Friday, April 24, 2009

The Doves

This week was a fun - albeit very busy - week.

Sunday, we got back from the Natalie tour dates at about 8:30am.  I got a little sleep that afternoon then had to go to soundcheck for the Songwriter's showcase, which has always been my favorite part of the GMA week.  All the biggest songs of the year are performed by their songwriter (s) and each writer tells the story of how the song came about.

Tony Wood and I performed "Empty Me" both telling about how the song came to be.

Monday it was up bright and early.  Rough Draft was in town (by the way, if you haven't gotten their album yet, you need to - it really is incredible) all this week and I helped them meet with labels.  Anyway, we had a meeting bright and early Monday morning and then I hung out until I had some interviews later in the day.

I had decided a while back that I really want to enjoy GMA week.  So many artists you talk to dread this week and think the whole thing is pointless or cheesy.  I love it and want to continue to love it.  It's a great time to see people you only see once a year a lot of times.  So I cut my interviews this year down to just an afternoon.  If there's stuff we miss, there's stuff we miss.  So we did like 6 hours of interviews on Monday and that was it!

Monday night, we went to the ASCAP dinner.  How much fun was that?!!  So many big-name artists and writers were there...it was so cool.  Sarah and I sat at the table with Sanctus Real and got to hang out with Jeremy Camp, Mac Powell (Sarah and I got a picture with Mac and his wife Amy...so cool!), Matthew West and so many more.  Larnelle Harris was there!  He sang a tribute to Dave Clark, a writer who just got his 25th number 1!  And I thought it was awesome having 1 #1.

Anyway, overall this week it's been really interesting to see the marked difference between last year and this.  Last year I felt like the little kid jumping up and down going "Look at me!  Look at me!"  This year, it's fun to have had some success as an artist that other people seem to have recognized, as well as the Rascal Flatts cut!  I mean, so many people who I never would've guessed would've known about the song came up to congratulate - it has been really crazy.  I guess I didn't even know what a big deal this has been.  I guess it still hasn't really sunk in yet.

Anyway, Tuesday I met with 6 labels with Rough Draft.  Some really great meetings, some not so great meetings...but overall a lot of initial interest in the band.  The EP turned out so great and I'm so proud of the guys and what they've accomplished.  I can't imagine they won't get signed with as hard working as they are and as talented as they are.

My parent came in Tuesday night so we went and got some Red Lobster (my parents favorite restaurant - they don't have it Germany).  It was great to spend some time with them!

Wednesday I slept in a little later - I didn't have anything until 2:45pm, when I had to go for the rehearsal/sound check for the Doves.  That lasted way too long then it was off to a radio interview with Rough Draft over at Total Axxess.  Now that was fun. Wally is seriously one of my favorite people in the business and easily one of my favorite DJs.  He is just real and funny and knows what he's talking about.  

From there, I went to a Doves party and my place with friends and family and Rough Draft even made an appearance (albeit unplanned).  That was fun.

Yesterday was up bright and early to pack for this weekend plus I had to be at the Opry House at 11:00am.  And couldn't leave until after the doves...sheesh.  All day.  But I had so much fun.

Remedy Drive are awesome.  We hung out a few times during the long day.  I shared a dressing room with the Afters and Tenth Ave North.  That was fun.  The Tenth Ave North guys are great guys...congrats to them for winning New Artist.  

Anyway, that's kinda my week.

110 comments:

EmilyBoo said...

Chris, is that songwriter showcase something that we'll be able to catch on tv? I'd be very interested in seeing it! I'm glad it sounds like you had a great week! It must be wonderful to have recognition from people whose work you admire!

Everyone, good news! My recording today worked and I have a 3.5 hour disc that has both the idol special and the doves. I need someone to volunteer to make copies though, because my elderly computer doesn't have that capability!

Cathy Storms said...

Wow what a week!! I'm so sorry I had to miss it this year. Next year watch out....

Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) said...

I was thinking of you yesterday. Congrats!

Kacie said...

Yeah, I saw you on tv... I wasn't totally impressed with the GMA's, but I'll try not to be too cynical.

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Chris-I'm so happy you had fun during GMA week,but I'm also sad you didn't win any Doves for the categories you were nominated in-but I know just being nominated must be a big honor for you!

I wrote something for your "turning 31" blog but you probably aren't reading that one anymore-so I'll say it again:

Happy Belated B-Day. YOu have accomplished so much since you turned 31-you have a #1 song on the country music charts, you've put out an awesome CD, have traveled around the world, were nominated in two categories for the Dove Awawards,love your wife and fans, and have reached out to so many people

One hundred years from now it won't matter how many records you sold,how many awards you won, how much money you made, how many kids you had, what kind of car you drove or how big your house was-all that will matter is that YOU MADE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF ANOTHER PERSON

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Hello again,
Risa-Did you get my card and checks? I hope you had a blast at the Doves-what an opportunity of a lifetime! I bet everyone looked beautiful in their dresses! Did you see Amy Grant at the Doves? If I saw her and Chris in the same room I'd pass out!

Cathy-How are your treatments going? My dad finished chemo and is now going to radiation-five days a week for six weeks. He says it takes longer to set things up than to actually do the treatment, which only lasts about two minutes.
We found out he does not have the gene for breast cancer so that was a big relief! After hearing some of the stories he and my mom have told about some of the people he met during chemo I feel very blessed that his situation turned out the way it did.

Carmen-Do you have any more copies of your book, and if you do are you going to bring them to the picnic? I tried the link you gave me, but didn't get anywhere-maybe I typed it in wrong.

I can't wait to meet everyone at the picnic! And like I told Risa, no I'm not bringing any poodles with me, purple or otherwise!

risalea said...

EmilyBoo, if you want to send your recording to me, I don't mind doing that. Holler at me on FB if you do, or at mkismybiz@aol.com.

