NASHVILLE - Four-time CMA Entertainer of the Year, Kenny Chesney, will bring his electrifying stage show to the 2009 CMA Music Festival as the closing act for Nashville's signature music event. Chesney will be the final performer when he takes the stage for the Nightly Concerts on the VAULT Concert Stage at LP Field Sunday.
In addition to Chesney, Jason Michael Carroll, Heidi Newfield, and Jimmy Wayne will be performing acoustic sets during the Nightly Concerts on the VAULT Concert Stage at LP Field.
The 2009 CMA Music Festival continues to get bigger and better, with music, sports, fun and food. There are so many things to do and see at the four-day festival that it now takes seven days to fit it all in. And the fun begins tonight!
Worldwide Appeal
CMA Music Festival becomes an international affair with the "CMA Global Artist Party," sponsored by NiteTrain Coaches, tonight, beginning at 6:15 PM, at The Stage on Broadway. Hosted by Jace Everett, the Global Artist Party will feature performances from a variety of international Country Music artists including Kirsty Lee Akers (Australia), Victoria Banks (Canada), George Canyon (Canada), Ashley Cooper (New Zealand), Colm Kirwan (Ireland), The McClymonts (Australia), Lucie Silvas (United Kingdom), and Peter McWhirter (Australia).
On Tuesday, starting at 3:30 PM at The Second Fiddle, Robert Reynolds hosts the AristoMedia Global Showcase, sponsored by CMA, Digital Rodeo, and NiteTrain Coaches. Artists participating include Tore Andersen (Norway), David Bradley (United Kingdom), Brianie (United Kingdom), Corey Colum (Australia), Dianna Corcoran (Australia), Rolf Fritschi (Switzerland), Pierre Lorry (France), and Codie Prevost (Canada).
Strike Up the Band
On Wednesday, beginning at 3:00 PM, "The Fifth Annual CMA Music Festival Kick-Off Parade" will feature Country Music artists and other celebrities riding in a wide variety of Chevy vehicles including the all new 2010 ChevyTM Camaro. With Rodney Atkins as Grand Marshal, other artists and celebrities participating include Deborah Allen, Lynn Anderson, Katie Armiger, Mandy Barnett, Bo Bice, Bomshel, NASCAR driver Jeff Burton, Caitlin & Will, Carter Twins, Brad Cotter, Sarah Darling, Due West, "The Biggest Loser's" Dan Evans, Colt Ford, The Grascals, Halfway to Hazard, Heartland, Ty Herndon, Steve Holy, Jypsi, Kate & Kacey, Sammy Kershaw, Brenda Lee, LoCash Cowboys, Lonestar, The Lost Trailers, Sean Patrick McGraw, Justin Moore, Megan Munroe, Oak Ridge Boys, One Flew South, Michael Peterson, Collin Raye, NASCA R driver Robert Richardson, Ricochet, Rio Grand, The Roys, Brady Seals, Sunny Sweeney, Trent Tomlinson, Trent Willmon, and Chris Young.
Other participants include the Chevy Little League Baseball, the CMT Mobile mascot, Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee, Ronald McDonald, Music City Drum & Bugle Corps, members of the Nashville Corvette Club, Nashville Zoo mascot Twiga, tractors from New Holland Agriculture, Operation Troop Aid, Tennessee Titans Mascot T-Rac, and members of the Westmoreland FFA Chapter from Westmoreland High School in Westmoreland, Tenn.
Beginning at the corner of Broadway and Sixth Avenue North, the procession will travel down Broadway; turn right on Third Avenue South; proceed down Third Avenue South until turning right on Demonbreun; proceed up Demonbreun to Sixth Avenue, and end at the Sommet Center.
Immediately following the parade, "The Fourth Annual CMA Block Party" will take place at the Sommet Center Plaza Stage (Fifth Avenue South and Broadway). Performers include:
3:05-3:25 PM Trent Tomlinson
3:40-4:00 PM LoCash Cowboys
4:15-4:35 PM Jason Michael Carroll
4:50-5:10 PM The Lost Trailers
5:25-5:45 PM James Otto
6:00-6:20 PM Emerson Drive
6:35-7:05 PM Eric Church
7:20-7:50 PM Rodney Atkins
Party Into The Night
Now in its second year as an official CMA Music Festival event, "Marty Stuart's Late Night Jam" takes place Wednesday (10:00 PM) at the historic Ryman Auditorium. Benefitting MusicCares and CMA's "Keep the Music Playing" music education campaign, this event will feature Native American ensemble Brulé, Cherryholmes, Corb Lund, The Oak Ridge Boys, Connie Smith, Eddie Stubbs, Tanya Tucker, and Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives.
