Paul Revere is (Dough) Nuts!

If you're from the Pacific Northwest and/or a fan of Paul Revere & the Raiders, by now you've heard that band leader, Paul Revere, passed away October 4, 2014.  Since then the internet has been abuzz with news, stories, memories and the like from the media and fans all over the world.

 One of the latest stories related to Revere's death is courtesy of Voodoo Doughnut in Portland, Oregon.  They announced that in honor of Paul they'd be making a special, limited time doughnut.

At the time of the original announcement, no definite decisions had been made as to what the doughnut would look like, what flavor, etc.

As of October 14, 2014 though, the shop revealed what they'd come up with in tribute to the leader of Paul Revere & the Raiders.



A tricorn hat shaped doughnut, (representing the hat Paul sported on stage for 50 years), frosted in chocolate, and covered in red, white and blue sprinkles.  If that weren't enough, the doughnut is filled with butter cream.

The doughnut will be available in all four Voodoo Doughnut locations, (three in Oregon, and one in Colorado), from October 15, 2014, to December 15, 2014.

In addition, a portion of each sale of a Paul Revere doughnut will be donated to the Oregon Music Hall of Fame.

The donations will help the foundationIn raise funds to further music education.

If you live in the area, or plan on visiting between now and December 15th, be sure to make a stop by Voodoo Doughnut, and get yourself a Paul Revere doughnut.  Not only will you be paying your respects to a rock & roll icon, you'll be helping future rock & roll legends as well.

Brett Eldredge @ The Bing Lounge-3-21-13

Brett Eldredge.

You may not know the name now; however, in time that's bound to change.

As far as music careers go, singer/songwriter Eldredge's time in the spotlight has been short, compared to most; garnering him attention in just three years.

On March 21, 2013, Eldredge was the most recent visitor to the Bing Lounge, courtesy of 98.7 The Bull.

In addition to telling the audience about his experiences in the business, Eldredge also told the stories behind the songs he sang that day; two which he's recorded himself.

"Raymond" was Eldredge's first song out to radio, in 2010.  It's the story of a woman with Alzheimer's who thinks one of the caretakers is her son, Raymond.  It's a haunting, touching tale, told in Eldredge's deep, unique voice and tone.  He explained the song was close to his heart, and was written for his grandma, who suffers from Alzheimer's.  There *is* a video of Eldredge's performance in the Bing Lounge, however I couldn't get it to work here, so I've put the official video in it's place.  Go to 987TheBull on YouTube for the live performance.

Eldredge currently has a song on radio titled "Don't Ya".  He joked that doing the video for the song was "difficult" and he "had" to keep doing the kissing scene over and over, to get it right.

Though the set was short, Brett Eldredge showed those in the Bing Lounge why his star has been steadily rising.  Here's hoping to a long climb.

Don't Forget Them

(Today's word will be in red and bold.)



To say the least, last week was a rough one for this nation, especially in two states.

On  Tuesday, December 11, 2012, a day of holiday shopping for 10,000 people was abruptly halted when a gunman entered Clackamas Town Center in Portland, Oregon, and opened fire, killing two.

Only three days later, on Friday, December 14, 2012, another gunman went on a rampage, this time in Newtown, Connecticut, ending the lives of twenty innocent children, and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

I realize, by now, this is old news;  you'd have to be living under a rock not to know about either of these incidents.  My reason for writing this post is to emphasize a lot of what I've been seeing and reading on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media, as well as KUPL's own "Simon in the Morning" program.

While it's generally agreed that none of the victims should be forgotten, it's also agreed that too much attention has been given to those who created these horrible events.

Instead of dwelling on the gunmen, give the facts, tell the story, then don't mention them anymore; they're not worth it, evil never is.

Focus instead on those who lost their lives on those two days, Steve Forsyth and Cindy Yuille in Oregon, and the twenty children, and seven adults in Connecticut.

Yes, the media says six adults were victims in Connecticut, though the gunman's mother was also found dead in her home that same day.  Though she wasn't at the school, Nancy Lanza should also be in our thoughts and prayers.

For those that can, do something to help the victims' families, even if it's only to offer a prayer of comfort, or to attend a vigil.

KUPL has set up a fund for the Oregon victims' families through Key Bank.  They will also be holding a benefit concert on Saturday, December 22, 2012.

While it's true that none of these things will bring those lost back; it's a way to help those affected, and the nation as a whole to heal.

Let's hope the rest of  the year passes peacefully.

Chris Janson @ the Bing Lounge--12-11-12

(Today's word will be in red and bold.)

Chris Janson is a name most people probably aren't familiar with.  Like many artists that come through the Bing Lounge, Janson is an up and coming singer/songwriter, trying to make it big.  His time in the Bing Lounge was the evening of December 11, 2012.

It was easy to tell from the moment Janson took the stage that he's the real deal.  He does things the only way he knows how, his way; he doesn't try to be who he's not, and he's not apologetic for who he is.  It was refreshing to hear someone admit that, and be proud of it.

