Shows Blog: Uncategorized

Wow, what a great show CMT Giants Hank Williams Jr. was. I was backstage grabbing interviews before it all started. Not only did I get to talk to Hank himself, but I also talked to Gretchen Wilson, Kid Rock, Tim McGraw, and even Steven Tyler from Aerosmith! Steven was a delight. There are some celebrities that you just expect to light up a room when they walk in (Dolly Parton, Wynonna etc..). I wanted Steven to be that way too. He walked up and was everything I was hoping for. He was funny, full of energy, and ready to shine. Despite the terrible fires in LA, the energy out there was great and I can't wait to see the show on CMT. It will air Saturday November 17th so we don't have long to wait.

I don't exactly have a "need for speed", so when CMT asked me if I wanted to ride around the track with Dale Earnhardt Jr., I hesitantly agreed. I know what a dream come true this would be for so many people, so I had to be brave and go for it! Being in a car with Dale Jr. is a dream for any lady, but going that fast??? I can't believe we didn't flip over. It feels so unnatural to go at that speed and right on the bumper of another car too! I knew I was in great hands, but that didn't stop me from keeping my eyes closed most of the time. I am so happy I had this experience, and if you ever get the chance to drive in a car with Dale, go for it.

The Wrangler sponsored event raised money for The Victory Junction Gang Camp and Make A Wish Foundation. I was also able to drive a race car myself around the track which was a serious blast. I thought I was going so fast, but apparently I didn't even break 100 miles an hour. After this experience, I have a whole new appreciation for what these drivers do.

Dolly Parton has always been one of my favorite artists and anytime I can talk to her, I jump at the chance! We recently went to Dollywood for her Barbeque and Bluegrass festival. She was decked out as usual and was just hilarious. I took my brother, Jason, along for the ride and he got to meet her and have his picture taken with her. What fun that was!

He is 6'5" and Dolly is probably not much over 5' tall. It made for a cute picture. He also got to ride all the roller coasters. He said that the Mystery Mine was the best by far. In case you're wondering, I didn't ride any. I am way too scared to go on a roller coaster! Dollywood is so fun. If you've never been, you should make time to visit.

I mentioned that we have some great CMT Insider Special Editions coming soon. In addition to Faith Hill September 29, we have a show with Sara Evans October 6. Sara has a Greatest Hits album coming out. We had a great talk about all the past hits and the new songs on the album. Following a stressful year, she seems as focused as ever on her music. She looks great and was in great spirits. As I said, that special is coming up in October, so check it out.