NYC Big Events Announces "Country Takes NYC" Week
By Wendy Pearl | © 2005 CMA Close Up News Service
The CMA Awards Celebration hits the Big Apple with themed day activities highlighting New York City's tourist destinations and world renowned attractions. For the first time, CMA will celebrate its biggest night outside of Nashville when "The 39th Annual CMA Awards" is held on the world's biggest stage, New York City.
To commemorate this landmark event, Daniel L. Doctoroff, Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Rebuilding, and Maureen J. Reidy, President of NYC Big Events, Inc., announced last October that NYC Big Events, in collaboration with CMA, is launching a week-long series of celebrations called "Country Takes NYC" leading up to the CMA Awards.
This five-borough, grassroots promotional initiative will highlight the private and public sectors; is designed to weave Country Music into the fabric of New York City; and to create exciting, memorable experiences. Multiple city agencies are partnering in the creation and implementation of this unique effort. "Country Takes NYC" will take place Wednesday, Nov. 9 through Tuesday, Nov. 15.
"Bringing an event such as the CMA Awards to New York City offers residents and guests alike the opportunity to experience our warmth, hospitality and family-friendly environment," explained Doctoroff. "At the same time, an event that is one of the highest rated awards shows each year will generate tremendous media exposure and, with the thousands of visitors expected, will yield a positive economic impact, projected in excess of $30 million."
"We are honored that CMA has decided to stage its biggest night on the world's greatest stage," said Reidy. "This week-long series of events, promotions and celebrations is sure to generate unprecedented interest and excitement for New York City, Country Music and our promotional partners. 'Country Takes NYC' week provides great opportunities for New Yorkers from all five boroughs to get involved in this historic event."
"Country Music has become a part of America's pop culture," said Rick Murray, CMA Vice President of Strategic Marketing. "The City of New York is made up of so many facets from sports to theater to fashion. One of our goals in locating the 2005 CMA Awards in New York was to illustrate the breadth and depth of the music and how it is woven into the fabric of American culture. 'Country Takes NYC' is a perfect vehicle to accomplish this." During "Country Takes NYC," each day will be themed to showcase NYC's industries, tourist destinations and world-renowned attractions.
"'Country Takes NYC' is a great celebration capturing the city's excitement to host the 2005 CMA Awards with restaurants, retail stores and nightlife venues throughout New York City welcoming 'Country Music's Biggest Night(tm)' with special themed menus, in-store promotions and live entertainment," said Cristyne L. Nicholas, President and Chief Executive Officer, NYC & Company. "This special citywide promotion is a fantastic showcase of the diversity, culture and excitement that make New York a top destination for millions of Country Music fans from around the globe."
A comprehensive citywide decoration program featuring artwork by 2005 CMA Awards Official Artist Charles Fazzino and various CMA Awards partners will be launched to promote the CMA Awards and "Country Takes NYC" including street pole banners, bus stop shelters and phone kiosks.
The New York Times magazine will distribute the official "Country Takes NYC" Guide on Sunday, Nov. 6, that will include a comprehensive listing of all themed day activities and promotions in addition to featuring the events on www.NYTimes.com/CountryTakesNYC.
"COUNTRY TAKES NYC," WEDNESDAY, NOV. 9 - TUESDAY, NOV. 15
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 9 - CULINARY DAY
RESTAURANT PROMOTION - Some of the hottest restaurants play Country Music, feature special discounts, promotions and Country themed menu items all week. For a list of participating restaurants, visit www.NYTimes.com/CountryTakesNYC. The Food Network kicks off its salute to Country Music with a special episode of "Emeril Live" at 8 PM/ET featuring The Charlie Daniels Band.
MUSEUM OF TELEVISION & RADIO PANEL DISCUSSION AND CMA AWARDS RETROSPECTIVE SCREENING - CMA donates an archive of the CMA Awards from its first television broadcast in 1968 to the present to the museum. The donation represents the largest single collection of Country Music-themed footage presented to the Museum, the premiere trust of television and radio programming, made available to the public at both its New York and Los Angeles locations. Panelists include longtime CMA Awards Producer, now Executive Producer, Walter C. Miller and CMA Awards Hosts Kix Brooks & Ronnie Dunn of Brooks & Dunn, and moderated by Great American Country (GAC) host Lorianne Crook. The museum will screen the 90-minute CMA Awards retrospective at its locations through Dec. 31, 2005.
SONGWRITERS SERIES AT JOE'S PUB hosted by Bob DiPiero and featuring Nashville songwriters Radney Foster, Hillary Lindsey, Mike Reid and Rivers Rutherford.
SAM BUSH CONCERT at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill.
KATHY MATTEA CONCERT at Joe's Pub.
THURSDAY, NOV. 10 - EDUCATION DAY
WORDS AND MUSIC PROGRAM RECITAL - The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has partnered with NYC's Department of Education to teach kids from selected schools from five NYC boroughs how to write songs with some of Country Music's top songwriters. This two-month curriculum culminates with a recital performance by the students and their songwriting partners plus a special appearance by legendary songwriter Bob DiPiero.
POPULAR 3-D ARTIST CHARLES FAZZINO ART OPENING - Barrington Gallery of London hosts an art unveiling and champagne reception featuring the work of 2005 CMA Awards Official Artist Charles Fazzino.
BROOKS & DUNN CONCERT at Irving Plaza.
PRILOSEC OTC ROAD TO CMA AWARDS PARTY with opportunities to visit inside a tour bus, view a CMA Awards memorabilia exhibit, create a karaoke CD, learn to line dance, get free heartburn screenings, speak one-on-one with a pharmacist about heartburn and more.
FRIDAY, NOV. 11 - HISTORY DAY
In honor of Veterans' Day, Country Music artists support the red, white and blue.
VETERANS' DAY 2005 NATION'S PARADE - Country duo Montgomery Gentry and Keni Thomas march in the annual Veterans' Day Nation's Parade.
VETERANS' DAY ETERNAL LIGHT MONUMENT CEREMONY - Montgomery Gentry honors Veterans with a special patriotic performance at Madison Square Park.
INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM'S VETERANS' DAY CEREMONY AND INFORMATION FAIR - Country superstar Trace Adkins honors Veterans at the Intrepid Museum's Annual Veterans' Day Celebration with a special performance of "God Bless America" and his moving tribute "Arlington."
AMERICAN FREEDOM FESTIVAL - The festival, traditionally held in Tampa, relocates to NYC's Roseland Ballroom and features performances by Michael Amante, Charlie Daniels, Keni Thomas, Mark Wills and Darryl Worley, the Prilosec OTC "Burning To Sing Your Heart Out" winner and special appearances by Al Franken, Karri Turner, WWE stars John Cena and John "Bradshaw" Layfield and the USO of Metropolitan New York Show Troupe. The American Freedom Festival raises awareness for veterans, members of America's armed forces and their families whose lives have been affected by Operation Enduring Freedom.
TRACY LAWRENCE AND MONTGOMERY GENTRY CONCERT at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill.
SATURDAY, NOV. 12 - CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT DAY
"COUNTRY TAKES NYC" MUSIC PROMOTION - Country Music is featured in famous locations ranging from trendy downtown clubs to upscale uptown venues. Some of NYC's most renowned entertainment and tourist destinations offers exclusive specials and discounts. For a list of participating clubs or entertainment venues, visit www.NYTimes.com/CountryTakesNYC.
FOOD NETWORK presents a star-studded lineup of Country Music with a one-hour special, "Food Secrets of Country Music Stars," at 4 PM/ET uncovering fabulous Country-flavored food favorites from artists including Cowboy Troy, Shelly Fairchild, Trent Willmon and Darryl Worley.
"MUSIC UNDER NEW YORK" PERFORMANCES from NYC's local Country artists at Times Square, Penn Station, Port Authority and Grand Central Station.
NEAL MCCOY AND CRAIG MORGAN CONCERT at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill. USO collects "toast" cards for care packages.
SONGWRITERS SERIES AT JOE'S PUB hosted by Bob DiPiero and featuring Nashville songwriters Jessi Alexander, Matraca Berg, Brett James, Chris Lindsey and Aimee Mayo.
BROADWAY MEETS COUNTRY - The League of American Theatres and Producers, Inc., and CMA produce a unique and unprecedented event. The "Broadway Meets Country" crossover event brings together the hottest stars of Broadway, including Idina Menzel, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Ben Vereen and Patrick Wilson - and some of the most acclaimed voices in Country Music, including Trace Adkins, Raul Malo, Lee Ann Womack and Trisha Yearwood - for a night of cabaret, hosted by Mitchell and Womack, at the Frederick P. Rose Hall located in the Time/Warner Center. Additional performers from Broadway and Country include Glen Campbell, Billy Currington, Jason Danieley, Sandy Duncan, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Marin Mazzie, Andrea McArdle, Neal McCoy, Richie McDonald of Lonestar, Donna Murphy, James Naughton, Jamie O' Neal, Julie Roberts, Marian Seldes and Carrie Underwood. The concert is presented by Anheuser-Busch, Inc. and Michelob Ultra. Stephen Oremus is the musical director and arranger. Proceeds of the event benefit the Actors' Fund of America and the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.
SUNDAY, NOV. 13 - SPORTS AND PARKS DAY
Country Music stars take center field and join the legendary sports scene.
Country artists including Kimberley Roads of Little Big Town and athletes participate in the NEW YORK ROAD RUNNERS CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP RACE (5K) IN VAN CORTLANDT PARK.
NEW YORK GIANTS VS. MINNESOTA VIKINGS NFL GAME - "Military Appreciation Day," and pre-game performance featuring Country artist Keni Thomas, who also sings the national anthem.
CLAY WALKER'S SHARED SOLUTIONS FOR MS PROGRAM - Country artist Clay Walker shares his personal success with multiple sclerosis and treats attendees to a musical performance.
SONGWRITERS SERIES AT JOE'S PUB hosted by Bob DiPiero and featuring Nashville songwriters Tim Nichols, Anthony Smith, Jeffrey Steele and Craig Wiseman.
KEITH URBAN CONCERT at Irving Plaza.
A TOUCH OF HOLLYWOOD - "WALK THE LINE" MOVIE PREMIERE AT THE BEACON THEATRE - The premiere of "Walk the Line," starring Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash and Reese Witherspoon as June Carter Cash, in this true story of an honest sound that became a revolution, a man who became an icon and a love that saved him from destruction. Written and directed by James Mangold, and developed for seven years with the cooperation of Johnny and June, "Walk the Line" focuses on the period in the mid-50s when rock 'n' roll exploded from a tiny studio in Memphis, Tenn. Twentieth Century Fox releases the film nationwide on Nov. 18.
MONDAY, NOV. 14 - FASHION AND SHOPPING DAY
"COUNTRY TAKES NYC" SHOPPING PROMOTION - Take yourself shopping as the fashion capital of the world presents a City-wide retail shopping promotion with discounts, special offers, free gifts, promotions and more at various stores in all five boroughs. For a list of participating stores, visit www.NYTimes.com/CountryTakesNYC.
YA GOTTA BELIEVE GALA - TUG MCGRAW FOUNDATION - Country superstar
Tim McGraw, Tug's son, serves as honorary chairman of the event which includes a reception, dinner at Gotham Hall plus performances by McGraw and his band the Dancehall Doctors, Hot Apple Pie, The Warren Brothers and more. The inaugural gala is presented by CMT: Country Music Television and will be emceed by Bob Costas.
A SPECIAL GRAND OLE OPRY 80TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW AT CARNEGIE HALL with performances by Trace Adkins, Bill Anderson, Little Jimmy Dickens, Vince Gill, Alan Jackson, Alison Krauss and Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Charley Pride, Ricky Skaggs and Trisha Yearwood. The day kicks off with Country artists ringing the opening bell for the NYSE.
DIERKS BENTLEY, CROSS CANADIAN RAGWEED AND PAT GREEN CONCERT at the Nokia Theatre.
GARY BURR, BOB DIPIERO AND VICTORIA SHAW CONCERT at Birdland.
KEITH URBAN CONCERT at Irving Plaza.
SHOOTER JENNINGS and LEE ANN WOMACK CONCERT at the Bowery Ballroom.
LANE TUNER CONCERT at the Rodeo Bar.
New York's bravest fire up the City for the CMA Awards at the "CRISCO FIREHOUSE COUNTRY COOKOFF."
TUESDAY, NOV. 15 - CMA AWARDS DAY
Brooks & Dunn ring the opening bell for the NYSE and later host the CMA Awards. The City is filled with the excitement of the arrival of Country Music's biggest and brightest stars plus many celebrities and surprise guests. CMA Awards Red Carpet arrivals begin with international media coverage. Television viewers can catch the excitement of the Red Carpet by tuning into the TV Guide Channel at 6 PM/ET to watch the two-hour special "Joan and Melissa Live at the CMA Awards," hosted by Joan and Melissa Rivers. Fans can also tune in at 7 PM/ET to watch CMT: Country Music Television's annual "CMA Red Carpet Special," hosted by Katie Cook and Lance Smith.
"THE 39TH ANNUAL CMA AWARDS" - COUNTRY MUSIC'S BIGGEST NIGHT(tm) at Madison Square Garden. Live broadcast from 8-11 PM/ET on the CBS Television Network.
"MUSIC UNDER NEW YORK" PERFORMANCES from NYC's local Country artists at Times Square, Penn Station, Port Authority and Grand Central Station.
AND A LITTLE MORE COUNTRY... COUNTRY TAKES THE NYC AIRWAVES - TUNE INTO YOUR FAVORITE COUNTRY PROGRAMMING
NYC TV CHANNEL 25
NOV. 6 - 19
Monday through Friday 11-12 PM
Saturday 9-10 PM
Sunday 8-9 PM
RADIO NEW YORK
91.5 FM
OCT. 24 - NOV. 15
Monday through Friday
Morning drive 7AM-12PM
Midday and evening drive 1-7 PM
(All times Eastern)
November 8, 2005