Janson's enthusiasm for what he does is contagious as well.  You couldn't help but tap your toes and dance in your seat to each song he performed.  In fact, the ONLY *slight* drawback to Chris Janson's performance that evening was  that it was impossible to get a photo of him while he sang.  The man is in constant motion during every song.  Not that this is a bad thing, it's very cool, unless you're trying to get a photo of course.  For this post I settled on using photos of when Janson was talking with the audience; less blurry that way.  It's a fair compromise, considering how entertaining Janson was.

As with most country acts in the Bing Lounge, Phil and Lyssa Davidson, of Davidson Specialty Printing, made t-shirts for a few lucky audience members, that said, "I Met Chris Janson..."; as well as a shirt for Janson himself that said, "I M Chris Janson..."  Janson thought the shirts were so cool, that he put his on right then and there.

Up to this point I've told a lot about Chris Janson, without actually telling of his performance that evening.  Let's just say, once you've seen Janson perform, you won't soon forget him.  He's definitely not one of the "cookie cutter" singers that seem to pop up everywhere.  Janson has a unique voice and style that sets him apart from others, yet suits his personality perfectly.  

At the same time, he can remind one of other country artists that have come before him.  For instance, Janson started off his set with his soon to be released single, "Better I Don't".  The song had a lot of the same key elements of Blake Shelton's "The More I Drink", but rowdier; and still different enough to not be a direct copy.                                                                                     

At other times during the set, Janson also reminded many in the audience of Hank Williams Jr.  Again though, while there was a similarity, Janson's showmanship proved he's his own person.  He can borrow bits and pieces of the best of other artists, take them and make them into something new and all his own.

As a songwriter, Janson co-wrote Tim McGraw's "Truck Yeah".  He ended his set with his version of the song, as well as incorporating songs by other artists, like Johnny Cash and Garth Brooks.  If anyone disbelieves that old school country and new country can't blend together in perfect harmony, take a good, long listen to Chris Janson; this is one redneck country boy who proves by example, it can be done!

Here's hoping Janson gets that big break and show the world what he's capable of.

So Sad...

Well, it's happened again; another shooting where innocent people have been hurt or killed.

We hear the stories almost every day now, it seems, from one corner of the world, to the other, about gunmen opening fire in any number of public places.  The most recent of these shootings took place close to home for me, at Clackamas Town Center, just outside Portland, Oregon.

On the afternoon of Tuesday, December 11, 2012, a man wearing a mask, bullet proof vest and carrying a gun entered the mall through Macy's, making his way to the food court.  Eyewitnesses reported at least sixty shots being fired.

In the resulting aftermath, at least three people were killed, including the gunman, and at least one injury was reported.

My  question is the same as anyone else's in a situation like this:  Why?  At this point the question is rhetorical; it's going to take time to comb over every detail of the crime scene, interview witnesses, etc., to try to find the answer.  When all is said and done, there may not be any concrete answers as to why this happened; the person who could tell the police exactly why, has already turned the gun on himself, ending his life.

Again, why?  If someone is going to kill themself, why go to a public place, and take it out on innocent people first?  That question may be one that's never answered.

As I write this, I can tell I'm rambling.  I'm confused, and like others want answers that aren't readily available at this time.  Maybe somewhere inside I think if I had answers it would ease the confusion, or something, I don't really know for sure though.

I do know that my heart goes out to every person that was at Clackamas Town Center when the shooting occured; and to their families and friends as well.

At the moment, as far as I know, no one I know was there; however, it doesn't stop me from feeling for those who were.  As with any tragedy, please keep these people in your thoughts and prayers during this sad time of what should be a happy and joyous season.  Thank you.

Life is Suite

(Today's word will be in red and bold.)


The Rose Garden Arena in Portland, Oregon, is host to many events throughout the year.  Concerts; ice shows; hockey games, and much more.  It's also the home court of the NBA Portland Trailblazers.

I like basketball, for the most part, though I rarely watch it.  Most of the time I watch if Portland is in the playoffs, or if I have a chance to go to a game.  That was the case the evening of Friday, November 16, 2012.  A friend and co-worker had an extra ticket for the game in our company's suite, so he asked if I wanted to go.

It had been awhile since I'd been to a game; the proof being that I no longer knew any of the players' names, except LaMarcus Aldridge. There was no more Rudy Fernandez, Joe Prizbilla, or any other names I recognized.

No worries, I figured I didn't really *have* to know the players' names to enjoy the game; and I didn't, though I do know one or two more names now.

(The view from one of the suites in the Rose Garden Arena.)

Before the game started, I asked my friend if he thought the Blazers had a chance of making it to the playoffs this year; he said no, they're too young of a team.  Once the game got started, I had to agree with him.  Our team was having a hard time making shots and scoring points.  When they did, the other team, (the Houston Rockets), would score almost immediately after that.  I was thinking it was going to be a bit of a letdown of a game.

By the second half though, things had picked up, the Rockets were still doing better at making their shots, but the Blazers were at least making more of theirs.  At one point in the first half our team was down by more than ten points.  In the second half, not only did we make up the deficit, a few times we actually were ahead of the other team.  When it came right down to the wire, the game actually went in to overtime.  Long story short, the Blazers came out the winners!  YAY!

