Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Big Al Weekley
Vince Gill: A Timeless Country Music Icon
Vince Gill: A Timeless Country Music Icon A Legacy of Music and Mastery Vince Gill, a name synonymous with country music excellence, has captivated audiences for decades with his soulful voice, exceptional guitar skills, and heartfelt songwriting. His journey to stardom began in the late 1980s, but it was his 1990 hit “When I Call Your Name” that propelled him to international fame.
Ashley Wineland Interview
Ashley Wineland Interview Ashley Wineland, a rising star in country music, is set to release her new single, “Crank It Up,” produced by the award-winning songwriter and producer Marti Frederiksen. Known for his work with artists such as Carrie Underwood, Ozzy Osbourne, Buckcherry, Gavin Rossdale, and Daughtry, Frederiksen has also co-written and produced the Aerosmith album Just Push Play, produced “Cry” by Faith Hill, and worked with Sheryl Crow, P!nk, and Eminem.
Matt Oakley Interview
Matt Oakley Interview Matt Oakley, a rising star in the indie music scene, has captivated audiences with his heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies. Hailing from a small town in the heart of the American Midwest, Oakley’s music reflects his deep-rooted connection to his roots and his unwavering passion for storytelling. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of country and folk, Oakley developed a love for music at a young age.
Alina Sebastian Interview
The singer, songwriter and producer, who has won five German Rock & Pop Awards, developed her own style through influences from pop and country music, which is unique on the German music market. Gentle ballads on the piano, catchy melodies on the guitar or powerful on the bass - alone or with their band behind them - not only the songwriting, but also the shows are varied and full of energy.
Lisa-Marie Fischer Interview
Lisa-Marie Fischer: A Rising Star in the German Americana Scene Lisa-Marie Fischer is a talented singer-songwriter from Marburg, Germany, who has been making waves in the German Americana music scene. Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences with their authenticity and emotional depth.
Stephen & Jana Mougin Interview Part 2
Stephen & Jana Mougin Interview Part 2 Slovakian born and classically trained vocalist, Jana Mougin oversees media relations for Dark Shadow Recording. The label is owned by Jana and her husband, Stephen Mougin. Jana holds a master’s degree in audio-visual media journalism from Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia. She worked for two years in the documentary department of Slovak National Television, but she knew she was called to do something else with her life.
Stephen & Jana Mougin Interview Part 1
Of all the singers who might legitimately be called Nashville’s best-kept secret, none would have a stronger claim, if she were the kind of person to make it, than Dark Shadow Records’ Jana Mougin. Born in Slovakia, trained as a classical vocalist, Jana became the lead singer, electric bassist and frontperson for the Czech/Slovak bluegrass band, Fragment.
Daniel Grindstaff Interview
Daniel Grindstaff Interview Over the years, banjo extraordinaire Daniel Grindstaff has carved out his own path in the Bluegrass, Americana and Country industries. Along the way, he’s shared the stage with some of his biggest musical heroes, appeared countless times at the iconic Grand Ole Opry and made several national television appearances. A native of East Tennessee, he has performed across the United States and Canada with some of the very best in Bluegrass, Acoustic, and Country music.
Will Wesley Interview
Will Wesley Interview Grit has forever seeped from the pores of country rocker Will Wesley, a grit that has materialized as life has punched him from every angle, often forcing the kid from Louisiana to take his anger out on the strings of his beat-up guitar. Born in the picturesque town of Baker, Louisiana, Wesley was born with a rebellious spirit. He never loved playing by the rules and didn’t particularly like the word ‘no.’.
Whitney Miller Interview
Whitney Miller Interview Whitney Miller, also known by her stage name WHIT, is a rising country rock singer-songwriter based in Nashville, Tennessee. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, Miller’s passion for music developed at a young age. After graduating from Texas State University, she moved to Austin to pursue her musical career. Miller’s music blends elements of country, rock, and Americana, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Country Music News International Newsletter
Here is your Country Music News & Bluegrass Music News of the week from Country Music News International Magazine & Radio Show! You can publish the Newsletter to your websites or forward to your friends. If you enjoy keeping up to date with country music, please consider supporting Country Music News International with a small donation. Simply use PayPal and send to CountryMusicNewsInternational@GoogleMail.com and help us keep bringing you all the latest news in country music.
Waylon Hanel Interview
Waylon Hanel Interview Twenty-two-year-old Waylon Hanel is a self-taught musician and singer characterized by his textured vocals and endearing ability to captivate audiences. The Michigan native has quickly become recognized for his down-to-earth style, bold delivery and vivid storytelling. Named after country music legend Waylon Jennings (one of his biggest musical influences), Hanel has worked to hone his skills in developing a vintage signature style of his own.
