~ New Music Monday ~ October 2, 2016 ~ The Live Shows ~

It's officially Fall Y'all!!!!!!! I can't even help it. I am a basic white girl when it comes to the Fall season. It is absolutely my favorite. Leaves, light layers, pumpkin spice everything, things that are haunted, I mean, my list goes on, but I digress. As the Summer festivals end the Fall Tours begin and I have enlisted one of my besties and avid concert goer, Amber, for this weeks post. If I think real hard, I am pretty sure Amber is one of the people that got me into live shows. We worked concerts as "crew" members at our college as well as went to a ton of college bands, friends bands, etc. shows through out our time as students. So, when I thought about a post on live shows, Amber was my obvious choice to tag in. With my health as of late, I rarely get to attend live shows anymore so, I live vicariously through Amber. I always ask her to report back and take lots of pictures. I trust her opinion as she has been to more shows than you can count on two hands and she has seen it all. I hope you enjoy reading her post for this weeks #NewMusicMonday as much as I have!!!

 

~ No Luke Bryan, You shake it for ME!! ~

Hi, my name is Amber and I am addicted to live music!  The first step is admitting it, right? Live music has always been something that I have enjoyed. From when I was in youth group and followed some friends around who had a band (shout out to Good Friday), to attending and working multiple concerts during my time at LU. Fast forward to today, where I love travelling around to get a glimpse of the artists that inspire me, make me dance, and at times make me feel like they understand what I am feeling based on a few lyrics. I would say that within the last four years, my concert attendance has really escalated, and at times is out of control! 

I am going to try (key word being try) to list my top 5 concerts. Narrowing it down to just five has been a very hard process.  Every concert I attend, even if I have seen the artist multiple times, is a great experience.  But here goes nothing…….

Luke Bryan

~ Ambers Top 5 Concerts ~

1)    Without a doubt, my number one concert, LUKE BRYAN!  A friend and I made a promise that we would see Luke at least once a year, this past April made our fourth! Of course his perfect smile and sweet hip action makes this girl swoon, but that is not the whole reason why he is my number one.  Luke puts on a great show!  One time he opened his concert by coming up out of the floor on top of a big black truck that was on fire.  It was amazing.  Luke also is very goofy and laughs at himself.  He knows he looks silly “shaking it” for the ladies, but does it anyways. A lot of people categorize him as "Bro Country", but that isn’t all that he is.  Overall he is a very talented singer and has those heart touching songs, like "Drink a Beer" and "Do I". I am a huge fan and every time I leave his concert the app on my phone tells me I have reached my step goal for the day cause I can’t help but to move when he is singing!

2)     Maroon 5. They were number 1 on my “Concert Bucket List!”. Yes, I have a concert bucket list! And I was very excited to mark them off my list a few weeks ago. They were Amazing!! Now in all fairness, the hotness of the lead singers of my number 1 and 2 might be a factor, but hey, can you blame a girl?!  I have always loved Maroon 5.  If I’m having a bad day, or need to wake up when I am driving, their Songs About Jane album is my go to pick me up.  They put on a great show. Adam Levine was very energetic and it is amazing to see him hit those high notes in person. He knew how to work the stage and let me tell you…he definitely had those moves like Jagger. The band also did a cool tribute to Prince as part as their encore.  I love when singers pay tribute to artists that inspired them.

 

Taylor Swift

 

Katy Perry

 

3)    This is where it gets hard.  I have a solid 1 and 2 but it gets very difficult to single out the rest!  For my number 3, I am going with strong female singers.  The amount of male singers I have seen greatly outweighs the about of women I have see, but they still make a lasting impression. I love seeing these strong women share their talents and speaking truths that as a female I can relate to. My favorite women that I have seen in concert are: Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, and Dixie Chicks. Taylor and Katy put on amazing concerts that were very theatrical and entertaining.  The amount of props and costume changes that they both had made the concert experience stand out. Carrie Underwood has an amazing voice. I mean, she could sing my grocery list and I would buy that album!  She also had multiple costume changes and rode on a stage extension that allowed her to reach the back of the arena. I love when artist do that.  It is like they are saying, “Hey, I see you up there in the nose bleeds, and I thank you for coming!” Just this summer, I saw the Dixie Chicks on their return tour. It had been years since they toured, but they still got it.