So, not only did the Trailblazers win, I got to watch the game from a great spot, and the team scored over 100 points during the game; which in Portland means coupons for a free Taco Bell chalupa for everyone at the game.  Life was definitely sweet in the suite that night!

The Twangshifters @ the Bing Lounge--11-16-12

Rockabilly music is proof that the rock and country genres can coexist in this world.  While usually a bit more rock than country, there's still enough of a twang to the tunes to set toes tapping.

Currently, in the Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington area the rockabilly flag is being flown proudly by The Twangshifters.

The band performed in the Bing Lounge November 16, 2012, bringing their orginal style and songs to the small group that was gathered.   They were also quick to point out that what they do isn't a "gimmick"; that they really do live and breathe what they do for a living.  This was brought up because of how their guitar player was dressed, wearing what's considered a rockabilly style of clothing.  It was also mentioned that he drives a Buick from the 50's.

The Twangshifters played several songs from their current CD, telling the stories behind the songs, etc.  As mentioned earlier, they do have their own style; yet they stay true to the rockabilly music of days gone by.

If you're a fan of rockabilly, and live in the the Portland/Vancouver area, try to catch one of The Twangshifters' shows, I think you'll have a great time.

Tis the Season...Almost

Everyone has their own timeline as to when the "official" Christmas season begins.  A lot of stores have decided the middle of summer is the time.  Some say the day after Halloween.  Most however deem the start of the Christmas season as the day after Thanksgiving.

In some cases though, it takes time to be ready to start the beginning of the Christmas season.  For instance, the lighting of the tree in Portland's Pioneer Courthouse Square; the tree doesn't just magically appear the Friday after Thanksgiving.  In reality, it takes days of hard work positioning the tree in the middle of the square, adding all the branches to fill it out, and adding thousands of lights

Even before the work begins at the square, the tree has to be chopped down, loaded on a semi truck and readied for it's trip to the square.  It's not just a "ho hum", (or would that be "ho, ho, ho hum in this case?), trip though, not in the least.

Nope, once the tree, (provided every year by Stimson Lumber in Forest Grove, Oregon), has reached downtown Portland's streets, the slow procession of festivity begins.

Portland police block the streets at each intersection of 6th Avenue, and provide a motorcade for the two semi's bringing the tree.  In front of the semis is a marching band playing Christmas songs.  And who but Santa himself is riding shotgun in the truck carrying the tree.

You'd think, as adults, those working in downtown Portland wouldn't get overly excited about watching a Christmas tree go through the streets at about 5 miles an hour; yeah, you'd think that.  However, there are those who still think it's pretty cool to watch, especially when it goes right by your office during your lunch time.

Those adults are the ones who go outside, and take pictures of the procession; or just watch, so they can blog about it.

Yep, you guessed it!  The following photos were taken by my co-worker, Doug Baker.  Thank you Doug for taking these so I could watch and write about it!

(Click on the photo for a larger view.)

Diamond Rio Helps Jubitz Celebrate 60 Years

In 1952 Jubitz Truck Stop opened in Portland, Oregon. It was a place for truck drivers to fill their rigs while on the road and have a quick bite to eat.

Over the past sixty years, Jubitz has grown from that small fuel stop to a world renowned travel center with all the amenities a truck driver, or traveler could want, or need.

On September 15, 2012, to honor their sixty years, Jubitz held a concert on the back part of their twenty-six acre complex.

Inside the gates of the concert area beer and food stands had been set up, as well as a merchandise table, and other things of interest to concertgoers.

Held outside, the concert line-up started with local artist, Carrie Cunningham, culminating with a performance by headliner, Diamond Rio.

Though at first there was only a small crowd, Carrie Cunningham performed as though she were in front of thousands of people.  

Whether singing songs she'd written, or covering others, like Martina McBride, Cunningham showed the crowd why she's such a local favorite.  Though she definitely has her own style and sound, I couldn't help being reminded of Pam Tillis while watching and listening to Cunningham sing; she's a truly talented woman.

Following Carrie Cunningham, one of Portland's favorite bands, Lock, Stock & Barrel hit the stage.

Like Cunningham, Lock, Stock & Barrel kept the crowd's attention with their mix of original and cover tunes.  From start to finish, these five guys hit the stage running, never slowing down until their set was done.

Throughout the day, KUPL's Danny Dwyer had been emceeing the concert from both the sound board, and the stage; introducing the first two local acts.  Before Restless Heart was to take the stage, Danny brought middayer, Lola Montgomery onstage as well.

Restless Heart was then introduced.  What memories these guys brought back!

These guys have been together for twenty-nine years, with no band changes.  Sometimes after that long, you'd expect the quality of the music to diminish; not so with Restless Heart.  Their sound, style, everything, is just as clean and fresh as the first time the world had heard of them.

One song in particular during their performance was something they've never recorded.  However, there is a YouTube video, which bass player, (and singer of the song), Paul Gregg, let the audience know how to find.  The song is called "Home".

 When Paul Gregg sang this live, it was just him, and keyboard player, Dave Innis onstage; it was a very powerful and memorable moment.

