|
Howdy!
"Music is the universal language of mankind."
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
I can hardly imagine a day without any music. I always have music playing here at my desk; I can't stand the silence without it. This issue features some of The Western Vault's own recording artists and musicians. They each have their own amazing stories of how they got started and the amazing things they have achieved throughout their careers. I am also introducing a great new addition to our newsletter this week- coupons & specials from our members! Check them out each week over in the right column of your newsletter! Also, be sure to see all of our event photos on The Western Vault.com and on our Facebook page!
|
|
|
Libby Koch
Houston's Own Americana Artist
2011 has been a great year so far for Houston Americana artist Libby Koch! Following the release of her critically acclaimed album, "The Shadow of This Town", the Academy of Texas Music nominated Libby for the Texas Music Awards' Female Vocalist of the Year. The results will be announced at the Texas Music Awards ceremony on July 9 in Linden, Texas. Libby has been touring extensively in support of the new album. The highlights of her tour this spring have been a series of shows at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, her first European tour with stops in Paris and London, and her first show at Houston's famous McGonigel's Mucky Duck. For a limited time, at Libby's Online Store, Western Vault readers can receive a free koozie with any merchandise order! Enter "WESTERN" into the comments section of your PayPal order to receive yours!
Libby Koch
Houston, Texas
|
|
Templeton Thompson
From Law School to Nashville
Templeton Thompson moved to Nashville in 1992 straight out of college. "I knew two people total, I think, and I was scared to death, but excited," she said. Templeton had planned on going to law school. After taking the LSAT, Templeton cancelled her score and decided, "I'm goin' to Nashville!"
 She had read an article about one of her heroes, Trisha Yearwood. Trisha was an intern in the A&R (Artist & Repertoire) department at a record label before she got her record deal, so Templeton started researching record labels and their A&R departments. She made a quick visit to Nashville, interviewed to work for free as an A&R intern, returned home, packed, and moved to Nashville that fall. "I pretty much learned to play guitar after I moved here, or at least I got serious about learning once I moved here," she said.
Templeton also learned to write songs when she got to Nashville. About three years after the, she landed her first publishing deal with Tony Brown's Bizzy Music Publishing Co, who produces stars like Reba McEntire and George Strait. In fact, Reba invited Templeton to her Starstruck Studios, and they recorded one of Templeton's songs together. "I still can't believe that ever happened. She was so kind to me. I'll never forget that day!"
 Besides Reba McEntire, Templeton's songs have been recorded by Jo Dee Messina, Little Texas, Sherrie' Austin, and others. Templeton has recently released the first of many more digital albums to come- "That's Just Me". She is always writing and recording new music and touring as much as possible. "I absolutely LOVE performing!" she told me. Just a few months ago, Templeton started her new series "Templeton's Third Thursday Sessions", where she performs her own original songs and cover tunes live in her home studio. "I'm thinking I might start taking requests soon. I'll be having some featured guests, as well. We just have fun makin' music!" Check out Templeton's YouTube channel for her next session on Thursday, May 19th.
Finally, Templeton and her team are thrilled to be part of the EMMY nominated documentary "Sculpting the Wind." Templeton's song "I Love to Run" was written for the loved and greatly missed Kentucky Derby winner, Barbaro, and it is featured in the film.
Templeton Thompson
Dickson, Tennessee
|
|
Dave Alexander
The World of Western Swing
 Once you have seen Dave Alexander in concert, it is easy to understand why he has been named Entertainer of the Year by the Academy of Western Artists. Throughout his successful career, this dynamic entertainer has gained the respect of his peers while mesmerizing his audiences with each performance. His talents as a performer are unsurpassed as exemplified upon his induction into the Texas Western Swing Hall of Fame, 2004 Male Vocalist of The Year, and 2005 Cadillac sponsorship. Dave has performed and recorded with the biggest names in  country music such as George Strait, Toby Keith, and LeAnn Rimes, while carving out his own stellar career in the music industry. The three-time GRAMMY nominee remains one of the nation's top selling western artists.
Dave has been recognized as having created the finest Western Big Band ever assembled to deliver his overwhelming performances. His star performers include guitar great Tommy Nash formerly of the Dixie Chicks, three-time World Champion Randy "Snuffy" Elmore on fiddle, and five-time GRAMMY award winner Cindy Cashdollar on steel guitar. On many occasions, Dave and his band will be joined by the great Legends of Western Swing such as seven-time CMA Instrumentalist of the Year Johnny Gimble, along with Texas Playboys Billy Briggs, Bobby Boatright, and Leon Rausch.
As a former member of the Texas Playboys himself, Dave combines the heritage and success of yesterday's great western music with the fever and excitement of his own compositions and today's hottest musicians. The results remain unprecedented.
