Tag Archives: red dirt music

Red Dirt NC: Weekend Watch, March 30-31

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You can’t go wrong this weekend, no matter which show you decide to attend…

After two relatively slow weekends for live music, March is going out like a lion with a wealth of opportunity. While a majority of the shows are located in the state’s capital, options remain available in western and central North Carolina.

Two rare shows are happening with visits from Texas native Sunny Sweeney and Georgia artist Brent Cobb. Both songwriters have enjoyed success on various levels while maintaining a commitment to quality music.

Opening for Sweeney will be North Carolina’s own Jonathan Parker, one of many native artists performing this weekend so get out and enjoy a live show from potentially local talent!

FRIDAY – MARCH 30, 2018

Pistol Hill – Shooters Lounge, Hickory

Independent and traditional country music. Emerging local artists within the genre featuring both original songs and covers from some of your favorite individuals and bands.

Brent Cobb – The Pour House, Raleigh

Brent Cobb didn’t set out to write an album that feels and sounds like the place he grew up. But now that the grooves have been cut in his debut LP, Shine on Rainy Day, there’s no denying the people, the places and the vibe of his southcentral Georgia home infuse almost every song.

Nathan Kornegay – Deep South Bar, Raleigh

“Singer/Songwriter based in Raleigh. Influenced by great songwriters like Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt, Jason Isbell, and Ryan Adams.”

Steve Hartsoe – Deep South Bar, Raleigh

For this veteran rocker, a former AP journalist and college pitcher turned husband and father, that all-in conviction is an audible thread running through the 15 tracks on the Raleigh, N.C., artist’s latest indie release, “The Big Fix-Deluxe Edition,” released Dec. 1, 2017. After almost two decades removed from writing, recording and performing his own songs, Hartsoe is again singing about the daily of life — its troubles, joys and all the in-between. But this time he has a lot more life experience to sing about.

SATURDAY – MARCH 31, 2018

The Black Lillies – The Ramkat, Winston-Salem

The Black Lillies have never backed down from a challenge: proudly independent since their formation, they are always pushing forward and evolving, letting the inspiration and music take focus. That drive has led them to become one of Americana’s biggest success stories: an internationally-renowned band of roots-rockers, armed with songs that blur the boundaries between folk, soul, red dirt country, blues and rock.

Sunny Sweeney – Puckett’s Farm Equipment, Charlotte

Sunny Sweeney is the party and the morning after. She’s the quip that makes you laugh and the truth that makes you cry, the devil that’s egging you on and the angel whispering that you aren’t alone. But those compelling contradictions aren’t what’s most interesting about Sweeney: it’s the depth and brazen authenticity she brings to all her roles that grabs you and won’t let go.

Enjoy the Easter holiday weekend with some live music and keep spreading the love, one song at a time…

Sunny Sweeney: Real Raw Emotion

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Sunny Sweeney released her fourth album, “Trophy” one year ago and the world is better for it…

Sunny Sweeney manages to tell stories on opposite ends of the emotional spectrum with absolute attention to detail, while conveying her lyrics into real feelings for her listeners. For whatever mood you find yourself in there’s a Sunny Sweeney song to lean on for relation.

Ready to party, there’s a song for that. Feeling down, pick one because there’s plenty. Drinking, covered. Scorned, also covered. Depressed, she’s got you. In ‘Bottle by My Bed,’ Sweeney breaches a topic that’s not only rarely discussed in the open but there it is on her latest album for all the world to hear.

“Trophy,” which was released just over a year ago this March is full of emotion and has brought Sweeney many new fans. Touring across the country with live performances in a variety of venues and countless miles covered, Sweeney continues to build her fan base by taking her music to the masses.

Sweeney told Rolling Stone last year about her willingness and openness for hitting all topics to which anyone can relate.

“Anybody that knows anything about my music knows I don’t necessarily shy away from subjects. I want to think that this is just an extension of that. It’s where I am and what I’m going through and there are other people going through these things as well: Wanting their marriage to be perfect, struggling with this or that. That’s what life is. Each record answers a little question for the time in your life where you are.”

Sweeney feels it’s her job as a writer to evoke emotions from those who she seeks to entertain. Whether getting to see her live or just listening in your car, her willingness to draw on those heartfelt emotions and ability to tap into real feelings is apparent.

Beginning with ‘Pass the Pain‘ and through every one of the ten songs which comprise “Trophy“, her mission has been accomplished.

Red Dirt NC: Weekend Watch, March 23-25

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Two larger shows highlight the first weekend of spring in the central and eastern portions of the state…

Spring officially started this week although for much of the North Carolina mountains it was welcomed in with snow showers and bitter cold temperatures. Down east things have been a little warmer although the rain continues this weekend.