Throwing in a side note here, I honestly don't know how many people noticed what I did while this song was being performed.  As I was sitting, listening to the song, I saw a bald eagle flying towards the stage.  Earlier, I'd seen a nest atop one of the light poles; the occupant of that nest decided to arrive home just as Gregg and Innis were playing.  There was no way it was planned or scripted; which made it even more cool that it happened.

Once Restless Heart ended their set, it was time for more announcements, and t-shirt tosses from the KUPL staff.  It was during this time that Jubitz brought out mini cupcakes for everyone in attendance; to celebrate their sixty years of business.

Then it was time for headliners, Diamond Rio.  Talk about memories!

This was my first time seeing Diamond Rio live; for some reason, every time they've been here, I've missed seeing them.  Believe me, they were well worth the wait!  Like Restless Heart, there's nothing about this band's performance that has diminished over the years.  These guys have it all, rhythm, harmonies, talent, you name it!  And so many hits! 

As lead singer, Marty Roe, put it, in twenty-one years, the band has had so many hits, they've had to leave some out of their shows.  Finding that audiences didn't like it, they've now incoportated melodies of their hits into their show.  This way attendees can hear their favorite tunes, and still hear new music from Diamond Rio as well.

At one point, early on in their set, Diamond Rio asked the guys of Restless Heart back onstage.  Together the bands sang happy birthday to Jubitz; it was a cool moment.

The Jubitz Corporation definitely knows a thing or two about throwing a party!  Instead of waiting for the "milestone" years to celebrate though, I really think they should throw themselves a birthday party every year; this year was definitely a blast!

Eric Paslay at Duke's--7-21-12

(Today's word will be in red and bold.)


You may not recognize the name "Eric Paslay", but it's fairly certain you've heard his music.

While Paslay is new to the public as a singer, as a songwriter he's notched several hits with other artists.  For instance, Jake Owen's "Barefoot, Blue Jean Night"; the Eli Young Band's current single, "Even If It Breaks Your Heart"; and Love & Theft's "Angel Eyes".  Paslay has also had album cuts by Lady Antebellum.

As a singer, he's released two singles of his own, "Never Really Wanted", and his current single, "If the Fish Don't Bite".

On July 21, 2012, Paslay brought his music to the crowd at Duke's Bar & Grill in Portland, Oregon.  Though while talking to the audience, Paslay seemed very laid back; when he played, he gave every song his all.  He told those in attendance about how the songs were written; where he grew up, (Texas), and several other things, all while performing with his band. At some point he mentioned things are bigger in Texas, and that he was a leprechaun from that state.  This was in reference to his 6' 4" stature and bright red hair.  

Though the crowd at Duke's was small for a Saturday night, those in attendance were definitely enjoying themselves and the music Eric Paslay had to offer.  Here's hoping this young man sees even more success in the future.

KUPL Countryfest 2012

 (Today's word will be in red, and bold.)


Years ago KUPL began yearly listener appreciation concerts for those who tuned in to KUPL daily.  Over time the name of the program was changed to "Countryfest", and was held in locations such as Portland Meadows, and St. Helens, Oregon.

For a few years though, there's been no Countryfest; until now.  On Sunday, June 3, 2012, KUPL Countryfest took over the RoZone during Rose Festival in downtown Portland, Oregon.

Attendees began lining up as early as 8:30 am  for the afternoon/evening concert.  Gates were set to open at 3:30 pm that day, with two stages, one for local and one for national acts.   A few benches were set up to one side of the main stage, with some low bleachers on the sides as well. Those with blankets and chairs had a section by the local stage to set up their spot; for the most part though, it was standing room only for concert goers.
 
While the local acts were entertaining the crowd, KUPL also had several things going on from the main stage, between national acts.  The "Simon in the Morning" team had their "Simon Says" finals, with one winner enjoying time backstage with an artist.  TicTak was shooting t-shirts into the crowd with a t-shirt launcher; there were two people associated with the Oregon Jamboree that also tossed out t-shirts and three day passes to the audience throughout the day.

At one point, between national acts, TicTak brought a girl onstage that has been in the hospital , fighting for her life for the past few months. From her wheelchair, Alex determined which directions t-shirts should be thrown into the audience.  She had also been backstage earlier to meet Chris Cagle, and was part of a video that was being filmed that day.

 With all the activity going on between the stages, there was more going on backstage as well.  Some  KUPL listeners who won concert tickets also got a meet and greet with the artist of their choice.  A lucky few even had meet and greets with all of the artists.

Lola Montgomery had come up with the idea to have anyone who wore a red sundress to the concert be in a group photo with Kip Moore, in honor of a line from Moore's #1 hit, "Somethin' 'Bout A Truck".  Several women showed up in various styles and shades of red sundresses, and at the designated time, went backstage for the group photo.

Though there was a lot happening on the main stage, the music was still the focal point of the day.

The Ponderosa Stage was set up for local musicians, Britnee Kellogg; Kurt Van Meter; Lock, Stock & Barrel; and The Concrete Cowboys.  The local music started when the gates opened and went until 5 pm, when the first national act, newcomers Miss Willie Brown, took the Financial One main stage.

