Island Park - Calgary, Alberta Canada
*For performances, schedules and information, go to CALGARY FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL
COPYRIGHT OF SUNSETPALMS.COM
]]>The Coca-Cola Stage at the Calgary Stampede 2018 brought some pretty amazing music performances. The crowds were mega and the weather throughout the 10 days was 'pitch perfect' except for a windstorm that delayed singer Lights only momentarily. There is something for everyone, no matter what style of music one likes. The last day closed with headliner Billy Talent and opener The Static Shift.
Super-charged headliner Billy Talent, ending the 10-day event.
Billy Talent - Guitarist Ian D'Sa
Billy Talent - Lead singer Benjamin Kowalewicz
Billy Talent - Bass player Jon Gallant
Billy Talent
Pretty excited to see opener The Static Shift. This talented band is from Calgary and some may have seen them recently on CTV'S 'The Launch'
The Static Shift
The Static Shift - Mitchell Brady
Drummer Isaiah Stonehouse and basist Keone Friesen
The Static Shift
The Static Shift
Check out the music section in SUNSETPALMS.COM for more photo highlights.
All photos taken at the Coca-Cola Stage in Calgary Alberta, Canada.
July 6-15, 2018
For further information follow the Calgary Stampede
]]>Broken Social Scene and opener Yukon Blonde at the Coca-Cola Stage at the Calgary Stampede.
Yukon Blonde - Jeff Innes
Yukon Blonde
Yukon Blonde
Yukon Blonde
Broken Social Scene
Broken Social Scene
Broken Social Scene - Kevin Drew
Broken Social Scene
Broken Social Scene
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*For performances, schedules and information, go to CALGARY STAMPEDE 2018 - July 6-15, 2018.
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Elle King headlining the Coca-Cola Stage at the Calgary Stampede last night Friday July 6th, 2018. Also performances by Banners and Elijah Woods x Jamie Fine.
Elijah Woods x Jamie Fine
Elijah Woods x Jamie Fine
Elijah Woods x Jamie Fine
Banners
Banners - Mike Nelson
Banners
Elle King
Elle King
Elle King
Elle King
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*For performances, schedules and Information, go to Calgary Stampede 2018 - July 6 - 15, 2018.
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ADVANCE SALE INFO @STAGECOACH
With the upcoming EP release of 'Salt in the Coffee' debuting June 8th, things are looking sweet for duo Kaci Brown and Sam Gray. I wanted to get a little insight in this unique pairing who's recent hit song Top Down released 2017, is the perfect song introduction for whats to come.
*Kaci Brown's career took off at the age of 10 when she won "Little Miss Texas Overall Grand Talent". Her family moved from Texas to Nashville to further embark in the country scene. She also ventured into pop and toured with The Backstreet Boys. She has written and collaborated for several artists and albums.
*Sam Gray is a singer, songwriter and producer from England and has composed multiple songs for various artists. Among several musical accomplishments, Sam has also toured with artists The Overtones, East 17, Westlife, David Ford, Charlie Simpson and Peter Andre.
Texas and England, how did you both get together to collaborate?
Sam: I wrote a song called Top Down in England. I didn't expect to write a country song really, it just kind of came out and it ended up making its way over to Los Angeles. I sent the song over and they really loved it. They (Notting Hill Management) said "Hey, you know what, this is a 'cool song' but we feel like it could be a duet."
So you two had never met prior to that?
Sam: Never, that was the first time we met, for the song.
Kaci: I was managed by Notting Hill at the time and it's published by Notting Hill. It's a small, kind of in-house boutique, independent label, managers, and publishing house. They really believed in Sam and everything he is capable of and they believed in me. They had this idea and lets just see what they sound like together. They didn't know what would come out of this at all, and it turned into being a pretty cool thing.
So the first time you sang, you sensed the chemistry?
Sam: Oh yes!
Kaci: When we heard it back, we definitely heard that it was great and that we sound really good together!
Sam: I think we sound great together but also we get on so well. We just have fun and that brought out the best with Kaci's voice, the session and best out of the song. I believe in the magic of the situation and the song. That day we met and every day since, has been like that.
Kaci: If you watch the music video for Top Down, we are just hanging out in a convertable driving all around.
Where was that filmed?
Kaci: All in California. The last scene was in Zuma, but we started northeast and drove to the ocean. Started early and we just drove.
Sam: We just drove and drove, it was great!
So when you wrote Top Down, what did you have in mind writing this? Did the video concept come to mind?
Sam: The video just comes with the whole thing. Just imagine staying in London and it's raining.
This is what I find interesting is it's the complete opposite. Fun summer song!
Kaci: This whole thing is interesting for all of us!
Breaking new ground just from your different backgrounds coming together. Country with a pop vibe.
Sam: Yes.
Kaci: I'm Country and Sam is Pop and now we are just in it.
Sam: Everything we've done and now it's about good songs!
Kaci: We've written a whole album. We've been working on these songs for a whole year now and we are very, very happy. We didn't release anything yet because we are really picky. We don't want to just release content for the sake of releasing content. If we are putting our names on it, together, we want it to be good sonically and production wise. We want it to represent how great we believe and feel the songs are.
Sam: Now that we are playing more and more live now with the band, the songs came into their own. We were able to go back into production and get to where we know it sounds great.
Kaci: Also, playing live responding to the live band and reaction, slower, faster, tempo, order, organically what comes together. What the people respond to, the fans, and telling us. Us and the music, and the album now. Really excited!
What about your solo careers?
Kaci: You know what's cool about this? I'm so creatively and professionally fulfilled doing this.
Sam: Yes, exactly.
Kaci: I love the work, I love Sam, I love the whole process, that if the day comes, it comes, but at this point, it really is on the back burner. If it is even on a back burner, because we love this so much!
Sam: This is what we are basically about now.
*Brown & Gray performed at Stagecoach Music Festival 2018 in Indio, California.
Was this the first time for either one of you at Stage Coach?
Kaci: This is my first time even here, and we're playing.
Kaci/Sam: It's amazing!
Sam: We've been hanging out, and seeing people like Kacey Musgraves, it's awesome.
Kaci: I'm from Sulpher Springs, Texas and Kacey Musgraves is from Mineola, Texas. I went to school with a girl named Elena Tatum. Elena Tatum and Kacey Musgraves were in a yodelling duo called the 'Texas Two Bits'. So we all played the Texas Opry circuit, so I grew up singing at the same places. I have a picture of Kacey and I with cowboy hats, chaps, boots and all that and we were like eleven. I got a big gap between my front teeth and I WILL NEVER SHOW THAT PICTURE TO ANYONE!
(Laughter)
Sam: YES YOU WILL! YOU WILL!
Kaci: IT IS NOT HAPPENING!
Sam: YES YOU WILL!
Kaci: NOPE!
Sam: OH YEAH!
Kaci: NOPE!
Kaci: So it was awesome you know, just seeing her and I thought how crazy is life? We were on the same stages 20 years ago essentially, and now we're both here at the same place.
Life is so bizarre.
Kaci: Life is really bizarre.
Sam: And I love this place. The California lifestyle. Also you get the wafts of BBQ going around. It feels so in the country.
I love it too being from Canada.
Sam: Oh cool!
Have you been to Canada?
Kaci: I have! I actually toured with The Backstreet Boys in 2006. I was the opening act. I did the entire Canadian run. It was beautiful. I didn't get to spend a lot of time in each city, because you are on a bus and you know you go from place to place and you are always by the venue. But I remember going to the Eaton's Center, and I remember trying 'poutane'.
'Poutine'?
Sam: 'Poutine'.
Kaci: 'POUTINE'.
(Laughs)
Sam: I've never tried that, man.
How popular is country music becoming in the UK?
Sam: It's a lot more mainstream these days. It's a lot more internationally accepted now. I've always been into it. Johnny Cash, Kenny Rogers and Shania Twain. The music/songs are so good. Good songwriting.
What are some of your early influences?
Sam: Shania for one. Classic songwriters like The Beatles, Paul Simon and Coldplay.
Kaci: I grew up listening to what my mom listened to. I was in a very small town in Texas where they only had one FM station and a western swing AM station and my family left it on the western swing Am station with a DJ by the name of Enola Gay.
Interesting name.
Sam: Yeah.
Kaci: So a lot of western swing and then random, and I mean random as in the genre wasn't consistent with my mom. So we would go from Celine Dion to Gloria Estefan to Kenny G. Like she would play that all of the time.
Very eclectic.
Kaci: For country music, it was like the early nineties, so like Shania Twain, Trisha Yearwood, Faith Hill, and The Dixie Chicks. I was really influenced by all the early nineties. Also I sang covers of Brenda Lee, Patsy Cline and all of those records and so when they are playing today, I know all these songs! I didn't listen to any pop music. I really didn't know even Michael Jackson's music until I went and watched the documentary, and then I really fell in love with the making of him and all the things I didn't know. It just wasn't part of the culture from where I was from. So going into pop music, I loved studying voice and figuring out how to make different sounds and hitting notes in a different area. I'm still hanging with Sam, still trying to learn how to do runs.
Sam: Oh, you got it down.
You learn from each other.
Sam: Yes! I love Kaci's professionalism as well as her energy. I just get so much from her energy. Also, her song concepts. She's got it.
Kaci: It all pulls from life though.
Sam: Yes it does.
Brown & Gray performing at Stagecoach 2018
*****
"Salt in the Coffee" EP
Home
Good Night
This Is the Stuff
Outta My System
Top Down
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*Brown & Gray
*Notting Hill Music
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]]>Not going to sidetrack the fact that I have been an admirer of Shania Twain for decades. Whether she was at the 'top of her game' or not, I have always kept a conscious thought on 'what's going on' with Shania. The ups, downs and the in-betweens have come together in this momentous time. Reason for momentous is Shania is doing what Shania should be doing. It's what she knows best. The 'Now Tour' is another chapter of her life. Not just music, not just a concert and tour, but a recognition of her strength in living life her way. It's a journey. Her new songs from 'Now' released September of 2017, are part of what works in this current tour, which kicked off in Tacoma, Washington May 3, 2018.
Opening with a walk-through the audience, with Elijah Wood's pulsating drumbeat to new song 'Life's About to Get Good' , life did just that. Ideal entrance for getting the whole arena, fans ranging in all ages, plenty excited. With 21 songs on the current tour setlist, it's a whole new production of her classic hits and cleverly placed new songs.
Seamless transition of several set and costume changes that reflect not just the country version of Shania, but her influence from several music genres. It's highly entertaining, personal and a great time. Her new material is less country sounding but that's the paradox that makes the tour, extremely enjoyable. It's refreshing.