Hopefully, it won’t keep fans away from the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater where a sold out show awaits. Our other featured show takes place back inland toward the center of the state in Winston-Salem and will be inside.

Get out and enjoy some live music around the state!

FRIDAY – MARCH 23, 2018

No shows listed.

SATURDAY – MARCH 24, 2018

Drive-By Truckers – Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, Wilmington

Drive-By Truckers have always been outspoken, telling a distinctly American story via craft, character, and concept, all backed by sonic ambition and social conscience. Founded in 1996 by singer/songwriter/guitarists Mike Cooley and Patterson Hood, the band have long held a progressive fire in their belly but with AMERICAN BAND, they have made the most explicitly political album in their extraordinary canon. A powerful and legitimately provocative work, hard edged and finely honed, the album is the sound of a truly American Band – a Southern American band – speaking on matters that matter.

Miranda Lambert – Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Winston-Salem

The Living Like Hippies Tour makes a stop in North Carolina with special guests Jon Pardi and Charlie Worsham

SUNDAY – MARCH 25 2018

No shows listed.

Lambert was recently featured as the fourth figure atop the Mount Rushmore of independent country and roots music alongside Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson and Chris Stapleton. Her commitment to the independent scene is undeniable having recently announced the Turnpike Troubadours, Steel Woods, Natalie Hemby and Tenille Townes will be joining her next tour with Little Big Town, and already having other artists like Sunny Sweeney join her on stage.

Enjoy the weekend, take advantage and keep spreading the love, one song at a time…

Live Review: Corey Hunt Band in Granite Falls

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With an acoustic set, Corey Hunt entertained a midweek crowd at Granite Falls Brewery on Wednesday night…

A recent six song EP release from Corey Hunt Band called “North of Low Water” has the frontman and his right hand band member, Eric Wise, touring here, in Texas and across the southeast all spring. After opening for Eli Young Band in Greensboro, hosting a show in his hometown of Asheboro and kicking off a tour of Texas last weekend with events in Dallas, Houston and San Angelo, the resident North Carolinian returned home for a midweek gig before hitting the road … again.

The official spring tour features nine performances across the Carolinas, 10 Texas dates and other shows in both Georgia and Alabama through the end of April. Criss-crossing the southeast over the past seven years, the Corey Hunt Band continues to build a loyal fan base who appreciates original song writing and pure musical talent.

On Wednesday night the crowd wasn’t on hand for covers of conveniently packaged radio material but instead present to hear only what Corey Hunt was all about. He impressed with lyrics relaying the every day dealings of life, hardships, heartache and happiness with Wise keeping pace alongside.

Corey Hunt Band

GRANITE FALLS, NC – Corey Hunt Band performs at Granite Falls Brewery on Wednesday – March 21, 2018.

‘Uwharrie River,’ a song off the new EP was a crowd favorite in addition to a song Hunt said he wrote that day behind a rhythmic tune and chorus, ‘Dancing Down the Hall.’ Back in North Carolina for just a few days, Hunt and Wise left their touring van in Texas but will fly back for two more dates this weekend in Fort Worth and San Antonio.

Hunt introduced himself to the crowd with a few poignant words between the second and third songs of his set. A simple name and band introduction followed by breaking the news that if you had previously listened then recognizing his songs would be easy, but if not, then hopefully you’d learn as the night transpired.

As stated, there were no covers and no one cared. His ability to entertain without relying on work by other musicians or stereotypical “crowd pleasers” only further demonstrates the lengths to which Hunt has honed his craft by playing whenever and wherever possible.

It continues to pay off as ‘Hannah Belle’ broke into the Top-50 on Texas regional radio at one point and a few songs from “North of Low Water” have potential to do the same. The relentless touring, interviewing and a sincere appreciation for his fans should keep the Corey Hunt Band momentum building and moving forward throughout the year.

For those who appreciate and are fans of original music – a staple in the Red Dirt, Texas and Americana music scenes – the time is now to broaden your horizons by realizing there is some great music coming from North Carolina originals.

Corey Hunt Band is one of those who has been paving the way for quite some time and will continue to do so well into the future.

Red Dirt NC: Weekend watch, March 16-18

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A relatively slow holiday weekend should make deciding on a show easier, especially for the western part of the state…

The past few weekends have created multiple opportunities for seeing live music within this genre. In fact, shortly after Cody Johnson played Coyote Joe’s in Charlotte, he became the first unsigned artist to sell out the Houston Rodeo and by all accounts put on an amazing show.