Tyler Jones Interview
By loading the video, you agree to YouTube's privacy policy. Learn more
Country Music News International Newsletter
Here is your Country Music News & Bluegrass Music News of the week from Country Music News International Magazine & Radio Show! You can publish the Newsletter to your websites or forward to your friends. If you enjoy keeping up to date with country music, please consider supporting Country Music News International with a small donation. Simply use PayPal and send to CountryMusicNewsInternational@GoogleMail.com and help us keep bringing you all the latest news in country music.
Thomas Goforth Interview
By loading the video, you agree to YouTube's privacy policy. Learn more
The Heels Interview
The Heels Interview In the heart of the Lone Star State, where the sun-kissed prairies stretch out as far as the eye can see, a trio of sisters, known simply as The Heels, were weaving their own tale of country music magic. The eldest, Sarah, possessed a voice that could soothe the soul, her rich tones carrying the weight of tradition. Her younger sister, Emily, was a fiery guitarist, her fingers dancing across the strings with a passion that ignited the crowd.
Sheyna Gee Interview
By loading the video, you agree to YouTube's privacy policy. Learn more
Country Music News International Newsletter
Here is your Country Music News & Bluegrass Music News of the week from Country Music News International Magazine & Radio Show! You can publish the Newsletter to your websites or forward to your friends. If you enjoy keeping up to date with country music, please consider supporting Country Music News International with a small donation. Simply use PayPal and send to CountryMusicNewsInternational@GoogleMail.com and help us keep bringing you all the latest news in country music.
Shenandoah Interview
Shenandoah Interview Shenandoah, a country music band formed in 1989, has etched their name into the fabric of country music history. Their blend of traditional country sounds with contemporary pop influences has resonated with audiences for decades. Early Years and Formation The band’s roots trace back to the early 1980s, when lead singer Marty Raybon, along with Mike McGuire, Gary Burr, and Ralph McKercher, began performing together in various musical projects.
Scott Vestal & Eddie Sanders Interview Part 1
Scott Vestal & Eddie Sanders Interview Part 1 At the age of 15 Scott was playing all over the US with TJ Rogers’ family band which eventually led to an audition with Larry Sparks. After performing and recording with Larry for a year, Scott struck out on his own and helped form Southern Connection, which toured the Midwest and East Coast for 3 years. In 1985, Scott joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, performing in the U.S., Canada, and Europe as a member of the critically acclaimed quartet.
Christian Hayes Interview
Christian Hayes Interview Christian Hayes, a singer-songwriter from the Appalachian foothills, affectionately known as “The Lullaby Kid” among friends. He channels authenticity, raw emotion and vulnerability through his Americana-infused folk and country-rooted music. At seven years old, Christian’s musical journey began when his grandfather, a poet, gave him his first journal, sparking a lifelong love for self-expression through songs and poetry.
Ashley Barron Interview
Ashley Barron Interview Emerging on the country music scene, Ashley Barron showcases her uniquely powerful and gritty vocals during every performance. Inspired by strong women in country music like Miranda Lambert and Loretta Lynn, Barron incorporates her life experience into her songwriting to create passionate and relatable music that embodies loss, heartbreak, betrayal, and the occasional crazy night out with the girls.
Country Music News International Newsletter
Here is your Country Music News & Bluegrass Music News of the week from Country Music News International Magazine & Radio Show! You can publish the Newsletter to your websites or forward to your friends. If you enjoy keeping up to date with country music, please consider supporting Country Music News International with a small donation. Simply use PayPal and send to CountryMusicNewsInternational@GoogleMail.com and help us keep bringing you all the latest news in country music.
High Road Interview
Sarah Davison from the band High Road Interview Ask Sarah Davison what her favorite Bible verse is, and she’ll immediately quote Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” It’s a scripture that has accompanied the acclaimed singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist through life’s highs and lows, and one she hand-copied—in a flowery cursive script—from her grandmother’s...
Robert Bacon Interview
Robert Bacon Interview Robert Bacon was born on an army base in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Coming from a military family instilled in him a patriotic love for his country. Robert grew up on a farm in the Midwest listening to country legends George Jones, Loretta Lynn, The Oak Ridge Boys, and The Statler Brothers. But it was the musical talents of Alan Jackson and George Strait that developed a love and passion in Robert to pursue country music.
Rob Mayes Interview
Rob Mayes Interview Rob Mayes is an American actor and country artist/songwriter best known for his role in the ABC hit-series “Mistresses” and the Sundance cult-classic “John Dies at the End.” Mayes has released several singles over the course of 2019 and early 2020 including “Road With No Lines” (IAMA Finalist, USA Songwriting Competition Finalist, and International Songwriting Competition Semi-Finalist; Entertainment Focus Country’s 10 BEST COUNTRY SONGS OF 2019) which has garnered over...
