CMA Awards - November 11, 2006:  [ back ]

I'm back from my first trip to the CMA awards in Nashville and have to admit it was probably one of the most surreal experiences of my life. Sitting just 15 rows from the stage and by the hallway that leads all performers and presenters between dressing rooms and bathrooms, I had a chance to meet, greet & chat with dozens of performers. Even took pics with a few (that will be posted soon).

Here's a partial list of those I met and spoke to: Brad paisely (& wife--Kimberly), Rascall Flatts, George Strait, Big & Rich, Gretchen Wilson, Alan Jackson, Van Zant, Josh Gracin, Keith Anderson, Tanya Tucker, Little Big Town, Kris Kristoferson, Eric Church, & many more! Met Hank Williams Jr & Buddy Jewel at The Palm steak house (took pics with both), and went back stage at an Emerson Drive show to meet the band (of course got a pic of that one). The icing on the cake was the next day when I found the entire band, Sugarland, sitting next to me at the airport. Hung out with Jennifer Nettles & Christian & tooks pics with both. They were flying to NY to appear on the Martha Stewart show.

On another note, I got to met with a BMI artist relations rep, played him a couple of my songs and kept the dream alive of selling my songs in Nashville!

Restaurants and bar stops included Tootsies Orchid Lounge, The Wildhorse Saloon, The Palm, Morton's and Cheeseburgher Charlies at the Greenhill's Mall.

Plan to return to Nashville in January. Stay tuned!!