The duo,  (Amanda Watkins and Kasey Buckley), did a short, though very energetic set, including their current single, "You're All That Matters To Me"; which KUPL has been playing.  They were the perfect opening act on the main stage to get the party started.  From Miss Willie Brown, it was back to the local stage for more of the local bands. 

Casey James, from "American Idol" was the next performer to hit the main stage.

James did songs from his self-titled debut CD, including his current single, "Let's Don't Call It A Night".  Though in past performances he's leaned more towards the blues, Casey's music that evening kept more in line with the country theme.  It was also nice to be able to hear Casey's  wonderful voice so clearly; there are times when the music drowns him out, but not this night.

More local entertainment, then it was time for Jon Pardi to take the main stage.  Pardi was probably the least known of the line up that day; though by the end of his set, he'd gained more fans.

Even without the cowboy hat, Pardi easily represented more traditional country, while still having a fresh, new sound. He joked around with the audience between songs, telling different stories about the songs and the like.  Of course, his set wouldn't have been complete had he not done his current single, "Missin' You Crazy"; another tune that's been getting airplay on KUPL's overnight show.

Next up on the national stage, (after another set on the local stage), was former Trick Pony member, Heidi Newfield.

Like Miss Willie Brown, Newfield's performance was very high energy, with Heidi all over the stage the entire time.  She was very polished and professional, yet, real and down to earth at the same time.  Her voice was also as beautiful as it's always been.

Newfield did  songs from her upcoming CD, including her new single, "Why'd You Have To Be That Good".  In addition she did some songs from her Trick Pony days, as well as a cover of Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues".  Following the Cash cover, Heidi launched into her first hit as a solo artist, "Johnny & June".

For a day filled with great music and performances, Heidi Newfield was probably the one who stood out the most with her set.

With the routine of local artists and activities in place, the next national musician was Kip Moore.

It was clear from the audience reaction, that Moore was the one the majority had come to see that day; at least the female attendees.

Moore didn't disappoint either.  He performed several songs, with his smooth style and voice, including his first single, "Mary Was the Marrying Kind", and his current #1 hit, "Somethin'  'Bout A Truck".  Moore did a great job during his somewhat laid back set, singing and interacting with the crowd.

More local music, then it was time for Darryl Worley to perform.

Worley was definitely even more laid back that Kip Moore before him.  He was so relaxed, singing his previous hits; telling about them and his life.  For as big as the crowd was that night, Worley made it feel like an intimate setting of friends sitting around listening to good music; there was enough energy though that no one was bored.  One of the highlights of Worley's set was when he did, "Have You Forgotten".  He changed the lyrics slightly towards the end of the tune, referencing that Osama Bin Laden is dead now.

Before the evening's headliner was to come onstage, the entire KUPL air staff was brought onstage and introduced to the audience.  Each had been introduced at some point in the day; this was just a moment to see everyone together at the same time onstage.

Then it was time for the final act of the night, headliner, Chris Cagle.

Cagle came onstage, performing many of his past hits, as well as new music he's recorded; including his latest, "Got My Country On".  His set was a great balance of energy and more settled down music.  Cagle also interacted with the audience quite a bit, sometimes being very emotional about what he was telling them.

At one point Cagle asked for Alex, (the girl he'd met earlier backstage), to come onstage with him.  TicTak came out instead, explaining that Alex had left to return to the hospital.  Cagle quickly asked if Alex was okay, and was assured yes, she had been tired and needed to return.  There was a definite look of relief when he heard this.

Over all, KUPL's Countryfest was a huge success.  Yes, as always there were a few bumps here and there; a few attendees who got a bit out of line; and the usual things that can happen at an event this size.  For the most part though, it was a fantastic day, and it's good to see Countryfest is back.  Can't wait to see what KUPL has in store for next year!

Gwen Sebastian @ the Bing Lounge-4-23-12

 
To be totally honest, I don't watch any of the shows like "American Idol" or, "The Voice".  Not because I don't like them; simply because I'd get too caught up in them, especially being on more than once a week. I do keep up on music and the like however, so I have heard of Gwen Sebastian and that she'd been on this season of "The Voice".

Since being eliminated, Gwen has been doing the "radio tour", taking her music to radio stations all over the country.  The evening of April 23, 2012, Gwen's stop was the Bing Lounge in Portland, Oregon, for KUPL listeners. 

While listening to Gwen perform, I kept thinking how her voice reminds me of Kellie Pickler, yet is different and distinct enough to also have her own unique style.

At the same time, watching Gwen, I was reminded of Jennifer Nettles, from Sugarland.  Gwen's passion for her music shines through in every movement and gesture she makes.  You can tell music is part of her soul, and flows through her veins. From ballads, to upbeat tunes, Gwen can do it all, and gives it her all when she does.  I especially like her new single, "Met Him In A Motel Room".

If having a beautiful voice, and great personality weren't enough, Gwen is also a genuinely nice person.  She took time to sign autographs, take pictures AND thank each person for coming to the Bing Lounge to see her.

