Music News Australia

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia

www.johnwilliamson.com.au

Wednesday, 15 August 2012

Country music legend Kenny Rogers performs State Theatre, Sydney; Australian music legend John Williamson supports

Kenny Rogers is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, actor, photographer and entrepreneur.

He has been most successful with country audiences and has charted more than 120 hit singles across various music genres and topping the country and pop album charts for more than 200 individual weeks in the United States alone.

Tonight Rogers performed to an appreciative Australian audience at the famous State Theatre in Sydney.

He was supported by Australian country legend John Williamson and I couldn't think of a better support in the world, but there can be little doubt that the majority of people were there to see Rogers.

Rogers is one of very few artists who have enjoyed successful careers in such a variety of genres - jazz, folk, rock, country and pop. Houston-born Rogers formed his first band while in high school in 1956 - a rockabilly group called The Scholars (they performed on American Bandstand) - and has never quit making music. He played stand-up bass in the jazz group the Bobby Doyle Trio, and later became a member of the popular folk group, The New Christy Minstrels. The spotlight started focusing on Rogers when his group, The First Edition, scored their first hit, "I Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In), which was followed by the pop and country chart success of "Ruby, Don't Take Your Love To Town."

Rogers' solo career shot into the stratosphere with the #1 hit, "Lucille," which was named the CMA's Single of the Year and was certified Gold. "Daytime Friends," "Sweet Music Man," and "Love Or Something Like It" continued his run of success. Then came "The Gambler," a story song so vivid it not only delighted country and pop fans, it also became a TV movie, starring Rogers himself in the title role. The movie spawned four follow-ups, making it the longest running miniseries franchise on television. The five Gambler mini-series have attracted over 100 million viewers nationwide and launched a second career for Rogers as an actor on television and movies.

News...

Kenny Rogers autobiography out in October...

With Rogers 50 years of performing and 120 million album sales, there's a lot to write about.

He says "It stirs up certain emotions that you'd forgotten about. Particularly when your life has been as busy as mine - it's kind of hard to keep up with things"

"I must admit I enjoyed writing it. I enjoyed that process. I don't know that I'd want to do it again."

More News...

The pinnacle of his career is in the late 1970s to '80s and includes hits such as The Gambler, Lucille, Coward of the County and, with Dolly Parton, Islands In the Stream. He has had 24 No.1 hits.

"Once I started with Lucille [in 1977], it was like an indescribable career for anybody, so you have a look at that and say: how can you not have enjoyed that?" Rogers says. "But I have to tell ya: too much success is not good either. I'm at a great place right now where I sign enough autographs to satisfy my ego, but not so many that it invades my privacy."

In 2009 Rogers did widespread touring under the anniversary banner The First Fifty Years. He still performs or records about 100 days annually. But turning 74 next week, with a much younger wife and twin eight-year-old boys at his home in Atlanta, he expects his Australian concerts will be his last here.

"This is probably gonna be my last international tour," he says. It's because his family can't be with him. "So I think when I come back … that's gonna be it. I'm gonna stay home then.

"I'll continue to tour the States. I'd just like to be able to get home [more] so I can spend what I think is quality time with the boys … I really wanna be there for 'em instead of being gone all the time."

Rogers has said his one regret is the toll his pursuit of success had on his relationships. But "I don't want to go back and rehash things that I was honest about and paid the price for. I don't want to pay it again."

Kenny Rogers will also play at the State Theatre tomorrow night, again supported by John Williamson.

If Rogers other performances down under in Australia are anything like tonight's, fans are in for a massive treat from this true music legend, and his new Aussie legend mate.

Australian Tour Dates...

SYDNEY, NSW AUSTRALIA

August 16, 2012 9:00 p.m.

State Theatre

With Special Guest John Williamson

DARWIN, NORTHERN TERRITORY AUSTRALIA

August 18, 2012 9:45 p.m.

Darwin Festival

George Brown Botanic Gardens

With Special Guest Sara Storer

PERTH, AUSTRALIA

August 21, 2012 9:00 p.m.

Riverside Theatre

Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre

With Special Guest Troy Cassar Daley

MELBOURNE, VIC AUSTRALIA

August 23, 2012 9:00 p.m.

Palais Theatre

With Special Guest Troy Cassar Daley

NEWCASTLE, NSW AUSTRALIA

August 24, 2012 8:00 p.m.

Newcastle Entertainment Centre

With Special Guest Lee Kernaghan

GYMPIE, QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA

August 26, 2012 8:00 p.m.

Gympie Music Muster

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA

August 29, 2012 9:00 p.m.

Adelaide Entertainment Centre

With Special Guest Beccy Cole

John Williamson

Kenny Rogers

John Williamson

Kenny Rogers

Websites

Kenny Rogers official website

www.kennyrogers.com

John Williamson official website

State Theatre

www.statetheatre.com.au

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia

www.echoentertainment.com.au

Tuesday, 14 August 2012

John Butler announces - “Tin Shed Tales” for North Queensland fans!

Share a night of tales and songs with one of Australia’s most iconic singer songwriters

Earlier this year John Butler returned to his roots performing a series of solo concerts across the country. Aptly titled “Tin Shed Tales”, the tour was a huge success and a rare opportunity to hear the music of this iconic artist in a raw and intimate setting. John Butler is pleased to announce he will be bringing his Tin Shed to Mackay, Townsville and Bundaberg this September/October. Tickets go on sale on August 20^th, please see all tour details below.

The incredible recreated Tin Shed setting making its way to North Queensland creates the perfect atmosphere for a unique show up close and personal with his fans. Decked out with a collection of personal art pieces, vintage skateboards and vintage guitars, these items are laid out in his shed at home where he draws inspiration for his art and songwriting.

In December last year John decided to put on a surprise concert for his fans in Perth. The unplugged acoustic show was announced a day before the performance and with only 300 seats available it sold out in under seven minutes. He shared many anecdotes with the audience and performed songs from his vast catalogue spanning across all five albums. Thus the “Tin Shed Tales” concept came to life.

Check out ‘Revolution’ taken from the “Tin Shed Tales” special Christmas performance at the Subiaco Arts Centre - WA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dACq7kTYy4s

The Tin Shed Tales North Queensland tour will feature special guest Mia Dyson who will open and participate in the shows.

Regarding the North Queensland tour John Butler said today,

“Unfortunately I couldn't bring the Tin Shed to Queensland on the last run. It felt weird like we had forgotten to invite dear friends to a party. So I am stoked to be bringing the solo show over and completing the circle. QLD family have always held a special place in my heart. They're always so passionate and giving as an audience. I can't wait.”

John will unveil some brand new songs alongside tracks from his extensive catalogue on the “Tin Shed Tales” tour. Fans can now relive this live experience with a recently released double live CD from shows recorded in Western Australia during the earlier tour this year, the CD will be on sale at shows.

Don’t miss the opportunity to catch the most intimate performance this versatile artist has ever undertaken. It will be a unique experience for any music lover.

JOHN BUTLER – TIN SHED TALES - North Queensland tour dates

With special guest – Mia Dyson

Tickets on sale Monday August 20th - All shows are All Ages. Ticket Price is $50 + b/f.

Sunday September 30^th Mackay Entertainment Centre, Mackay QLD

Tickets from Mackay Ent Cent - online & venue http://www.mackayecc.com.au

Mackay Tix (Box Office): 07 4961 9777 - Opening hours: Mon – Fri : 9am - 4.30pm; Sat: 10am - 1pm

Monday October 1^stTownsville Civic Theatre, Townsville, QLD

Tickets from Ticketshop Tel: 07 47 27 9797 www.ticketshop.com.au

Wednesday October 3^rd - Moncrieff Entertainment Centre, Bundaberg, QLD

Tickets - In person at the venue - Telephone Enquiries (07) 4130 4100

Event Booking Hours at the venue: Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6:00pm. Accept cash, EFTPOS, Mastercard, Visa and cheques (up to 14 days prior to a show). Please make cheques payable to Moncrieff Entertainment Centre. Or online http://bundaberg.qld.gov.au

NB: these Festival dates feature the JOHN BUTLER TRIO not the solo Tin Shed show

*Saturday September 29th Caloundra Music Festival, Caloundra, QLD - www.caloundramusicfestival.com

*Sunday 28th October Rock It Festival, Perth, WA www.heatseeker.com.au

*Monday December 31^stPeats Ridge Festival, NSW - www.peatsridgefestival.com.au

JOHN BUTLER ‘TIN SHED TALES’ DOUBLE LIVE CD IS OUT NOW!

www.johnbutlertrio.com www.facebook.com/johnbutlertrio twitter.com/johnbutlertrio

Monday, 13 August 2012

Legally Blonde To Open 4th October 2012 at The Star, Sydney

News Media Update..

Theatre production 'Legally Blonde' enjoyed a media call this morning at ABC TV studios at Ultimo in Sydney.

The play comes with much fanfare so it will be interesting to see if the show lives up to its reputation and hype once it plays to live audiences at the Sydney Lyric Theatre, which is part of The Star (formally known as Star City Casino).

The Star and its business partners have taken a calculated gamble on running with 'Legally Blonde', and you can bet that they will be hoping for similar outstanding results that they received with musicals such as 'Annie'.