Musicians Cory Churko, Joshua Ray Gooch, Elijah Wood are back, as well as violinist/keyboardist alumni Allison Cornell. Highly accomplished dancers/backup singers along with stunning visuals that are moving parts throughout, as well as a secondary stage. It's not overtaken by production because Twain knows when to bring it down. She relates and genuinely enjoys her audience. The interaction is part of what makes it extra special.
Opening performance by charismatic Bastian Baker, whom later came back to join Shania sing "Party For Two".
Man, I feel like this is Shania at her best! New music, another tour, there are a few things that always feel like home. One is Shania Twain.
SET LIST
Life's About To Get Good
Come On Over
Up!
Poor Me
Don't Be Stupid (You Know I Love You)
That Don't Impress Me Much
Let's Kiss and Make Up
Any Man of Mine
Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?
Honey, I'm Home
I'm Alright
Soldier
You're Still The One
More Fun
From This Moment On
I'm Gonna Gotcha Good!
Party For Two
Swingin' With My Eyes Closed
(If You're Not In It For Love) I'm Outta Here!
Man! I Feel Like a Woman!
Rock This Country!
Shania's Now Tour continues throughout the summer in Canada and the U.S. with final show in Las Vegas, Nevada, August 4th. Then it's off to Brazil, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.
*Shania Twain is also hosting the 2018 Canadian Country Music Awards in Hamilton, Ontario, September 9th.
*Shania Twain Now Tour
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Photo courtesy of Stagecoach
There is more then enough things to see and do. With the Mane Stage, Palomino Stage, Sirius XM Spotlight Stage, Honkytonk Dance Hall, Half-pint Hootenanny as well as the Toyota Music Den Stage, scheduling your day or weekend is everything. Keeping hydrated is key.
Mane Stage
Palomino Stage
Celebrity chef Guy Fieri showcased the Stagecoach Smokehouse serving up not only delicious barbecue but a 40,000 square-foot tent with plenty of room to kick back and enjoy some ribs and a beverage. There was also plenty of food venues throughout, with lots of variety and pre-ordering a beer didn't hurt either.
Chef Guy Fieri and friend talking about life.
Besides music, you could learn how to drive a Harley motorcycle, take a Toyota thrill ride with a professional driver, or take a lesson on two-stepping. Plus shop or browse the various markets for western clothes, jewelry, art, and festival merchandise. Nikki Lane's Stage Stop Market was a hit for her vintage, eclectic style, made extra cool with Nikki Lane herself and company singing in an intimate, casual setting. Shopping and live music always resonates nicely.
Nikki Lane
Mason Ramsey - "Lil' Hank Williams", Walmart yodel sensation, made a surprise appearance with Florida Georgia Line to perform Hank William's song "Lovesick Blues".
Photo courtesy of Stagecoach
Closing the night on Mane Stage, headliner Garth Brooks brought the fire to the record-breaking attendance.
Photo courtesy of Stagecoach
If you have attended once, it's hard not to become a repeat visitor. With RV parking and off-site camping, there are many options for accommodations. Talking to many locals about Stagecoach and Coachella, they mostly love it. They kind of miss it after it's over. Yes it's busy and loud, but the restaurants, bars, shopping and accommodations, all thrive. It's an established, organized hub for drawing some of the best.
*Article by Barbara Brander
*Photos courtesy of Stagecoach and Barbara Brander
*Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2018 - April 27-29 *Empire Polo Club Field in Indio, California.
*Full schedule/info Stagecoachfestival.com
Produced by GOLDENVOICE
SUNSETPALMS.COM
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H2O + Beauty Oasis and Disney Music Group sponsored an event at the breathtaking Zenyara property which was truly unique. Guests were treated to food, specialty drinks, free spa treatments, skin care products and pampering while surrounded by an exhilarating landscape.
Zenyara Villa, located just across from The Stagecoach Festival, is a 40 acre luxury oasis which includes a man made white-sand beach, fire pits, sun-decks, pool among several amenities.
The added touch to an already fabulous experience was being treated to performances by artists such as Kelsea Ballerini, Lillie Mae, Temecula Road, CB30, Ashley Campbell, Walker Hayes, Seth Ennis, Delta Rae and Kassi Ashton.
CB30
Temecula Road
Ashley Campbell
Guests were also treated to a very special songwriters series that included Kelsea Ballerini and Lillie Mae.
Kelsea Ballerini
Lillie Mae
*H2O + BEAUTY OASIS WAS HELD APRIL 27 and APRIL 28, 2018
*DISNEY MUSIC GROUP
*EVENT HELD AT ZENYARA - INDIO, CALIFORNIA
*SUNSETPALMS.COM
]]>No Greater Love Music Festival is like no other. To begin with, the festival location takes place on The Stoney Nakoda Reserve, Morley just west of Calgary, Alberta. The backdrop alone is worth the visit. Movies such as The Revenant, Legends of The Fall and Shanghai Noon have been filmed here. Heading out from Calgary, it's about a 40-minute drive.
The incredible scenery enhances the already positive energy of people coming together for a beautiful weekend. I've attended many different types of festivals and concerts, and was delighted and refreshed by the kindness and polite manner of everyone I came across. Family-friendly and encouraged, it is a 'coming together' of souls through the celebration of music.
