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YOUR DJ and JOE DIFFIE |
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FIRST STEPS BENEFIT IN NASHVILLE TENNESSEE WITH JOE DIFFIE AND FRIENDS! COUNTRY HAPPENINGS - FEB. 15, 2002
From "YOUR DJ!"
FINAL EDITION
FOR NATIONAL COUNTRY NEWS: http://www.countrystars.com/index.html?/news/haislop/n-update.html
A SPECIAL JOE DIFFIE/FIRST STEPS/ROCKIN' THE ROADHOUSE/NASHVILLE EDITION OF COUNTRY HAPPENINGS!
VISIT JOE DIFFIE'S WEBSITE AT www.joediffie.com
YOU KNOW JOE, BUT DO YOU KNOW FIRST STEPS?
Joe's son Tyler was born with Down Syndrome and attended First Steps school until the age of three. Because of his personal involvement with the school, Joe vowed to give something back to the center that helped his family through difficult times. Through his annual concerts and golf tournaments, Joe has helped raise over $600,000 for the school, whose programs are funded mainly through donations, grants and fundraisers.
First Steps Inc. is a non-profit, licensed organization for the education and development of children with special needs, ages 6 weeks to 5 years of age. The organization also serves as a resource for children at risk and their families by helping them overcome the adverse effects of special challenges or circumstances.
For over 40 years, the focus of First Steps has been to help each child reach his/her full potential. First Steps, Inc. was formed in 1992 through a merger of the Duncanwood School for Retarded Children, established in 1957, and the Heads Up Center, founded in 1970. In addition to the Child Development Centers, First Steps also provides a Community Outreach Program serving children and families with disabilities whose needs are best met in the home, community childcare or hospital setting. Through these programs and services First Steps served a total of 171 children in the last year.
Recognizing the importance of family involvement, First Steps, Inc. works closely with all families to identify each child's strengths and growth areas, determine developmental goals and design appropriate intervention
programs.
First Steps represents a community response to a critical need. If you would like to know more about how you can help the children and families of First Steps, or if you would like to make a tax-deductible contribution, please call or contact them at: First Steps, Inc, 4414 Granny White Pike, Nashville, TN 37204, (615) 298-5619,
Firststepsinc@aol.com
FIRST STEPS DETAILS AS REPORTED BY COUNTRY.COM:
February 12, 2002 (www.country.com)
COUNTRY STEPS IN FOR FIRST STEPS
Wynonna and Naomi Judd and Naomi's husband, gospel singer Larry Strickland, stole the show Sunday at the Country Steps In for First Steps concert at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium, country.com reports. But no one seemed to mind. The concert -- spearheaded by Joe Diffie -- was the 10th in an annual series of fundraisers to benefit First Steps, Inc., an organization that assists in the education and development of children with special needs. Others appearing included Trace Adkins (filling in for ailing Mark Chestnutt and Tracy Lawrence), Ricky Skaggs, comedian Cledus T. Judd, the Mullins and animal handler Julie Hanna.
"I feel like I'm the Ed Sullivan of country music," Diffie beamed as he watched the singing give way to a parade of exotic animals and then an auction. The audience screamed out praise and requests as soon as Wynonna walked on stage. After performing three songs, she invited "my pop" - Larry Strickland, the gospel singer who married her mother in
1989 -- to join her. They in turn were then joined by mother Naomi. When Naomi asked the audience what it wanted to hear, hundreds shouted for "Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days)." "That's not the one we practiced, but we'll do it," she said. And they did. Bill Whyte and Beville Darden invited a soldier from Fort Campbell, Ky., to the stage, where he gave tribute to the "wives and sweethearts" who stay behind to support the "men" now at war. (He made no mention of the women at war.)
At the end of his remarks, he invited his girlfriend to the stage, then dropped to his knee and proposed marriage. She accepted -- and the crowd roared its approval.