Gwen Sebastian may have been eliminated from "The Voice", however, I truly believe she has a bright future ahead of her in country music.  If you ever get the chance to see Gwen perform live, do it!

"Nothing Personal" on the I.D. Channel

(Today's word will be in ALL CAPS, BOLD, ITALIC, and STRIKETHROUGH.)


I've mentioned before that I tend to watch reality TV as opposed to regular programs. Not "reality" like "Survivor", "The Amazing Race", etc. More "reality" in the sense of "true crime" shows: "Forensic Files", "Scorned", and the like.

One show I'd never seen before yesterday is "Nothing Personal", on the I.D. channel. The thing that caught my attention about the show was the commercial for the latest episode. It was promoted as being about a washed up "rock star" who wanted to be rid of his wife. Sounded intriguing, so I watched.

The program started out in Cottonwood, California, where a murder had taken place. Part way through, it switched to Portland, Oregon, a city I've known all my life.

My interest was peaked more by this fact, as I'm always curious about the local area and what's going on; or in this case, had gone on.

As it turns out, the episode was about a man, Todd Garton, who had been in a band called "Detente Touch", in Portland, from the mid to late 80's. I'd never heard of the band, but was interested in hearing what had happened, and how Garton had ended up in California.

I'm watching the show, and various people are recounting the past, about the band and other things surrounding the Portland area. Suddenly I see a face I recognize. I've never actually talked to this person more than a couple of minutes, but still, I recognize her immediately. It was Carol Batchelor, who used to be an air personality for KUPL.

Turns out, Batchelor was the lead singer for Detente Touch, so she knew Todd Garton, and the woman who was to become his wife, also named CAROL. Beyond the band however, Batchelor had no other connections with Garton.

I'm sure this type of thing happens all the time, where someone recognizes another person, etc. It's the first time it's ever happened to me though, and it took my by surprise.

Though what happened is in no way shape or form, cool; I did think it was a bit cool to have recognized someone on a national TV show. The circumstances were definitely sad though.

Jon Pardi @ The Bing Lounge--February 6, 2012

(Today's word will be in ALL CAPS, BOLD, ITALIC, and STRIKETHROUGH.)

Monday, February 6, 2012, the Bing Lounge played host to singer/songwriter, Jon Pardi.

If you haven't heard of Jon before, it's probably because he's fairly new to the country music scene, having moved to Nashville in 2008. If the performance he gave in the Bing Lounge is any indication though, people will be hearing a lot about this young man in the months and years to come.

Listening to him sing, and interact with the crowd, it's hard to believe Jon is only in his mid twenties. He possesses not only a great voice, but great stage presence and charm as well. From the time he walked onstage, through to the last photo taken and autograph signed, Jon was a true professional. You could tell he loves what he does for a living, and enjoys meeting the people from the audience.

One of the songs Jon played is his single that's just been released to radio, "Missin' You Crazy". This song is great, and blends traditional country, with the new, all tied together with Jon's unique style of singing.

Though Jon's performance in the Bing Lounge was short, he definitely made an impact on the audience that evening. As stated at the beginning of this post, you may not have heard of Jon PARDI before, but I'm fairly sure you'll be hearing a lot from him in the near future!

2012 Portland Music Awards

(Today's word will be in ALL CAPS, BOLD, ITALIC, and STRIKETHROUGH.)

The fifth annual Portland Music Awards were held Sunday, January 22, 2012 at the Crystal Ballroom in Portland, Oregon.

This year's hosts were Chloe Houser from PDX TV, and Silas Weir Mitchell, ("Monroe" on the NBC series, "Grimm").

The three hour program was also simulcast live on Freedom 970 AM. Hosting the radio broadcast were B-Dub, from KUPL's "Northwest Nights", and Byron Beck.

Several local artists in all genres of music were on hand to perform, and present the twenty-two awards given out that evening. Fans from across the area voted online to choose who the winners would be.

While most of the awards went to musicians in the Portland metro area, there were also awards given for best venue, music store and record store, as well as best radio station.

For those interested, here is the complete list of winners:

1. Pioneer Award

Tony DeMicoli


2. Legends Award

Marv & Rindy Ross


3. Album of the Year

‘We Will Be Forgotten’ by Scotland Barr & The Slow Drags


4. Band of the Year

Portugal The Man


5. Best Male Artist of the Year

Rob Wynia


6. Best Female Artist of the Year

Beth Willis


7. Best New Artist

Red Fang


8. Best Compilation Album of the Year

'Live From Nowhere Near You' by Greyday Records


9. Outstanding Achievement in Jazz

Devin Phillips


10. Outstanding Achievement in Blues

Lisa Mann


11. Outstanding Achievement in Folk Music

Lauren Sheehan


12. Outstanding Achievement in Classical Music

Portland Cello Project



13. Outstanding Achievement in Country Music

Concrete Cowboys


14. Outstanding Achievement in World Music

3 Leg Torso


15. Outstanding Achievement in Talent Buying

Peter Dammann (Waterfront Blues Festival)


16. Best Music Store

Portland Music Company


17. Best Record Store

Music Millennium


18. Best Music Venue - Large

McMenamins Edgefield


19. Best Music Venue - Mid-size

Aladdin Theater


20. Best Music Venue - Small

Jimmy Maks


21. Best Live Performance

Floater


22. Best Radio Station

KUPL 98.7fm

This was the second consecutive year that KUPL has won for best station. Way to go KUPL!!!

