Grammys Get It Right!

In years past, so many country music fans have responded to the nominee announcements in the Grammys' country categories with one word -- "huh?" While the true realm of "country music" has always been vast and expansive, in some years, the Grammys have seemed a bit out-of-touch with some of the most popular acts in mainstream country music. Of course, the Grammys aren't as much a popularity contest as they are a true honoring of the best performers, songwriters, and musicians in all of music. But there's no denying that disconnect that has been there in the past, and it's left some of the format's most-successful stars on the sidelines, waiting to be recognized. (Can you believe that George Strait has NEVER won a Grammy?)

This year, it's a different story. As you scan the list of nominees, you see names like Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Josh Turner, Keith Urban, Little Big Town, The Wreckers, Rascal Flatts, and yes, the Dixie Chicks. All of those acts had tremendous success in 2006, both on the chart and at the sales registers, and country music was a dominant force in concert touring last year, landing 3 of the top 5 tours in attendance. The only glaring omission on this year's list is Kenny Chesney, who has undoubtedly been country music's hottest act in recent years. He has done as much as any country act to expand his musical boundaries over the years, all the while growing his fan base and bringing more exposure to country music along the way. His absence from the list of Grammy nominees is simply wrong.

However, let me praise the Academy for bringing well-deserved recognition to the Dixie Chicks once again. I remain amazed that country radio (except XM, of course) has continued to ignore their musical genius, all the while fanning the flames of an overblown "political" viewpoint -- which ironically, has become an opinion shared by an overwhelming majority of Americans these days. Their latest CD, Taking The Long Way, is another musical journey into the souls of three very-talented performers and deserves its perch among those nominated for the biggest Grammy Awards. Here's hoping the girls will continue to make their great brand of music, and will continue to be recognized for it.

All in all, with so many of country's biggest artists AND future stars being nominated, it's a very exciting year for country music fans to watch the Grammy Awards! Listen for our "Country At The Grammys" Preview Special show, airing on Grammy Radio (XM 200) and Highway 16 February 9-11! We wish the best of luck to ALL of the country nominees!

Jon Anthony
Program Director
Highway 16