Monday, June 02, 2008

Update

I'm kind of anal. Sorry. I'm rewriting this now that I am finally at home.

In May I literally had 1 day off. 1 day in 31 that I didn't have something to go to, somewhere to be, a show to play, a signing to do or anything. 1 day off. It was a great freaking month. But I am wasted. Beyond belief.

So, June 3-27, with the exception of 1 day, is my first extended vacation since Idol started in January of '07. Man, a year and a half has flown by. Sarah and I had about 10 days off last May after the finale (we went to Cancun, if you remember), but since then, I have either been on tour, writing, recording demos, recording the album or doing promo dates every week since then. So, for June, I asked to have a few weeks off to recoup, figure out what's next and get ready for a bunch of stuff coming up.

We should be announcing the final dates for the Back to School tour for August and September. It looks like we'll be doing about 45 dates over the 2 months and it will be our first official "real" tour! We'll have an opener and an RV and a big ol' trailer! And we'll rock the U.S.A.!!! Most of the shows are being promoted by the local radio stations all across the U.S. so look to start hearing more about that. And yes, it looks like we'll be getting to Little Rock, Risa (and Birmingham, D.J.).

We also just started working on a big tour for the beginning of 2009 that would be with a great friend of mine who's a country artist. It'd go out as the "God and Country" tour. We're also looking at an Idol from Season 7 to go out as the opening act! It could be an exciting tour, if it works out. I think the tour will definitely work out...just how big, etc. it will be will take time to figure out.

A song that Clint Lagerberg and I wrote, called "Here Comes Goodbye", has been put on hold by one of the biggest country groups and a secondary hold has been put on the song by one of the top female country singers. The song is also garnering some interest on the pop side from a pretty big act. It's one of those special songs that people seem to be freaking out for. I think it's definitely up there with some of the best songs I've ever written. You can hear it on my producer page: myspace.com/chrisslighproductions. It should be the first song that comes up.

Film and tv stuff is still being worked on. I've met some key tv people that interested in hearing more about a tv show I've developed and written the pilot for. Obviously it doesn't mean anything really, but at least there's interest. A couple of people have read the script and think it's hilarious and commercially viable. I also have an idea for a film vehicle that, if it turns out like I'm hoping, could be a huge break for me as an actor and writer. Obviously, I have to deliver a great film, but I have presented the idea to a couple of key people and they're excited about it, and that's huge. I just have to go write a great script and then let a pro finish it and make it even better. But it's a film that we will be presenting as a vehicle for me. So, that could be huge, too. Again, this is stuff just in the works. I'm so busy with music right now that it's tough to find tons of time for the other stuff, but part of vacation will be spent on the first draft of the script. Idol doesn't get you gigs, but it sure opens up doors. You'd be surprised at the producer who wants to take a meeting with me because he and his family loved me on the show. Hopefully, the next time I'm in L.A. I'll be able to set up a meeting with him and pitch the idea for this film...it'd be right down his alley, I think.

Anyway...as we've found out with a lot of this stuff, it comes and goes and stuff doesn't work out...but know that I am working hard to do stuff outside of just music.

June will be a time of vacation. A few meetings. A few little writing sessions. A nice 10 day vacation out of the country. And sleep, sleep, sleep. And maybe some XBox. I got that Assassins: Creed game that I've been itching to mess around with. So, I may not write a ton, but know that I'm just recharging to rock socks off!

74 comments:

Carrie said...

Have a safe and fun vacation. You deserve it!

risalea said...

All that news sounds very exciting!

Safe travels, Chris, and you and Sarah have a marvelous vacation! Remember to wear the sunblock. : )

Cathy Storms said...

You and Sarah have a great vacation. You both more than deserve it.
Your news is awesome. It must feel really good for you.

rosalee said...

Hasta la Vista! Adios!

And leave that can of Rotel behind before you get on that plane!

chamilton said...

Good for you! Have fun and be safe. Look foward to hearing from you when you return.

risalea said...

Rosalee said, "And leave that can of Rotel behind before you get on that plane!"