4)     I’m going old school here. As much as I love new music, I fully appreciate the ones who have been around a long time and paved the way!  So my fourth favorite concert goes to two that have been around quite some time….. Willie Nelson and ZZ Top! Yes, I was the youngest person at both of these but totally worth it!  Willie Nelson may be 83, and may not work the stage like the newbies but he was amazing.  The same with ZZ Top.  I also enjoyed these two concerts because they make me think of my dad.  He passed away 13 years ago, but when I was growing up I remember him listening to ZZ Top and for some reason Willie Nelson reminds me of my dad. As great as these men were in concert, I think for me, it is on my favorites list for sentimental reasons. But isn’t that what music is suppose to do?  Take you back to good times and memories from your past.

 

Willie Nelson

 

ZZ Top

 

5)    I have seen a lot of big named, multi award winning artists, but some of my favorite concerts have been unexpected with lesser know groups.  I remember one time I was out with some friends and the restaurant we were at had bands come in and play on the weekend. We decided to stick around when we saw the band setting up (plus if you were already in, you wouldn’t have to pay the cover charge…Score!)  This band that we had never heard of ended up being one of the coolest things we had ever experienced.  They were called March Fourth Marching Band.  They were a group of about 15 and were like a marching band + circus side show. Their music was awesome plus the added bonus of stilt walkers, what was not to love!  Another time I was at a restaurant outside of Nashville and they were having a songwriters night.  I had never heard of these 3 men, but every song they sang, I knew every word. It was really cool to see the minds that created the songs that I love. Once again, an unexpected night, turned into one of my favorite musical events. Not every “concert” needs to be blaring music, flashy lights, and a giant production.

So there you go, my top 5 concerts (sort of).  It doesn’t matter if it is the first time I have seen someone or the sixth time, I always take something away from the experience. Even if it is laughing at the horrible opening act that is wearing an insane outfit and rolling on the floor (artist to remain nameless). Experiencing your favorite artist and hearing the songs that you love in person is such a cool thing to do. Go crazy, Yolo, You can always make more money but you can’t always make the memories (these are the mottos I have been living life to recently and it makes life so much more fun!). So in closing, I am going to leave you with the honorable mentions that didn’t make the top ten……… Chris Young, Rascal Flatts, Harry Connick Jr, Shane and Shane, Little Big Town, Florida Georgia Line (I know. I know.), Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Toby Mac , Kenny Chesney, Jake Owen, Sam Hunt, Eric Church….my goodness I could go on for days! 

Happy Concerting!!

~ Amber ~

Thank you Amber for writing such a good #NMM post on your live show experiences. I agree, isn't all about the memories and escaping for a few hours?! You can make more money, but sometimes these experiences only come around once. I LOVED live shows back in the day. So, much so that I ended up working production for five years!!!! The sound of a bus and trailer rolling in makes butterflies wiggle in my stomach!!! I have faith that I'll return to my version of "normal" eventually and get back to experiencing artists live. Until then, I have Amber and you do too!!! If you are debating if a show is it worth it, give this post a read again.

What shows are you planning on attending this Fall? What artists have you seen and highly recommend a music/concert lover  MUST attend?

~ #PrayForKatie ~

If you follow me on social media then you know that I have been sharing Katie's story for several months. Asking that whomever reads it, to Pray for Katie. Katie is a fellow Liberty Alumni and a team member for Blush Ministries. A women's ministry that I very much believe in and often share wisdom from on my socials. Katie and I have never actually met in person, but knowing who she calls friends I was glad to accept her friend request on Facebook a year or so ago. I was immediately taken by her joy and energy. Yes, even through social media I could tell instantly that she had a fire and a joy that could only come from the Lord. Social media can be so useless and vapid sometimes. I truly believe its up to the user to make the most of it and see it as a tool for His use just as much as any other tool. Whether it be through her own posting or through the people she has been surrounded by posting on her behalf, I have been ministered to.

