shay's spotlight artist of the week

Brantley Gilbert was known as a songwriter before he hit the scene as an artist. Moving to Nashville and becoming a part of Warner Chappell Publishing. Artists like Jason Aldean and Colt Ford have recorded works from Gilbert. He released his first album in 2009; his 3rd album was released in May of this year.

Branch & Dean are Steve Branch and Dean Scallan out of Florida. Releasing their first single The Dash to radio just last year the duo has taken radio by storm.

The Randy Rogers Band is a Texas band that has the best fans ever. In fact, it's that incredibly loyal fan base that has helped them become as successful as they are; however, that's not to take away from the pure talent these guys possess. The crowds they were drawing at concerts coupled with their singing, writing and drive to be the best helped them catch the eye of Nashville.

Bart Crow has a new single out on radio called 'If I Go, I'm Goin'" featuring Macy Maloy. You may love Bart's music but not know a lot about him or how he got his start in music. He began that journey not far from here, in Stephenville, where he went to Tarleton State.

Luke Bryan has been on a winning streak lately and it's not hard to see why. He has a fun loving/laid back personality, good looks and talent. He appeals to both men and women for different reasons but nonetheless he seems to have everyone hooked on his music.

Kellie Pickler gained her notoriety on American Idol, although she didn't win the competition, she did sign with a record album in 2006. Her first album was released that year that featured 'Red High Heels'. She also competed on Dancing with the Stars and won the competition with partner Derek Hough. All of this is a far cry from the dysfunctional childhood she grew up in.

Darius Rucker, in my opinion, has been one of the best additions to country music in a long time. He's not a newcomer to the industry, but he is to the country scene. Darius for many years was the front man for the pop group Hootie & The Blowfish.

Tracy Lawrence is about to make a comeback with a new album being released tomorrow. He hit the music scene in 1991 with Sticks and Stones. Nine albums later and a few bumps in the road, Tracy is back with some great new music.

The Eli Young Band got it's start in Denton, Texas when a group of guys met while attending college at the University of North Texas. They have slowly and tirelessly built a fan base that has helped launch their career nationally.

Brad Paisley is one of my favorite artists, not just because of his music but for his person as well. I think Brad has a great personality that most people get along with, similar to George Strait. He has great music, talent, humor, work ethic, and a love of the business so I chose Brad to be this weeks spotlight artist.

Garth Brooks hit the music scene in 1989 with his self-titled album. He was the biggest music star around at the time; and then came Chris Gaines. Gaines, of course, was Brooks rock alter ego, that turned out to be a flop. However, not just anyone could have tried that. Garth eventually retired from music but now he is moving back to Nashville and hoping to re-launch his career.

One of my all time favorite bands is Exile. Exile is a 5 man band (J.P. Pennington, Les Taylor, Sonny Lemaire, Steve Goetzman and Marlon Hargis) from the '60s that I fell in love with in the '80s. They have transitioned through the years with the singers coming and going but they recently reunited, all 5 original members, to celebrate their 50th year!