Now, Rosalee, you know it's perfectly safe to put in the checked luggage. :)

chamilton said...

okay any guesses on who the band is and who the female singer is????
I am putting Rascal Flats out as the band and the female singer..I ahve a few. Reba, Martina, Carrie, or Faith???? Any thoughts..

Candy

risalea said...

How about Carrie Underwood?

Alexis Jacobs said...

That song was beautiful. I can totally see it making the radio waves, maybe with Rascal Flatts?

Enjoy your vacation... you deserve it.

chamilton said...

What about Wichita???? or anywhere close? I will be excited to wait and see.. My mother that I took to the Tulsa show now wants to go to the Freedom Fest in Oklahoma City. What mother wants mother gets and it will be so worth it. Really if you have a chance to catch Chris in concert do it. I have some really awesome pictures from that concert and still if anybody can help me share that would be great.

Risalea
Carrie Underwood would be a good choice. I am kinda hoping for Martina McBride (Kansas girl).

Carrie said...

"Here Comes Goodbye" is super pretty.

Okay Chris, kudos for touring near Risa and D.J. but don't leave me hanging. Buffalo needs to be included in your tour. :(

Unknown said...

You've certainly earned some time off, Chris. Enjoy the recharge, enjoy just flopping around. But good grief, I don't know of any Idol contestant more creative in so many different ways, so I'm guessing you may have a hard time just floppin' around (hmmm?). You'll dream up another pilot or another hit country song in the making or a play--have you been a playwright, Chris?? If not, just add it to your list, and I'm sure you'll check it off soon :-)
Aha, I have an idea about your AI7 opener, and if I'm right, that's totally awesome.

risalea said...
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Unknown said...

Hey Friend!!!! Your song "Here Comes Goodbye" gave me goose bumps. It was downright awesome and to some of us very true. It touches your heart and evokes strong emotions.

EXCELLENT!! EXCELLENT!! Excellent!!


Your Kindred Spirit

Anonymous said...

Have fun on your vacation, what a great time to reconnect, huh? But as a fan, can't wait for your new stuff.

risalea said...

You have made my day, Mr. Sligh! And Deb's, too, no doubt, when she reads this!

Please plan on a meal at my home for you and your band/crew or at least let Gaylon and I take you and the guys out to eat somewhere when you come to the great state of AR.

Oh, my gosh. That song. What makes a great song to me is its ability to capture a feeling, an emotion, and in 3 minutes, you and Clint captured the heartache of everyone who has ever lost a love. And who hasn't at one point or another? When the public can connect and relate, that means a #1 hit. I can definitely see RF singing that. It's truly beautiful.

Again, have a great time, gets lots of rest and just chill out! I'm headed to Branson today for a little R and R myself. (though I think you've got a better vacation site planned!)

Blessings! Risa

Cathy Storms said...

I hope you have a Southern California date in there somewhere!!!

Cathy Storms said...

Just got a note from DJ and she can't post on the blog from work so she wanted you to know how excited she is that you are coming to her town..

HstryQT said...

You and Sarah definitely deserve a vacation, for sure. Sarah deserves it equally as much because she's been dealing with a touring hubby for the past year! :) I know I complain when Dannys gone for like, a couple of days, I dont know how Sarah does it! So enjoy yourselves - I know you will!

Yay for Risa and DJ! Glad Chris'll be coming your way! :) I know I cant wait for his Indy stop in August!

Almost ONE month until the picnic! Woo hoo! :)

DJ in AL said...

DJ is doing the happy dance in her office this morning, sunburn and all! Thanks Chris for making an otherwise boring Tuesday a little brighter.

Cathy, thank you so much for coming to my rescue. Me with no ability to post is well....just not right:)

Chris, have a wonderful vacation you so totally deserve it! And don't forget where you are supposed to be July 4th!

Sending my Fro Patroer's love from DJ in AL!

Hey Carrie!

Nique's Nana said...

Chris, so good to hear from you. I know you've been so busy, and as I've said before "your cup runneth over" - isn't that just wonderful?

I'm really excited for you that so many doors have been opened to you. May the Lord continue to bless you in so many ways - you are truly deserving of this.

Nique's Nana said...

Me again - I do hope one of your tours brings you to Southern California, close to Cathy and me.

Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the Fro Patro picnic this year - so a tour close to my neck of the woods would be so awesome.

Have a wonderful, safe and fun vacation with Sarah.

Carianne said...

Oh man! I am so excited for you right now, Chris! This must be such a thrilling time to be you!

Also, I can't wait to find out where you're touring! I have a feeling you won't come too close to this neck of the woods, but maybe I can make a road trip before school starts! haha

Enjoy your time off! You more than deserve it!

EmilyBoo said...

I pray that you and Sarah have a wonderful vacation! Don't get so caught up in the writing that you forget to relax!

As for that back to school tour, don't forget Detroit!

rosalee said...
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rosalee said...

YAY! MJ came through! I had emailed her on Sunday to ask her if she could catch one of those Kitchen Sink encore performances and she told me she would:

http://mjsbigblog.com/chris-sligh-kitchen-sink-video.htm

Will be on the fansite later...

Megan said...

What a great update, thanks Chris!!! I am so glad you get to go on vacation. You both deserve it! I hope Detroit..or Grand Rapids is included in the Back to School tour, and if so I can't wait to see you!! For the big tour next year you are planning...the really good friend yours happen to be Phil Stacey? and Jason Castro opening? Just a guess :)

And that song..I'm guessing Rascal Flatts and either Martina, Taylor, or Carrie. Can't wait to find out!

risalea said...
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risalea said...

Rosalee and all--

There's a bonus video of Chris singing "Know" on the gmc website.

http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/shows/thekitchensink

risalea said...

Darn this blogger site! The part that got cut off after kitchen is "sink".

Cathy Storms said...

Rosalee~thanks for posting about the MJ site for Chris's performance on the Kitchen Sink.
Loved it...Loved it...
Now I really can't wait for Nashville. It was awesome!!!
Chris~you really have to bring your tour to somewhere near Southern California...please..please.please

Anonymous said...

Figures. The ONE day I don't check this blog and WHAM-O! - lots of exciting news is taking place!

SO good to hear of all your future projects, Chris. And glad you're getting away from it all for a good long break. You're really need it.
Think how fresh you'll be the for the picnic! :o)

Also, yeah, I hope we're right assuming God and Country is you, Phil and Jason. OH MAN!!! If you don't come to Phoenix or even to AZ, that is one that I will fly myself to the nearest location if need be, just to see that show!

Safe travels & blessings galore, Chris.

ChrisSligh said...

I probably shouldn't have put anything about the God & Country tour. I didn't put names because we're still working on details. There are actually several of the contestants this year (from the top 24 on) that we've discussed in house, but have not discussed with them (we really can't officially until the tour is over, anyway). But I'm writing with a couple of the top 24 that are going into CCM and then of course Castro and I became acquaintances...but Castro may be too big a fish to try and get to open for a tour - so don't read too much into that, please. When I can give names, I will - I promise.

Also, I wanted to make sure that everyone understands why I post these things. This blog is to keep you guys connected not only with me, but with the process that goes into breaking a new artist. We are trying to build a career from the ground up instead of simply depending on Idol's wide swathe to give me fans and record sales. We aren't spending a lot of money on promotions because we want to build fans that believe in me as an artist and are a huge part of who I am as an artist. I want my career to be as much about you guys as it is about me. Hopefully, if Billboard magazine does a story on me 10 years from now, they will talk about the Fro Patro' and all that they have done to make my career, as much as they talk about hit singles and that kind of success. In my opinion, it is as much about you guys as it is about me. And I want for you guys to be along for the ride, all the disappointments and all the joys. I let you guys in on some things that MAY happen, so you know what is going on. It's not to brag or to show off what's going on FOR me...it's to let you guys in on what's going on WITH me - 2 different prepositions that make a world of difference. When something doesn't work out - like Shrek didn't - I want you guys to have been involved and to be disappointed with me that stuff didn't work out. But when great stuff does work out - like a great record deal, a great record, great reviews, success on the radio/promo tour - I want you guys to have the chance to rejoice along with me.

I hope that makes sense. I know that my way of doing things is so different from what most people do. But I'm trying to build something way way bigger than just me. I'm trying to build something great with you guys. And look at our little community! It's awesome. You guys have become friends and we welcome new friends in from time to time and it is seriously incredible!

I love the shape of my career. So far, I'm the best new selling artist of 2008 in CCM. The single is holding steady. We just got some key adds. I'm taking my first vacation getting ready for my first real tour in August, and you guys have been along for the ride. Exactly how I wanted it to be!

Peace and love,
Chris

Anonymous said...

I just read an article @ Y Music by Lyndsey Parker. Saw and heard Chris for the absolute first time. Wow!!! Can't wait to get some of his music and share it with my friends. Happy Vacationing Chris and Sarah

devon314 said...

i really respect the way you are always giving us updates when you can and keeping us in the loop - means a lot.

Nique's Nana said...

Ah Chris, you brought tears to my eyes. I think I can speak for the Fro Patro - we want to share both your ups and downs. It's truly an honor that you care enough to share with us your life and career as you make your way along this exciting road to "stardom"!

Cathy Storms said...

Chris~Thank you for all you said. I really do feel like you have taken us all with you on this incredible journey and I have loved every minute of it.
The top selling new artist of 2008 in CCM..wow that's so cool. I knew it would happen.
Yes this little community is awesome. We have all made friends that will last for a really long time. I wouldn't be flying 3000 miles in July for anyone else.
So again, thank you..You make all of us feel like we are special...

ChrisSligh said...

I should point out that it's just so far that I'm the best selling CCM new artist...there are a lot of really great artists coming out this year...so we've been lucky so far, but we have another 6 months.

I have some ideas on how to drive sales, but we'll see.

chris

risalea said...

OK, my ten jillionth post under this but had to respond: Chris, your little blog caused me to do what I always warned my kids not to do--make friends with folks on the internet! : )

Your willingness to share your thoughts, knowledge and faith with us is so appreciated. And I think it's great that you continued your blogging and made a community where we can share your ups and downs and share our own with each other. And this little community has no walls....it can grow and expand as your fanbase grows.

You said, "...we want to build fans that believe in me as an artist..." That's crucial, of course, but what's more important to so many of us (and I'll be bold enough to speak for them without their permission-LOL)is that we believe in you as a person--a good person with a good heart, who is trying to follow Christ, deeply loves his wife and isn't afraid to say so, doesn't take himself too seriously, and oh, yea, writes and sings the heck out of some great music. : ) OK, novel for today is done. Go forth and soak up some rays! Well, tomorrow that is. And let us know your ideas. We're so ready to do what we can to help!

Cathy Storms said...

Yes, let us know your ideas as Risa says..We are all so ready to help you anyway we can.

Carmen said...

Chris,
I echo Risa's sentiments. It has been so great getting to meet members of the Fro Patro and the many friendships that have developed. I don't think a day goes by that I don't talk to one of them or get an email. I have made some really great friends and it is all because of you. It is your openess and genuineness that has created an atmosphere where we feel so connected to one another. I think because all of us feel like we are sharing your dream. Watching your dream come true has united us. And yes our belief in you as a person and as an artist.

I am glad that you are going to get that much needed vacation with Sarah.
I hope that Jacksonville is on your list of possible concerts but hey we all know that I am always up for a road trip! Especially to see you in concert! Besides I have great Fro Patro friends all around the country that I can always go visit!

Carmen

PS You will like Assassin's Creed for 360. I also suggest Oblivion for 360. It is good too. My 15 year old has already beat Assassin's Creed. Personally I love the Wii. The new Wii fit is awesome.

Carrie said...

I just came back from seeing Bret Michaels... LOL. Crazy time that was.

Chris, I wish you didn't always have to clarify. :[ I know you mean well and don't want to start blog drama though so I understand. Of course I figured the names were left out for a reason.

Anonymous said...

Risa,
Your 7:29 post was just beautiful! I have to say my Amen!

And Chris, sorry to throw names out there when you only hinted but I DO realize at this point it's all just "in the works" stuff. I REALLY appreciate how open you are with us and realize this is a very special relationship thing we all have here. I am blessed.

Anonymous said...