The morale of this story is to take advantage when ANY of the Texas country or Red Dirt artists venture outside of their normal touring circuit. Not only to see those that hail from both Oklahoma and Texas, but to also appreciate the artists here who have been and are breaking into the scene.

This weekend provides an opportunity to see two different acts on opposite ends of the spectrum but who are still representing a commitment to their craft with a profound ability to entertain. Each has their own characteristics and with St. Patrick’s Day looming on Saturday, can assist in your celebration with the addition of live music.

FRIDAY – MARCH 16, 2018

James Scott Bullard – Shooter’s Lounge, Hickory

After a brief stint in rehab several years ago, James Scott Bullard declared himself substance-free, yet it took him longer to accept responsibility for the rest of his life’s decisions.  That process led to fan-favorite lovelorn songs from his previous albums.  Full Tilt Boogie jumps forward to where Bullard is now, owning his bad choices and sometimes reveling in them, while not giving up vices altogether, as his string of exes will attest.  Bullard’s honesty about his flaws endears him to his fans, who find broken pieces of themselves in the lyrics. 

SATURDAY – MARCH 17, 2018

Pickxen – Oskar Blues Brewery, Brevard

Saint Paddy’s Day fun with Pickxen!  While we may not be able to utilize the outdoor patio bar, the Tasty Weasel taproom is open daily with free tours of the brewery. The Oskar Blues CHUBwagon food truck serves up CHUBurgers and tacos to quench your hunger. Five nights a week, local and regional bands make your ear holes happy. Pisgah National Forest is a 10 minute bike ride away, so go git rad and meet back at the brewery for a pint.

Nathan Kornegay – Goldsboro Brew Works, Goldsboro

“Singer/Songwriter based in Raleigh. Influenced by great songwriters like Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt, Jason Isbell, and Ryan Adams.”

You won’t go wrong with any choice this weekend and for a large number of people in the western half of the state, you’ll be close to something both nights. Get out, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and enjoy your weekend by supporting live music!

Take advantage and keep spreading the love, one song at a time…

Margo Price: Pushing the Limit

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The extremely talented singer and songwriter Margo Price is pushing the limits with her second album, “All American Made”…

Margo Price broke onto the scene after a tireless effort of playing gigs throughout the United States when her first record, “Midwest Farmer’s Daughter,” was released nearly two years ago. She continues to display staying power with her second record, “All American Made,” which came out last October. A long time in the making, Price sacrificed considerably in an effort to continue pursuing her dreams and making music alongside husband, guitarist and fellow songwriter Jeremy Ivey.

The two seen highs and lows, suffered and struggled but all the while continued their commitment to making music and putting out songs that are often without catchy choruses but instead tell a story and send a message.

Price makes it work with her persona, despite drawing criticism from some who have negative comments for the rising star about listening to songs around bars, drinking, hard times and other “outlaw” topics with her artistic style and blunt truthfulness which should be appreciated by all.

Her latest album is a political statement put to use in an environment when some are shying away from expressing their opinions. Price meets the issues head on and doesn’t apologize for her stance but instead makes it a point to reveal her feelings in such an art form.

In a recent television appearance on Conan, Price performed a song from her new album titled, “Pay Gap” focusing on the financial state of inequality between males and females. She also invited the all-female rendition of Las Mariachi Lindas Mexicanas to perform with her and noted the lyrical mastery behind story telling and point making.

No matter your religion, no matter your race
No matter your orientation
No matter your creed and no matter your taste
No matter your denomination
We are all the same in the eyes of God
But in the eyes of rich white men
No more than a maid to be owned like a dog
A second-class citizen

Unapologetically, Price is pushing the limits and continuing to draw crowds of supporters who both appreciate her sincere musical talent and message. You can see her during two upcoming North Carolina dates, on May 15 at Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte or the Haw River Ballroom on May 16 in Saxapahaw.

Live Review: Flatland Cavalry, Shane Smith and the Saints in Charlotte

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For a moment on Saturday night, the Queen City experienced a heavy dose of Texas music…

Initially seeing that Flatland Cavalry with Shane Smith and the Saints would be making two stops in Charlotte was exciting but to be absolutely honest, we hadn’t listened to either nearly enough for an immediate ticket purchase. We were wrong.

After thinking back to seeing Flatland Cavalry on the front cover of The Music Fest Magazine for the Winter 2017/2018 edition, we knew they were an up and coming band with big things ahead. Having attended Mile 0 Fest, we spotted many Shane Smith and the Saints t-shirts even though they hadn’t been booked for the four day marathon. Both groups were on the radar but still hadn’t registered completely, although we (thankfully) decided to attend.