A separate ticket is required for the Late Night Jam and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster outlets and at the Ryman Auditorium Box Office.
The Fun "Officially" Begins
The 2009 CMA Music Festival officially begins Thursday and continues through Sunday with hundreds of artists and celebrities, hours of concerts, autograph signings, family activities, sporting competitions, cooking exhibitions, interactive exhibits, giveaways, games, and much more.
"CMA Music Festival continues to be a world class event," said CMA Chief Executive Officer Tammy Genovese. "Fans from across the country and around the world return year after year to experience the fun and excitement that the Festival and the City of Nashville have to offer. There is no other event where fans can find this level of talent. It is a music lover's dream."
"Keep the Music Playing"
And it all benefits music education in public schools through the "Keep the Music Playing" program. The artists who participate in CMA Music Festival are not compensated for the hours they spend performing and signing autographs. To show its appreciation, CMA contributes half the net proceeds from the event on their behalf. To date, CMA has contributed more than $2.2 million to support music education in Metro Nashville Public Schools.
Now you can help "Keep the Music Playing" too. The Nashville Alliance for Public Education will be collecting gently-used band instruments Thursday through Saturday (11:00 AM-5:00PM) and Sunday (11:00AM-4:00 PM) in the Dr Pepper®-McDonald's® Family Zone. The instruments will supplement the thousands of instruments already purchased by the program. Artist Jimmy Wayne will be on hand Thursday (2:00-3:00 PM) to accept donations. McDonald's is providing a coupon for a free Extra Value Meal to the first 500 donations.
Fun in the Sun
For the first time, the Daytime Riverfront Stage will be free and to the community and Gretchen Wilson will kick off four days of concerts beginning Thursday (10:00 AM). Over the course of the Festival, many of Country Music's legends and hottest rising stars will perform on the banks of the Cumberland River.
Artists performing include Bill Anderson, John Anderson, Keith Anderson, Bellamy Brothers, Tracy Byrd, Jason Michael Carroll, Eric Church, Bucky Covington, Diamond Rio, Eli Young Band, Emerson Drive, Gloriana, Josh Gracin, Jessica Harp, the Honky Tonk Tailgate Party featuring Jeff Bates, Trent Willmon, and Mark Wills, Randy Houser, Joey + Rory, Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers, Lost Trailers, Love and Theft, Neal McCoy, Peter McWhirter, Jo Dee Messina, John Michael Montgomery, Craig Morgan, Lorrie Morgan, Heidi Newfield, Joe Nichols, Jamie O'Neal, Oak Ridge Boys, One Flew South, James Otto, Randy Rogers Band, Collin Raye, Restless Heart, Ashton Shepherd, Aaron Tippin, Phil Vassar, Clay Walker, Chuck Wicks, Darryl Worley, Chris Young, and the winner of the WKDF Battle of the Bands.
The concerts are hosted by a variety of celebrities and broadcast personalities including CMT Radio Live's Cody Alan, Lynn Anderson, WKDF/Nashville's Becca, WSM/Nashville's Bill Cody, Linda Davis, Billy Dean, WSIX/Nashville's Slam Duncan, and Cledus T. Judd, Bryan White, and actress Erika Page White.
A Little Night Music
The Nightly Concerts on the VAULTTM Concert Stage at LP Field (home of the NFL's Tennessee Titans) feature the biggest names in Country Music, emerging stars and surprise guest. Four-day ticket holders can get a front-row shot from the popular Photo Line, which is in constant motion in front of the stage during the performances.