Sydney continues to secure world class entertainment thanks to our friends at The Star and Lyric, and we encourage you to check out what all the fuss is about.

Legally Blonde To Open 4th October 2012...

The Sydney Lyric Theatre is going to be host to the famous musical 'Legally Blonde'.

Legally Blonde The Musical is the hilarious story of college sweetheart and homecoming queen, Elle Woods - a girl who doesn't take no for an answer. When her boyfriend dumps her for someone "serious", Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books and heads for Harvard Law School! Along the way, she proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style.

Legally Blonde The Musical - Winner of Best Musical 2011 Olivier Awards and a smash hit running into its third year on the West End was created by a world-class creative team led by Tony Award-winning director Jerry Mitchell.

Based on the movie starring Reese Witherspoon and remaining true to the script, Legally Blonde the Musical is a feel-good number with a '90s feel.

College sweetheart Elle heads off to law school to win back her boyfriend Warner after he dumps her for someone more serious, only to graduate top of her class and find a far better love interest.

Warner, too, finds the courage to dump family expectations of a career in law and politics and pursue his true calling as a model.

"I've seen it on Broadway and the West End and it's great. It really does do the movie justice," leading actress Lucy Durack says.

"I love the role of Elle. As much as she looks like she hasn't a care in the world, people are unkind to her and judge her and she struggles with that.

"But she takes a positive path and rises above it. She doesn't take the low road, ever. The whole show is a celebration - be who you are, the best version of yourself, and be proud."

LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL

The musical opens 4th October 2012.

Websites

Legally Blonde The Musical (Australia)

www.legallyblonde.com.au

The Star

www.star.com.au

Sydney Lyric Theatre

www.sydneylyric.com.au

Echo Entertainment

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia

www.hopscotchfilms.com.au/the-sapphires-film

Thursday, 9 August 2012

Karise Eden's Debut National Tour - Heavenly Sounds

Newcastle and Hobart fans pleas have been answered with the Heavenly Sounds of Karise Eden!

Fans in Newcastle and Hobart have flooded social media sites requesting Karise Eden include their city on her national HEAVENLY SOUNDS tour. Their wish has been granted with Karise and special guest Lakyn Heperi now adding shows in both Newcastle and Hobart.

Whilst tickets for all other shows are on sale now and selling quickly, tickets for the Newcastle and Hobart dates go on sale this Friday July 27^th.

HOBART – NEWLY ADDED SHOW – TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20^th

Friday October 12^th – St David’s Cathedral 125 Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS

NEWCASTLE – NEWLY ADDED SHOW ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20^th

Monday October 29^th - Christ Church Cathedral, Church Street, Newcastle, NSW

Karise Eden, the 20 year-old winner of ‘The Voice 2012’ from the Central Coast in New South Wales, is set to perform her first live performances under the banner of the Heavenly Sounds tour this October.

Coming to fruition in 2011 with Seeker Lover Keeper, the inaugural Heavenly Sounds tour sold out swiftly and just last month Lisa Mitchell again delivered an acclaimed sold out tour. Set in the architectural splendour, rich acoustics and ethereal ambience of these church settings, Karise Eden will delight audiences with her distinct vocal style and personable approach.

As Karise Eden took out the title of The Voice 2012, wowing coaches and the public alike, she was made aware of the unique and intimate touring concept Heavenly Sounds offers. As she explains, it was Karise herself who chose to conduct her first major national tour in the enchanting setting of churches and cathedrals.

“I was made aware of the Heavenly Sounds concept just after the show finished. The idea of singing soul and blues in beautiful churches is so exciting. When we were planning the first tour, I really wanted to try and make these shows as unique as possible and keep them feeling intimate. Heavenly Sounds is the perfect way to do it! I’ll be playing songs from the current album as well as new material I have been working on.”

Karise Eden has had an incredible month. After taking out the crown of The Voice 2012 in June, Karise scored 6 out of the top ten singles on the ARIA Charts; a feat not achieved since The Beatles in 1964. ‘My Journey’, her album of songs performed on The Voice remains at number 1 on the ARIA album charts, a position it has held for six consecutive weeks. It has already been accredited double platinum and is the fastest selling non-Christmas album since Pink in 2008. She has gone on to perform at the State Of Origin Final (the highest rating TV show this year) and performed two songs on Channel 9’s ‘Voice Reaches Out’ in aid of Reach. Karise will head off to the UK and Europe next month to start work on her debut release of all new material before heading back to Australia to kick off the tour.

Karise will be supported at all shows by Lakyn, who scored a gold single on The Voice with his cover of Big Jet Plane, will be showcasing new material to be released later this year.