There is no way to take news of a brain tumor lightly, much less three. Earlier in the Summer Katie's family began updating everyone on her health status via her socials. It began with several surgery's to remove the tumors. It lead into aggressive chemo and radiation. It was a switch between the ICU, the "regular" floor, being transferred to a care facility to being sent back to the hospital and now back to a facility, from my understanding. While I believe that the Lord has heard all the prayers going up for Katie it seems at this point He has chosen to answer them in a way we may not be able to understand.

Tonight as I look at my, in comparison, seemingly minor struggles I feel encouraged and challenged by how Katie has and continues to fight this battle. To read how she has asked to pray with friends/family and that somehow she has found the strength and grace to even now, thank Him for this battle, its......I don't even have a good enough word for it. I believe that Katie has reached so many for His kingdom and glory. My only solace in these situations is knowing that God is good. God is intentional with His love for us. God always keeps His promises and in one way or another Jehovah Rapha will heal Katie.

The Lord has used Katie to show so many that ministering through suffering is possible. Our calling doesn't get put on hold, and the enemy would love nothing more than for us to think it does. Katie you are loved. Katie you are not alone. Katie you have done a good work for His glory. Thank you for following the Lords leading in your life choices, even now and for being bold enough to share that with people. God bless you and your loved ones.

This is the most recent update posted to Katie's Facebook by her mother earlier this week. "Katie, my family and I have been hanging on the message of this song for over 100 days now. No matter what God chooses to do, we must trust Him, we must keep loving Him, we must keep praising Him. Please listen to the song and two minute message until the end, but more so, make it your prayer and vow as well. Please hold us up in prayer, as you have been, as our courageous and inspirational daughter/sister/niece/friend --sweet Katie, is indeed in the final stages of her earthly battle."

The link and vid below are from a Shane and Shane song along with a quick word by John Piper. She wants to share this with those that have been following along and praying for her & her fam on this journey.  --> http://youtu.be/qyUPz6_TciY <-- 
 
Please continue to pray for Katie and her amazing family.



~ Insta Blog ~ Pretty Like You ~

Thanks to Lisa Frank for this reminder. We MUST keep in mind that comparison is a thief. Its only power is to make you feel less, defeated, and not enough. You have been made you, head to toe, "flaws" and all, for a reason. God doesn't say, "ooops". I am a female and human like everyone else & I have insecurities, "flaws", things that if I'd had a vote would prefer have been made differently, but God doesn't ask us that stuff because every part of us, inside and out..., was created to point back to Him and share His love w His children. Be you child!!!!!! The same God that created the beauty that is the moon and stars created you as well. Every star in the sky shimmering His beauty and still He felt the world needed you!!!!! Do NOT allow comparison to rob you of that truth and purpose. Have a beautiful day pretty one!!!

Lisa Frank - Facebook

~ Insta Blog ~ Motivation Monday ~ Expectation ~

Jesus Calling - Instagram

I know I have shared this verse in the past, but I love it so much that when I came across it again this morning I felt it needed to be shared again. I love the word, "expectant", in this verse. For me it implies a confidence in the Lord & His hearing & answering of our prayers. It leaves no room for doubt. It says a lot about what we know to be true of the Lord, in my opinion. His character. His nature. Who He is as Savior and Father. He can be counted on. Relied upon. He is... trustworthy. He is faithful. When we pray we can move throughout the rest of our day w the knowledge that whatever we gave over to Him in prayer is being handled. Its a weight lifted. So, whatever you are facing today I would encourage/challenge you to lift it up to the Lord and spend the rest of the day expecting that He heard and will answer in His timing, in His way.