In addition to his touring schedule, Dave and his golden palomino, Missy, make personal appearances at some of the largest professional rodeos in the country. "It's simply the best way I know to get my music to my people", says Dave. "Western music is an important part of the cowboy world, and that world will always include riding and rodeo."
Dave is also very active in radio, television, and film. He can be heard across the country on a nationally-syndicated Radio Program as guest host of "The World of Western Swing"- a radio show currently sweeping the nation as it brings to life the fun and exciting sounds of Western Music. His latest feature film, "The Hi Low Country", includes music written, arranged, and  performed by Dave with such artists as Willie Nelson and Marty Stuart. This film later received a Western Heritage Award from the National Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Dave Alexander Era, Texas 972-393-1586 |
|
Best in Texas Music Magazine
May Magazine Preview- 100 Miles in Combat Boots, The Rankin Twins, & Willie Nelson for Nobel Peace Prize
The man who walked 100 miles to salute U.S. troops is the cover story in the May issue of Best In Texas Music Magazine, available this week at live performance venues, clubs, pubs, restaurants, retailers, and Spec's stores across Texas.
"Singer-songwriter Granger Smith has packed a lot into his three decades on the planet," writes Best In Texas contributor Laurie Barker James. The story tracks Smith's leaving Texas A&M at age 19 to become one of Nashville's youngest songwriters. He returned to Texas to form a band and re-enrolled at A&M to complete his degree.
After playing USO shows in Kuwait and Iraq, Smith committed himself to the support of the U.S. military. That led to joining the Boot Campaign and wearing combat boots for a 100-mile walk from Austin to Fort Hood. During his five-day walk, Smith was joined by fans and members of the military. The walk ended with a concert at Fort Hood for troops and their families.
Smith, along with Americana favorites The Band of Heathens, is best compared to 70's icons the band Little Feat with soulful harmonies and tight rhythms. For their third studio release, Top Hat Crown & the Clapmaster's Son, the Heathens add a Louisiana bayou feel to songs that celebrate Gulf Coast history, including the resilience of New Orleans after Katrina. Writer Gregory Barr calls the Heathens' sound "a swirling musical tempest that has the same authentic sounds found in back-porch bayou jams and after-hours Bourbon Street clubs."
In addition, May Best In Texas introduces The Rankin Twins. As writer John Moesch puts it, "The last word you want to hear in a story is 'cute,' yet it's the first word that comes to mind about the Rankin Twins. Another reviewer was right to call them 'spunky.'"
Amy and April Rankin possess tremendous harmonies, a charismatic stage presence, and enough energy to power a small city. They're among the very few people who brighten a room just by walking in. At Texas A&M, they entered a Dixie Chicks Look-Alike contest, won front row tickets, and were inspired by seeing the Chicks' sister act, Emily and Martie, on stage. You'll read, too, about a career setback for the Rankins when Amy faced a brain tumor, and, to use her words, "embraced it."
And, finally, Willie Nelson for a Nobel Peace Prize? With countless groups to "Like," nothing should surprise anyone with a Facebook account anymore. But Willie Nelson for a Nobel Peace Prize? Even more shocking - it's not a joke.
Check out the May issue of Best In Texas for the rest of these stories, as well as CD Reviews, Texas music news, and a monthly recap of the Texas Music Chart.
Best in Texas
Houston, Texas
|
|
Texas Music Chart
Your Guide to Texas and Red Dirt Music
The number one spot on the Texas Music Chart belongs to the Eli Young Band and "Crazy Girl" for another week. Brandon Rhyder is still holding on to second place waiting for his chance to take over the top position with "Lord, I Hope This Day is Good."
"You're Not Lookin' For" by Deryl Dodd, "I Hold the Bottle, You Hold the Wheel" by Reckless Kelly, and "Long Way to Get" by Max Stalling, round out the top 5 this week.
"Tonight" by William Clark Green debuts this week at #46, and Jason Cassidy's "Honky Tonk Heaven" shows up at #47. Click here to see who else made the chart this week!
Texas Music Chart
Houston, Texas
|
|
Sales & Events
NO GLITZ, NO GLORY EXHIBIT OPENING PARTY AT THE NATIONAL COWGIRL MUSEUM & HALL OF FAME
Get your sparkle on, and join us for a special exhibit opening with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres catered by G Texas, live music by the Craig Chambers Band, fabulous vendor shopping, and complimentary valet parking. Awards will be given for the King of Bling and the Queen of Sparkle. Tickets are $60 per person. Contact Jennifer Siegel at 817-509-8960 or jsiegel@cowgirl.net for additional information or to make a pre-paid reservation.
Nat
2ND ANNUAL NAMGIS PREMIER TIEDOWN ROPING SPONSORED BY RANCH AT THE RIM
The 2nd Annual Namgis Premier Tiedown Roping and MS Fundraiser is quickly approaching. Namgis Quarter Horses will host the event again this year at their facility in Hondo, Texas. Expect to see more roping from the best in the world. Last year's ropers included World Champions Fred Whitfield, Monty Lewis, C.R. Bradley, NFR Qualifiers Justin Maass, Adam Grey, Tyson Durfey, Scott Kormos, and many others.