Puckett’s Farm Equipment is a small corner store that has been transformed into a live music venue perfect for fans who understand what they’re getting into and are there to experience good music in a unique environment. The sold out crowd on Saturday night knew both bands and for those that didn’t they won’t soon forget either. We binged on music from both groups in order to prepare and immediately became excited at the prospects of getting to see each in such a small space. Having witnessed The Turnpike Troubadours play a set here in June 2013, it felt as if both groups are on a similar trajectory.

Flatland Cavalry opened the night and front man Cleto Cordero immediately engaged the audience with his lyrics while fiddle player Laura Jane Houle kept pace alongside him. The group’s musical expertise aside, they have also managed to transform many of their songs into response style sing-a-longs, including “A Life Where We Work Out” off their latest album, released nearly two years ago.

Flatland Cavalry

CHARLOTTE – Flatland Cavalry performs at Puckett’s Farm Equipment on March 10, 2018

Although it wasn’t the same without female vocals added from fellow artist Kaitlin Butts, Cordero still nailed it before adding that it is, in fact, not about gym memberships.

Shane Smith and the Saints were up next and just seconds into their set it was evident this group has a unique sound all their own. The harmonies are so on point it is almost uncanny and their lengthy, carrying fiddle tunes provided by Bennett Brown initially brought back memories from “The Last of the Mohicans,” a Daniel Day-Lewis film, directed by Michael Mann which was filmed in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

The French and Indian War tale syncs nicely with their sound, especially given their second album, “Geronimo” carried the title given Smith’s fascination with the character and dual meaning of taking a leap of faith by producing songs and music unique to your own group and going against the grain.

Shane Smith and the Saints

CHARLOTTE – Shane Smith and the Saints perform with Flatland Cavalry on March 10, 2018 at Puckett’s Farm Equipment

Behind Smith, lead guitarist Tim Allen is extremely talented mixing in with bassist Chase Satterwhite, as all are kept in time with the base drum kicking Zach Stover in the back. The four-man ensemble kept the crowd entertained and wanting more once their set neared completion.

Smith addressed the crowd with time to play one more song and was met with a boisterous chant from the audience on hand. “Dance the Night Away” was repeated in succession four or five times before Smith, who may have actually been planning to play something else, thankfully succumbed to the will of those on hand.

An electric performance to end the set and leave those exiting with the tune lingering in the their heads before inviting Flatland Cavalry back on stage to conclude with what is quickly becoming an anticipated grand finale.

After catching video online of Cordero playing a kazoo during a show previously on the tour, we were hoping it would make an appearance when they arrived in North Carolina and both groups didn’t disappoint. Sharing the stage and instruments, the two bands left an impression on those in attendance at Puckett’s before exchanging a few pleasantries with fans and displaying a genuine appreciation for those in attendance.

Both Texas based bands were met with a sell out crowd for their first of two stops in North Carolina and will hopefully be returning soon. When they do, we’ll be among the first to grab some tickets.

Red Dirt NC: Weekend Watch, March 9-11

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Get ready for another weekend packed with Red Dirt entertainment across the state…

While there are plenty of weekday shows worth attending, those taking place on the weekend seemingly always take things to another level. Last weekend shows were scattered across the state and while the Charlotte area is home to a majority of this week’s entertainment, it will be worth both the time and money to make a trip.

Saturday provides a bevy of entertainment within just a 20-mile radius north of Charlotte. You won’t go wrong choosing any of the available options so grab some friends, get out and go enjoy a show!

FRIDAY – MARCH 9, 2018

Corey Hunt Band – French Broad Brewing in Asheville

“Hunt’s songwriting ranges from sincere romanticism to outlaw rebellion, and their do-it-yourself approach to booking, recording, and gigging has given them the freedom to explore and expand their music as they grow.  With room to grow and momentum on their side, their crowd-pleasing and relatable take on modern roots music is poised for bigger and better things every time they hit the stage or the studio.”

SATURDAY – MARCH 10, 2018

Shane Smith & the Saints – Puckett’s Farm Equipment in Charlotte

From their home base in Austin through performances across the country (17 states) and abroad (Ireland), these five gentlemen have not just stuck stubbornly to their musical and lyrical convictions. They’ve defied audience expectations by delivering incendiary shows, each one ignited by the band’s ability to unleash, feed from and feed back the energy of the crowd — in spite of the fact that they don’t fit easily into any musical category.