~ New Music Monday ~ September 19th, 2016 ~ On the Verge ~

Due to technical difficulties this weeks New Music Monday post is four days late. My wifi (pronounced like Nick Miller pronounces it on New Girl, wif-fee), has been giving me attitude. Mainly when I actually have work to do on my actual computer that requires the internet. Because of course it does. Anyway, this weeks #NewMusicMonday highlights some artists that I think you need to get use to. I have shared a few of them before, but each releasing new singles I thought it was a good idea to refresh your memory.

Caitlyn Smith - "Tacoma"

Starting with Caitlyn Smith, Caitlyn is a Nashville writer with Big Yellow Dog. This is my first exposure to her vocals and I am addicted. Sister has soul and there isn't denying it. Her vocals are solid on this tune and I can NOT wait to hear what else is released by her. As I mentioned before, you may not have heard of Caitlyn yet, but I would recommend you doing some audio research on her tunes. Radio is so fickle that I have no idea if this tune will be a air wave contender, but in my book it should be!!! Give a listen and a watch and let us know what you think about Caitlyn Smith.

With the very first note I hear Aubrie's mothers tone in her voice. Aubrie Sellers is daughter of LeAnn Womack whom you may know from the tune, "I Hope You Dance", "How I've Been Livin'" and many other chart toppers. While at a audio glance I definitely hear the similarity in tone, I don't want to say that sellers is her mothers vocal or style clone. She isn't. She is very much her own artist/writer/performer. I became entranced by her when watching a round table discussion held by Rolling Stone Country with several of the Next Women of Country. She is so distinct. So very much her own artist that it is very difficult for me to see why she isn't sweeping radio play. She calls her style, Garage Country. A little more punk, a bit more dark or emo than "traditional" country. With a new album, "New City Blues" releasing in just days, I'm so excited to hear all that Aubrie has to offer. I'm a fan of the people who don't necessarily go with the flow. I like that she isn't bubbly or pop-esq. I like that she is different. Coming from such an iconic family it would have been so simple to just fall in line and mimic all she grew up hearing, but she is very much her own voice. I like that about her!!!! This is just a cover tune, but her music will be out soon and I look forward to sharing it with you.

Aubrie Sellers - Cover - "I Put a Spell on You"

Kelleigh Bannen - "Welcome to the Party"

fr "Cheap Sunglasses"

 

Kelleigh is an artist I shared several months ago in a New Music Monday post titled, "Instagram Jams". She is an artists I found via social media. This summer she released a EP titled, "Cheap Sunglasses" and along with it accompanying videos. Most recent, "Welcome to the Party", I have been singing it all day. It's so much fun. It's a fun spin on a break up and helps remind us all that everyone has been there so, welcome!! Bannen is an artist that I am truly enjoying observing from afar. I just saw "Welcome to the Party" today on CMT and was so excited for her and her team. Bannen is not signed and produced "Cheap Sunglasses" on her own. Cam and Maren Morris both began their EP's in similar ways and it makes me hopeful that someone in Nashville will finally realize what they have in Kelleigh Bannen. She is smart, solid voice that has a thickness to it that I really love, and obviously driven. I am forever impressed by the gumption it takes to do something on your own in a town like Nashville. There is no way it has been easy, but my word it's had to be gratifying!!!! Creatively if in no other way. Give Kelleigh a listen and prepare to hear more of her in future New Music Monday posts and hopefully on your local radio.

 

Last, the only dude in today's post, Ryan Hurd. I also shared a Ryan tune in my past #NMM post titled, "Instagram Jams". Hurd has been doing a variety of shows on a variety of tours. Most recently he could be seen on tour with Chase Rice, Maren Morris (his GF btw) you may recognize her bgvs on today's tune. He's been writing for other artists for a while so, I am not surprised that Hurd would break out on his own and releases some tunes. This week he also released a new single called, "Love in a Bar". I couldn't find audio for it to share with you today, but you can check it out on Spotify. I think that Ryan is another one of those artists that we are only going to be hearing more and more about in the coming months and years. The single that proceeded "Love in a Bar" is "We Do Us", which I am sharing with you today. Give it a listen. Let us know what you think.