And of course, CONGRATULATIONS to all of the evening's winners!

Simon Says, "Let There Be Hair"

(Today's word will be in ALL CAPS, BOLD, ITALIC, and STRIKETHROUGH.)

I remember Scott Simon when he worked for the "other" country station in Portland, Oregon; even then he didn't have hair. Usually he's got a ball cap on, though sometimes he doesn't; never though have I seen him with hair, until now.

It seems last week, while Jake was on vacation, Scott decided to let his hair grow. Now, where there's always been a shiny dome, hair is sprouting. Though I haven't seen him in person, I have seen what he looks like in a photo.

I think Scott looks good either way, so whatever he's happy with is what he should do.

How do you, fellow KUPL listeners, feel about this? Should SCOTT continue to let his hair grow; or should he go back to being bald?

For My Dad

Since today is Father’s Day, I’ve decided to post a blog about my dad, Wayne Predmore.  (Please forgive the quality of the photo.  My dad hates having his picture taken, and this was the best my son could get.)

 First I’d like to say that “Father’s Day”, sounds kind of stuffy.  To me, it’s “Dad’s Day”.  It just sounds more fitting and comfortable to me; especially since my dad isn’t the stuffy type.  If the truth were told, I’ve called my dad, “dad”, for a long time now; though in my heart, he’s always been, and will always be my “daddy”. 

Every year, I hear radio and television commercials about “what dad wants for Father’s Day”; they never fit my dad.  My dad isn’t one to wear ties, unless it’s necessary.  He’s not the rugged, outdoor type; the sports type; or any of the other things described in the commercials.  I think the closest a commercial has come to ever sounding like my dad is one that said, “dad likes to eat”.  That sort of fits my dad; he does love his cookies. 

 My dad is easy to get things for however.  He loves gadgets.  The nice thing about the gadgets my dad gets is, they’re useful.  Well, most of them anyway. 

 He also has some collections that are just his.  I’ll clarify this by saying that, as a couple, my parents have things they collect; and they also have separate collections.  For my dad, it’s pens with advertising on them; ball caps with advertising, or other things on them; and cow cream pitchers.

 Growing up, I’d always get pens from anywhere I went, to give to my dad.  When my son was about a year old, we got him a hat with my son’s picture on it.  Also over the years, I’ve made my version of cow cream pitchers for my dad.

 There are just so many things I could say about my dad.  How he used to work at Fred Meyer, and knew Mr. Meyer personally.  How he worked 35 years for the post office, always the graveyard shift. Before that, he worked at a Standard gas station, (it’s Chevron now), in Portland, Oregon.  How once, Nat King Cole came into the station and ended up singing while his car was being worked on.  I could tell you all the stories he’s told me over the years about his childhood, the navy, his jobs, all of that; but I won’t.  Not because I don’t want to; because I couldn’t tell his stories as well as he can. 

 Everything I’ve written so far tells you a bit about my dad; it’s just the surface though.

My dad is one of those guys that doesn’t say “I love you”.  When I was younger it bothered me; especially since we clashed a lot when I was a kid.

I’ve always been told I’m just like my dad.  Again, that bothered me sometimes when I was a kid, because of the clashing we did. 

As I get older though, I see things a lot differently.  My dad may have never told me specifically that he loves me; but I KNOW he does.  My dad is a living example of “actions speak louder than words”.  For all the times he’s never said “I love you”, there’s been an equal number of times, (if not more), where he’s done things for me, or others in the family, that he didn’t have to do.  He just did it, because he wanted to. 

My dad is also very loyal to his family.  One of the best examples I’ll always remember is when I had an internship at a local TV station.  It’s a station that I grew up watching the news on, because my parents always did.  I couldn’t get hired on to the station full-time, and ended up quitting, to take another job.  

The day I quit was the day my dad stopped watching the news on that station.  Didn’t matter that I was the one who decided to quit; if his daughter wasn’t good enough for them, he was just going to watch another station from then on. Over the years, he has gone back to watching the news on that station, though he does still switch around at times.

As far as me being “just like my dad”, yeah, I am; and I’m okay with that.  I’m especially okay with me having the same sense of humor as my dad.  My sense of humor is one of my favorite things about me; and seeing how my dad is, anyone could tell he’s where it came from.  Though I’m pretty sure my dad would tell you I’m a bit more warped than he is.  I am.  I like to say that I got the good part of humor from him, and expanded on it.

In other ways, I’m different than my dad.  I’m very much a hugger; my dad isn’t.  I say, “I love you”; he doesn’t.  In fact, it kind of makes my dad uncomfortable when someone says it to him.  Again, it’s not that he doesn’t have those feelings; he just grew up in a different era when guys didn’t say stuff like that. 