Pre-show activities opening night (7:30 PM) include A Music City welcome from Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, the presentation of the Stars and Stripes by the U.S Marine Corps Recruiting Station Nashville, and a flyover by the VMFA 251 Thunderbolts (Marines) from Beaufort, S.C. Chuck Wicks will perform the National Anthem. Performers include (artists and schedule subject to change):
Thursday, June 11
8:00 PM - Brooks & Dunn
8:50 PM - Reba McEntire
9:25 PM - Julianne Hough
9:41 PM - Jimmy Wayne
9:51 PM - Darius Rucker
10:21 PM - Dierks Bentley
10:51 PM - Rascal Flatts
11:26 PM - Brad Paisley
Friday, June 12
8:00 PM - Luke Bryan
8:26 PM - Little Big Town
8:44 PM - Rodney Atkins
9:14 PM - Lady Antebellum
9:44 PM - Jake Owen
10:14 PM - Zac Brown Band
10:40 PM - Jason Aldean
Saturday, June 13
8:00 PM - Josh Turner
8:30 PM - Jamey Johnson
8:50 PM - Jason Michael Carroll
9:00 PM - Lee Ann Womack
9:35 PM - Wynonna with a special appearance by The Judds
10:20 PM - Trace Adkins
11:00 PM - Martina McBride
Sunday, June 14
8:00 PM - Jack Ingram
8:16 PM - Heidi Newfield
8:26 PM - Montgomery Gentry
8:56 PM - Miranda Lambert
9:31 PM - John Rich
10:01PM - Taylor Swift
11:17 PM - Kenny Chesney
Hosts for the Nightly Concerts include Bradford Anderson ("General Hospital"), Brandon Barash ("General Hospital"), Kathy Brier ("General Hospital"), Kassie DePaiva ("One Life To Live"), Bobbie Eakes ("All My Children"), Rebecca Herbst ("General Hospital"), Kimberly McCullough ("General Hospital"), actress Melissa Peterman, CMT's Lance Smith, Greg Vaughan ("General Hospital"), GAC's "Headline Country" host Storme Warren, Bree Williamson ("One Life To Live"), and Laura Wright ("General Hospital").
The Nightly Concerts on the VAULT Concert Stage at LP Field feature state-of-the-art production and fireworks at the conclusion of each show. The fireworks display is generously sponsored by Greased Lightning on Friday; and VAULT on Saturday.
Tickets for each nightly show at LP Field can be purchased at a cost of $40 for reserved seating and $30 for general admission. Single night tickets can be purchased in advance through the CMA Music Festival Box Office at The Sommet Center, 501 Broadway, Nashville, or toll free at 1-800 CMA-FEST (262-3378). Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster outlets. Ticket price does not include applicable handling fees.
Single night concert tickets will also be sold during CMA Music Festival at the LP Field ticket office beginning Wednesday. The single night concert ticket is only good for that night's performance at LP Field.
Greased Lightning® Fan Fair® Hall
The lifestyle exhibits and autograph booths in the Nashville Convention Center are a traditional favorite. Entrance into the Greased Lightning Fan Fair Hall is exclusive to four-day ticket holders only. Artists scheduled to sign autographs include legends, today's hitmakers, and tomorrow's hopefuls.
For the first time in 13 years, Reba McEntire will be among the artists meeting their fans and signing autographs in the Greased Lightning Fan Fair Hall. Taylor Swift will be signing in the Big Machine Records booth all day Sunday and Julianne Hough, Little Big Town, Montgomery Gentry, LeAnn Rimes, Carrie Underwood, Gretchen Wilson, and Wynonna will also meet their fans.
Other performers and celebrities scheduled to appear include Charlie Allen, Deborah Allen, Jeff Allen, Tamara Allen, Keith Anderson, Lynn Anderson, Tara Arender, Katie Armiger, Billy Arnold, Brittany Lee Aultman, Razzy Bailey, Tyler Bailey, Jeff Bates, Heather Beeler, Debbie Bennet, Beyond the Ashes, Bo Bice, Brittini Black, BroadBAND, Dean Brody, Lane Brody, Brothers Finch, The Broussards, T. Graham Brown, Brulé, Luke Bryan, Julia Burton, Sarah Buxton, Tracy Byrd, Caitlin & Will, Don Campbell, Jason Michael Carroll, John Carter, Carter Twins, Carter's Chord, Jessica Cayne, Championship Bull Riders, Cherryholmes, Will Clements, Stephen Cochran, Mark Collie, Scott Collier, Elizabeth Cook, Katie Cook, Brad Cotter, Bucky Covington, Cowboy Crush, Jason Crabb, Leslie