 

Ryan Hurd - "We Do Us"

 

 

All of these artists have released or are releasing tunes in the recent weeks. I consider them to be on the verge. The verge of getting air play on local radio, the verge of being names you start hearing from other artists, the verge of being openers on tours, and so much more. Give your local radio a call and make sure they add them to their rotation. Your requests totally make a different for an artist/band. Especially new artists who are just busting their rear to get heard. All of today's #NMM artist have socials so, go give them a follow for updates, new tunes, show dates, etc.

 

Happy New Music Monday Y'all!!!! Have a rockin' week filled with new tunes and new experiences!!!!



~ Insta Blog ~ Motivation Monday ~ Let Them See You ~

Monday Motivation. I've been a busy bee this morning marking things off of my to~list & adding new ones to it. A moment of raw honesty this #MotoMonday, I've really been struggling the last week or so w the idea of what do people see when they look at me or think of me? I think part of this has come from all the looking back I've been doing w old pics, posts, year books & journals. Most of us live every moment of every day soaked in the rawness of what we feel, what we know, ...and what we hope. Aware of mistakes, shortcomings, flaws, & other varied emotions/insecurities/realities. I am almost instantly aware of when I have said something I shouldn't have. That's Gods conviction, that is good, but after that comes satan's opportunity to turn it into lingering & powerful, guilt. Conviction is from the Lord. Whether it be the form of a calling or a reprimand. Guilt is from the enemy. Its only purpose in our offering of emotions is to keep us weighed down & bound to shackles we've already been freed from by Jesus' death. My hearts greatest desire is that even in my flaws/mistakes/shortcomings/struggle that when people look at me or think on me that they'd be reminded of His Love. His forgiveness. His provision. His protection. His mercy. His power. As I work on my list, reminisce on days gone by, pray/plan for days to come, confront my flaws/mistakes/shortcomings, my deepest prayer is Lord let them see past me/this & some how see You instead. You are loved. You are not alone. Your life, is not wasted. He has a plan, even in the rawness of it all. Even after the "mistakes". Hang on loved ones. One day at a time. Happy Moto Monday!!

~ Jack Davis & Kona Leashes ~

 

When you're all up in your bliss and suddenly

remember people can see you.

Jack Davis has some rather big news to share. It turns out you really don't have to have legs a mile long to be a super model, you just have to be "really really really good looking" (a little Zoolander for ya). Anyway, Jack has been selected as a brand ambassador for Kona Leashes!!!!! It was about time his devilish good looks started paying off. #KonaLeashes are hand made in the USA. They are guaranteed with a lifetime warranty AND for every piece of Kona gear purchased they donate a pound of kibble to a shelter. I cannot think of a better company for #JackDavis to represent. Seeing as we just recently got the news we do not have our #KonaGear just yet, but JD simply couldn't wait to share his exciting news. So, STAY TUNED as we will have Friends and Family discounts to share, pics of JD sportin' his Kona Gear, and more!!!!! If you are a pet owner I truly recommend your following @konaleashes on Facebook and Instagram for deals, steals and of course future postings of Jack Davis and other adorable Kona Leash pets. Thank you again Kona Leashes for picking Jack Davis to be one of your brand reps. We are so excited!! Be sure to be following me, Jacks mom, (aka ~ StacieTennessee) on Instagram for friends, family and followers discounts!!!!

 

 

For past posts on Jack Davis' adventures, birthdays, home made dog treats and more just type "Jack Davis" into the blog search bar. It should pull up all past Jack posts for you to cruise.

 

For more info on Kona Leashes CLICK HERE!!! If you are interested in purchasing some Kona Gear let me know if I or Jack Davis can help you out. Also, keep in mind, we will have some friends, family and followers discounts coming soon!!!!