Flatland Cavalry – Puckett’s Farm Equipment in Charlotte

At some point between Lubbock and Midland, the land shifts from endless cotton rows and rich farmland into pump jacks and mesquite tree filled pastures. Lubbock roots-country outfit Flatland Cavalry straddles that line between the Panhandle and the badlands of West Texas with their bright, earthy country ballads and gritty folk ramblers. Vocalist and chief songwriter Cleto Cordero’s honest, smooth songwriting revolves around the vernacular world of West Texas that he’s constructed with dusty, sun-soaked character sketches, brooding self-evaluations, and candid love songs that all have the ability to turn into singalong anthems.

Pistol Hill – New Korner Pub in Mooresville

Independent and traditional country music. Emerging local artists within the genre featuring both original songs and covers from some of your favorite individuals and bands.

Corey Hunt Band – The Evening Muse in Charlotte

A second opportunity this weekend!

SUNDAY – MARCH 11, 2018

Shane Smith & the Saints – Apps and Taps Pontoon Stage in Mooresville

A second opportunity this weekend!

Flatland Cavalry – Apps and Taps Pontoon Stage in Mooresville

A second opportunity this weekend!

Just a few more hours (maybe less) separate you from the weekend and one of these incredible shows. Make plans now and don’t miss out on another weekend filled with quality music.

Keep spreading the appreciation for these sounds and artists, maybe we’ll see you at a show!

Red Dirt NC Winners Announced

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Our first giveaway has concluded with six winners across three social media platforms…

In our continued effort to spread the love for Red Dirt and Americana music across the state of North Carolina and our region, we decided to orchestrate the very first RedDirtNC promotion by involving you – the fans!

By simply following our accounts and then either commenting, tagging, or retweeting, you were entered into a random drawing for one of our brand new stickers. These will soon be available for purchase but we wanted to get a few out to our first supporters immediately.

In just one week we had over 100 people eligible to win so we utilized a random name selector, found online, and entered everyone into the system via how they chose to participate. Whether by using Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, entrants were submitted within their respective categories and the fun began.

At the push of a button winners were chosen by the computer and then notified from our accounts. Congratulations to each of the following for winning our very first, but definitely not our last, promotion for some free merchandise.

INSTAGRAM: Alisia G. (GA) and David B. (NC)

FACEBOOK: Alyssa B. (NC) and Jeff D. (NC)

TWITTER: Anna T. (NC) and Seth S. (NC)

Stay tuned to all of our social media platforms for more giveaways, concert announcements, artists interviews and more. We hope to catch you at a show or hear from you about what artists you want covered in our #MusicMonday features very soon.

Until then, keep spreading the love one song at a time…

The Black Lillies: Ready to Bloom

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The Black Lillies are ready to bloom with a new lineup and album on the horizon…

A mix between the blurred lines of red dirt, folk, blues, and Americana music is where The Black Lillies are planted with their unique sound and lyrical storytelling. Founder and lead singer Cruz Contreras has been the engine behind this group since their formation but now shares songwriting with current band members after a significant lineup shift in 2016.

The current four piece group of Contreras, Bowman Townsend, Sam Quinn and Dustin Schaefer continue to impress and may currently be putting together the best album to date for this band. The Black Lillies are nearing a decade on the road with their fifth album currently in production and are continually putting on entertaining performances night after night.

Playing festivals from Bonnaroo, Mile 0 and Merlefest to everything in between, the group has gathered a significant fan base with their amazing harmonies and patented sound. The Black Lillies have also played The Grand Ole Opry dozens of times, becoming one of the very first independent groups to fulfill that honor.

The band just wrapped their second session at Echo Mountain Studios here in Asheville, North Carolina where they continued work on the latest album. Once completed it will be the first project from The Black Lillies to be entirely formed from the work of its members. No guest appearances and no outside input other than from producer Jamie Candiloro.

Specifically selected for his style of production, Candiloro has a track record in music that speaks for itself. Having produced or engineered for Willie Nelson, Ryan Adams, The Eagles, R.E.M. and Courtney Love to name a few, the process was difficult but ultimately it was determined that Candiloro would be tagged as the producer.

Cruz and the band are walking everyone through the entire process over at Pledge Music, where fans can contribute to bringing The Black Lillies fifth album to fruition. In addition to getting a behind the scenes look at how a record goes from an idea, to lyrics, then songs, actual music, live performances and studio changes – fans can also select to receive some awesome merchandise or experiences based on their level of giving.

Some items, such as the whiskey tumblers, are already sold out completely but everything from a digital download of the new record to being a roadie or having your own private show remains available.

The Black Lillies, Contreras, and all members of this group have always put their fans front and center and it shows in their support. Already at nearly 30-percent funded after just a little over one week, the newest album is gaining significant momentum.

Scheduled to be released in the fall of 2018, The Black Lillies are currently riding that wave through hard work, dedication to their craft and a continued appreciation for those that are listening.