BUT THEY DIDN'T HAVE ALL ACCESS WITH YOUR DJ:
February 9, 2002:
The story begins with a long 7 and ˝ hour ride (Don't ask or make assumptions-Dale Sr. was with us.) to Nashville, Tennessee. After settling in, I called in a report to Kelli Green of Froggy radio to let everyone know we got to Nashville safe and had a lot of business plans for Sunday. (To tell you the truth, I accomplished even more than I ever DREAMED that I would, but that info is for later) We were then off to sight see and hit the heart of Country in Downtown Nashville to experience what we could. Actually (you know YOUR DJ by now) we started at the HARD ROCK CAFÉ for dinner and worked our way up Broadway to do "some" shopping (yeah, right, "some"). Later in the evening we hooked up with Mr. Austin Young and his wife for an evening meal and to talk about his expectations with his new producer, new band and his upcoming tour plans including other business. In my mentioning to Austin of a sledding accident involving Jeff Carson, he DID seem very concerned when he heard the news. Since this story Jeff is on the way to recovery.
From there, Darci and I just enjoyed walking around and being in the heart of the "Country!"
Later in that evening, we ended up at Jim & Layla's bar where on a tip from drummer Roy Baker of The Majors, here in Pittsburgh, we were to hook up with his friend, Don Herron formerly of BR5-49. Unfortunately, he was in California, but 2 other former members of BR5-49 WERE there in a new pick up bar band called "Joe Buck." The member of the group who's name actually was Joe Buck looked very familiar to me. I don't know where, maybe a movie, but he really did look familiar. We hung out for the rest of the night listening to the sounds of Joe Buck who for some reason denied YOUR DJ's request (HOW INCREDIBLY RUDE) for a couple of BR5-49 songs, "Lil' Ramona" and "Cherokee Boogie." (Wait 'til they come dancing and request something from meLOL!)
Another note that got a big chuckle was one I sent up to them about getting their butts kicked in a game of yuker with the Majors here in Pgh a while back so, Roy, yes, they were embarrassed and told me to say hi to you. Also, a note to local bands here in Pgh-HOLD ON TIGHT and brace yourself-BANDS DO NOT TAKE BREAKS IN NASHVILLE BARS and they ALL PLAY FOR TIPS ONLY. (A total hellish situation if you ask me too!)
Basically, Saturday was just a relaxing evening in anticipation of a lot to do on Sunday. Sleep was definitely in order for YOUR DJ by this point.
FEBRUARY 10, 2002:
The day started out with lunch (Yes I DID get some sleep.) at Rippy's on Broadway where I would like to thank sit-in bartender Chris for all his courtesy and attentiveness to some out-of-towners. He later started to inform me that Country singer Joe Nichols (of "Wal-Mart Parking Lot" fame and other past hits) would be on hand that evening for about an hour after the Joe Diffie show if I should be interested in stopping by. (But would I have time?) I then, took my own "First Steps" up to the Ryman Auditorium to check in and speak with security and understand how all is done and what to expect later that evening and learn what I could as to sound check and times of arrival etc.
After finding out all details I could and doing what I needed to dowe then went to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame where before entering, I checked in again with Kelli Green of Froggy radio for a report of things to come. The Country Hall of Fame, in my own eyes was a bit pricey for admission, but considering all that was there and the number of things I seen and even recognized myself, it was worth it in the end. I think what touched me the most were three things: Elvis Presley's Golden Fleetwood Cadillac; Chet Atkin's Guitar collection and a interview on the big screen with Garth Brooks where he talked about George
Jones in which tears filled his eyes. After the COUNTRY HALL OF FAME it was back to the Historic Ryman Auditorium where we would remain for the rest of the day.
"COUNTRY STEPS IN FOR FIRST STEPS" WITH JOE DIFFIE AND FRIENDS AT THE HISTORIC RYMAN AUDITORIUM IN NASHVILLE TENNESSEE:
(A Backstage Report as seen and experienced by YOUR DJ):
After a little bit of waiting around for will call and tickets to be delivered, we sat talking with some fans that
had shown up early, one of which, was Darnella, a sweet lady who like us, traveled quite a way from OHIO and
who had a close connection with Tracy Lawrence. She was constantly on the phone off and on with members of Tracy's band.
Outside while chatting with Darnella, Cledus T. Judd's bus rolled in and special thanks to the member of his crew, "T-Bone" for taking time to chat with me and help out with information I needed. We then decided to just take a small walk and ended up at the backstage entrance door of the Ryman where I again hooked up with the event Coordinator Mike who helped out even more, but it wasn't until old friend and member of Joe's band, Ric McClure came walking out. We said our hellos and Ric was undoubtedly surprised to see me there to say the very least. He told me then that the after show party was next door at THE STAGE and asked if I would be coming to join them. He, then went to verify that I was on the guest list and what was to come is just the beginning of a great evening.
Once inside the Ryman, we were directed to get our "tickets" which to my knowledge was not what I expected
them to be. All Access passes were granted us and we had to quickly acquire them and be on our way with the group that was currently entering the back doors right then and there. We were then escorted to the "press room" and catering area where we waited. Upon entering I was greeted by guitar, fiddle player and total wild man, Dennis (For those of you that remember other Joe Diffie shows, he has done some very comical impersonations of Deanna Carter, Billy Gilman and others during Joe's performances.) who caught me up on things a bit and in listening, I also learned that Tracy Lawrence and Mark Chesnutt would both be a no-show for the evening due to illness. Dennis, Darci and I sat around just chatting and joking until in walked the man himself, Mr. Joe Diffie who was greeted first by yours truly; at which time the greeting was returned in kind with a Big Hello, a big smile and welcome on his own part. Joe quickly went on to his press conference with area Nashville radio stations and press. There were not many people invited in for this, I think there were a total of 15 people present. I feel fortunate that Joe made me a part of it. We later heard a portion of the interview on the way home.
FIRST STEPS PRESS CONFERENCE WITH JOE DIFFIE:
Joe was asked a number of questions in succession about a number of things including: his involvement in FIRST STEPS; his hit single and CD, IN ANOTHER WORLD; Plans for a new single and the reason I was there-information on his ROCKIN THE ROADHOUSE TOUR with our mutual friend, Tracy Lawrence and Mark Chesnutt! Joe was rather vague with some of his answers in the beginning, but that is a, dealing with the
media type thing that I was aware of to the fact you think to yourself, "I can't talk about that much now.
When asked about his hit single "In Another World," Joe was quick to mention that it was one of those dreamy songs that you could just close your eyes and just see it all. "It was just dreamy. I loved it when I heard it and it was like you could see the video to it running through your head!"
He also stated that "It Feels Good" when asked how he felt about his longevity in the business. This is his 10th album and for 10 years he has been doing the benefit for First Steps. He intends on doing both as long as he can and just takes it from year to year. He also went on to say that it feels good and he feels so fortunate that he can do what he does and that he has remained a prominent figure in Country Music. (YOUR DJ NOTE: This is definitely my own view as well in seeing what I have in Nashville in just 2 days.) He also mentioned about having "fill in" dates when doing things in this business and he has been fortunate there as well without worry.
PLANS FOR NEW SNGLES:
Joe stated that there is possibly plans for a new song to be written and sung with both Tracy Lawrence and
Mark Chesnutt to co-inside with the tour to come, but was hesitant with details as it is not all solidified, nor is
the song written. They are considering this as a possibility though.
Plans for a new single from Joe himself; however, are in the works for the song called "This Pretender" to be
released on monument records and will include what Joe said as to having some very high notes in the end of it. A video is to follow as well with this song.
JOE DIFFIE ON THE "ROCKIN' THE ROADHOUSE TOUR" FEATURING JOE DIFFIE, TRACY LAWRENCE AND MARK CHESNUTT:
This was one of the main items that everyone wants to know about and YOUR DJ has some of the details for you. Most of my own questions were asked by others present. This made the interview and gaining information for you, much easier. Joe stated that this tour is primarily one for the fans. It is something a little different and a cool idea; although it is not unique. In these times, sometimes getting dates is tough, dance clubs tend to be shutting down and clubs tend to be your fill in dates. Doing this will be beneficial and fun for all involved. Although all aspects of the tour have not been worked out yet, on stage, they are looking at a very different set up entertainment wise. Joe went on to say that they are planning on a full night of entertainment with NO intermissions and NO BREAKING DOWN AND SETTING UP of equipment. They are looking into doing it together, having one person doing a few songs and then the next entertainer coming on to do a few and then the next
and so on through out the evening - sort of like a tag team event. (YOUR DJ NOTE: This is a little more than unique than Joe may be aware as it does prove to be a long night for all three performers, but when it is for the fans, I am sure they don't mind it in the least. I personally love the concept and think more entertainers should take notice to this tour if this does turn out to be what they do in the end.)