Craig, Timothy Craig, Candice Crain, Crook & Chase, Connie Culter, Sarah Darling, Justin David, Duke Dean, Courtney Dickerson, Diva s of Daytime TV featuring Kathy Brier, Kassie DePaiva, and Bobbie Eakes, Susie Dobbs, Mason Douglas, Finley Duke, Daniel Eagle, Eli Young Band, Emerson Drive, Dan Evans, Mona Faith, Donna Fargo, Fast Ryde, Amanda Feassant, Mark Ferrari, Colt Ford, Fox Brothers, Janie Fricke, David Frizzell, Nikki Gardner, Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers, Memarie Gayle, Billy Gilman, Gloriana, Molly Gonzalez, Ben Gregg, Adam Gregory, Lauren Griffin, Andy Griggs, Angela Hacker, Larry Hamilton, Greg Hanna, Sharon Hardman, Jessica Harp, Vernon Harris, Amber Hayes, Wade Hayes, Fidel Hernandez, Ty Herndon, Justin Heskett, Hali Hicks, Naomi Hills, Lucas Hoge, Shelby Horner, Randy Houser, Hoss Howard, Con Hunley, Michael Lee Hunt, Jack Ingram, Peggy Inks, Emma Mae Jacobs, Kyle Jennings, Buddy Jewell, Joey + Rory, Rene Jones, Zona Jones, Cledus T. Judd, Naomi Judd, Jet Jurgensmeyer, Jypsi, Kate & Kacey, Sage Keffer , Kentucky HeadHunters, Jimmy Kish, David Langley, Anna LaPrad, Lindsey Lawler, Dylon Leblanc, James LeBlanc, Dickey Lee, The Lost Trailers, Charlie Louvin, Love and Theft, Cassidy Lynn, Irlene Mandrell, Miko Marks, Keith Markum, Amanda Marsh, Doug McCormick, Neal McCoy, Mel McDaniel, Ronnie McDowell, Sean Patrick McGraw, Billy McKnight, Vince Melamed, DJ Miller, Kris Miller, Moore & Moore, Justin Moore, Amber Morgan, Craig Morgan, William Michael Morgan, Mulch Brothers, Megan Mullins, Mustang Creek, Nash Street, Scott Neff, Kari Nelson, Joe Nichols, Anthony Orio, Jake Owen, David Parker, The Parks, Michael Peterson, Stu Phillips, Point of Grace, Emily Portman, Martin Ramey, Maria Ratcliff, Marty Raybon, Redd Hot Mamas, Dee Reilly, Reunionaires, Emily Riesen, The Roys, Travis Rush, Dave Russell, Michael Scott, Brady Seals, Kevin Sharp, Ashton Shepherd, Dianne Sherrill, Daryle Singletary, Ray Sisk, Damon Smith, Daniel Smith, Joanna Smith, Lance Smith, Jimmy Snyder, The Springs, Brian Stace, Ray Stephenson, Doug Stone, Sunset Slim, Sunny Sweeney, TelluRide, Glen Templeton, Aaron Tippin, Melanie Torres, Rhonda Towns, Trailer Choir, Jay Turner, Josh Turner, Tommy Tutone, Jimmy Twitty, Joni Twitty, Kathy Twitty, Michael Twitty, The Two Timers, Clay Underwood, Melanie Walker, Taylor Ware, Steve Wariner, Karleen Watt, Maddy Watts, Jimmy Wayne, Emily West, Steven West, White Mountain Boys, Bryan White, The Whites, Chuck Wicks, Holly Williams, Jett Williams, Leona Williams, Rachel Williams, Trent Willmon, Mark Wills, Lauren Winans, Jon Wolfe, Billy Yates, Chris Young, Cora Zoan, and many others. Artists are subject to change.
A popular feature of the Greased Lightning Fan Fair Hall is the Durango® Acoustic Corner. This area, on the second floor of the Nashville Convention Center in Room 209, offers independent artists a place to showcase their talent. Open daily (Thursday 11:00 AM-3:15 PM; Friday and Saturday 11:00 AM-4:00 PM; and Sunday 11:00 AM-2:30 PM), Durango Acoustic Corner is free for all four-day ticket holders.
Artists scheduled to perform at Durango Acoustic Corner include Razzy Bailey, BroadBAND, Don Campbell, John Carter, Will Clements, Timothy Craig, Candice Crain, Justin David, Divas of Daytime TV, Dan Evans, Billy Gilman, Ben Gregg, KC Johns, Sage Keffer, Jimmy Kish, Miko Marks, Amanda Marsh, John Arthur Martinez, The Roys, Damon Smith, Daniel Smith, Brian Stace, TelluRide, Rhonda Towns, and Rachel Williams. Artist lineup is subject to change.
Get Into the Zone
The Sports Zone is the place to be for sporting fun, friendly competitions between celebrities, athletes, and more. Located in the parking lot to the North of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and east of the Hilton Suites Nashville Downtown, the Sports Zone is open Thursday through Saturday (11:00 AM-5:00 PM) and Sunday (11:00 AM-4:00 PM). Admission is free to the public.
On Thursday (1:00 PM) in the ChevyTM Display area, fans can attend a turkey calling seminar hosted by The Outdoor Channel's Nick Mundt.
On Thursday (12:00 PM and 2:00 PM), Friday (4:00 PM), and Saturday (1:00 PM) in the ChevyTM Display area, Bob Redfern, of Bob Redfern's Outdoor Magazine will host an outdoors cooking demonstration.
Also Thursday (11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM); Friday (11:30 AM and 1:00 PM); and Saturday (11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM), the "Ultimate K9 Sports Show presented by Waggin' Train Dog Treats" will entertain fans as these premiere Frisbee dogs put on a show full of cutting edge, high flying acrobatics. Fans will be invited to be a part of the show and will get a chance to meet the K9 stars afterwards. All of K9s in Flight's stars have been rescued or adopted from shelters all over the country.
On Friday (11:00 AM-Noon), popular outdoorsmen David Blanton and Michael Waddell will be in the Sports Zone to meet their fans. Fans can also watch artists and celebrities test their skills at the Mahindra Tractors Celebrity Bull Riding Challenge (3:30 PM). Participants include Jason Brown, Jeremy Crady, Jeremy McComb, Jay O'Shea, Mark O'Shea, River County, and athletes from Championship Bull Riding.
Fishing enthusiasts will have an opportunity to meet their favorite professional fisherman on Saturday (11:00 AM-Noon and 4:00 PM-5:00 PM) and Sunday (11:00 AM-Noon, and 3:00 PM- 4:00 PM) as the FLW Anglers will be signing autographs. In addition, fans can participate in a hunters safety seminar conducted by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Sunday (11:30 AM) marks the return of the New Holland Celebrity Tractor Race Hosted by Michael Peterson. A perennial favorite at CMA Music Festival, celebrities and artists race against each other and the clock on a New Holland BoomerTM compact tractor. Participants include Deborah Allen, Stephen Barker, Jason Brown, A.J. Clark, Mark Collie, Brad Cotter, Adam Craig, Richard Falklen, Richie Fields, Zac Hacker, Greg Hanna, Heartland, Julie Ingram, Joe Jobe, Chuck Leavell, Darby Ledbetter, LoCash Cowboys, Megan Munroe, Robert K. Oermann, The Roys, Brenda Valentine, Jimmie Van Zant, Wynn Varble, and Michael Waddell.
Visitors to the Sports Zone can also visit the Sony PlayStation® Experience Tour for non-stop competition and prizes, and a chance to game with Jason Michael Carroll; drive a racing simulator and get an up-close look at the NASCAR Nationwide Series showcar in the Nationwide Insurance booth; and register to win an ATV at the Allstate Insurance booth.
New to this year's Festival is the Sports Zone at Fort Nashboro (First Avenue North at Church Street, adjacent to Riverfront Park), which will host three exciting events. On Thursday (12:30-3:30 PM), the Field & Stream Celebrity Total Outdoorsman Challenge pits artists and celebrities against three-time Total Outdoorsman Champion Paul Thompson, testing their skills hunting and fishing. Participants include Bo Bice, Rhean Boyer, Dean Brody, Jason Brown, Matt Dame, Dan Evans, Daniel Lee Martin, Dave Robbins, Ronnie 'Cuz' Strickland, Rusty Tabor, Keni Thomas, Trent Willmon, and Mark Wills.
On Friday (10:00 AM), the Field & Stream Celebrity Total Outdoorsman Challenge Regional Competition will take place. Fifty pre-qualified sportsmen and sportswomen will compete to move on to the National Championship, to be held in Springfield, Mo.
On Friday (3:30 PM), the Outdoor Life Save-A-Stream Charity Pro-AM will take place. Hosted by the Sportsman Channel's Daniel Lee Martin, artists and celebrities demonstrate their skills in turkey and big-game calling. Participants include Julie Ingram, John Stone, and Trent Willmon.
The Dr Pepper®-McDonald's® Family Zone is designed for young children as well as the young at heart. This free area, located at the Hall of Fame Park at Fifth Avenue South and Demonbreun Street in front of Hilton Suites Nashville Downtown is open Thursday-Saturday (11:00 AM-5:00 PM); Sunday (11:00 AM-4:00 PM).
At the Dr Pepper-McDonald's Family Zone, kids can climb inflatables, meet "Mac" the Penguin and "Tad" the Bullfrog from the Tennessee Aquarium, The Lorax©, Junie B. Jones®, The Poky Little Puppy, The Cat in the Hat©, as well as the Cabbage Patch Kids®. In addition, there will be interactive games, face painting, balloon animals, arts and crafts, and more. Everyone can enjoy the exhibits, displays, food sampling and giveaways from Cabbage Patch Kids, Carl Black Chevrolet, Dr Pepper, McDonald's, and Random House Children's Books. Fans could even win a 2010 ChevyTM Camaro courtesy of Dr Pepper.
Family friendly entertainment is available at the Family Zone's Main Stage. Fans can enjoy a variety of performers, storytelling, and cooking demonstrations. Slated to appear are Adam and the Couch Potatoes, celebrity chef Jon Ashton, BummKinn Band, Katie Chance, Conductor Jack and the Zinghoppers, DIY Network's Deconstruction featuring Matt Blashaw, GrandBob, comedy and magic with Sean T. Hughes, Janet's PlanetTM, Ronald McDonald Show®, and Taylor Ware.
Kids can satisfy their sweet tooth with cupcake and apron decorating sponsored by Dr Pepper. Celebrity chef Jon Ashton and Megan Munroe will lend a hand on Friday (2:15 PM); Shawna Russell and Carol Fay, "the biscuit lady" from Loveless Café, will team up on Saturday (2:15 PM).
On Saturday (11:00 AM-3:00 PM), the 26th Annual YWCA Celebrity Auction with Martina McBride will take place. Hosted by "Headline Country's" Storme Warren with appearances by Katie Armiger, Bo Bice, Jason Michael Carroll, Erika Dunlap, Jeff Hanna, Joey + Rory, Jypsi, Martina McBride, The Roys, Emily West, and Chris Young, this popular event will feature signed items from Brooks & Dunn, Kix Brooks, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton, Rascal Flatts, George Strait, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Phil Vassar, and Gretchen Wilson.
The Fun Zone, located on Broadway between First Avenue South and Third Avenue South, will keep families excited and busy while they enjoy product samples from Blue Bell Ice Cream, Greased Lightning, Post Honey Bunches of Oats, Martha White, Tetley Iced Tea, Smoothie King, VAULTTM Citrus Soda, and Votre Vu paris·france. Visitors can also experience archery in a safe, enclosed environment through the BowTech Interactive Archery Experience, get an autograph from the Mahindra Tractors #23 Nationwide Series driver Robert Richardson, Jr. and PBR star Tyler Thompson, meet championship bull rider athletes from the Bull Riding Challenge, and meet the GEICO Gecko.
In addition, fans can see if they've got what it takes to host their own home improvement show. DIY Network's "Stud Finder" will be on site for live auditions. One lucky winner will walk away with the grand prize - their very own show on DIY Network!
The Hard Rock Cafe Outdoor Stage is also located in the Fun Zone. Free and open to the public, this stage will showcase an array of Country Music artists including Deborah Allen, Katie Armiger, Veronica Ballestrini, Julia Barton, Brittini Black, Block Family Band, Ash Bowers, Stephen Dale, Whitney Duncan, Heartland, Her and Kings County, Herrick, KC Johns, Jason Jones, Amber Leigh, Jeremy McComb, Sean Patrick McGraw, Megan Mullins, One Flew South, Michael Peterson, Pistol, Riders in the Sky, Rio Grand, Jason Scott, Brady Seals, Daryle Singletary, Matt Stilwell, Sunny Sweeney, Keni Thomas, Josh Thompson, The Two Timers, Williams Riley, Tommy Joe Wilson, and the WKDF Battle of the Bands.
New this year is the Music City Zone, located at Courthouse Park. Sponsored by the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Music City Zone will feature a beer garden offering local brews, cuisine from Backyard Burgers, Guitar Hero kiosks, a recording booth where visitors can record their own demo, a barefoot-friendly fountain and a Cool Tent with air blowers and misting.
The GAC Music City Stage, located in the Music City Zone, will showcase Nashville musical artists. Artists scheduled to perform include Mandy Barnett, Brittini Black, Laura Bryna, The Dirt Drifters, Gabe Dixon Band, Grandstaff, Adam Gregory, Heartland, Lucas Hoge, Rick Huckaby, KingBilly, Jeremy Lister, Matt Ridenour, Dana Romanello, Ray Scott, Sixwire, MTA's Transit, and Lane Turner.
More Free Music
The Sommet Center Plaza Stage, at Fifth Avenue South and Broadway, is always a fan favorite and a great place to check out some of Country's hottest acts. Artists participating in the daily concerts include Katie Armiger, Bo Bice, Blackberry Smoke, Bomshel, Lee Brice, Dean Brody, T. Graham Brown, Caitlin & Will, Carter Twins, Carter's Chord, Cherryholmes, John Conlee, Jeff Cook, Cowboy Crush, Billy Dean, Fast Ryde, Colt Ford, The Grascals, Halfway to Hazard, Ty Herndon, Steve Holy, Irish Showcase featuring Philomena Begley, Eamon McCann, Louise Morrisey, Aidan Quinn and Warren Smyth, Jypsi, Kate & Kacey, Kentucky HeadHunters, Charlie Louvin, Justin Moore, David Nail, Danielle Peck, Julie Roberts, Jonathan Singleton & the Grove, Trailer Choir, Rhonda Vincent, Emily West, and Holly Williams.
CMA Music Festival After Hours sponsored by CMT and Wrangler®
When the music ends at LP Field's Nightly Concerts, the night is just getting started at 17 downtown clubs and lounges as CMA Music Festival After Hours sponsored by CMT and Wrangler® gets underway.
Clubs participating in CMA Music Festival After Hours include B.B. King's Restaurant and Blues Club, Bailey's Pub and Grille, Cadillac Ranch Rock-N-Country Bar and Grill, Coyote Ugly Saloon, Full Moon Saloon, Hard Rock Cafe, Layla's Bluegrass Inn, Legends Corner, Limelight, Nashville Crossroads, Rippy's Smokin' Bar and Grille, Robert's Western World, Ryman Auditorium, Second Fiddle, The Stage on Broadway, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, and Wildhorse Saloon.
Thursday through Saturday (11:00 PM), Songwriters Night at the Hard Rock Cafe will feature some of Nashville's best songwriters and provide fans with a glimpse into the stories behind the songs.
Songwriters Night at the Hard Rock Cafe is a separately ticketed event. Ticket prices are $15 and can be purchased at www.ticketalternative.com. Participating songwriters include Rhett Akins, Gary Burr, Sarah Buxton, Dallas Davidson, Bob DiPiero, Luke Laird, Jason Matthews, Bobby Pinson, Rachel Proctor, Karyn Rochelle, Leslie Satcher, Jonathan Singleton, James Slater, and The Warren Brothers.
The Hard Rock Cafe is supporting the "Keep the Music Playing" program with proceeds from the sale of two commemorative pins - one shaped like a guitar and one shaped like a guitar case. Each pin is $12 and available for purchase while supplies last at Hard Rock Cafe Nashville located at 100 Broadway.
ABC Block Party
Scheduled for Friday and Saturday (11:30 AM-5:00 PM), the ABC Block Party, hosted by Cameron Mathison ("Ryan Lavery" on "All My Children"), promises entertainment for all ages. Held at the Hall of Fame Park (adjacent to Fifth Avenue between Broadway and Demonbreun), kids, along with more daring adults, can check out the two "Wipeout" obstacle courses, a fun-filled yet toned down version of the popular ABC show "Wipeout".
There will be plenty of music too, courtesy of the Divas of Daytime: Kathy Brier and Kassie DePaiva ("Marcie McBain" and "Blair McBain," respectively, from "One Life to Live"), and Bobbie Eakes ("Krystal Carey" on "All My Children"), who are making their Nashville debut as a trio. In addition to performing Country and Southern rock favorites at the ABC Block Party Friday and Saturday, they will perform as an unplugged in the Durango® Acoustic Corner inside the Greased Lightning® Fan Fair® Hall on Saturday (1:15-1:45 PM).
The Divas will also sign autographs, sit for Q&A sessions and mingle with fans at the ABC Block Party, along with their fellow ABC Daytime stars Bree Williamson ("Jessica Brennan" on "One Life to Live"); Thorsten Kaye ("Zach Slater" on "All My Children"); and Bradford Anderson, Brandon Barash, Kimberly McCullough, Greg Vaughan, Laura Wright, and Rebecca Herbst ("Damian Spinelli," "Johnny Zacchara," "Robin Scorpio," "Lucky Spencer," "Carly Corinthos Jacks," and "Elizabeth Webber" respectively, on "General Hospital").
There will be special musical performances by several Country artists including Love and Theft and Caitlin & Will on Friday (11:50 AM-12:20 PM and 1:20-150 PM respectively), and Sarah Buxton and Sara Evans on Saturday (12:35-1:20 PM and 3:50-4:50 PM respectively).
Beyond all that, the ABC Block Party will offer trivia contests, Country line-dance lessons, a photo booth, and more. ABC-branded souvenirs will be given away, including beach towels, cowboy hats, gift baskets, sunscreen, and T-shirts.
