CMA celebrates 40 years but where are some up and coming artists, when does the doors open for them...it's time to make changes in Nashville concerning country music.
Nashville (PRWEB) November 14, 2006 -- On Monday, Nov. 6, 2006 ABC Television will present "The 40th Annual CMA Awards (Country Music Awards)." Known as the biggest night in country music, the CMA's recognize country's most popular talents, such as Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney and Carrie Underwood. One group who continues to not receive any CMA attention is country music's independent artists. Indie music fans all over the world are questioning why their favorite artists are not being recognized at this distinguished awards ceremony.
Eileen Carey is one artist whose name will not be heard on the CMA's this year, despite being a CMA member and becoming a major independent artist garnering fans around the globe. Carey was first recognized when her energetic cover of Patsy Cline's "Walkin' After Midnight" took off after her very successful debut on Blair Garner's syndicated "After MidNite" Country Radio show.
"Radio has played a big role in helping grow my career in the U.S. and all over the world. It is a great avenue for independent artists," says Carey.
Eileen's most recent single "Hollywood" is making waves on country stations worldwide and is currently climbing the charts. Her songs "Hearts of Time," and "Walkin' After Midnight" have stood the test of time, and can still be heard on the radio.
"My songs are not being played on every station in the country, but many stations are catching on, and that's what is important," says Carey. Radio is still playing "Good Time Charley"
So why is the CMA's not giving Indie artists such as Carey the credit they deserve? It seems that other awards show have begun to recognize this important group of performers. For instance, at the CCMA's (Canadian Country Music Awards) in 2006, Indie artists were recognized in categories such as Independent Female Artist of the Year, Independent Male Artist of the Year, Independent Group of the Year and Independent Single of the Year.
One reason Indie artists may be struggling for CMA attention, may be due to the nomination process. Over 5,000 industry professional members vote in a 3-part process. An act, song or record must receive 10 nominations on the first ballot to be submitted to CMA as a nominee.
Since Indie artists tend to use a grassroots approach to get their name out, such as live performances, independent radio stations and the internet, their music may not reach enough industry professionals. In addition, this process may leave out indie artists who do not reside in country music's biggest industry towns such as Nashville, Memphis and New York.
Carey, a resident of Los Angeles, understands this first-hand. Los Angeles recently received national attention when the major country music station KZLA switched its format to rhythmic adult contemporary. Though country fans in Los Angeles do exist, the city's most popular genres tend to be hip hop and top 40 pop.
"People in LA are beginning to discover that country music is changing. There are different varieties out there, and everyone can find something they like," says Carey.
Eileen's latest CD, Hearts of Time, is surpassing all expectations. Meanwhile she's working on a new CD collection that includes collaborations with major Nashville songwriters. She hopes that next year will be a better year for indie country artists on "Country Music's Biggest Night."
"Hollywood" and the rest of Eileen's singles and CDs can be downloaded off the web through The Orchard, Apple's iTunes, Music Forte, Wal-Mart On-line, Best Buy On-line, EPK On-Line, Tower Records On-Line, Amazon.com, www.Myspace.com/EileenCarey
*About Eileen Carey*
Ohio native singer/songwriter Eileen Carey has a strong following in the Los Angeles regional music scene. She has released two albums, acquired several performance awards, and climbed the indie charts with multiple cuts. Eileen was also one of the original "uh-huh girls" that backed Ray Charles in a Pepsi campaign and at the Super Bowl. For more information visit www.eileencarey.com or contact Danker & Danker Public Relations.
*About Danker & Danker Public Relations*
Danker & Danker PR is a diversified talent, merchandising and literary agency with contacts globally around the world. For more information visit www.dankerpr.com or contact Deborah Danker at (615) 320-7453.
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