OK, very long post ahead. (yea, I know, no surprise). So grab your cup of coffee or Diet Mountain Dew and proceed. I mention those caffeinated drinks, cause I could use one right now to make it to bedtime. This partying like a rock star is hard on an old lady. LOL So, filling in a few details on our trip....you know with this group, what happens in NashVegas, won't stay in NashVegas! : )

The self proclaimed "Dove Divas" arrived in NashVegas beginning about 2 on Wednesday. DJ and I got to the condos about the same time. (BTW, would highly recommend the Wyndham Resort for anyone going to Nashville with plans to attend the Grand Ole Opry....extremely convenient to the venue, very nice accomodations, centrally located, close to the airport...and I can tell you a place online to post to look for folks who might have points they want to rent out--it's a timeshare place--and you can probably get a much better rate than the Wyndham would quote you.)
We did some last minute shopping (SOMEONE forgot a few things and it wasn't DJ), then went and picked up Clearsa and Carmen at the airport.

Wed. night we enjoyed some wonderful hospitality, courtesy of Sarah and Chris, and had the privilege of meeting some of the family. Enjoyed visiting with Mitch, Chris's manager, (he is always wonderful to the Blogger Girls) and was thrilled to meet the Rough Draft guys in person! I love them, and they are just as sweet and polite in person as I imagined they would be. And that to me is as important as their music. And their music is AWESOME. Seriously, get to their website and order their new EP if you haven't yet! DJ's birthday was on Thursday, so she got an early Happy Birthday serenade, and even got a 3 layer Italian cream cake, courtesy of Gaylon, my resident chef. Yep, I've got a good husband. He puts up with me and bakes on request! We had a wonderful evening.

Thursday, we cooked breakfast and just enjoyed visiting with each other, then did some driving around town to find a place to eat and then back to get ready for the Doves! (And we were all looking marvelous, if I must say so myself!) We didn't want to miss a thing, so we got to the Opry in time for the 4:30 pre-show. (BTW, GDA, they made me check the lariat at the door, can you believe that? LOL) They were giving out awards that weren't televised, and we enjoyed a few performances, including Meredith Andrews. Absolutely love her. And the Blogger Girls got a shout-out of sorts. A comedian was emceeing the pre-show and mentioned some of the nominees for different categories. We, of course, stood up and screamed for Chris when he mentioned him, and the guy turns around, looking backstage, and yells, "Chris, your mother is here!" LOL OK, well, we'll take that as the compliment we KNOW he meant it to be. : )

The televised show began at 7, and how fun was that! It was my second live TV show (the first being "The View" on a NY trip a few years ago), and it was fun when they'd say 20 seconds to air, need lots of enthusiastic applause, 6,5,4, etc., counting down to airtime.
There were some great performances, including our Chris, of course, singing his nominated song, "Empty Me" when they spotlighted the performers nominated for "New Artist of the Year."

I want to say this....cause I am usually better at penning my thoughts than voicing them, so this is directed to Chris. It is such an honor to be recognized and nominated by your peers...sounds cliche, but so true. This year is no doubt the first of many Dove nominations, and there are sure to be Dove trophies in your future. So, winning didn't happen this year, but that's ok, because it in no way diminishes the impact that your music has had on so many lives around the country, folks who have heard your songs on the radio, on your album and/or had the privilege of attending a concert, and have had their hearts touched by your lyrics and music. Being nominated for two awards is such a wonderful accomplishment and the girls and I were so proud to represent the FP at the Doves. However, we may be billed for the folks around us to pay a visit to their local ENT, as I'm sure we busted some eardrums with our screaming like little girls. : ) You are an awesome musician, a good person with a great heart for Jesus, and it is a privilege to call you friend.

OK, enough of the sappy stuff. Our fun was magnified because we had awesome seats on the second row of the mezzanine, and we got to share the evening with Chris's family. Good, good people, and just loved having the opportunity to make some new friends.

Twittering--we were just too busy watching and visiting for that. IMHO, I think tweeting is a bit overrated at least for the average Joe....do people really want to know every time I go to the store? LOL I think not. Now if I was Chris Sligh or Ashton Kutcher, that's something else entirely. I actually did update my FB status once...many more friends over there, though I know you can connect the tweeting to FB.
My fave performances of the evening...Brandon Heath, Mary Mary, and the Blind Boys of Alabama. The most poignant moment was Steven Curtis Chapman accepting his award with his wife at his side. A shining example of someone who not only sings about Jesus, but knows firsthand His healing power.

After the show, we got to go to The Rutledge, to the Brash Music shindig. (thanks to Chris and Mitch) We enjoyed great music, (Mitch's wife sings beautifully and his brother-in-law can rock!), a little karaoke, some guest musicians hopping on stage from the audience, and even saw the group Bluetree from Ireland ("God of this City").

I'll stop there and let the other girls tell about the trip from their perspective. Folks, when Chris is nominated next year (and he will be), don't miss this event. It was an absolutely delightful trip. I think the good Lord was watching over the crazy ladies, as we really couldn't have asked for a more perfect experience. And heads up, make your plans to get to Nashville in November for the CMA's, cause I would bet my hat that a nomination is coming his way for "Here Comes Goodbye."

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=21675&id=1111018038&l=09bbe84d4e

Cathy Storms said...

Thanks Risa for the details. What a great trip. November for CMA's in Nashville. Yep...count me in for that one.
It sounds like you guys had an awesome trip and that is so cool....

risalea said...

Amy, yes, I have your checks. Thanks so much. I'm sorry I haven't emailed you...the last two weeks between work, senior stuff for my son, and the Doves trip have made my life pretty crazy. We are so glad you are coming to the picnic!

And that's a great lead-in to remind the rest of you...get those reservations in! The more, the merrier.

www.fropatropicnic.webs.com

Hischild said...

I'm finally home and all caught up w/ family, reading email, FB, and blog. Whew!

EmilyBoo, thanks for recording the shows. We Blogger girls took a potty break (as an entire group because that is, after all how we females do it, right?) between pre-show and televised show not knowing the Idol Connection was gonna be fed onto the big screen. While washing our hands we hear Chris' voice faintly through the speakers and rush back to our seats in time to see the very last of his segment. RATS!! SO being able to have a copy of it is GREATLY appreciated.

Lori, I'm glad you got to watch at Kelli's. And welcome to the blog, Kelli! Love to see new people here.

Risa, thanks for volunteering to copy. I was gonna volunteer my son for it but he's SO busy w/school and sports, it might take a LONG time and I don't want to ask anxious people for extended patience.

Our whole experience was great! BIG thanks to Chris & Sarah, his family and Mitch for making us feel welcomed. And I believe Risa's "sappy stuff" was RIGHT ON! To think in your first album after the Idol tour, you did well enough for a nomination in TWO of the major Dove categories!!! To see your pic in those glossy programs was pretty fulfilling for the 4 of us! Was glad to read you had a great time GMA week and would have LOVED to have been a fly on the wall at the songwriters showcase!

My fav parts of the Doves:
**Brandon Heath's performance of "Give Me Your Eyes" WAY COOL!!!!! Those dancers! Wow!

**The Dottie Rambo tribute because Sandi Patty sang We Shall Behold Him (AWESOME)and Reba & Donnie (her daughter and son-in-law) sang "Mama's Teaching Angels How To Sing". Wonderful thought. Kleenex moment.

**Mandisa & Phil Stacey were there.

**Sinbad, hilarious. Shoulda been the emcee.

**SCC accepting Artist of the Year. More Kleenex. He's such a class act and I think he's looking too much like David Letterman these days.

OK, that's enough. I missed reading all of you on the blog. Am glad to be back here.

Peace!
~clearsa

Terrie said...

He sang a tribute to Dave Clark, a writer who just got his 25th number 1! And I thought it was awesome having 1 #1. It's a safe bet that Dave Clark thought having his first #1 was pretty awesome, too. You have to start somewhere and I have read recently that Country and Gospel are the two healthiest music industry sectors in this uncertain economy. Chris, you have crazy huge potential in both genres.

We, of course, stood up and screamed for Chris when he mentioned him, and the guy turns around, looking backstage, and yells, "Chris, your mother is here!" LOL OK, well, we'll take that as the compliment we KNOW he meant it to be. : ) I'm sure it was a heartfelt compliment about how youthful Chris and his "mother" look. Thanks for sharing your exciting adventure with those of us who only DVR-ed the Doves and AI documentary.

risalea said...

Yeah, he had it all wrong, anyway. We're not the mama, we're the "aunties"! : ) (BTW, Chris's real mama is a beautiful lady and we loved getting to know her)

Sandi Patty--yes, beautiful, beautiful voice! Loved that performance, too!

Why am I still up? Night, friends!

HstryQT said...

Thanks for sharing your experiences Risa and Clearsa! That really sounds like an amazing trip; I'm not surprised Chris & Mitch made sure it was extra special for you guys. And truly, what great seats! Loved the pictures!

Cathy Storms said...

Amy~I'm glad your dad is doing much better. My treatments are done. WhooHoo!! He's right about the radiation. I'm in the middle of reconstruction right now with it's own set of problems but worth every one of them.
I can't wait to meet you at the picnic. I'm disappointed that there won't be any poodle. lol...We are going to have so much fun..

DJ in AL said...

Good Morning fellow Fro Patroers and Dove Divas!

Yeah, so I'm late posting, if you know me, you know I love my sleep and I didn't get much in the last couple of days so I had to catch up!

Risa being Risa,has done an awesome job of describing our trip which I love bc it makes it so much easier on me, lol not shorter, but easier.

It was just the way she said it was and we had a seriously good time!

My high points of the trip in no particular order:

Having Chris and Company sing Happy Birthday to me on my 49th. (ok this was actually number one)

Meeting the beautiful, witty, curly haired Sligh family.

Freaking amazing seats at the Doves. (Thanks to Risa)

Screaming for Chris every time they said his name or showed his face during the Show (hey no one knows me in Nashville aside from the Slighs what do I care?)

Eating Gaylon's Italian Creme cake.

Meeting the guys from RD,go order their EP you won't regret it.

Learning Mitch's middle name was Bergen-priceless. (BTW his kids are cooler than he is and his wife has got singing talent of her own)

Watching Chris do a verse from Empty Me in front of a live audience of thousands where his talent deserves to be displayed.

I could blab all day there is so much to say, but the sun is shining, I've missed my family so I've got to wrap this up.

Chris, Sarah and the rest of the Sligh family thank you for making the Blogger Girls feel welcome and a part of your lives for a couple of days, it was a kick. You are a beautiful, charming, God filled family and it was a pleasure getting to know you a little better.

Mitch thanks for getting us into the after party, it was great getting to hear your wife and her brother perform.

Chris, dude, what can I say? You told us your belief that you wouldn't win a Dove this year long before I made my plans to come to Nashville. I'd be lying if I said I had hoped you had got it wrong but as usual when it comes to this business you were right.

This was my first exposure to the GMAs and the world of Gospel Music. Steven Curtis Chapman who seems to be the apparent king of this world didn't start out as the king. How many times do you suppose he was nominated for awards before he won? I'm guessing it was alot (hoping I'm right here bc I didn't research it). Look, you aren't the kind of guy who appreciates the whole pity party thing so I'm not going down that road. Like Risa said, awards are in your future, it's inevitable. You have the talent and the smarts to make it happen. In the meantime keep writing number one songs for industry giants like RF and we'll keep following you around the U.S. for a chance to hear you sing.

Dove Divas,it was great getting to spend time with you in Nashville, (missed our girl Cathy though) let's do it again ok? I love you guys. Risa thanks so much for making this trip happen for me, if you hadn't attended to the details let's face it I wouldn't have gotten there. My offer still stands, when you decide to make your career change let me know-I'll be your secretary, lol. Carmen a special thanks for my special gift you have a real gift for listening and learning about people. Clarisa it was awesome getting to know you.

To the rest of the FP, all that stuff Risa said, make your plans for the CMAs in Nov and the GMAs next spring.

Ok, that's the end of my over long cheezy, drippy, sappy post. I wish I had the talent for short and sweet posts but there's so much crammed in my head and I have to get it out. Sorry I am, what I am!

Sending love from an elated DJ in AL!

DJ in AL said...

Oh lord I just looked at how long my post is, I'm sorry, seriously I am:) I promise to leave out more next time around.

Cathy Storms said...

Thank you Dove Diva's for your posts. It makes me feel like I was right there. I'm so glad you had such an awesome time. I'm already saving for November and for the GMA's next year. Thanks again girls for keeping us posted and making me feel like I was there every step of the way. It means the world to me...

Cathy Storms said...

"Witty curly haired Sligh Family"..I love that. I would fit right in since my hair is just as curly as Chris's now, not as long but just as curly. I really could have passed for your aunt. lol....

rosalee said...

Thanks for the details and the photos, guys. It sounds like you had a wonderful time and had great seats for the show!

My dad's girlfriend taped the GMC special and Dove Awards for me, so I'll have to see later this weekend if the recording came out.

chamilton said...

Cathy,
I am glad that you are curly headed you know us curly haired folks have to stick together (the flat and straights) hate us. Maybe next year things will work out better and I can be at the Doves with you guys. I think I could pass for a slightly older sister??? Glad you all had fun and made it home safe. I hope to see y'all soon,

Candy

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Hey everyone!
I'm so glad you had a good time at the Doves. It was great to hear all the details and wish I could have been part of the fun! I think it would be awesome to hang out with you all. Maybe I can come to the Doves next time if Chris gets nominated. My parents are thinking about going on a cruise so maybe I could come to Nashville instead. I would have given anything to hang out with you all!

Cathy-HOORAY! You're a SURVIVOR! I'm so glad you're done with your treatments! We're going to Disney World after my dad finishes his and my neice gets out of school.

Risa-My paranoid dad wants some kind of receipt for the checks. He's always worried something's going to go wrong. I hope I have my I-pod or MP3 player before we come so I don't have to listen to them yell at each other because they can't find their way around Nashville!

The hotel probably wouldn't let me bring my poodle anyway-RATS!

Do you all ever chat in the Fro Patro chat room?

Cathy, was your hair curly before you had chemo and radiation? I'm waiting for the dog to grow an extra tail because he hangs out around my dad so much!

rosalee said...

Lori -
You're absolutely right - my "Chris" handbag was in the Idol to Inspiration commercial! It was sitting on a picnic table, so that was really a quick plug for the picnic! LOL
That commercial aired several times during the Doves.

Carmen said...

Chris,
Gotta say that I heard your new version you did of Circle Bunnies. very cool. It totally rocks! You really showed off your producing skills with that one. Was this newest version done when you & Rogh Draft were on Total Axxess this last week? I want a copy!!!

For all who have not heard "Circle Bunnies" go here: http://www.totalaxxess.com/vault.php?gallery=p,15

There are two versions that Chris did. The most current is at the top on the right side of the page. Scroll further down for a more blues version if you have not heard it.
Carmen

rosalee said...

Amy's Purple Poodles -

We have tried chatting in the Fro Patro Chat Room, but the response time was not good. There were about a half dozen of us on at one time. We may try again with fewer people at some other time.

rosalee said...

That was a cool version of Circle Bunnies. I don't recall it airing during the show, though.

risalea said...

Candy--FYI-girls who think they can pass for older sisters after we get called out as the moms are welcome on road trips, but must sleep in the car. LOL Wish you could have been there, and look forward to seeing you and your mom again in July!

And what is this I hear about Chris calling out Sandi Patty-something about a dress.....?
;)

Amy, I will send you an email confirmation and will get your check in the bank this week so your dad has the cancelled check as well. What I am doing with the St. Jude checks is going ahead and sending them on to the hospital and just keeping a list so we'll know the total donated at the end.

One last word about our trip, then I'll shut up. Did I tell you how fabulous we looked? (well SOMEBODY had to say it!) I was just marveling at how here were 4 of us on this trip, all of us from different backgrounds, different states, different lives, who have found a common interest and managed to form friendships. And just like in "real" life, we don't always agree, and sometimes get annoyed with each other, but then someone goes to the couch to get away from the snoring, and all is well. : ) Seriously, the blogger girls are the best in the world....unfortunately not all could participate in this trip, but there will be more in the future and the picnic is getting close to being just 2 months away!

And I just found out Chris is coming to Arkansas! Chris, you didn't tell me that! (uh, that wasn't deliberate was it?)

OK, review to finish and I've been putting it off since I got home. No time left! Later! Risa

HstryQT said...

lol thanks Rosalee! (and Clearsa!) I'm glad someone still reads my posts :). I was so excited to see your famous Sligh purse in the Idols commercial! What great advertising - how did they get the picture? Did Chris give it to them or are you working behind the scenes??

Can't wait to see the Idols to Inspiration show!

risalea said...

Lori-I bet they took that from the picnic footage they took that day-remember GMC was there. I'm guessing that anyway. (not that I've seen it...I was in the bathroom!)

rosalee said...

Lori -
The Gospel Music Channel must have gotten that handbag shot from the footage they took last year at the picnic. It was a complete surprise to me that they honed in on that.

However, I also was helping them by submitting photos of a "younger Chris" from the fansite (Chris-Sligh.Info) for the program. GMC used one of the photos (from his high school) in the documentary.

HstryQT said...

OMG I had totally blocked out the fact that GMC filmed at the picnic -- they interviewed me and that terrified me and I decided to forget it ever happened. Haha.

That's great they used that footage and cool that Rosalee got to help them with pictures!

Anonymous said...

Wonderful update-- Thanks Chris! :-)
I was thinking of you, and hoping you were having a great time.

Having a number 1 song affords you some good measure of respect, I think, and that's worth alot. Making friends, getting to know the people in your sphere...it's awesome!
Congratulations on all that, and on your determination to let yourself ENJOY IT. ((hugs))

risalea said...

Drat! Double booking! Just called the church in Hot Springs about tickets for the May 8th show, and found out the AR date got cancelled. : (
Is this like when you get bumped off an airplane and get a free ticket for another flight? Oh wait, I didn't have my ticket yet. Never mind. : )

Not as good, but I am hoping to go see David Cook on Wed. at the Rev Room. He's been within an hour's drive twice in the last couple of months, but this is the first time in LR. (I don't travel too far unless it's a Sligh concert. LOL)

Cathy Storms said...

Oh Risa that sucks...

EmilyBoo said...

Risa, I had the same happen to me with one of the very few Michigan concert dates! Called the church and the show was canceled!

risalea said...

Too funny...I thought Chris was kidding on his Twitter!
Scroll on down towards the bottom of the blog.

http://ryanahorst.wordpress.com/2009/04/27/if-this-becomes-the-norm-im-ok-with-it/

DJ in AL said...

Risa-too funny, I know Chris appreciated the joke.

Anonymous said...

Thought you all might get a kick out of this not too well known news about David Cook. When he was in town last week to play his concert he pulled a surprise on even the media. He paid to have his crew set up his gear at his old high school. It was real hush hush not even the local media knew....only the school officials and it appears they were very good at keeping the secret. So the kids show up for a normal day of school and they are taken to the gym and guess who played them a full concert...no media just him, his band and them.
http://www.examiner.net/homepage/
x50630030/BEST-assembly-EVER-
David-Cook-surprises-his-
alma-mater-with-concert

Carmen said...

Risa,
Hate that AR got cancelled. Hoping that Jacksonville is still on. Maybe I should go check on tickets.
Randy,
Good to hear from you. I hope that make it to the picnic. That was very cool what David did.

risalea said...

Randy, did you get to see Rough Draft when they were in your neck of Missouri? They are the cutest little guys and so talented.

Anonymous said...

Nah I knew they were coming but we are moving to another town so you know how it goes. Still crossing my fingers for the picnic but my kids are popping out grandchildren right and left like miracle grow.

DJ in AL said...

Randy,

Bring the family with you, the more the merrier! It won't be the same without you! Thanks for the story on Cook.

DJ

risalea said...

I just realized after Jeff Matthews on B98 (our main man radio guy when Chris came here) was talking about AI this morning, that the AI finale is on May 19th, the same night as Ethan's HS graduation. ARGH! If Kris Allen makes the finals, I'm prepared. Thank goodness for FB on the BB to find out what his number will be and texting in votes! Well, that will give me something to do while a million HS kids march across until they get to the R's. LOL I don't think I'll be the only one!

I was hoping to go to Conway to his watch party tonight at UCA, but my schedule got changed and I have to do an after school program today, so I'll be getting home late.

Vote Kris Allen tonight, folks! : )

Cathy Storms said...

Happy Birthday to Deliah (my grandaughter & Chris's best friend). She turns 6 today...

Also Happy Birthday to my son Cody.

Carrie said...

Hope everyone had fun who went to the Doves!

Cathy, wish Delilah a happy birthday for me! I miss her and her siblings singing in the car! Too cute!!

I'm finally done with this semester as of today. Just have an exam. Woo. Hope I pass. It's astronomy and kinda hard. I also started my own blog back up about my art show if anyone is interested. I just had to edit a post and put in the complete set of photos I had in my show. :D

I'm kinda disturbed right now. A 12 year old boy was hit and killed by a truck around the block from my house yesterday morning and these children my sister babysit saw the entire thing as it happened. I guess he's been over at the house when my sister babysat and he was friends with one of the boys, not to mention went to my sisters old middle school. It happened right in front of a different school -- one my brother went to and it just really upsets me.

Some people I was friends with cause so much drama and complain and act immature and I have to stop and say you know what, grow up. This innocent, young boy will never get the chance to. So if everyone can keep those families in your thoughts, prayers, and/or condolences, I'd appreciate it.

risalea said...
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risalea said...

Absolutely, Carrie! Such a tragedy with someone so young. I hope the parents of the children who witnessed it will get them someone to talk to, either the school counselor or other. They will need some help to get past that.

You definitely must come to the picnic. I need to take photography 101 from you! : ) How exciting to have a show!

Cathy Storms said...

Carrie, that is a really sad story. I will be praying

Thanks for the birthday wishes for Deliah. Hope you can make it to the picnic...

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Hey Everyone,
I have curly hair too! When my dad saw the picture I had taken of Chris and I from the concert in Littleton, he said we looked a little like brother and sister because of our hair-mine's not as spirally as his. I LOVE curly hair-espeicially on guys(yes, I know Chris is already taken:( !).

Speaking of curly hair-Cathy,did you have curly hair before you had chemo? I need to be prepared in case my dad grows back a full head of hair (he's been bald since he was in his 20's) and Jackpot (my poodle, starts growing an extra tail, more eyes etc.(just kidding).

Carmen-can you send me a link so I can try to find out about your children's book with Chris in it. I'd love to get a copy for myself and my nephew.

Amy

DJ in AL said...

Carrie-that is so sad. I totally agree with comment, it really puts things in perspective doesn't it?

I'm headed to your blog to see your pics- did your show go well?
Ditto what Risa said, hope you can make it to the picnic.

DJ

Cathy Storms said...

Amy~yes curly hair rocks!!
No I had bone straight hair before chemo. Had curly hair when I was a little girl. My son and grandaughter have really curly hair so I'm sure it is in my genes somewhere. But I'm loving my curly hair....Just hope it stays curly.

risalea said...

OK, so you have your 6 degrees of separation...in Arkansas, that shrinks to like 2. I just found out who Kris Allen's wife is. I didn't catch it with her married name. She went to Oakbrooke (the school I taught at most of my teaching career) and I know her mom! She was like the best school volunteer ever. I ran into Peggy last year when I was doing a review at her school...she had gone into teaching since I had last seen her. I had no idea of the connection! Small world indeed.

Saw David Cook this evening at the Rev Room in LR...great show, but it sure is gonna' make for a short night's sleep when the alarm goes off. Nighty night!

Cathy Storms said...

Risa~That's a really cool story. You'll have to go to his homecoming party when idol is over.

risalea said...

Good morning, people! Where is everyone? It must be a busy week. I know it has been for me.

Y'all need to be following Chris on twitter if you're not. You're missing some tidbits. I know they used to show up on the blog, but for whatever reason don't now.

Emily is mailing me a copy of the Doves and the Idols to Inspiration show to copy. If it comes today or tomorrow, I'm going to do my best to get those done this weekend. It's pretty hectic at my house...HS senior weekend at church with several events going on. Let me know if you want a copy if you haven't already.

Have a great Friday, friends!

risalea said...

Oh, and folks we are just two months out from the picnic. Make your plans now to head to Nashville and get the scoop at www.fropatropicnic.webs.com. If you can't make it, you can still participate in our St. Jude donation by sending a check made out to St. Jude to the address at the website to be included in our total, or you can make a donation via paypal that we will combine into one check to the hospital. We're hoping to top last year's $1250 donation in memory of Amanda.

Nique's Nana said...

In the May 8 issue of Entertainment Weekly, page 63 there is a snippet on our guy Sligh's song Here Comes Goodbye. Shows his picture and says, "Sligh wrote this for Rascal Flatts, whose version is a smash. Songwriting suits season 6's curly-haired 10th place finisher. The tune is ubersimple but twangy-delicious." B+

risalea said...
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risalea said...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4gLgOj6K1A

Just found this on youtube....the clip showing the New Artist nominees from the Doves. Robbed, robbed, I say! If they had swung the camera up and to the right of Chris, you would have seen the Blogger girls and some of Chris's family. I promise we were screaming our little lungs out, though you can't hear it on here. (edited out perhaps? Or a sinister plot by another nominee to make sure that the Blogger girls were silenced! Hmmmm, sounds like the start of a BEEF to me! LOL)

Emily, didn't get the DVD yet. We got the mail from the tennis center behind us today, so I have a bad feeling ours got delivered to the wrong house, cause we never have a day without mail!

EmilyBoo said...

Uhoh, you didn't get it yet? What day did I say I mailed it? Tuesday? Yes, I think it was, because I remember I was going to mail it while my son was in school, but then I got pulled in to volunteer in his class because the teacher wasn't feeling well, so had to wait until after school.
I just checked my mail and it didn't come back... hope you get it soon!

risalea said...

Saturday--the 2nd

Emily, just checked the mail and found it! We had a boxful....have a feeling we had a sub mailman yesterday who didn't even get our mail from the P.O. to his truck on Friday. Thanks so much for sending that and I'll get it right back to you as soon as I make the copies.

Last call for copies as I'm going to TRY and get those made tomorrow afternoon.

risalea said...

Rosalee has put up a link on chris-sligh.info of an article on Chris's record label, Brash. Very interesting read! Don't miss it.

DJ in AL said...

Rosalee & Risa-very good article on Brash. It's so obvious why Chris went with them. It's so interesting to get the background and the mindset of the folks backing our favorite Idol.

Carmen said...

Just heard about David Cook's older brother passing away. Lets all try to keep the family in our prayers today. He was a very young man (36) and leaves behind a wife and children. .

Hischild said...

Oh, Carmen. I am SO sad to hear about Adam. I am praying for David and his whole family. They are very special people.

About the article posted on fansite: Thanks so much Rosalee. I enjoyed it.

I recommend everyone also check out the link on the left under Current Features. Click on "Introducing...Bluetree" and click on "hear the whole story here". Fascinating YouTube feature on the writing of God of This City.

Happy Monday to all!

~clearsa

Cathy Storms said...

I'm praying for David Cook and his family.

risalea said...

David went ahead and kept his commitment to run in a Race for Hope, that was dedicated to raising funds for brain cancer. I thought that was very admirable, and a lovely tribute to his brother.

I will say I was a bit disappointed in DC the other night in another way. His language, especially in light of the mixed age group there, was inappropriate. And because it was in a bar...there were the usual shoutouts--"who's drinking" Who's drunk" Who's heading that way" Maybe Chris can answer this general question...do artists feel pressured to pander to the crowd they are playing to? (David may not have known they opened it up for people under 21, there weren't any little kids, just older teens--I knew some of them) I probably was most offended by the drinking comments. I have a dear friend whose husband was paralyzed a year and a half ago, after being hit on his motorcycle by a drunk driver who got sloshed at a Sunday morning restaurant brunch. I'm just thinking teens hearing comments like that from someone they admire...just not kosher, ya' know?

Anyway, prayers for David and his family. His brother fought a long and courageous battle.

Anonymous said...

Loving reading all the comments. You all have such great things to share!

Risa-- I have to agree with you, about preferring a "cleaner" version of someone, no matter what the venue. I don't like it, and I don't think it's necessary at all. It cheapens them, and the experience. JMO.

One of David Cooks better attributes is being well-spoken, and a professed wordnerd. Why he'd toss that away for a minute of "coolness" to a bar crowd is perplexing. I always prefer a person who is clean and kind and well-spoken. Don't feel apologetic for feeling that way too. Crassness is overrated.

It's nice to know we don't have to worry about that with Chris. That he's a good guy on stage and off, it only adds to my esteem of him, honestly. Thanks to all of you for sharing your Dove Award experiences.

Keeping D.Cook and his family in my prayers on this difficult day...it's truly heartbreaking news.

EmilyBoo said...

My heart and prayers go out to the Cook family.

The article about Brash was really interesting!

Risa, I don't know how many DVDs you made, but I know there were a number of requests in the previous blog post. Here are the people I came up with that requested one, between this blog post and that one:
Cathy
Nique's Nana
Lori
Carmen
Clearsa

I'm sure I must have missed some, as not all of the usual suspects are on the list. Plus, Rosalee was going to check if her dad's girlfriend's recording came out, and as far as I could see, she never reported back on that, so she may need one.

risalea said...

I haven't made any yet....senior weekend at church did me in, but I will get them off before the week is out.

Phyllis, I should have your address, but just in case, please email to me at mkismybiz@aol.com.

Thanks for the info, Emily!

DJ in AL said...

Risa-I think you already knew that I wanted one?

robyn said...

Risa,
Can I get a copy?

risalea said...

Dj-well, duh! : )
Robyn-sure

rosalee said...

EmilyBoo -
Thanks - I already emailed Risa with my request separately.

Anonymous said...

I don't have much to say but I haven't posted in a while so I'm just saying HEY :)

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Cook family. Bottom line is... Cancer SUCKS.

Charsbeads4u said...

Hi Chris,
I'm one of Clearsa Wynn's friends from Calvary Community Church and I think it's great that she was able to come and hang with you and your family! Bless your heart for opening your home up to some of your faithful followers! =)
I also want to say to you...don't rate yourself by what men say, but rather what Fruits your loving Father in Heaven brings forth as a result of your faithfulness to Him. You are blessing so many people by your hit song Empty Me...you'll just have to wait until Heaven to see all of the lives that were touched by that amazing song! =)
Remain strong in your faith and keep your eyes on the prize, Jesus!!!
Peace
><>
Char
Phoenix, AZ

Hischild said...

Char!
How cool to see you pop your little head in here and encourage Chris like that!
You rock, ya know.

risalea said...

Just had to say it: I'm planning a "Kick Awesome" Friday! LOL Really looking forward to seeing Kris Allen come home. He's had massive support here and it's a nice thank you to all the Conway folks, in particular, who have been planning watch parties, selling t-shirts so his parents can travel back and forth to CA, and all that.

Chris Sligh, if I would have had an unlimited text plan and the info on power texting two years ago, I could have helped send you to #1! : ) Nah, never mind, then that would have changed everything and you might not have continued with the blog, we all might never have met, the picnic wouldn't have happened, you wouldn't have gone the Christian route (at least not right away), never gotten with Brown Bannister to make your fantastic album, you might not have gone to Nashville and met up with Clint L. to write a #1 country song, it goes on and on and boggles the mind! So things definitely do happen for a reason.

OK, working on finishing these DVD's and getting them in the mail. Later!

gdahimself said...

"...And because it was in a bar...there were the usual shoutouts--"who's drinking" Who's drunk" Who's heading that way" Maybe Chris can answer this general question...do artists feel pressured to pander to the crowd they are playing to?"

I think I understand the aspect of playing to the crowd before you. Independent of religious faith, the shout outs were irresponsible, and at this point in time possibly litigious. Bars in general and bartenders specifically are often libel for someone leaving drunk, particularly if that persons then drives and worse, has an accident.

rosalee said...

Hey - it's May 9th -

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY,
CHRIS AND SARAH SLIGH!!

DJ in AL said...

Congrats Chris & Sarah!

DJ

EmilyBoo said...

Happy Anniversary!

risalea said...

Oh, man I'm terrible with dates. Thank goodness for Rosalee!

Happy Anniversary, Chris and Sarah! Best wishes and here's to many more happy years ahead! (We're about to hit 31! I was a child bride. Really. LOL)

Hischild said...

Oh yay! Happy Anniversary Mr and Mrs Sligh! Hope you are together this whole weekend!

May is crazy celebration month for us. Son turned 18 yesterday. Sister b-day today. Mother's Day. Our 26 Wedding Anniv on 27th and son graduates 28th. Whew!

Risa, no cake was made yesterday so I guess Gaylon's Vanilla Creme cake is for anniv or graduation.
:o) It's nice to have an ace in the hole.

rosalee said...

Yes - May is a busy month for many people. One of my cockatiels just celebrated his 23rd birthday on May 5th. That's old for that type of bird. A girlfriend's birthday is today. Harry's birthday is on May 11th and he is retiring on May 15th.

I'm having trouble getting good seats for the American Idol Tour. They just added a show, too. I'll probably have to wait until the last minute the way I usually do to get seats close up.

risalea said...

I'm going to hijack the blog momentarily for you Kris Allen fans out there...

Here's some pics I took at Little Rock's Riverfront Amphitheater.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=22650&id=1111018038&l=26f12331c7

And here are some parade and Conway shots...could not get anywhere close to the stage at Simon Park...people started camping out the night before.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=22683&id=1111018038&l=8132e055d5
For lots more pics and video, go to www.fox16.com.
And vote for Kris on Tuesday night! (please!)

Oh, and I have to share a funny. My dental hygenist plays in my Bunco group. Gaylon had an appt. with her this past week. Rita came to Bunco and said that Gaylon had her laughing out loud. His comment, "First it's one Chris, then another!" LOL I laughed and told her, I didn't have the time or energy to follow two guys...I'll support Kris when he's home and buy his music, but beyond that, I'm spoken for! : )

rosalee said...

You got some nice shots, Risa. It looks like Kris really has a lot of support. I haven't voted for anyone so far this year, but maybe now it's time to start.

risalea said...

Thanks, Rosalee. I finally located a button on my camera that kept my pics in much better focus! It's funny, everybody in Arkansas claims a Kris Allen connection, but we are so small town, even in Little Rock, it's just the way it is. I think I told y'all that his wife, Katy, went to my elementary school and I know her mom. She's a gem. I sat behind two ladies at Riverfront who graduated with Kris's parents. And I found out a younger friend of mine who is getting married in Oct. has a bridesmaid whose boyfriend is Kris's best friend. Only in Arkansas! LOL

DJ in AL said...

Happy Mother's Day to all the Fro Patro Mom's!

I'm wishing you a wonderful day with those you love!


From a proud Mom herself, DJ in AL!

Anonymous said...

Hello Chris & All,

Happy Mother's Day to all the Mothers who write here.

Chris, think you need to honour and thank all the 'mothering' many of these amazing women give you...

Me...not so much, so I can suggest it without bias. :)

Off to a traditional Mother's Day concert and dinner.

Enjoy YOUR day everyone.

Shalom

Cathy Storms said...

Happy Mothers Day to all my girls...

Happy Anniversary to Chris & Sarah, a day late...

risalea said...

Happy Mother's Day, y'all!

Rosalee, per your post on AI seats....my friend went ahead and used the code to get some while I was out doing my thing on Friday. I hesitated, remembering how dear Amanda got 4 rows ahead of me on the floor purchasing at the venue the day of the show, and I had used the early PopTarts code. But, with Kris Allen being local, I figure the seats are are gonna' be gone, so I went with that. We aren't on the floor, but I think they are pretty good. I hope!

HstryQT said...

Rosalee & Risa, I also had issues again this year with the "pre-sale" Idol tickets. Ticketmaster is just lame and always says the show "sold out" when it really hasn't. My stepdad bought our tickets and freaked out - thinking he got the best he could. I told him that wasn't true and to try again - and of course there were more seats. The pre-sale is a bunch of crock. Same thing happened to me the Sligh year. Wait til the last minute - you'll get fine seats! :) That's my advice!

rosalee said...

I couldn't get in at all on the pre-sale. When they opened up the second show all they had on the floor were seats way in the back. I'm waiting until the last minute, but will periodically check before then.

Cathy Storms said...

Same thing happened with me when Chris was on the AI tour. Bought tickets that were pretty good, checked again 2 days before concert and ended up with second row tickets.
It seems to happen with all concerts...

Hischild said...

Rosalee,
Wish Harry a very happy birthday from me, will ya?
Hope it can be filled with special touches.

DJ in AL said...

Happy, Happy Birthday to sweet ole Harry!

Cathy Storms said...

Happy Birthday Harry!! Be sure and give him a big hug from Delilah. She still talks about him...

Nique's Nana said...

I got my dvd today, thank you so much Risa and Emily.

I watched it and thoroughly enjoyed it. It will get stored in my "all things Chris" memrobilia box.

risalea said...

Happy birthday, Harry! I made it in the nick of time!

Oh, BTW, thank you Chris Sligh. I was one of two "Sustainers of the Year" tonight at our Junior League of North Little Rock's annual meeting, in no small part to snagging you for the Heaven's Loft concert. I'm a rock star! LOL Seriously, the League means so much to me and it was a lovely honor. Now, what am I gonna' do to top that for next year? A Chris/Kris double bill? Hmmmmmmmmm.....Big LOL!

HstryQT said...

Got my DVD yesterday and very much enjoyed watching it!! Thank you Emily & Risa!

DJ in AL said...

Let me add my thanks to Emily and Risa for the DVD! Thanks for going to all that trouble for your fellow Fro Patroers!

Cathy Storms said...

Congrat's Risa..That's quite an honor.

Adding my thanks for the DVD also. You guys are awesome

rosalee said...

Harry says thanks for the birthday wishes!

Congratulations, Risa on your honor.

And thanks Emily and Risa for the DVD!

EmilyBoo said...

Glad everyone is enjoying their DVDs! Hubby still hasn't been able to get the system set up properly since the switcheroo! For some reason, if I want to use the DVD player/recorder, I have to unplug the Wii (and vice versa,) and it was not that way with the regular DVD player.

Chris, I think it's time for a new blog post! Not to pry, but I'm wondering what you meant by your recent twitters about knowing how artists can become jaded.

Anonymous said...

RE: Being Jaded. I'd like to hear more about that, too. It's one of the reasons I keep you in my thoughts and prayers, Chris. *hugs*

Random note, but fun nonetheless--
I had the Bus of Rascal Flatts come thru my workplace, the other day. Normally the drivers don't say who they are driving for(and I don't care enough to pry and wig out, asking) so it made me smile, when he said who it was. :-) I felt glad for you, and that song they play eleventy-million times a day on the radio. So, those people are on the Road, and I'm sure the song isn't done yet. Take care!

robyn said...

I got my dvd yesterday!
Thanks so much Risa and Emily!

Haven't had time to look at it yet. My daughter had her last school choir concert last night this time with their wind band and orchestra and it was so good! Kept me up pretty late though. It's been hard to get through this work day!
You ladies are wonderful!
thanks again,
robyn

DJ in AL said...

....one of the "Sustainers of the Year", what a fitting honor for you Risa! No doubt that you can do anything you set your mind to. Many congrats!

Ok Chris you've got us allatwitter with your twitter comment, 'slain dude!

DJ in AL said...

er, 'splain not 'slain!

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Hey Everyone!
Chris-Happy belated anniversary to you and Sarah-and like everyone else has been saying we want to hear from you about your twitter comment!

Risa-Congratulations on your honor and on your son's high school graduation.

Happy Birthday to anyone who had a birthday!

I hope the Happy Mother's day was extended to us who are "mamas to pets". I just have have a dog, but he acts like a kid-the three year old he is! There's this saying I've seen before, "Dogs are just children with fur".

Amy

DJ in AL said...

Amy, mothers of dogs, absolutely included!

risalea said...

Calling Chris Sligh, calling Chris Sligh....Dude (I'm channeling DJ)..where are you? We want to hear what's going on in your world, your thoughts on last night's Idol (I'll even forgive you...well maybe...if you liked Danny better than Kris). The music business world may be a jaded sort of place, but the blogger world is well, kick awesome! (LOL)