 Saturday, May 14, 2011
10:00am - 3:00pm Namgis Facility Open House
3:00pm - 6:00pm Sale Horse Demonstrations
6:00pm - 8:00pm Calcutta for Namgis Roping
Sunday, May 15, 2011
9:00am - 10:00am Cowboy Church
1:00pm - 3:00pm Namgis Premier Tiedown Roping
Namgis Quarter Horses
5101 FM 462
Hondo, TX 78861
 Ranch at the Rim
18007 I-H 10 West
San Antonio, Texas
210-319-3001
LUCCHESE SPRING TRUNK SHOW AT PINTO RANCH- HOUSTON
Come visit Pinto Ranch's Houston location this Saturday, May 14th, to see what's new in the Lucchese Handmade Classic Collection including their new, exclusive, men's alligator boot. Representatives will be in-store to help you find the perfect fit. Choose from their inventory or special order your dream pair of boots. The show will also include made-to-order dress shirts by Gitman Bros., the new 34 Heritage line of comfort denim jeans for men, and the Stubbs traditional western shirt collection.
 Pinto Ranch
1717 Post Oak Blvd.,
Houston, Texas
713-333-7900
DESIGN AMERICA- TEXAS
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to attend DesignAmerica- Texas at the Gaylord Texan Resort. I have never seen more talent and skill in one place. The artists and craftsmen that gathered for the show displayed thousands of handmade, one-of-a-kind items- everything from handmade fashions and jewelry to intricate wood, stone, and leather work.
 | | Ladies' handmade chinks and matching handbag made by Clair Kehrberg of Clair Kehrberg Fine Leather Art modeled at the DesignAmerica Texas Preview Gala |
 | | Chuck Zeller of Chuck's Woodbarn and Mandy Wooten of The Western Vault at DesignAmerica Texas |
DesignAmerica Foundation
Pasadena, California
626-791-8310
|
|
Things to Do Comin' up Soon
Here is a short list of things comin' up soon. Be sure to check out the entire event calendar on TheWesternVault.com for a complete list of great western events all over the United States!
- May 12-14: Rough & Rowdy Crude Fest 2011 Texas Music Festival- Midland, Texas
- May 12-14: Western Heritage Classic- Abilene, Texas
- May 14: Lucchese Spring Trunk Show at Pinto Ranch- Houston, Texas
- May 14-15: 2nd Annual Namgis Premier- Hondo, Texas
- May 18: No Glitz, No Glory Exhibition Opening Party- Fort Worth, Texas
- May 19: Templeton's 3rd Thursday Sessions- www.templetonthompson.com
- May 24: Western Vintage Revival Trunk Show at Desperado Couture- Bend, Oregon
- May 24-29: Mule Days Celebration- Bishop, California
- May 27-28: John Wayne's Birthday Celebration- Winterset, Iowa
- May 27-30: Old West Days- Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- May 28-30: Phippen Museum Western Art Show & Sale- Prescott, Arizona
|
|
|
|
Weekly Coupons & Specials Our newest addition to The Western Vault newsletter. Check out what our members are offering this week! -------------------------  | |
Chuck's Woodbarn Father's Day Special
FREE SHIPPING PLUS 10% OFF!
The lost art of steam bending wood is used to handcraft these unique and stunning boot jacks. Premium oak, accented with genuine gator, Italian leather, and decorative nails.
Leather lined yoke prevents scuff marks on boots.
Finally, a boot jack you can be proud to leave by the front door.
Special price $225.00
Order must be placed by June 10, 2011
Hurry- Limited Supply
|
-------------------------
 | |
Barranada Shirt Company Extended Mother's Day Special
FREE SHIPPING DURING MAY!
Give the gift of Barranada this Mother's Day and enjoy free shipping on all orders. Discount will automatically be given when order is placed.
Visit our website to place your order today.
|
-------------------------  | |
Libby Koch Western Vault Special
FREE KOOZIE WITH ANY PURCHASE!
For a limited time, at Libby's Online Store, Western Vault readers can receive a free koozie with any merchandise order! Enter "WESTERN" into the comments section of your PayPal order to receive yours!
|
|
|
________________________
The Western Vault's Newest Inventory
View our entire list of new inventory items here!
 | |
"Business Distraction" Sculpture by Andy & Aaron Sanchez
|
 | | Redwood Bar Table by Andy & Aaron Sanchez |
 | |
Bavarian End Table from The Arrangement
|
 | | Tuscan Texas Desk from The Arrangement |
|
________________________
Our Sponsors 
|
|
___________________
|
|