Besides the great lineup up music, there were plenty of activities for the kids, food trucks, merchandise booths and camping for the full weekenders. There were no traffic issues or congestion due to a well-organized and ample parking area for easy access in or out of the event area.
Some Photo Highlights:
Rock and Gospel musicians Danny Cosby with guitarist Garry Goin
Indigenous worship band OKAMA Dr. Gerard Roberts, traditional name (Abouyou), of the Karina nation, and his wife Peta-Gay (Tayaliti) Roberts of the Taino/Arawak First Nations, engaging with festival goers.
Singer/songwriter Jamie Grace
Jamie Grace signing autographs and greeting excited fans.
Singer/songwriter Jason Gray
Lead singer Jonathan Steingard from Hawk Nelson
Family fun with a bit of smokey haze from distant forest fires.
We Are Messengers - Originally from Ireland, the inspiring lead vocalist Darren Mulligan.
West Palm Beach, Florida's Tenth Avenue North - lead singer Mike Donehey.
Festival Attendees enjoying a beautiful evening on The Stoney Nakoda Reserve.
First Night Headliner - Reba McEntire!
Reba McEntire Shines!
The second day brought a mixed bag of weather which caused some delays. Props to the volunteers, stage crews, musicians, security and vendors who ensured a safe, peaceful environment throughout. The rain and the wind cleared out and the festival continued on in near perfect weather. The hazy smoke from the distant fires nicely cleared out too.
After the storm rolled through, Pop Rock group Stars Go Dim - Chris Cleveland took to the stage.
Award-winning, JUNO nominated, R&B/Soul/Gospel recording artist Warren Dean Flandez
From Nashville, Tennessee Sidewalk Prophets lead singer David Frey
Sidewalk Prophets moving performance on Main Stage
Sidewalk Prophets - Autograph Session - David Frey, Daniel Macal, Blake Bratton, Cal Joslin
Canada's own - The Color - Tyson Unrau, Jordan Jansen, James Shiels and Larry Abrams
Grammy nominated Building 429 - lead vocalist Jason Roy
Final performance for the night by For King and Country - singer Joel Smallbone
For King & Country - Joel's brother, Luke Smallbone
Dynamic performance from final night headliner - Grammy award winning For King & Country
To be out in the natural surroundings, watching the sun go down, listening to fabulous music with wonderful people, was truly magical. Looking forward to next year!
*Scheduled performances from the 2-day event included: NewSong, Okama, Danny Cosby, Jamie Grace, Jason Gray, Hawk Nelson, We Are Messengers, Tenth Avenue North, Reba McEntire, Ghost Boys, Caves, Warren Dean Flandez, Stars Go Dim, The Color, Rapture Ruckus, Sidewalk Prophets, Building 429 and For King & Country.
*No Greater Love Music Festival 2017
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]]>I sat down with up and coming artist Ruston Kelly at the Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2017. He shared some interesting thoughts and news on upcoming projects and how he met his fiance Kacey Musgraves. His debut album "Halloween" embodies a blend of folk and rock, with a soulful, haunting melodic tone and lyrics that stay with you. Ruston Kelly is also an established songwriter writing tracks for Josh Abbott Band, Kenny Chesney, and Tim McGraw’s song “Nashville Without You.”
Where are you from originally?
RK: I was born in South Carolina. My dad worked for a paper mill on the coast- Georgetown. He was a pretty transient man himself, so we moved quite a bit. So never really had a hometown growing up. I just took to being the new kid at school every couple of years. I learned a lot because of that. Have a pretty big family, my immediate family is my older sister and oldest brother and we are pretty tight, a very close family.
Are they in music as well?
RK: My sister is, she's actually an actress. She's been doing some independent films lately. She was actually in a film at The National Film Festival. She's been singing a long time, writing songs and she was a big influence on me. She was really into a lot of poetry like Sylvia Plath and Charles Bukowski. Hence this (points to himself). She was actually pretty hip to that when she was like 13 and turned me onto it. She's a great writer to me, one of those unsung bedroom heroes. She's about to do a record which I'm going to help her with that. I don't know if you caught the set, but she was here with me as well as my dad who plays steel guitar and is a songwriter as well. He was in the East Texas folk music scene in the sixties. So it runs in the family. That's how I got started doing it and they were on stage with me today. Pretty cool! Just me, my pops and my sister jamming.
Do you remember the first song you wrote?
RK: YES, I do.
How old were you?
RK: (Laughs) I was in second grade, I know that because I was in Mrs. Hudson's class. Shoutout to Mrs. H! I wrote a song called "Golden Snow" and I had no idea that that would allude to some snickering from the class because basically I wrote a song that was called "Piss In the Snow" you know what I mean?
Laughs! Yes!
RK: To me it was like this amazing celestial fall from the heavens, you know? Like golden snow!
Do you remember it at all?
RK: (Singing) Golden Snow - hums -Golden Snow... It's pretty terrible! (Laughter). But the first song I wrote on the guitar was called "Blue." I was fourteen. I called it "Blue" because I thought the song sounded like a color and then I did like a whole record when I was fourteen on my tape player of different colors.
Guitar - self-taught?
RK: Self-taught.
When did you pick up the guitar?
RK: I picked up a guitar when I was thirteen. They were always laying around the house. They were kind of intimidating to me for awhile. They were so magical because my dad would pick one up and that's how I like got inspired to eventually create my own music. My dad, he would play guitar or steel guitar every single night. I would fall asleep sometimes listening to him play and it was just so magical. It was almost like reverent. I didn't approach one until I was like thirteen. It was almost like I stayed away from it. I needed to grow through a little bit more innocence. You know what I mean.
You play other instruments?
RK: I do. I play the banjo. I play the piano. I play the lap dulcimer; also called the mountain dulcimer. I'm pretty shitty at mandolin but I can play some bluegrass.
Drums?
RK: I do play drums. I play bass. Maybe I should start my own band! (laughs).
Writing music an easy process?
RK: It depends what my intent is. With anything that you assume yourself at the bottom and there's this great thing that you are looking up at as far as honing your craft or developing a repertoire of artistic meaning to yourself, pieces of creative work that allude to that, there is work ethic involved with it for sure, there is discipline. You've got to really want do it, especially if you want to do it in the public eye, but when it just comes to the purity, the creative genesis of things, I try to let it come to me. I am a stream of consciousness writer. I come from that school, you know like Dylan was my first introduction to that. I'm not ashamed to say that it is a little bit of a cliche as far as songwriters go, but then it kind of led me to like I said Bukowski and Kerouac like when my sister introduced me to them. Was really moved by it, it seems so quick, it seemed like I was reading someone's thoughts. Robert Frost is great. I love that, but it's definitely a little bit more of a poetic calculation to it and I love that! Some of that is actually really moving but the stream of consciousness stuff Jack Kerouac, Richard Wright, that kind of stuff.
When you are going through something in life, do you tend to write more freely from a negative or positive experience?
RK: Typically negative has been easier to write.
That seems to be....
RK: Yeah uniform right?
Do you notice that with anybody in the arts there is something in the negative spin that one tends to create?
RK: Don Henley from The Eagles once said that "the creative side of the brain is also synonymous with the dark side of the brain." To me honestly, like I really feel the creative side of the brain is the most free side of the brain and we are all primal beasts at our core. We've learned through culture to be something that we're actually primally not, you know, and for a lot of good reason, for kinship ties, to also like be true to the people that you decide to be true to. To be falling in line is not necessarily a negative thing and it builds things. But sometimes art is actually meant to destroy, to rebuild and I think that's an amazing thing, like art, the creative side of our brain is so free from, should be so free, from self-judgement. It can say whatever it wants.
I love your song "A Thousand Graves."
RK: Oh COOL! Oh man, yeah!
One of the lines I totally relate to is 'Wanna straighten out all my crooked lines and then I'm gonna marry that girl'. Have you straightened those lines out or is it an ongoing process?
RK: It is. To me, I don't know if humans should ever completely straighten out their lines, but you should always try. You know otherwise the more you try, the more bent you get, the more in a circle you go. I'm a type of person like I want to move forward in my life and whatever the means. Yeah, I have done that, I have slightly straightened out some very crooked situations in my life that came to me through personal deceit maybe. I hit some ruts in the road lets just say, and I have learned how to maybe navigate a little bit more and I always thought once I learned how to navigate for myself, that I would actually be a really great partner for somebody else and both of those things have occurred.
As I listen to your album 'Halloween', there's a darkness but with a silver lining.
RK: I love that! Yes! For me, songwriting can't help but to be redemptive. I grew up watching on repeat "The Odyssey." It was this made for tv movie about the book that Homer wrote obviously, the epic and I just identify with Odysseus leaving his wife. Not to compare myself to an epic like that, but everybody's life is an epic to an extent. Small or however large you see it. Just getting up facing the day, some people have a lot harder time then others. His whole trek, I just identify with that, being a hero of your own story and recognizing that there is failure involved with that. It's actually necessary. That's the only reason I was able to do anything with my life is fail enough, to want to be better then my failures.
When you were younger and writing your first songs, did you see yourself doing what you are today?
RK: I always kind of like moved with whatever I felt like was moving me at the time. I wouldn't say I was a hellion growing up but I'm sure I was difficult from time to time because I was a very loving kid, but also I could sneak out of the house at any moment and it would be like 'When is he coming back' you know; but I love my family, I love my parent's house. Just drawn to do something and music was my outlet to that and I do remember in high school, this girl Holly said to me, we were seniors in high school, and she's like "What are you going to do?" I was like, "I want to be a f*cking songwriter." She's like "That's silly, all boys say that," you know, when they are seventeen or about eighteen. I said "No, I'm going to do it." Well, here I am.
There you go!
RK: Here we are!
When you are touring or on stage, is it something that you NEED to do now?
RK: Yeah.
Does songwriting have more of a pull?
RK: To me there is no difference between the two. Whether I'm sitting at a desk or on stage, the only difference is the mechanics of how you go about it because you have people in front of you, so you sing to them. When you are at your desk, you sing to yourself but you are saying the same thing. That's about it.
Whom do you admire?
RK: I admire Jackson Browne. He's lived it all. From what I understand, he's done the ups, he's done the downs, but he has maintained a sense of integrity through his artistry, through his lyricism that has sustained a career over a very long period of time and he can still go and sell thousands of tickets singing the same songs, singing the new songs and people come to hear what he's got to say. He survives through the I'm sure the crazy, f*cking times of the late sixties, early seventies.
That whole era!
RK: WHEW! I am just going to tell you right now, I would not have survived that era! I would have crashed and burned very quickly.
What do you think of social media?
RK: For the most part I don't like it. I think it's weird and invasive, but the nature of the beast kind of calls for it. My dream scenario is to get to a place where I don't have to use it anymore, but it has honestly helped to build a fanbase. I get that and I understand that and I'm willing to be personable and be transparent to an extent that does help to create a fanbase larger then what I had when I started with it and all that. I learn how to have fun with it. It seems like all of it in this grand scheme of things is superfulous. Yes like it does help. I have seen a correlation of people interested in my music and the followers that you have. It's kind of a little dangerous I feel like. You can really get sucked into like how many people like my picture I just posted. My self-worth is valued by how many likes I get when I open up a f*cking app.
It's impersonal.
RK: It is! It's meant to be like so personal but it also feels very impersonal and I play along with that too.
Yes. We all do.
RK: We all do.
Future projects. Can you talk about a special project at 'Cash Cabin?'
RK: Yeah that's cool! I can talk about that. There is a record coming out, John Carter Cash, (Johnny Cash's son) is putting out, that's a collection of poems his dad wrote. Some of them are unfinished, that music was never put to. So people like Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, myself, my fiancé Kacey Musgraves and I recorded a song, which this is the crazy part, is that John Carter and I had written a song together several years ago out at Cash Cabin and we struck up a creative friendship and he texted me, I'd say about a month ago, and was like "Hey can you meet me at this coffee shop at 10am on Friday?" I'm like okay-sure. I met him there and he had his book in his hand and it was called "Forever Words" and that's the name of the project. These lost poems of Johnny Cash and he's like hey man I would love to hear what you do with this. So I said okay. Pick one of these poems, record it and tell me what you think, you know, do whatever you want with it. So it flashed back to when I was a senior in high school and I was sitting on my bed reading a Johnny Cash book and there was this picture of a poem that he wrote for June and it was called "To June This Morning." I was seventeen years old and I put music to it and I tried and I thought I found John Carter's email and emailed him and told him I had this song of this poem his dad wrote and obviously he never responded to me. So eleven years later, I text him after he hands me that book when I get home and I'm thinking about him and hey there's this poem that I actually put music to already, would you mind if I did that? He's like 'sure', and so since it was a love poem I asked my fiancé, I was like, why don't we just do it together. Like you be June and I'll be Johnny.
That is sooo cool and ironic!
RK: Yeah! So we did it together and she added a little bit to it and I added a little bit to it, so it became this duet. So he asked us to come out to the Cabin and record it. We recorded the duet together and it's probably the first thing we've ever done together officially, acting as this great love icon is a pretty big honour. So it comes out, not sure when but it's not really so secret anymore.
How did you and Kacey meet?
RK: We met at the Bluebird. I was playing a show, that she just happened to be attending.
Where was this in?
RK: Nashville. It's such a Nashville story. The famous tiny Bluebird. I don't know if you've ever been there before?
No, but I want to go one day.
RK: It's cool! It's really cool. It's literally like a tiny, little cafe. They serve bar food and about a hundred people can fit in there. I played a set there and she came up to me afterwards and said she was really impressed with my songs. I personally thought she was hitting on me. I was OKAY (big smile) and she asked for my number and I was like you need to calm down. Need to slow your roll! So I got her number. What's funny is she will argue different about it. I texted her a lot, she never really responded and I was like 'fine'. So our day came up to write and just from that day on, we fell in love pretty much instantly. It was pretty crazy. So yeah, we've been together for a year now or so. It was pretty quick.
Any future plans of any kind?
RK: Yeah we have some stuff in the works. It will come naturally. Just can't help but to.
What's some good advice or motto that you live by?
RK: Be true to yourself. Learn what that means and act accordingly.
*Ruston Kelly performed at Stagecoach Country Music Festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California on April 29, 2017
*For current tour dates and info visit www.rustonkelly.com
]]>The moment Jerry Lee Lewis appeared on the Palomino stage at Stagecoach, time stood still. It is safe to say, this was a rare and relished performance . Nicknamed "The Killer," at 81, he is still that. Piano skills, charisma and songs from an era long ago, bring back a time quite different to now. Memories of youth and rebellion and innocence combined. Pure music, raw and on fire.
Photo by Everett Fitzpatrick ©Stagecoach 2017
Jerry Lee Lewis could be described as one of the original temperamental rock 'n' rollers, whose life was full of hardship and tough times. Playing classics "Great Balls of Fire" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" was simply breathtaking. The piano playing, the voice and his characteristic "growl" of younger years never wavered.
Earning several Grammy awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award, Jerry Lee Lewis was inducted in 1986 to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. There was also a 1989 biopic film called "Great Balls of Fire!" directed by Jim McBride and starring Dennis Quaid.
A rare treat 'old school style' at the first day of the Stagecoach Country Music Festival.
*Full list of Artists/Schedules/Info go to http://www.stagecoachfestival.com
*Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2017 runs April 28-30 at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, California.
*PRODUCED BY GOLDENVOICE AND THE MESSINA GROUP
]]>Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2017 kicks off this weekend with headliners Dierks Bentley, Kenny Chesney and 1st time Stagecoach newcomer Shania Twain, taking to the Mane Stage. Shania Twain may be a newcomer to Stagecoach but obviously not to the country music scene. Shania's countlessly played hit songs and persona defined a new groundbreaking path for women in Country music. Introducing some new music from her new album release later this year, will be a majorly anticipated highlight.
On the Palomino Stage you can also catch such legendary artists, Willie Nelson and Family, Jerry Lee Lewis, Tommy James and the Shondells, and The Zombies.
*Full list of Artists/Schedules/Info go to http://www.stagecoachfestival.com
*Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2017 runs April 28-30 at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, California.
*PRODUCED BY GOLDENVOICE AND THE MESSINA GROUP
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Chris Janson on Main Stage
Tim McGraw
The music is the draw of course and the line-up was impressive. This is all about country music in a city and province that lives it. Headliners such as Big & Rich, Tim McGraw and Luke Bryan did not disappoint, covering new and crowd favourites. They utilized the long catwalk from the Main Stage providing plenty of moments of interaction and high fives. I personally love a catwalk at festival settings for that more personal feel, plus helps space and separate the crowd, instead of a jammed wall-to-wall mass in front of the Main Stage.
Chris Young Reaching Out to Young Fan
Back in Calgary - Lindsay Ell
Nashville's Dustin Lynch Heats up the Crowds
The lineup of talent local and afar included Dustin Lynch, Chris Young, Chris Janson, Bobby Wills, Chad Brownlee, Phil Vassar, Neal McCoy, Jess Moskaluke, Autumn Hill, Courtney Cole, Lindsay Ell, Petric and Foxx Worthee.
Sydney Mae from Cochrane, Alberta
On the Country 105 Stage, there was an abundance of talent with performances by Sydney Mae, Mark Times, Lyndsay Butler, Brad Saunders, Trinity Bradshaw, Domino, Drew Gregory, Robyn & Ryleigh, Amy Metcalfe, Two Shine Country, Shane Harluk, Lauren Mayell, The Dungarees and Tanya Ryan.
Fans Enjoying Big & Rich on Main Stage
Luke Bryan - Closed Sunday Night
The blend of up and coming artists with some of the biggest names in country music makes this an important festival to have in the heart of Calgary. Despite some tough times in Alberta of late, Country Thunder Alberta sold-out. Let's face it, when times are tough or not, there is always something about a country song to help ease the pain or to let loose and have a kickass time. Bring on next year!
Article and Photos by Barbara Brander - www.Sunsetpalms.com
TICKETS FOR COUNTRY THUNDER ALBERTA 2017 - AUGUST 18-20TH
AVAILABLE NOW at WWW.COUNTRYTHUNDER.COM
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Big Kenny from Big & Rich
Friday's lineup also included Foxx Worthee, Petric, Jess Moskaluke, Chris Young and on The Country 105 Stage - Sidney Mae, Mark Times, Lyndsay Butler and Brad Saunders.
Tonight's main headliner is Tim McGraw.
Alberta's CORB LUND & THE HURTIN' ALBERTANS Closing the Festival
Diverse musical styles including Sweden's The Tallest Man on Earth, Ethiopia's Krar Collective, Whitehorse, Marty Stuart & The Fabulous Superlatives, The Dudes, Les Hay Babies, and so much more, provided the ultimate eclectic draw for music lovers. Especially hearing different styles mesh together in the many workshop jams. One example, Kris Demeanor, Geoff Berner, Vox Sambou and Carter Felker. With seven stages to choose from, it's music overload which is a good thing.
Workshop Session with THE SADIES, WHITEHORSE, THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS, FOY VANCE
MainStage Sunday Night Crowd
The Traditional Krar played by TEMESEGEN ZELEKE from KRAR COLLECTIVE
Country Legend - IAN TYSON
Headliner CAT POWER on Main Stage
Calgary Folk Music Festival 2016 - Prince's Island Park
If you didn't leave with a smile, warmth and a new beat in your heart, then you were at the wrong place. Looking forward to next year!
Article and Photos by Barbara Brander - www.Sunsetpalms.com
*Calgary Folk Music Festival 2016
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After a rainy couple of weeks, the sun came out in time for the Calgary Folk Music Festival 4-day event elevating a much needed time for sun, fun, food trucks, art and excellent music. Montreal based Vox Sambou and company took to the stage for an upbeat, refreshing workshop jam with Kris Demeanor, Carter Felker and Geoff Berner.
Pointing out the world difficulties of late, the crowd enjoys a refreshing and energizing performance, along with letting out a little steam.
Tonight wraps up with MainStage performances by Krar Collective, Cat Power, The Cat Empire and Corb Lund & The Hurtin' Albertans.
The Calgary Folk Music Festival 2016 -July 21-24, 2016 Prince's Island Park
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The Calgary Folk Music Festival runs from July 21-24, 2016 at Prince's Island Park.
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Alessia Cara is a singer/songwriter with a big future.
Performing from her debut album "Know-It-All" at MacEwan Hall last night in Calgary, this is a rare performer that isn't manufactured or groomed to look a certain way. It's raw and refreshing. The soulful, vocal talent and swagger comes naturally for this 19-year old from Brampton, Ontario, infusing a blend of pop and R&B.
The popular, autobiographical song "Here" penned by Alessia and co-writer Sebastian Kole, about not fitting in the popular party scene, is something most people can relate to and not just a younger audience. The heartfelt honesty is part of the appeal.
*Alessia Cara has 4 Juno nominations and will be performing at the Juno Awards in Calgary at The Scotiabank Saddledome on April 3, 2016.
Nominated: 'Here' (Island Def Jam*Universal Label) is nominated for 'Single of the Year' at 'The 2016 Juno Awards"
Nominated: 'Breakthrough Artist of the Year'
Nominated: 'Juno Fan Choice Award'
Nominated: 'R&B/Soul Recording of the Year - Four Pink Walls'
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Celine Dion and Kaven Girouard
The heart and soul of this singer is what music is about. The fans know this about Celine. She has been on the stage almost her entire life. This is her life. What you see is what you get. Her heart is out there. For all to see and hear.
Losing her beloved husband René Angélil and her brother Daniel so recently, is a pain we all can relate to in different ways. It's hard. Yet she is giving and showing immeasurable strength by walking back on the stage. It's okay to feel pain and raw emotion. People relate emotionally and are connected by this much needed passion in a world that seems to feel less connected each day.
Music is a gift and a universal bridge to our hearts.
Thank you Celine xoxo
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If you were fortunate to attend a past Celine Dion concert at The Colosseum, there was a good chance you saw René Angélil. Prior to being too ill to attend, he was at almost every show supporting his masterpiece Celine.
He was a people's person. Taking time to talk to as many people as he could. All walks of life.
The Colosseum is the 'home away from home' that was envisioned by René. The wonderful memories made are in the millions and the music will continue as René wanted.
Celine Dion is set to return to the stage on February 23, 2016.
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'Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do' - Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee was born November 27th, 1940 in San Francisco, California. I remember seeing 'Fists of Fury' for the first time when I was very young and was instantly mesmerized. I am not alone. I have heard this from many other people and witnessed it with my nephew as well. I begged my parents to let me learn martial arts. Living and growing up on a farm and with no martial arts place even remotely close, that wasn't an option. I did manage though to watch and read everything Bruce Lee. I was 10 years old when Bruce passed away. It wasn't fair. He was bigger then life and had so much more to do, but that is something I realized as I was growing up. His influence, spirit and teachings were very much alive and are as strong today as ever. When I got older and moved to the big city, I did enroll and study martial arts. It has been and will always be a part of my life.
On the weekend of October 23 and 24-2015 in Las Vegas, a very special event took place. The Bruce Lee Foundation celebrated 'Self-Expression' in honour of the 75th birthday of Bruce Lee with guest speakers Tommy Gong, Peter Chin, Diana Lee Inosanto, Stephen Chin and Shannon Lee - Introduction by Linda Lee Cadwell. Daniele Bolelli and Sharon Ann Lee joined Shannon Lee and Diana Lee Inosanto for a panel discussion: Bruce Lee - A Cultural Icon. A full weekend of events including Yoga, Lion Dancers, Shaolin Kungfu and other workshops and classes, movie screenings, music, among many other things to enjoy.
Linda Lee Cadwell and Shannon Lee pose for a photo with attendee
Shannon Lee, Diana Lee Inosanto, Daniele Bolelli and Sharon Ann Lee in panel discussion
'The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering.'
― Bruce Lee
I was in my 'heavenly glory' participating and celebrating a very special human being. Bruce's philosophy and the way he lived, was ahead of it's time. The boundaries he broke and the doors he opened are ongoing. He was then and still is an important influence and guide to me and future generations to come.
Walk on!
All photographs by Barbara Brander
Information on The Bruce Lee Foundation: http://bruceleefoundation.org
Events held at Container Park and Inspire Theatre-Las Vegas, Nevada
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Photo by SunsetPalms.Com
Madonna's Rebel Heart Tour continues to set the bar high.
Filled with new songs from her latest composition as well as classics, top notch dancers, sets and costumes, it is brilliant in concept and design. The Rebel Heart stage is well utilized by Madonna and Company providing a visually theatrical production that is mesmerizing.
Madonna is at home on the stage and seems to be embracing this tour more then ever. Trademark bitchiness intact but more appreciative and in touch with her fans.
As a musical artist, she is at her best ever.
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Shania Twain is back in Calgary after performing two shows at The Calgary Stampede last summer. Again with back to back shows, she knows how to bring this city "Up Up Up" performing her timeless songs. Couples dancing in the aisles, young and old, enjoying every word. Last night's show proves there is an undeniable comfort with Shania, a familiarity that resonates which is part of the attraction. She is in her element. With new music coming out soon - hopefully this final tour won't be the final.
Dates: Sept. 17th and 18th, 2015.
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Photo by SunsetPalms.Com ( Jason Mowery and Shania Twain)
Dates: Sept. 17th and 18th, 2015.
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September 11, 2015
The world we knew, changed forever that morning of September 11th, 2001.
The imagery from that day is still as powerful today....
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Madonna's Rebel Heart Tour begins in Montreal - September 9th, 2015.
It will be interesting to see the headlines, reviews and controversies unfold in the coming weeks. Madonna has always been an artist to push the boundaries and has been doing so for decades. In the world of social media it is hard to keep surprises anymore and within seconds of the start of the first show - all will be revealed. Costumes, setlist, etc will travel instantly around the globe.
What interests me is the progression of the show. What comes with it. It's exciting as it unfolds. The critics will have their say. Each city will have their reviews and I can guarantee both good and bad of course. Yet however it goes, there is no denying Madonna has a history of putting on some of the best shows. Keep an open mind and enjoy the ride.
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