With Heavenly Sounds shows taking place in the unique and ethereal settings of some of Australia’s most stunning churches and cathedrals, Karise said:

“I don’t see myself as a crowd-pumping, everybody put your hands up kind of performer, so I think this kind of tour is more appropriate for my style and I just like the intimate feeling it will create”

Karise Eden’s inaugural national tour with Heavenly Sounds is sure to be popular – be quick to secure tickets to witness this remarkable young lady perform in these awe-inspiring settings nationwide!

Please see tour run with these added dates below.

Proudly supported by NOVA

Heavenly Sounds 2012 featuring Karise Eden

With special guest Lakyn Heperi

Presented by One Louder and Artist Voice and NOVA

Tickets on sale through www.ticketek.com.au

Tickets cost $62.50 plus booking fees and all shows are open to all ages.

SYDNEY

Wednesday October 3^rd – St Stephen's Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW –SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW

Thursday October 4^th –St Stephen's Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW – SOLD OUT

MELBOURNE

Wednesday October 10^th - St Michael's Church, cnr of Collins Street & Russell Street, Melbourne, VIC - SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW

Thursday October 11^th - St Michael's Church, cnr of Collins Street & Russell Street, Melbourne, VIC– SOLD OUT

HOBART – NEWLY ADDED SHOW – TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20^th

Friday October 12^th – St David’s Cathedral 125 Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS

PERTH

Tuesday October 16^th – St Joseph’s Church, 3 Salvado Road, Subiaco Perth WA -

SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW

Wednesday October 17^th - St Joseph’s Church, 3 Salvado Road, Subiaco Perth WA

ADELAIDE
Thursday October 18^th – Flinders Street Baptist Church, 65 Flinders Street, Adelaide, SA SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW

Friday October 19th - Flinders Street Baptist Church, 65 Flinders Street, Adelaide,

BRISBANE

Tuesday October 23^rd - St John's Cathedral, 373 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD -– SOLD OUT

Wednesday October 24th - St John's Cathedral, 373 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD – SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW

NEWCASTLE – NEWLY ADDED SHOW ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20^th

Monday October 29^th- Christ Church Cathedral, Church Street, Newcastle, NSW

www.heavenlysounds.com.au

www.kariseeden.com.au http://www.facebook.com/KariseEdenMusic

www.universalmusic.com

Wednesday, 8 August 2012

The Sapphires movie premiere at State Theatre, Sydney, Australia

Plot...

It's 1968, and four young, talented Australian Aboriginal girls learn about love, friendship and war when their all girl group The Sapphires entertain the US troops in Vietnam.

Premiere...

Tonight Sydney's State Theatre was once again the place for hot new movie premiere.

Last night State Theatre was the place for the Sydney premiere of 'The Bourne Legacy', and tonight it was a very different genre with 'The Sapphires'.

'The Sapphires' took over the famous theatre, as the red carpet was rolled out for this interesting new film.

It was wonderful to see the strong turn out of people including many notable Indigenous Australians, there to support the film and actors.

Review...

When a little-known stage show dubbed 'The Sapphires' shimmied into Perth two years ago, four Aboriginal songbirds burnt up the stage in a dazzling display with all the promise of a big screen blockbuster musical.

Inspired by the true story of playwright Tony Briggs’ mother and three aunts during the racial upheaval of the ’60s and delivering a spirited score, sparkling costumes and charismatic performances, the showstopper still ranks among the best plays or musicals seen on any stage in Perth, Broadway or the West End.

Originating as an acclaimed production in 2004, that 2010 reprisal introduced a new cast including seasoned songstress Christine Anu and Australian Idol season two winner Casey Donovan, marking the oft-maligned powerhouse vocalist’s return to the spotlight.

Off the back of rave reviews, it secured a stint in London with Donovan the sole lead to secure a spot on tour, only to unsuccessfully audition for the film version.

Deborah Mailman (from the original 2004 production) and Australian Idol season four runner-up Jessica Mauboy are joined here by two young newcomers in Miranda Tapsell and Shari Sebbens as talented sisters Gail, Julie and Cynthia and cousin Kay, whose beautiful harmonies are discovered by soul-loving music manager Dave (Chris O’Dowd).

Directed by feature film debutant Wayne Blair, the cinematic adaptation comes with lots of pressure and expectation and delivers.

The Sapphires is likely to become an Aussie classic and is full of soul.

If music themed flicks are your thing you really need to see this film.

The Sapphires (M)

Starring: Deborah Mailman, Chris O'Dowd, Jessica Mauboy

Director: Wayne Blair

Writers: Tony Briggs, Keith Thompson

Production Co: Goalpost Pictures

Websites

Goalpost Pictures

www.goalpostpictures.com

Hopscotch Films - The Saphires

State Theatre

www.statetheatre.com.au

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia