Legendary singer kicking off performances starting on Feb. 10

Nashville, TN (January 31, 2012) -- Randy Travis, seven-time Grammy award winner and country music superstar, is gearing up to launch his 2012 concert tour in celebration of his silver anniversary with a kick-off performance on February 10th in Grand Ronde, Oregon at Spirit Mountain Casino with additional shows spanning the U.S. and Canada. Known as one of the music industry’s top-selling and most renowned artists, Travis is announcing, at this time, more than 30 cities with early stops to include Boise, Denver, Fort Worth and many others, plus Calgary. Fans can expect several more shows to be added to this year’s performance schedule.

In June 2011, the Grand Ole Opry member marked the official beginning of his 25th year in the industry with the Warner Bros. Records release of the Anniversary Celebration album. Among the musical masterpieces on the 17-track CD are a combination of originals and Travis favorites such as More Life, Road to Surrender, He Walked on Water and Forever and Ever, Amen. It features a powerful lineup of guest artists, including Brad Paisley, Kenny Chesney, Kris Kristofferson, Carrie Underwood, George Jones, Zac Brown Band, Lorrie Morgan, Jamey Johnson and more. In May 2011, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® released the 11-track CD, Randy Travis, which benefitted the national Wounded Warriors Project.

A chart-topping icon with multi-platinum albums and more than 40 appearances in television and film, Randy Travis has maintained a sense of integrity that has touched and inspired many throughout his stellar career. When reflecting on milestones of his quarter-century in the music business, Travis says, "I'm surprised at how fast the first 25 years have gone by. It feels like only five." As for the upcoming tour, "there's no better feeling than being on stage and the connection with a live audience."

For more information on the tour and CD, please visit: www.randytravis.com.

About Randy Travis
Warner Bros. Records has been home to Randy Travis for the majority of his recording career; and together they have accumulated lifetime sales of his music in excess of 20 million units to date. Travis is one of the biggest record sellers in music industry history, with 18 #1 singles, 29 Top 10 chartings, certification of the rare quintuple platinum album (Always and Forever, released in 1987), one triple platinum album (Storms of Life, released in 1986), two double platinum’s (Old 8x10, released in 1988, and No Holding Back, released in 1989), eight platinum albums, and 10 gold albums. Major industry career awards include seven GRAMMY Awards, five Country Music Association Awards (CMA), 10 Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM), 10 American Music Awards (AMA), two People’s Choice Awards, and eight Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association. He is a three-time recipient of CMA Award’s “Song of the Year’’ honors (“On The Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever Amen,” and “Three Wooden Crosses”). Randy Travis has appearances in more than 40 feature film productions and major television projects to his credit. In 2004, he was honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In the midst of every major career award and accolade, he considers his honored induction as a member of the famed Grand Ole Opry, in Nashville, in 1986, as a shining highlight of his first 25 years of legendary accomplishments.

25th Anniversary Celebration Tour Itinerary
(partial listing, more dates to follow)
Feb. 10, 2012 - Grand Ronde, OR - Spirit Mountain Casino -8:00 p.m.
Feb. 11, 2012 - Airway Heights, WA - Northern Quest Casino - 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 13, 2012 - Boise, ID - Morrison Center - BSU - 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 16, 2012 - Denver, CO - Grizzly Rose - 8:30 p.m.
Feb. 17, 2012 - Colorado Springs, CO - Pikes Peak Center - 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 18, 2012 - Greeley, CO - Union Colony Civic Center - 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 19, 2012 - Beaver Creek, CO - Vilar Center for the Arts - 8:00 p.m.
Mar. 3, 2012 - Coachella, CA - Spotlight 29 Casino Showroom - 9:00 p.m.
Mar. 9, 2012 - Winnie, TX - Nutty Jerry’s - 8:00 p.m.
Mar. 10, 2012 - Ft. Worth, TX - Billy Bob’s Texas - 8:00 p.m.
Mar. 18, 2012 - Gainesville, TX - Red River Celebration – Gainesville High School - 6:00 p.m.
March 22, 2012 - Dothan, AL - Toadlick Music Festival – Main Stage - 5:00 p.m.
Apr. 7, 2012 - Laughlin, NV - Riverside Casino – Amphitheater - 8:30 p.m.
May 4, 2012 - Biloxi, MS - Beau Rivage Casino - Theatre - 8:00 p.m.
May 5, 2012 - Live Oak, FL - Suwannee River Jam – Main Stage - 5:00 p.m.
May 6, 2012 - Melbourne, FL - Runaway Country Space Coast Music Festival – Wickham Park (Main Stage) - 2:00 p.m.

Miranda and Blake will perform “America the Beautiful” as a duet
The Song Will Be Available To Purchase On iTunes Today

NASHVILLE, TN – (January 31, 2012) - Three-time GRAMMY® nominated artist, Blake Shelton will take the stage with GRAMMY® winner, Miranda Lambert at Super Bowl XLVI on February 5th, 2012. The couple will open the event by singing a duet version of “America the Beautiful”. Superbowl XLVI will mark Miranda and Blake’s first TV performance since their top-headlining nuptials in May 2011.

Blake and Miranda’s version of “America the Beautiful” will be available on iTunes beginning today, January 31. To purchase this song, visit http://www.smarturl.it/americathebeautiful.

Blake will be returning to the second season of the hit show “The Voice” premiering after the Super Bowl at 10PM ET on NBC.

The multi-platinum selling and reigning two-time CMA and ACM Female Vocalist of the Year Miranda Lambert is ‘On Fire’ with her recently released Gold certified album “Four The Record” and her hot headlining tour “On Fire.” Her current single is the powerful, “Over You,” written by Miranda and Blake. Upon its release, Four The Record made history when it debuted atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, making Miranda the first country artist in the 47-year history of the chart to have each of her first four albums debut at # 1. Four The Record, garnered rave reviews from the press and ended 2011 on many Album of the Year lists including Rolling Stone, USA Today, People Magazine, American Songwriter, The Houston Chronicle and many others. In fact, Rolling Stone called it “…her most easeful and assured effort yet,” and added the song “Mama’s Broken Heart” to their Singles of the Year list.

Blake Shelton is one of the "most versatile of contemporary country singers" (The New York Times). The reigning CMA Male Vocalist of the Year for the second consecutive year recently celebrated three GRAMMY® nominations and a three-week No. 1 hit with his song, “God Gave Me You.” The single is off his release, Red River Blue and marks Shelton’s fifth consecutive No. 1. Red River Blue debuted at No. 1 on the Soundscan Top Current Albums chart and Soundscan Top Country Albums chart with the Associated Press calling the album “the best album of his career.” Shelton’s infectious multi-week No.1 hit, “Honey Bee" is also off Red River Blue and is his first ever digital Platinum single. He holds the record for the fastest-selling digital Platinum single for a male country solo artist. The single held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Country chart for four weeks in a row with over 40 million in audience. No country artist has held this record in almost six years. Shelton has ten No. 1 hits and has not had a single peak outside the Top Ten since 2007. Shelton is currently one of the musician coaches on NBC’s “The Voice” along with superstars Christian Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine.

For more information on Blake Shelton, please visit www.BlakeShelton.com.

For more information on Miranda Lambert, please visit www.MirandaLambert.com.

NASHVILLE, TN – (January 31, 2012) – Hot new country trio, THE FARM, is set to make their Grand Ole Opry debut February 10th, 2012. Made up of members Nick Hoffman (vocals, fiddle), Damien Horne (vocals, keyboard, guitar) and Krista Marie (vocals, guitar), the act is deeply rooted in Country Music with their core built around a solid, identifiable vocal harmony. Performing as an acoustic trio for their Opry debut, the exciting milestone follows the success of the band’s first single release, “Home Sweet Home,” which is currently No. 38 on Mediabase with 70 adds across the country. The track will be featured on the band’s forthcoming debut album, which will be released later this year via All-In Records/Elektra Nashville, co-produced by Farmer Nick Hoffman with hit songwriter, Danny Myrick.

“Playing the Grand Ole Opry is a dream of all dreams, as an artist, a fan and an African American. I am honored and humbled by this opportunity.” – Damien Horne, THE FARM (vocals, keyboard, guitar)

“One of the very first things I did after moving to Music City was visit the Grand Ole Opry. It was SO exciting and intimidating to stand on the stage where all the legends have played. The last time my grandmother came to visit, she said, ‘I can't wait until the day YOU are playing here. I won't miss it!’ It's now two years since she passed, but I know that she will be there, and have the best seat in the house. I'm honored to be sharing this special moment with my amazing partners, Nick and Damien.” - Krista Marie, THE FARM (vocals, guitar)

“Being invited to play the Grand Ole Opry is, simply put, a dream come true. As a fiddle player, one of my earliest inspirations was and still is the great Opry star Roy Acuff. When I first saw him spin his bow and play that fiddle on TV, I knew that Nashville was the place for me. All of my heroes are Opry Stars. I still spin my bow around on stage as a bit of a tribute to Mr. Acuff. It'll be one of the great moments of my life to stand where they stood.” - Nick Hoffman, THE FARM (vocals, fiddle)

For more information on THE FARM, visit: www.thefarmmusic.com / facebook.com/farmmusic
Follow: @thefarmmusic

Blake’s Loaded: The Best of Blake Shelton And Red River Blue Earn RIAA GOLD Certification

Top row (L to R): Lou Ramirez, Justin Luffman, Chris Stacey, Kelli Cashiola, Shane Tarleton, Scott Hendricks, Tyler Wall, Tree Paine, Cris Lacy

Bottom row (L to R): Kristen Williams, John Esposito, Blake Shelton, Peter Strickland, April Johnson

NASHVILLE, TN – January 30, 2012 - Three-time GRAMMY® nominated artist and ACM Entertainer of the Year nominee, Blake Shelton earned PLATINUM certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for “God Gave Me You”. In addition, Blake’s Loaded: The Best of Blake Shelton and Red River Blue albums have simultaneously earned GOLD certification by the RIAA. Red River Blue introduced hit singles, “Honey Bee”, certified PLATINUM last year, and “God Gave Me You,” and is also a GRAMMY® nominee for “Best Country Album”.

John Esposito, President and CEO of Warner Music Nashville and Staff surprised Blake at his sold-out show in Duluth, GA this past Friday, January 27 with three plaques to commemorate the most successful year of Blake's career. Blake recently kicked off his sold-out headlining arena tour, “Well Lit & Amplified Tour 2012” January 12 in Toledo, Ohio with Justin Moore and Dia Frampton.

Blake Shelton is one of the "most versatile of contemporary country singers" (The New York Times). The reigning CMA Male Vocalist of the Year for the second consecutive year is currently up for three GRAMMY® nominations and two ACM nominations including their most prestigious honors, Entertainer of the Year. His new single “Drink On It” recently hit country radio and is the follow-up from his three-week No. 1 song, “God Gave Me You.” The single is off his current release, Red River Blue and marks Shelton’s fifth consecutive No. 1. Red River Blue debuted at No. 1 on the Soundscan Top Current Albums chart and Soundscan Top Country Albums chart with the Associated Press calling the album “the best album of his career.” Shelton’s infectious multi-week No.1 hit, “Honey Bee" is also off Red River Blue and is his first ever digital Platinum single. He holds the record for the fastest-selling digital Platinum single for a male country solo artist. The single held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Country chart for four weeks in a row with over 40 million in audience. No country artist has held this record in almost six years. Shelton has ten No. 1 hits and has not had a single peak outside the Top Ten since 2007. He is currently one of the musician coaches on NBC’s “The Voice” along with superstars Christian Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine. Shelton recently kicked off his sold-out headlining arena tour, “Well Lit & Amplified Tour 2012.”

For more information on Blake Shelton and “Well Lit & Amplified Tour 2012” tour dates, please visit www.BlakeShelton.com.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlakeShelton
Twitter: www.twitter.com/BlakeShelton
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/BlakeShelton

THE BAND PERRY AND BLAKE SHELTON FOR A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE ON THE 54TH ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS®

Music's Biggest Night® — Hosted by Rapper/Actor LL COOL J — Airs Live on CBS
Sunday, Feb. 12, 8 ET/PT

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2012) — Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and five-time GRAMMY® winner Glen Campbell — currently out on the road for his "Goodbye Tour" — will join current GRAMMY nominees The Band Perry and Blake Shelton for a special performance on the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards® (www.grammy.com). Music's Biggest Night® — hosted by two-time GRAMMY winner LL COOL J — takes place live on Sunday, Feb. 12 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast in high definition and 5.1 surround sound on the CBS Television Network from 8 – 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT). The show also will be supported on radio worldwide via Dial Global, and covered online at GRAMMY.com and CBS.com, and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/thegrammys. Additional performers, presenters and special segments will be announced soon. For GRAMMY coverage, updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy®'s social networks on Twitter and Facebook: www.twitter.com/thegrammys, www.facebook.com/thegrammys.

Blake Shelton is up for two awards: Best Country Solo Performance for "Honey Bee" and Best Country Album for Red River Blue.

The Band Perry is nominated for Best New Artist.

Previously announced performers for the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards include current GRAMMY nominees Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson, Coldplay and Rihanna, Foo Fighters, Bruno Mars, Paul McCartney, Nicki Minaj, and Taylor Swift. Aldean, The Band Perry, Minaj, and Shelton will perform on the GRAMMY telecast for the first time, while Clarkson, Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Mars, McCartney, Rihanna, and Swift are returning to the GRAMMY stage. LL COOL J has hosted "The GRAMMY Nominations Concert Live!! — Countdown To Music's Biggest Night" since its inception in December 2008, and this is his first time hosting the annual GRAMMY Awards telecast.

The 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards are produced by John Cossette Productions and AEG Ehrlich Ventures for The Recording Academy®. Ken Ehrlich is executive producer, Louis J. Horvitz is director, and David Wild and Ken Ehrlich are the writers.

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part
of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @TheGRAMMYs on Twitter, like "The GRAMMYs" on Facebook, and join The GRAMMYs' social communities on YouTube, Tumblr, Foursquare, GetGlue, and Instagram.

This Is Blake’s First Academy Of Country Music Entertainer Of The Year Nomination

NASHVILLE, TN – (January 26, 2012) – Blake Shelton was honored this morning with two Academy of Country Music Award nominations including their most prestigious honor, Entertainer of the Year. He is also nominated for Male Vocalist of the Year.
"The support I have felt this week is overwhelming," commented Blake. "Thank you everyone for this honor".

The 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards is hosted once again by Reba and Blake and will be air live on the CBS Television Network from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, April 1 at 8:00 PM ET/PT.

Blake Shelton is one of the "most versatile of contemporary country singers" (The New York Times). The reigning CMA Male Vocalist of the Year for the second consecutive year is currently up for three GRAMMY® nominations. His new single “Drink On It” recently hit country radio and is the follow-up from his three-week No. 1 song, “God Gave Me You.” Both singles are off his current release, Red River Blue. Red River Blue debuted at No. 1 on the Soundscan Top Current Albums chart and Soundscan Top Country Albums chart with the Associated Press calling the album “the best album of his career.” Shelton’s infectious multi-week No.1 hit, “Honey Bee" is also off Red River Blue and is his first ever digital Platinum single. He holds the record for the fastest-selling digital Platinum single for a male country solo artist. The single held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Country chart for four weeks in a row with over 40 million in audience. No country artist has held this record in almost six years. Shelton has ten No. 1 hits and has not had a single peak outside the Top Ten since 2007. He is currently one of the musician coaches on NBC’s “The Voice” along with superstars Christian Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine. Shelton is currently on his Sold-Out headlining arena tour, “Well Lit & Amplified Tour 2012.”

For additional information on Blake Shelton, please visit www.BlakeShelton.com.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlakeShelton
Twitter: www.twitter.com/BlakeShelton
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/BlakeShelton

DETROIT NATIVE BEGINS TOUR MARCH 2012 WITH UNCLE KRACKER

Nashville, TN – (January 23, 2012) – Atlantic Records soulful, southern rock newcomer, Ty Stone, has just released his new video for “Anywhere’s Better” today on CMT.com to a hot reception. The video, which features CMT's Sweet Home Alabama star Ashley Ann Vickers along with cameo appearances by Kid Rock and Uncle Kracker, has racked up almost 10,000 views in just a few hours rocketing to the Top 5 most viewed on the homepage. This latest single will also be featured on Stone’s upcoming debut album American Style, executive produced by Kid Rock and set for release this spring on Atlantic / Top Dog Records. The Detroit native, who is already known for his distinct vocals, is also kicking off a 26-date tour March 1st with Uncle Kracker. Full list of tour dates below.

Originally from Lincoln Park, MI, Ty Stone was flipping burgers before being discovered by future label mate and music superstar Kid Rock. Stone had spent 2011 touring, most recently wrapping up an opening run with Kid Rock on his charity club tour in November.

For more information on Ty Stone, please visit: www.tystonemusic.com / http://www.facebook.com/tystonemusic / http://twitter.com/tystone

UPCOMING TOUR DATES WITH TY STONE ARE AS FOLLOWS:
MARCH
1 - Macomb, IL - Forum Live
2 - Minneapolis, MN - Toby Keith’s
3 - Lincoln, NE - Uncle Ron’s
8 - Columbus, OH - Bluestone
9 - Indianapolis, IN - 8 Seconds
10 - Rootstown, OH - Dusty Armadillo
14 - Washington, DC - 9:30 Club
15 - Foxboro, MA - Toby Keith’s
16 - Niagara Falls, NY - Rapids Theatre
17 - Mt. Laurel, NJ - Prospectors
22 - Flint, MI - Machine Shop
23 - Grand Rapids, MI - Intersection
24 - Chicago, IL - Joe’s
25 - Kansas City, MO - Beaumont Club
29 - San Miguel, CA - The Ranch
30 - Reno, NV - Knitting Factory

APRIL
4 - Davis, CA - The Davis Graduate
5 - Boise, ID - Knitting Factory
6 - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theatre
7 - Seattle, WA - Showbox at the Market
12 - Salt Lake City, UT - Westerner
13 - Cheyenne, WY - Outlook Saloon
14 - Denver, CO - Toby Keith’s
17 - Flagstaff, AZ - Museum Club
19 - Mesa, AZ - Toby Keith’s
20 - Bakersfield, CA - Crystal Palace

John is the first artist that has ever been presented with this award

NASHVILLE, TN – (January 17, 2012) – John Rich received the Randy Owen Angels Among Us Award during the Country Cares for St. Jude Kids® Seminar in Memphis, TN this past weekend. The award is presented to a member of the country music industry who demonstrates commitment and dedication to children battling cancer and other deadly disease at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Randy Owen, who founded the Country Cares program in 1989, gave the award to a country music artist for the first time.

John Rich’s fundraising efforts for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital began when he won the hit NBC show “Celebrity Apprentice” on behalf of St. Jude Children’s Research. During the show John raised over $1.4 million dollars for the organization.

"St. Jude holds a very special place in my heart," said Rich. "It's like no other place and I'm just so honored to help raise awareness for this organization and to receive the first-ever Angels Among Us Award from Randy."

ABOUT JOHN RICH
Renowned artist, producer and songwriter John Rich is also one-half of the multi-platinum duo Big & Rich. His new boot-stomping, high energy SIX PAK Rich Rocks is available everywhere now. His impactful SIX PAK album, For the Kids is also available and pays tribute to the friends and families of his favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. A portion of the proceeds from For the Kids will go directly to support the foundation. Rich has garnered multiple GRAMMY, ACM, CMA and CMT Music Award nominations and is a three-time ASCAP Songwriter of the Year recipient with 13 top ten hits including Faith Hill’s “Mississippi Girl,” Faith and Tim McGraw’s “Like We Never Loved At All,” Gretchen Wilson’s “Redneck Woman” and Jason Aldean’s “Hicktown.” Jason Aldean’s hit “Don’t You Wanna Stay” feat. Kelly Clarkson. Rich’s first solo release, Son Of A Preacher Man, featured the hit single “Shuttin’ Detroit Down,” which was his first solo hit to land in the Top 15 on the Country Singles Chart. Rich is the only country music artist who has garnered a Top 15 single as a part of a group, duo and solo artist.

ABOUT COUNTRY CARES FOR ST. JUDE KIDS®
Country Cares for St. Jude Kids® is one of the most successful radio fundraising events in America. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has been actively involved in radiothon fundraising for more than 30 years. In fact, hundreds of radio stations across the country have helped raise more than $400 million for the life-saving work of St. Jude, and the St. Jude family of partner stations continues to expand. One of the fastest growing radiothon programs is Radio Cares for St. Jude Kids. Focusing on station formats such as Adult Contemporary, Gospel, Urban AC, Lite Rock, Classic Rock and Oldies, Radio Cares is designed to increase the community's awareness and support of St. Jude. A Radio Cares radiothon typically lasts two days and is highlighted by St. Jude patient stories, story song vignettes and exciting radio station promotions, making it a "win-win" not just for St. Jude, but also for the radio station itself.

JANA KRAMER’S DEBUT SINGLE “WHY YA WANNA” GAINS 55 RADIO ADDS TO BECOME COUNTRY AIRCHECK’S MOST ADDED DEBUT ARTIST SINCE THE INCEPTION OF THE CHART

SINGLE FEATURED ON DEBUT ALBUM WHICH WILL BE RELEASED ON ELEKTRA NASHVILLE

Nashville, TN – January 18, 2012; Elektra Nashville recording artist and seasoned actress, Jana Kramer, released her debut single “Why Ya Wanna” this week, which debuted with 55 radio adds -- making her the most added debut artist in the history of Country Aircheck. Along with being the biggest debut artist since the chart’s inception in 2006, Kramer’s adds are nearly triple the previous record for any debut female artist. The single, which is currently available on iTunes, is also featured on her upcoming album to be released later this year on Elektra Nashville. Kramer is currently in the studio working on her debut album, title TBD, with award-winning producer Scott Hendricks (Blake Shelton, Brooks & Dunn).

While this is Kramer’s first official radio release, she has already sold an impressive number of digital singles without any airplay; racking up almost 200,000 single sales to date. Kramer, who also plays Alex Dupre on One Tree Hill, says, “’Why Ya Wanna’ is a song that everyone can relate to. When I first heard the song, I was hooked immediately. It was literally everything I was going through and more, so it meant a lot to record a personal song that became my first single.” Adding, “I have to thank country radio for believing in me. I'm beyond humbled and excited for this amazing start to my music career.”

For more information please visit, JanaKramer.com / facebook.com/janakramermusic /
Follow: @kramergirl

Newcomer Categories Combined For One New Artist of the Year Award

Encino, CA (January 13, 2012) – The Academy of Country Music and Great American Country (GAC) announced today that for the fourth consecutive year, the newcomer category for the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards — New Artist of the Year—will be opened up to interactive fan voting through VoteACM.com and GACtv.com/ACM, beginning Monday, January 16, 2012.

The Academy of Country Music combined all newcomer categories into a single combined, overall category for New Artist of the Year. The New Artist of the Year award absorbs all newcomer categories including New Male Vocalist, New Female Vocalist, New Vocal Duo, New Vocal Group, New Solo Vocalist and New Vocal Duo or Group categories from past years, and the winner will be revealed on the LIVE telecast at the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards. The show is produced for television by dick clark productions and will be broadcast from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Sunday, April 1, 2012 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.

The top 8 artists from the first round of ACM professional voting are considered semi-finalists and will compete via the GAC fan vote at GACtv.com/ACM, combined with the ACM professional membership vote, to determine the final 3 nominees for the Award. The final 3 nominees will compete for the trophy, with a combined fan and professional membership vote to determine the winner.

NEW ARITST OF THE YEAR semi-finalists are:
• Brantley Gilbert
• Hunter Hayes
• JT Hodges
• David Nail
• Jerrod Niemann
• Justin Moore
• Scotty McCreery
• Thompson Square

First round fan voting for New Artist of the Year will begin at www.VoteACM.com and www.GACTV.com/ACM on Monday, Jan. 16th at 9 a.m. ET, and will close on Monday, Jan. 30th at Noon ET. The final three nominees will be announced in February and will move on to compete for ACM New Artist of the Year. Final round voting for the New Artist category will begin at VoteACM.com on Monday, March 19th and will close on April 1st, with the winner being announced live during the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards broadcast on CBS on Sunday, April 1st at 8p ET/PT.

As part of this partnership, GAC will air several stand-alone specials, including a show featuring the top eight semi-finalists, as well as a show featuring the final nominees who will compete for New Artist. The first GAC special “ACM Showcase” will feature all eight semi-finalists, and will premiere Monday, January 16 at 8:00 PM ET. This special will re-air through January 30, when voting closes. The GAC “ACM New Artist of the Year” special will feature interviews and exclusive performances with the final three nominees. That special premieres March 19 at 9:00 PM ET and airs through April 1.

About the Academy of Country Music Awards
The 47th ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS is dedicated to honoring and showcasing the biggest names and emerging talent in the country music industry. The show is produced for television by dick clark productions and will be broadcast LIVE from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Sunday, April 1, 2012 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network. Orly Adelson and R.A. Clark are executive producers. Barry Adelman is producer, and Bob Bardo is the executive in charge of production. Bob Romeo is executive producer for the Academy of Country Music. For more information, please visit www.ACMcountry.com.

About Great American Country (GAC)
Great American Country is the leader in country music entertainment, and delivers to viewers the widest variety of country music, its artists and the lifestyles they influence. GAC broadcasts original country music programming, music performance specials, live concerts and music videos. GAC is available in more than 59 million households and online at http://www.GACTV.com.

GAC is owned by Scripps Networks, the leading developer of lifestyle-oriented content for television and the Internet, including HGTV, DIY Network, Food Network, Travel Channel and Fine Living Network. Scripps Networks is based in Knoxville, Tenn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta and Nashville, and is a unit of Scripps Networks Interactive (NYSE:SNI).

If you are a member of the media, please log on to the Scripps Networks Online Media Center (http://newsroom.scrippsnetworks.com) for the latest brand news, useful photos and graphics, detailed programming information, contacts and current research.

Nominees for the Academy of Country Music Awards will be announced in soon. For more information on ACM Awards criteria, please visit http://www.acmcountry.com/awards/votingcriteria.php.