I used to think if I said it to him enough, he’d get used to it, and start doing it too.  Then I realized, I was just making him uncomfortable, which I didn’t like doing to him.  So I don’t say it to him anymore; not because I don’t love him, but because I don’t like making my dad feel uncomfortable; especially if it’s in front of other people.  As I put it, I don’t want him to feel all “squirmy”.   Instead, I try to show my dad in little ways that I love him.  Guess I learned that from him too. 

We still clash sometimes, we probably always will.  It’s what happens when two people are so much alike. Don’t ever mistake it for me not loving my dad, or vice versa; as stated throughout this blog, the love is definitely there, you just have to look instead of listen for it.

When it comes to that “squirmy” feeling my dad gets about this stuff; well, that’s where my actions will speak for me instead of words.  I’ve written this post, and put it here on my blog.  My next step is to print off a copy for my dad for “Dad’s Day” and give it to him.  He can read it when no one else is around.  Then, if he feels “squirmy”, no one else will know. 

So, happy Father’s Day to all the fathers, dad’s, daddies, etc.; out there, and especially to my daddy.  Thank you for being my dad and putting up with me all these years.

Congrats to KUPL!!!

Woo hoo!  According to the most recent Arbitron ratings, KUPL is THE #1 country station in the Portland Metro area...Congratulations KUPL!!!

Considering this blog is linked to the KUPL website, you may think my congratulations are a bit biased.  Actually, I'd be wishing them congratulations, regardless of whether I had this blog or not.  I've been a KUPL listener for a long time now, and have seen a lot of the changes the station has been through; including moving from 98.5 to 98.7 on the radio dial.

Like any other listener, there's things over the years I've liked, and things I haven't.  Let's face it, it doesn't matter who, or what it is, no one/nothing will please everyone all the time.  It's life, it's what makes things interesting.

I, like other listeners, wasn't happy about how things happened with Lee & Alana.  After Lee, (and Jim E. Chonga), being at the station for so many years, it was sad when it all came to an end.  I also realize though, that it was business.  That doesn't mean things should have happened how they did...it's just how radio works.

Listeners of Lee & Alana definitely were NOT happy about the change.  A lot of things were said about never listening to KUPL again, etc.  And a lot of those listeners did stop listening.

I've always felt however, that before giving up on something that's changed, it should be given a chance to prove itself. If I didn't truly believe this, I would have stopped listening to KUPL when Smokey Woods left the station.

On January 4, 2010, KUPL, (now owned by Alpha Broadcasting), started their new morning show, "Simon & Sam in the Morning".  It was a rough start.  Even listeners who stayed with KUPL were not happy with the new show.

At a station event that same month, the morning show got an earful about what listeners liked and didn't like about the new show.  To their credit, the morning show team did take to heart what was said, as the following Monday you could hear some changes taking place.  It was still a rough go however.

If it wasn't hard enough trying to get a new morning show running, the afternoon drive time shift was, in my opinion, "all over the place"...It seemed like it took forever to finally have a permanent person at the helm.

Not long after the afternoon drive slot was filled, yet another change took place at KUPL.  Rick "Bubba" Taylor was let go after 25+ years at the station. Some listeners who'd stuck out the morning show change began bailing after that. I still had the "stick it out and see how it goes" mind set; though I did check the "other" station occasionally, to hear what they had going on. 

I'm a person who likes live DJ's on the air.  For me, it's as important as the music that's being played.  That's why, even though the "other" station had more music variety at the time, I kept listening to KUPL...The DJ's at the other station just didn't hold my attention.  I'm glad I stuck it out with KUPL.

By April, 2010, "Sam" left the morning show and Earthquake Jake became a permanent part of "Simon in the Morning".  Things just seemed to steadily take off from that point.  "Simon in the Morning" has evolved steadily over the past year, and they really make people laugh.  What I like about them is, they're real...You can tell what you hear on the air is what you get in person.  The laughter is genuine, not forced, and you can tell, Scott, Jolynn and Jake really get along.  While not trying to take anything away from Lee Rogers, or anyone else previously on the KUPL morning shift, to me, this is the best, most real, morning show KUPL has ever had in all the years I've been listening.  More proof for me was when a friend of mine, (a die-hard listener of the "other" station), told me she'd switched over permanently to KUPL.  This is a person who, guaranteed, wouldn't have done that if she didn't want to.

To be honest, I was excited when Lola came to KUPL.  I'd remembered her from the other station in Portland, before I'd started listening to KUPL.  Liked her then, and still like her now.  Again, just my opinion:  I think Lola is a great shot in the arm to middays on KUPL.  Like the morning team, Lola is a "what you see is what you get", person; she's real.

Over all, I think KUPL has dialed in well to what listeners want; not just with the DJ's, but with contests, music, the whole station package in general.  Obviously it's not something that happened overnight; it's taken over a year to get to the point KUPL is under the leadership of Alpha Broadcasting. As stated at the beginning of this blog though, the latest Arbitron ratings are solid proof of how well KUPL is doing.  So congrats again KUPL!  Keep up the great work!