Oh, and "Here Comes Goodbye" is EXCELLENT. My kind of country sound.
"Faith Begins" is wonderful too. Thanks for more great tunes!

DJ in AL said...

Chris,

I'm just here to echo what my other Fro Patro buddies said. We love you, truly. Why do we love you? Because you share the good, the bad and the ugly! Because you laugh at yourself and believe in yourself and believe in your fans. We love you because you brought us together as fans and friends. We love you because your music touches our hearts and at times even melts our faces off! We love you because you love your wife, music and the Lord and not necessarily in that order. We love you because you make mistakes, because you care enough to clarify and explain and apologize. We love you because you are our hero, our friend, our son, our brother. We love you because you wait around outside venues when we show up (or don't show up as in one instance), because you go to lunch with us when you are in town (if you can) because you sign our tshirts, because you try to get us inside the radio station to watch you perform (even when they tell you no), we love you because you give shout outs to the littlest (yes I know that's not a work) fan in the audience because you know it will give her a thrill.

I could go on forever, but because I don't want to put everyone to sleep, I'll stop.

We love you dude, from the very first moment, and we always will!

We even hope that one day we will crossover from fan to forever friend.

Ok, that's all I got. We love you Chris!


Sending love from DJ in AL!

DJ in AL said...

Oh and Carrie, Bret Michaels? Really?

DJ in AL said...

Risa,

Just read your post (I promise), not too surprising that we said the same thing. You took less words to do it:)

Cathy Storms said...

I have to echo what DJ, Carmen and Risa have said. You make us feel so special. I remember at the taping of AI extra when you came back out to give me and Phyllis a hug. I felt so special.

I love "Here Comes Goodbye". It is going to be a big hit. I still love "Faith Begins" and really hope to hear it on a future CD of yours....

Happy Vacation to you and Sarah. Get lots of sun and rest. One month from tomorrow and it's the picnic. Yeah!!!! I can't wait...

risalea said...

ONE MORE PICNIC REMINDER--

The last day to register for the July 5th Chris Sligh picnic is June 21st. Be there or be square! : )

Go to the link at http://fropatro.googlepages.com

or to

www.fropatropicnic.webs.com.

You'll also find info on Chris's concert that night and a link to tickets.

Hope to see you there!

Nique's Nana said...

Yeah, DJ in AL said it best!

And Chris, you probably don't realize just how special you made Cathy and me feel at the AI Extra taping when you walked out into the audience and gave each of us a big hug. We were so totally overwhelmed by this gesture.

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

Chris,
I think it's just the most wonderful thing that you want to bring us all along on your journey. I've been in on it ever since you started on AI and it's very awesome to see how things have progressed. I love knowing all the little things that come & go your way. The "coulda, shoulda woulda's" and all the rest!
I feel very priviledged that you want us fans to know stuff like this and to follow along with you. It is great to feel wanted by you and by each other too! It IS a great little community! Spreadin' the love is awesome! You and your talent are awesome! I can't wait to see where else it can go!

robyn

Anonymous said...

Hello Chris, Dear Usual Suspects and All,

Long time no post, but do read often.

Best wishes to all. Shalom

Carianne said...

Chris cares more about his fan than any other artist I can think of. He rocks.

And so does everyone who regularly posts on this blog. I don't post a lot since I feel like I have little to contribute, but I do read what everyone else writes. You take the words right out of my mouth most of the time! What a great group of people...

rosalee said...

Hey Shalom -

Whassup? Are you going to make that detour to the picnic? It's coming up fast now.
Just kidding -

Hope everything's okay with you.

Anonymous said...

Chris,
I'm glad you and Sarah are going to have a vacation! Especially since you are going out of the country. DJ in Al said it all (why do we love you?)! I think you are such a real and genuine person. Ever since I got your CD I listen to it everyday-there are so many songs I love! I hope you come to Colorado Springs or Denver. I'd love to see you!

Anonymous said...

Hi Ms.Rosalee,

All is well. Busy,busy,busy. New job meant even canceling my trip east for that wedding, so no detour.

Insert sad face as it sounds like so much fun...maybe '09 picnic !

GDA, where are you ?
Cheers, Shalom

DJ in AL said...

4 weeks 'till Nashvegas! 4 weeks,warning, warning, 4 weeks!

A little giddy this morning:)

Sending my Fro buddies love this a.m.


DJ

Cathy Storms said...

Yep..1 month from today and we will be at a picnic with all the Fro Patro and Chris & Sarah....WhooHoo!!!! Nashville, here we come..

DJ in AL said...

Hey Fellow Fro Patroers!

I know we have put this out there, but I wanted to put it out there, again! We would love, love, love for everyone and anyone who can possibly make it to Nashville for July 5th to come join us for our
1st Annual Fro Patro Picnic! I for one, would love nothing better than to meet everyone who has posted (well almost everyone:)

I know gas prices are high, airfare too, but if you live close enough to Nashville please consider making the trip! You aren't just meeting or getting to see Chris, you will get to meet all of your Fellow Fro Patroers!

We are so looking forward to meeting everyone!

End of solicitation!


DJ

Anonymous said...

Chris! I love you telling us your journey. I can live my dream through you and your adventures. I love all the behind the scenes stuff. Plus it really makes me appreciate the artist all that much more. I try to do my part to spread Chris and his music. Please excuse the excitement at hearing you are writing. If I must wait....I will. Love ya!

IDOLBEAT said...

Chris, I am hoping the comments you alluded to for the tour next year are Phil Stacey and Jason Castro! How exciting would that be for the three of you! I am so excited just at the possibility!
WoooooHoooo!

Do you know Chris Taylor? He would be an asset to your tour too!

IDOLBEAT said...

Sorry Chris, I read your follow-up post after I posted. I'm only guessing who I hope the tour would include. I'm just excited!Actually, I would be interested in anyone of the top 24 touring with you. Kristy Lee would be a good fit but I would also love Alexandrea Lushington - she's not country but I think the God part would fit and she would bring some awesome energy!

Anonymous said...

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE tell me you want Jason Castro to open for you. i would go see you more than just once of that were the case!! lol

YOU once, Jcas 100x lol (i kid i kid)

rosalee said...

Well, I gave a copy of Chris's new CD to my piano tuner today. Not a high profile person, but he gets around in his own circles....

risalea said...

Carlita, if you ever get the chance to see Chris once in concert, you'll go back to hear him again whether Jason is with him or not. Just ask Carmen. : ) He's seriously good. Do you live anywhere close to Nashville? See our posts on the upcoming picnic and concert.

rosalee said...
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victoria said...

Chris,

Hope you are having a great vacation!

I wanted to comment on your Kitchen Sink appearance -- I thought you were GREAT and was happy to hear that "Potential" is your favorite song on the album. That song has turned out to be my favorite too. . . can't really put my finger on why. Knowing some of the back story on it made it that much more meaningful.

Everyone else. . .

I've been an infrequent poster here, but a daily reader. Chris really seems to have a great group of fans. Wish I could meet you guys at the picnic. . . but unfortunately, I'm out in California and just can't swing it.

Cathy Storms said...

Hey Victoria~I'm in California also. I am biting the bullett and going to Nashville. Wish you could make it. It's going to be a blast. What part of California are you in? There's a few of us here in California so when Chris plays here we should all get together and go to his concert together.

victoria said...

Hi Cathy,

Don't know if you'll see this now that we have new (surprise) posts from Chris, but I live in the SF Bay Area. Are you the one that lives in San Diego? I grew up in OC and still travel down there a few times a year.

It is definitely a possibility that we would come down to your area for a Sligh concert. We'll see what happens!

Cathy Storms said...

Victoria~Yes I live in the San Diego area. That would be great if we could get together with others who live in the San Diego area. Niques Nana lives here also. Her and I have gone to see a taping of AI extra that Chris was at together.

victoria said...

Hey Cathy. . . that's cool! I will check in with you if we end up going to a concert down your way. It would be fun to meet you and nique's nana!

Peace.

Cathy Storms said...

Victoria~That sounds great...I wish you could come to the picnic. Hey if I can fly 3000 miles with my daughter and 3 grandkids ages 2,5 & 7 anyone could make it.