RaeLynn Interview
RaeLynn Interview RaeLynn, the stage name for Racheal Lynn Woodward, is a dynamic force in the contemporary country music scene. Born on May 4, 1994, in Baytown, Texas, her journey from a small-town girl to a chart-topping artist is a testament to her raw talent, unwavering determination, and infectious optimism. Rooted in a musically inclined family, RaeLynn’s passion for music ignited at a tender age.
Jesse & Noah Bellamy Interview
Jesse & Noah Bellamy Interview Jesse and Noah Bellamy are a dynamic country-rock duo hailing from Darby, Florida. Rooted in a rich musical legacy, the brothers are the fourth generation of their family to make a mark on the music scene. Their father and uncle are the renowned Bellamy Brothers, a testament to their deep-seated musical heritage. Growing up on their family’s cattle farm, Jesse and Noah were immersed in the world of music from a young age.
Bill Taylor & The Appalachian Heatherns Interview
Bill Taylor & The Appalachian Heatherns Interview From the hills of coal country in Kentucky come The Appalachian Heatherns. Forming in October of 22, the mountain picking band have been paying their dues singing all over the tri-state area for those that are willing to lend an ear. They’re songs captivate lifestyles and hard learned lessons in a rural area of the southeastern region.
Rachel Gleddie Interview
By loading the video, you agree to YouTube's privacy policy. Learn more Rachel Gleddie is a Canadian singer/songwriter who, through introspective lyrics and thought-provoking musical textures, draws her listeners into a world in which life’s highs and lows are given space to breathe. The music video for her song, Catacomb, produced by Black Badge Studio, won Best Music Video at the Alberta Media Production Industries Association awards in 2022.
Nick Hickmann Interview
Nick Hickmann Interview Nashville-based musician Nick Hickman epitomizes the dedication and artistry required to leave an indelible mark on country music. Originating from Harriman, TN, Nick embarked on his journey to Nashville in 2016, driven by his passion for songwriting and performance. Since then, he has graced the stage alongside notable influences such as Blake Shelton, Lee Brice, Jason Aldean, and more, solidifying his reputation for electrifying performances and engaging with audiences.
Presley Tennant Interview
Presley Tennant Interview Radiant and fearless, Presley Tennant is the result of unequivocal talent and California ease. Dubbed a “vocal powerhouse” by Taste of Country, People Magazine states Presley is “quickly proving that she is a wild card in the country music industry.” Rooted in the classics, the Horsetown, USA (aka Norco, CA) native immersed herself in Country Music following her national appearance on The Voice at just 16 years old.
The Stetson Family Interview
Nadine Budge The Stetson Family Interview The Stetson Family walk the line between alt-country and bluegrass with their free-wheeling, spirited songs, awash with soaring harmonies. Described in American Songwriter Magazine as “champions of fresh bluegrass but with a bedraggled soul of rock and roots,” the band takes their audience on a journey down life’s crooked highway.
JD Shelburne Interview
JD Shelburne Interview J.D.’s journey has taken him from Taylorsville, Kentucky, to the iTunes Country Top Ten, landed him on CMT and the Circle Network, found him opening for ZZ Top, Miranda Lambert, and Marty Stuart, put him on the cover of Kentucky’s Official Visitor’s Guide, and made national news for the sheer size and exuberance of a crowd numbering in the tens of thousands at one of his hometown concerts.
Michael Lee Interview
Michael Lee Interview Michael Lee continues to prove to country music what has been missing all along with his modern country sound and a classic, smooth and baritone voice. This Georgia native ventured into his country music career when he was just 14 years old singing gospel songs in church which later evolved into forming a duo in the early 2000’s and getting the attention from Grammy award-winning producer Wilbur C. Rimes (father of LeAnn Rimes).
The Wilder Flower Interview
The Wilder Flower Interview The Wilder Flower has been building a sound together since meeting in 2020 at the Hagood Mill Fiddlers Convention, where each member has taken home multiple blue ribbons. The band’s musical chemistry developed easily during their first practice, and they’ve been refining their sound and show ever since. The Wilder Flower flexes between folk, Americana, bluegrass, and Old-time tunes.
Rick Monroe Interview
Rick Monroe Interview The birth of the Hitmen. For years Rick Monroe has been a solo artist hiring players as needed and doing the Nashville shuffle of interchangeable bands, but during covid everything changed. In 2020, Rick and the band, with Bobby Perkins & Alan Beeler, were set to have an amazing year starting off with a West Coast tour when the world shut down.