Getting Around
A limited number of on-site, pay parking spots ($10 per vehicle) will be available each night at LP Field in Lots E and F, just across the Woodland Street Bridge. This parking lot is not available for pre-purchase. It is available for purchase on-site, on a first-come, first-serve basis Thursday and Friday (after 5:00 PM); and all day Saturday and Sunday. Ample paid surface lots and parking garages are also available in Downtown Nashville, conveniently accessible to LP Field via the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge.
CMA Music Festival activities are conveniently located in Downtown Nashville within walking distance. Plus, there is access to free shuttles at major CMA Music Festival event sites for all four-day ticket holders. Downtown shuttles run daily on a continuous loop. Handicapped-accessible shuttle buses are available with attendants to offer assistance.
Shopping
CMA Music Festival attendees can take home a little piece of the event with merchandise purchased at this year's Festival.
The Festival product line will be available onsite through Music City Merchandise. Booths will be set up at the Greased Lightning Fan Fair Hall, Daytime Stage at Riverfront Park, Dr Pepper-McDonald's Family Zone, LP Field, and the Sommet Center. Merchandise is subject to availability. CMA Music Festival stores and store locations are subject to change without notice. For complete merchandise information, or to order online, visit www.CMAfest.com.
2009 Ticket Packages Still Available
Four-day ticket packages for 2009 CMA Music Festival are still available. The package categories correspond to different levels of seating at LP Field. Children 3 years and younger are admitted free. The four-day ticket package includes the Nightly Concerts on the VAULT Concert Stage at LP Field, exclusive access to the Greased Lightning® Fan Fair® Hall in the Nashville Convention Center, early access to the Riverfront Stage, exclusive access to the Photo Lines at LP Field and Riverfront Park, exclusive access to the event shuttle between venues, admission to the Frist Center for the Visual Arts (today through Monday, June 8-15), and a registration bag, with collectible pin, and 2009 souvenir program book. Prices do not include applicable handling fees. Ticket prices and artists are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable.
Tickets for each nightly show at LP Field can be purchased at a cost of $40 for reserved seating and $30 for general admission. Single night tickets can be purchased in advance through the CMA Music Festival Box Office at The Sommet Center, 501 Broadway, Nashville, or toll free at 1-800 CMA-FEST (262-3378). Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster outlets. Ticket price does not include applicable handling fees.
* NOTE: Please call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378) for information on ADA seating, which may be available in Sold Out sections.
2010 CMA Music Festival Tickets
The 2010 CMA Music Festival will take place Thursday through Sunday, June 10-13, in Downtown Nashville. Tickets for 2010 CMA Music Festival will be available for sale only in Nashville on Saturday and Sunday (9:30 AM-6:00 PM) at The Sommet Center Box Office, 501 Broadway; Saturday (9:30 AM-10:00 PM) at the LP Field Box Office and Sunday (1:00 -10:00 PM) at the LP Field Box Office.
Tickets for the 2010 CMA Music Festival will go on-sale nationwide Monday, June 15 (10:00 AM/CT).
To order tickets, call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); visit www.CMAfest.com to download an order form to fax or mail; visit www.ticketmaster.com to buy online or charge-by-phone at (800) 745-3000. Prices do not include applicable handling fees. Ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable. Four-day ticket package categories correspond to a different level of seating at LP Field. Children 3 years and younger are admitted FREE.
2010 CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL FOUR-DAY TICKET PACKAGE PRICES
2010 CMA Music Festival Four Day Ticket prices are: Gold Circle, $300 (sections A-E); Floor Level, $185 (all sections renewable); Lower Level Renewable, $175; Lower Level, $155; Club Level Renewable, $155; Club Level, $145; Upper Level Reserved, $120; Upper Level General Admission, $110.
*Prices do not include handling fees
Gold Circle (floor) includes front stage reserved floor seating with great views; exclusive wait staff offering convenient food and beverage service at your seat; and preferential parking at LP Field (one complimentary pass per order). Limit four tickets per order. Gold Circle seats for the 2009 CMA Music Festival sold out quickly after going on sale last year. Order early for best seating.
ABC Television Special - Monday, Aug. 31
As previously announced, CMA Music Festival will be filmed for a television special. This year, "CMA Music Festival: Country's Night to Rock" will expand to three hours and will air on the ABC Television Network Monday, Aug 31 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET). Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Gary Halvorson is the Director. This is the fifth year the special will air on ABC. The primetime special debuted on the CBS Television Network in 2004. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.
The concerts and the interaction between artists and fans will be captured in the special, with heart-pounding performances interspersed with unprecedented behind-the-ropes access to the stars.
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