After the interview, Joe Took time to speak with me a little bit and asked how things were going. We chatted
briefly as and he took time to sign my remaining CDs that I didn't have with me last time around, he then autographed a number of programs, his press photo and a license plate for Darci and was off to do business.
INTERVIEW WITH CYNDI THOMPSON:
The only other artist that there was time to interview was Cyndi Thompson who was not quite feeling quite 100% herself for the evening, being a little under the weather, but still in high spirits for the event since it was her 1st charity event and what better way to do it than with Joe Diffie and First Steps!
Cyndi told a great story about sneaking in to a Record Label party and artist premier behind one of her friends
who had tickets. She went on to say that they had quite a lay out of food and that she was so scared about getting caught that she was sick to her stomach. "I always get caught doing things I shouldn't. I always have."
Stated Cyndi of growing up and even now. She did get in and remembers the 3 blonde performers for the evening and being in awe noting to herself, she had to do something with her music and career. The 3 blonde entertainers were the Dixie Chicks and they inspired her to really do something with herself creatively and pursue her dreams. She called the occasion a "God encouraging moment for her."
When asked about the Ryman, she said she thought it was a beautiful building and she was looking forward to performing in such a historic building as other stars have and yes, she was nervous, but it was a definite vibe for her and she has been wanting to do what she does since she was 13 and "here I am". Even before she spoke of the beauty of the building, YOUR DJ was also noting some beauty himself and noticed a beautiful large ring on her finger as well. They beat me to "MY" next question; which was what that ring was all about. Her only comments at first were that she was very happy and he is the one. No name was mentioned, but she did go on to say that relatives approved and knew he was the one as much as Cyndi.
THE FIRST STEPS: SHOWTIME:
The First steps show was VERY loose and intimate in my own mind to say the least. It was really a great show in the means that it seemed to be set up, but not overly and lavishly "planned." This is the kind of show that you really enjoy in being an entertainer and MC yourself. The show began with your DJ asking a doorman how to get to the lower level via back doors. He pointed it out to me and it was exercise central for YOUR DJ from then on. (I officially know now why I gave up photography as a career and went into what I am doing.)
The show began and of course I was mingling backstage and said hello and spoke briefly with Joe's wife Theresa then the show began and I was off to work for you! The show opened with an item I was aware of with Joe receiving an award making February 10th in Nashville officially, JOE DIFFIE FIRST STEPS DAY. It was supposed to be a surprise, but it was plastered all over the internet and I know for a fact Joe does get on line from time to time (He signed my slambook). He graciously accepted and on came another good friend I've gained, Mr. Trace Adkins who was only there for a brief time and opened the benefit for Joe who came out to greet him on his tip toes to reach Trace's microphone and speak. Trace was unprepared to perform without a guitar and used one of Joe's which was still turned off briefly and Trace joked that if he sings really low they could hear the guitar. After the guitar was in order, Trace went on to say that the next song went out to his kids, Joe's kids and everyone else's kids as he played his hit, "The Rest of Mine." I stayed in one spot for pictures while Trace was on stage and at the end of his last song ran back stage to JUST catch him and say hi before he left. Another hearty greeting from Trace made me think a little and I still do not intend to leave yet, but Trace is making it tough to say the least. The last time we opened for him at the Pepsi Roadhouse with Big Guns, his comment in regard to me and my running around for Guns and myself was, "I want that guy working for me!" No comments from YOUR DJ on that just yet though. Trace did not hang around long, but at least we did get to chat briefly.
Immediately following Trace was Miss Virginia 2001, Meghan Shanley who performed a great rendition of God Bless America. When she came out, she said a few words and told us she wanted to sing us a beautiful song that you have been hearing for a long time, but means more now than ever. If you know the words feel free to sing along. There was a long, quiet pause (no music came on) and she joked, "You know the words?"
Ricky Skaggs was next in line and did some of his own songs and then a duet of "More Pretty Girls Than One." with Joe Diffie.
Cledus T. Judd then came out and totally had them laughing hysterically with his song "Breath?"
A highlight for the kids in the audience was when an obviously, extremely nervous, but so cute at it to boot,
Julie Hanna (daughter of Jack Hanna of the nationally syndicated, Jack Hanna's Animal Adventures) came out from the Columbus Zoo with an array of animals for the kids who definitely got "involved" with the show, running up the stairs to the foot of the stage. One little guy didn't want to leave the stage when it was all over. Joe's wife Theresa even got involved with this part of the show.
Next was an act that totally and I mean, TOTALLY had me on the edge of my seat. Like myself, Joe has a desire for helping new acts and he out did himself with this new act from Fort Wayne. The Mullins, (Megan and Marcus) who I did get to meet at the after party and hopefully will get to work with more, totally flabbergasted me when they played. You will definitely be hearing more about them from me soon! (Think I'm kidding? See the after party story below.)
Another new act Joe showcased was an 11 year old from Texas known as Kree Harrison. She has been performing since she was seven and landed a spot on the Rosie O'Donnell show which also gained her a singing deal with Lyric Street a Disney based offshoot dedicated to developing young stars' talents.
Cyndi Thompson then took the stage in leg clad form fitting leather and not only wowed the crowd there, but also with her hits, "I Always Like that Best" and "What I Really Meant to Say."
There was also a professional gospel choir performance as well as entertainment by Monica Stiles who co-wrote
"From Here on Out" on the platinum selling Third Rock from the Sun CD - it landed her a songwriting contract after the fact.
A Chinese auction was held for various items and a few were even auctioned off on stage including:
- A Joe Diffie Prize Package that went for $1000.000
- A guitar autographed by all the artists involved that went for $750.00
- A Wynonna prize package that went for $3500.00!!!!
As stated before, both Tracy Lawrence and Mark Chesnutt were a no-show due to illness. This led to the absolute show stopping and virtually overwhelming moment of the entire show - Wynonna came out and played a number of her hits, then brought out her Father Larry Strickland to do another couple songs with friends Bryan, Trey and Jason on backing vocals. (Wynonna said she just met them that night, but I beg to differ on that as Wynonna is rarely ever the serious one on certain subjects.) FOR YOUR DJ THOUGH, the highlight of the entire evening was seening the beautiful Naomi Judd, and even before she came out, all you heard from audience members is; "There's Naomi" "She's Backstage" "Do You See Her?" "Naomi is Here!" She walked out and I myself, KNEW I was seeing history before my eyes, my only other thought was, "Oh my God, all that is missing is AshleyCOULD IT BE? ButAshley was not on hand as she was with her hubby in training to be a race car driver, but nonetheless, seeing not only Wynonna, but her being there with both of her parents - their performance had me in awe, especially being front row center for pictures. I can admit that I was having a problem taking photos, somewhat shakin' and hoping to God above that they come out good and WAIT until you see them for yourself and on the web site! I think I shot off an entire roll or more without even knowing it.
It was, thus far, the most excited I have ever been (I never get that way anymore in all I have experienced) without even having many of their cd's or hearing a lot of their material. At the end, it was one really big standing ovation that I am sure Joe knew had the crowd TOTALLY and DRAMATICALLY wound up for his performance to come.
JOE DIFFIE took the stage and thanked everyone for all their support with a great show as usual kicking it all off with "What do YOU want to hear?" EVERYONE INCLUDING YOUR DJ yelled, PICK UP MAN, but Joe went into Third Rock From the Sun as a teaser; followed by his new hit single, In Another World which all led intoguess?
You can't go against the crowdThere's something people love about a PICKUP MAN. All in all it was a great show followed by Dennis handing off a handful of Joe Diffie Guitar picks (Yep, there will be contests for you to win them!) to YOUR DJ. Thanks to Joe Diffie, his wife Theresa, First Steps, Trace Adkins, The Mullins, Dennis, Ric McClure The Joe Diffie Street team and everyone involved for all they did to make this year's First Steps a success! Thanks Sooo Much for having me Joe! You are "C-O-U-N-T-R-Y" "In Another World!"
YOUR DJ
Rich Fox |
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Artists:
The Mullins
Kree Harrison
Monica Stiles
Julie Hanna
Miss Virginia-Meghan Shanley
Ricky Skaggs
Cledus T. Judd
Cyndi Thompson
Trace Adkins
Larry Strickland
Wynonna and Naomi Judd
Tracy Lawrence
Mark Chesnutt
Joe Diffie
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