Pi Jacobs Interview
Pi Jacobs draws inspiration from her unconventional upbringing in “The Land of Weed and Wine” aka Northern California. Blending roots-rock swagger and storytelling soul, her music has drawn comparisons to Tom Waits, Dolly Parton, and Lucinda Williams. She has been heard on NPR, DittyTV, Austin Music TV, Americana Highways, American Songwriter Magazine, and regularly on tastemakers KCSN, WFUV and stations across the nation.
Corb Lund Interview
Corb Lund is a Canadian country and western singer-songwriter from Taber, Alberta, Canada. He has released eleven albums, three of which are certified gold. Lund tours regularly in Canada, the United States and Australia, and has received several awards in Canada and abroad.
Michael James Interview
Michael James Interview Michael James is a rising star in the country music scene, hailing from Long Island, New York. Growing up near the beach, Michael’s love for country music was sparked when he attended a Kenny Chesney concert with his father at the age of 13. From that moment on, Michael knew that music was his calling. Soon after, Michael’s athletic background playing football and basketball came to an end due to multiple concussions.
Romeo Vaughn Interview
Romeo Vaughn Interview Romeo hails from The Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. His hometown of Santa Rosa, Texas is where it all began for him. Growing up in a Mexican American family, Vaughn says his family is the core of his music. Romeo’s songs are personal, raw, and shows who he is and where he comes from through every note and bar. They’re about life: plain and simple. Romeo’s biggest dream is to live forever and change the world through his songs, and message.
Tebey Interview - Country Music News International
Tebey Interview Nashville resident and Ontario, Canada native, Tebey, is a platinum selling artist, award-winning producer and accomplished songwriter with multiple #1 songs in his repertoire of hits. His much-mispronounced name (read: TAY-bay) is of Nigerian descent – his father’s birthplace, but Tebey grew up in the small town of Peterborough and went to high school in Burlington.
Country Music News International Newsletter
Here is your Country Music News & Bluegrass Music News of the week from Country Music News International Magazine & Radio Show! You can publish the Newsletter to your websites or forward to your friends. If you enjoy keeping up to date with country music, please consider supporting Country Music News International with a small donation. Simply use PayPal and send to CountryMusicNewsInternational@GoogleMail.com and help us keep bringing you all the latest news in country music.
Michael Kessler Interview
Michael Kessler Interview Michael Kessler started playing guitar at the young age of 11, and has continued honing his craft for over a quarter century. Kessler’s band, American Folk, performed as a unit from 2006 to 2014. American Folk’s nascent beginnings stemmed from a Gateway Technical College friendship with Adam Lantz when Michael was pursuing a career in Radio Broadcasting. Adam and Michael got together to woodshed a few times thereafter meeting T.J. Leveque to ultimately form American Folk.
Max McNown Interview
Max McNown Interview Max McNown creates the kind of songs that perfectly soundtrack our most intimate moments: times of intense heartache and tremendous loss, immense upheaval and life-changing revelation.
Mark Robert Cash Interview
In the heart of Nashville’s bustling music scene, Mark Robert Cash is carving out his niche with a blend of country, pop, and soulful melodies. From his humble beginnings singing in church to working with renowned artists like Ashley McBryde, Cash’s journey in the music industry is a testament to perseverance and passion.
Country Music News International Newsletter
You can publish the Newsletter to your websites or forward to your friends. If you enjoy keeping up to date with country music, please consider supporting Country Music News International with a small donation. Simply use PayPal and send to CountryMusicNewsInternational@GoogleMail.com and help us keep bringing you all the latest news in country music. Here at Country Music News International we believe in Bluegrass and Country Music. During this difficult time we have to stand together.
Makenzie Phipps Interview
Makenzie Phipps Interview Musical talent has long run in the veins of viral Country sensation Makenzie Phipps. Following in the footsteps of her uncle – Country music songwriter Ron Simons – Phipps has long been known as the little girl with the big voice in her home state of Virginia. But it is that talented little girl that has grown into a young woman whose talents shine brighter with each and every song she puts out.
Lefroy Band Interview
Lefroy Band Interview Barry Lefroy is a well respected Canadian bass player having played with famous bands in the 70’s and a successful business entrepreneur. He is also the mastermind behind the debut song/video/band Lefroy, having first come up with the idea of remaking Bob Dylan’s classic, “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” in a way it had never been heard before.
Rainy Eyes Interview
Rainy Eyes Interview Born out of revelry and resolution in a redwood cabin tucked into the California coast, endowed with a spirit simmering in wanderlust, and ornamented with the rich traditions of the Louisiana bayou, Lonesome Highway marks the resilient return of Irena Eide aka Rainy Eyes. Its eleven songs are punctuated with perseverance and perspective that sober up the soul and send it back stronger onto the blacktop.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Big
Contact Big, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack