Live Blog: James Otto

Kick it off Wichita. The 2008 CMA Awards show has started and it's started with a bang.  Two of the best guitar players in all of country music are burnin' it up on stage.  Brad Paisley and Keith Urban.  Brad Paisley and Keith Urban are smokin'!

This show open reminds me of the opening of Happy Days. I expect to see Fonzie give the thumbs up any second.

Here are your hosts... Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. Even though he's a master guitar player... he hasn't mastered the art of the quick change yet.  He was still tucking in his shirt on the way out.  Fortunately for him I think everyone was looking at Carrie.

There's the King George Strait.  Does this guy ever age?  I actually think he's getting younger.

Pretty good opening exchange by Brad and Carrie.  Oh look it's Old Lady Urban and Wolverine. If you are wondering what these two are doing on the show... I guarantee it has nothing to do with the fact that they have a new movie coming out.  That's Australia coming to a theater near you November 26.

Here we go with Single of the Year!  And the winner is George Strait!  Still a classic.  He's walking up with producer, Tony Brown, a classic in his own right.

While we are taking a break, let me give you a little advice if you are visiting Nashville... the food at Paradise Park is worth the trip by itself. They just told me the kitchen stays open till 4 and they may have to throw me out.  I am now officially addicted to their sweet potato fries.  Thems good eats.

Kellie Pickler evidently raided Madonna closet for her clothes tonight.  She must have left the whip backstage.  But trust me, I ain't complaining.

My man Alan Jackson has evidently started a riot in the arena.  Wait!  They are all doing the same dance.  Is this some kind of mass hysteria? No, they're just having a good time!  Get it?

Billy Ray and Miley are about to introduce the winner of Song of the Year.  Wait for it...

I thought it would come down to the battle between Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles and Alan Jackson.  Easy for me to say of course after the fact. 

Sorry -- we had a little technical burp.  But now we're back. Miranda's performance of "More Like Her" was great and now Lady A is tearing it up.  Show's going great so far.  For 12 years Vince Gill set the gold standards for CMA hosts.  But Brad and Carrie have done a great job so far and are making their mark as well.

Another break... and another chance to hear from another one of our favorite country artists...  Big Kenny.

Some of you have asked if you can watch the awards online since you may be at work... you can see the show replayed in it's entirety on CMT Nov.29th.  See CMT.com for more details.  How bout them apples!

Martina's bringing out the leather just like Kellie Pickler.  Madonna's looking on and smiling.  Martina is always belting it. I've always wondered how that big big voice comes out of the little bitty body.

Okay guys I'm soliciting your opinion... who do you think is going to be entertainer of the year?  Sound off!

Black on black seems to be the fashion statement this evening.  Of course he's sticking with the brown cap.  He's a man of conviction.

Heidi Newfield and John Rich are about to present the award for Vocal Group of the Year. We actually just saw John walking down the street on his way to the arena.  Cuttin' it a little close aren't ya John?  And the winner is... The Little Rascals... Rascal Flatts. Congratulations boys.

Hey to Goober!

So far on the fan voting for Entertainer of the Year... we have 1 vote for Kenny Chesney, 1 for Keith Urban, 2 for Brad Paisley.  Here's another question while we're at it... Best dressed?  Worst dressed?  Let her rip friends!

Taylor Swift is Rapunzel in the tower... let down your hair! I feel like I'm on a ride at Disney Land... it's a small world after all.  Oh -- her fairy God mother aka her stylist, pulled the old switcheroo... I wonder what his name is.

Kid Rocks playing to the hometown crowd with that Titan's jersey. He's playing to me with this tune... I'm a Skynyrd fan from way back.  Turn it up!

I want to thank all our readers for saying what we can't say.  Very funny, very true.  'Nuff said.

Okay kids... I asked you earlier... best dressed?  Worst Dressed?  So far... no ones chimed in.  Do your worst... lets go!

The King is doing his impression of Jimmy Buffett... or is it Kenny Chesney?  I can't tell anymore. Of course George could sing the alphabet and it would sound good. Is Tommy Chong one of his backup singers?  If so, where's Cheech?

Remember kids... The song Jason Aldean is performing tonight will be on CMT.com tomorrow for a listening party! Now that's a country boy right there.  No leather.  No whips and chains.  Just all-American cotton and denim... I'll lay ya 5 to 1 that t-shirt came from Walmart and he's proud of it. Glad to see he ain't got above his raisin'... Thank you.

Taylor Swift is back in black to present the Best New Artist Award.  Hooray for Lady A. Congratulations kiddos!

We've just had a request for the list of the winners so far... so here ya go!

As you just saw, New Artist of the Year -- Lady Antebellum, Vocal Group of the Year -- Rascal Flatts, Song of the Year, "Stay," Jennifer Nettles,  and Single of the Year, "I Saw God Today," George Strait.  There ya go, glad to be of service.

We've gotten a lot of great comments on best dressed and worst dressed.  Way to go kids!  Keep 'em comin'.

Looks like Brad's about to do a tribute to one of the greats we lost this past year... Jerry Reed.  Give it up for the Snowman.

I think this is Carrie's fifth or sixth outfit so far tonight... I've lost count.  If she keeps this pace up she'll be in her pajamas before the shows over... or maybe naked.  I can dream can't I...

Continuing the trend for wearing black this evening... here's Reba and B&D.  Maybe they should call themselves "S&M." 

A trio of newbies presents the award for Vocal Duo of the Year.  And the winner is... Sugarland!  They must have known they were going to win... they went and changed into all black!

Congratulations to musician of the year Mac McAnally.  This guy's not only a great musician but he's been writing some of the best songs EVER since I first saw him open for Joe Cocker at the University of North Alabama in 1978.  One of the best.

We apologize for the oversight in reporting the awards at this point.  The award for Music Video of the Year was presented before the show and the winner was Brad Paisley, "Waitin' on a Woman" and directed by Jim Shea.  Sorry for the oversight. For the official list of the awards go to CMT.com... they know everything!

Darius Rucker doing a fine  job of crossing over from pop to country... lets hope he sticks around a while.

The trend continues... Brad Paisley wearing all black except for the hat.  I think the show could only afford one stylist this year or this could just be an unspoken tribute to Johnny Cash. This song won Video of the Year earlier this evening. It's a video that featured Andy Griffith... nice job Ange.  I'll see ya at the diner.

This is Jen.... Thanks Shane! : )

Josh Turner and Lee Ann Womack on hand to present Album of the Year... I guess they didn't get the memo to wear all black.  A refreshing touch of color may I say.  And the winner is... "Troubadour."  The King still reigns.

Another big thanks to all of the readers of this blog for coming up with some great comments.  I think we're having more fun reading yours, than you are mine.  On a personal note to some of those Sylvan Brothers fans... thanks for remembering and God bless ya Ralph. To MR who asked about the power outage we experienced in downtown Nashville today... it's still out in some sections  but CMT is back up and running and the Sommet Center bounced back quickly.  We think it was all the hair dyers running at the same time back stage.

Alright ladies... brace yourselves.  Here's Keith Urban.  Gee... what a suprise... he's wearing black too!  You can listen to this song again at CMT.com! Head over to hear his single "Sweet Thing" on The Leak.

Here's another one we missed!  Musical Event of the Year was awarded pre-show to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss for "Gone, Gone, Gone."  Congratulations y'all.  The statues in the mail.

This tribute is what country music is all about... no further comment necessary.  Lets just listen.

Here comes my pal Vince Gill.  The nicest guy in the biz.  He's wearing black, but at least he's got a green shirt on.  He's running down the new Hall of Fame members.. Emmylou, Tom T., The Statlers and Pop Stoneman. Welcome.

Here we go with Female Vocalist of the Year... who will it be? Carrie Underwood gets the trifecta!  Congratulations Carrie... well done! Let me just say if this award were given for pure vocal talent... Alison Krauss would be given this award for life.  Because a voice like that comes along only once in a lifetime.   However, from year to year it's what you do with that voice and this year they decided Carrie did the most.  Congratulations to not only Carrie, but to Alison, Miranda, Martina and Taylor.  Thanks for a great year... looking forward to many more.

Here's Sugarland... I think Jennifer borrowed her outfit from the road show version of the Lion King!  It's the "circle of life." Kristian on the other hand is going with the requisite all black uniform. The scarf's a nice touch though...

I've just been told that this is James Otto's very first performance ever on the CMA Awards. And like any first timer he followed the rules... he wore all black. 

One more shout out to all of you who are posting comments. You guys are the best group yet... keep 'em comin'!

Kenny we see you doing yet another Jimmy Buffett impression... Oops sorry... he's morphed into Bob Marley.  Right on, Mon.

That was one of the members of Bob Marley's band.. The Wailers.  Now I get it... forgive my ignorance.  I'm just a country boy.

Trace Adkins has taken the stage... how much more black can his outfit be?  The answer... none more!  But he sounds good and that's what counts by God. Thank you.

Here's our little Reesey... our hometown girl and faux June Carter Cash.  About to present Male Vocalist of the Year. wait for it... Brad Paisley! Are my eyes deceiving me or did he make a not so subtle birth announcement?

Hey it's the Eagles... they sound just like themselves.

Okay the shows at commerical. When we come back we're going to find out who guessed correctly for Entertainer of the Year.  And we'll find out who this special guest presenter is. I'm not going to say who it is but her name rhymes with Bania Gwain. 

Fans... go on to CMT.com now for fan voting for the red carpet fashion poll. http://www.cmt.com/cma-awards/voting.jhtml

Great hoogly moogly!  Divorce does a body good.. I don't think Shania's ever looked this good.  And here's the Entertainer of the Year... Wow!  Kenny Chesney!  Who'd a thunk it! Suprise, suprise, suprise!  Brian Bayley just told me Kenny wore the same outfit last year when he won EOTY... something tells me we'll be seeing this outfit again!

Congratulations Kenny!  Job well done.  Well that's it, shows over and they made it right on time.  Thanks for all your comments and hanging with us from the start all the way to the very damn end of this ride!  Until next time, remember in the words of the great Robert Earl Keen, "the road goes on forever and the party never ends!" See ya on down the highway... adios!

 And they're off.  The parade of stars will start soon and there's our very own Lance Smith in his very own Regis Philbin monochromatic suit and the lovely Katie Cook who couldn't look lovelier this evening.  Lets hope the same goes for all of our country stars this evening.... and here's Trace Adkins.  I wouldn't call him lovely, but I would call him a fine young man and a fine entertainer.  Anything else would result in a lot of pain and broken bones for yours truly.  Trace is nominated for video of the year, song of the year and single of the year.  Good luck big fella.

 Darious Rucker, minus the blowfish.  He's making waves in country music these days and is being quite well received.  However, could he have worn a tie? I guess but he's cool enough to get away with it though.

 Here's one of my favorite new groups... Lady Antebellum.  Love their songs, love their videos... I don't know about these outfits.  They look like they are ready to officiate a funeral service.  I can say that because I'm always so well dressed.  I usually look like I'm on my way to a tractor pull.

Since we have a break in the action on CMT's red carpet show.  Just want to take time to let everyone know we are here live from Paradise Park Trailer Resort here on the fabulous lower Broad in Music City USA.  Come see us and you can be part of this blog as well.  Make your opinions known.  It's the American way. 

Here's another one of my new favorites, James Otto.  He's a country music giant... literally. Katie looks like Fay Wray standing next to King Kong.

Here's the Lancer with Josh Turner... if his emotions are as deep as his voice then this guy then this guys got feelings to draw on for a lifetime of songwriting.

Hooray for us!  We have our first guest blogger.  Tommy Griffith.  Tommy just came off stage and was entertaining us before the we started.  He's a singer songwriter from Johnstown, PA.  Let her rip Tommy.  "So I'm up here playing and these folks come in and put a computer up and shut me down.  I'm playing next week.  Monday and Wednesday from 2-6 at Paradise Park... the best bar on Broadway.  And actually, I'm glad you all are here 'cause I'm actually up for an award tonight.  I'm up for the poorest struggling musician award and I think I got a good shot to win. But anyways thank you all for coming to see me and we'll see you next week... thank you!"

Thanks Tommy... great comments and they were also well timed.  It gave me a chance to lust after Kellie Pickler.  Fifteen minutes into the show and my inner dirty ole' man has made an appearance.  And she's followed by Jewel.  We've hit a deuce... well we've hit a triple.  Who's up next?  We'll see...

Here's Rodney Atkins up for the New Artist award tonight.  Still wearing that cap... it's good to see an artist dedicated to his own personal fashion statement.  I wonder if he wears it to church.  Good luck Rodney... I tip my cap to you.  Pun intended... that's why I get the big bucks.  You may now pause to vomit.

Now with another break in the action, we are about to order some food here at Paradise Park.  We hear the burgers are great!  We are about to find out...

LBT... Little Big Town.  They clean up right well. They're up for Vocal Group of the Year and they're dressed for success. Good luck to y'uns.

Miranda Lambert has arrived wearing Mr. T's jewelry.  However she could wear a toilet seat around her neck and she'd still look good.  She's up for Female Vocalist of the Year.  I hope there's a couple of Brinks cars with her.  Michael Phelps doesn't have that much gold around his neck.

Here's Keith Urban with some actress.  I think she's been in a couple  movies.  Will do a little research and try to figure out who she is. 

Here's Jason Aldean our CMT on Tour headliner and he's up for New Artist of the Year tonight.  CMT.com will be premiering the listening party for his new single that he'll be performing tonight on the CMA Awards.  I like Jason, he's the same off stage as he is on. Someone said the word tux to him before the show and it reminded him to put his t-shirt inside his pants. He ain't putting on any airs for anybody... not even the CMA.  Be yourself cool breeze.

Here's our very own Lance Smith with Jake Owen.  He's up for Musical Event of the Year along with Sugarland and Little Big Town for "Life in a Northern Town."  His outfit looks like it came from a northern town... He's dressed like a cast member of the Sopranos.  Sharp and shiny. 

Here's Sugarland... looking like they just stepped off a wedding cake.  With five nominations, the odds are they are going to have a good night.  Of course they could be the Detroit Lions of the 2008 CMA's.  We'll have to wait and see.

Julianne Hough looks like a rose.  Literally.  But what do I know about fashion?  I do know about beauty when I see it and holy moly she's a good lookin' woman.  If the rumors are true, you're a lucky man Chuck Wicks.

Here's the long tall Georgia boy Alan Jackson with his family.  Back in the 80's I used to clean his pool. No joke... just the sad reality of my life.

Lance with country queen Reba McEntire, now that's a classy outfit.  I'm no Mr. Blackwell, God rest his soul, but that woman knows fashion.  Oops, I just noticed her black fingernails.  I hope that polish and not the result of repeated hammer accidents.

I understand the girl Katie's talking to has gained a degree of popularity.  Word has it she's some country artist's daughter.  We'll do a little research and find out just who this Miley Cyrus is.

While I inhale these sweet potato fries and patty melt... here's a word from one of our favorites, Emily West.

Evidently it's very bright on the red carpet as Kid Rock has his state trooper sun glasses on.  Nice lid Kid.  The man can wear a hat.  This may be the first time I've ever seen him at a country music event without Bochephus standing next to him.  Our little man is growing up.

I don't know who's been harder to miss this week... Taylor Swift or Sarah Palin.  I'm only sick of seeing one of them at this point.  Saw her perform on Letterman the other night.  Dave loved her, that's not easy to do.

Nashville native and Oscar winner Reece Witherspoon has just stepped up to talk to Katie.  There's a lot of actors on our show tonight... a lot of them are cutting country records now.  Kevin Costner performed at the Ryman this past weekend and Robert Duvall and Jeff Bridges are starring in a new CMT Movie that will coming out soon and I hear Gary Coleman actually hummed a verse of "He Stopped Loving Her Today" on his way to visit his probation officer.

Good morning, friends and neighbors!  We're back at it.  Early this morning our trusty blogging team consisting of Jen, Jenna Lee, Brian and myself were out amongst the legion of fans attending the 2008 CMA Music Festival.  First on our agenda was the Tennessee Morning taping with Joe Nichols at the Hard Rock Cafe.  Joe, all-around good guy and owner of possibly the best true country voice in the biz today, treated the adoring throng to a tender version of "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off."  It was a moving performance.  So much so that, even though the bar wasn't open, half the women in the room were naked before he finished singing.  Then, the Health Department showed up and things got a little ugly.  I won't go any further except to say, if you're thinking of eating lunch today, don't order the veal.  That last little bit is, of course, completely untrue but what is true is Joe's appreciation of his fans.  Here's what he had to say about them:

Well we're gonna be at the River Stage Saturday morning at 10:00, bright and early. It's a little earlier than I usually get up but we're making an exception because it's by God CMA Music Festival.  We had a great time at the block party so thanks to everybody for showing up and at the fan club party and also the softball game. It's been a great week, hope we can do more. Shane:  Tell me about your new record.  Joe: New record is called Real Things and the new single off of Real Things is called "Let's Get Drunk and Fight" and I'm very much looking forward to that. I think it's going to be huge at weddings... it's a love song. It's about a guy that's telling this girl the best time of our relationship is making up so uh, "Let's Get Drunk and Fight!" That is the Arkansas part of it right there. "Honey, I love you -- hate you... Let's get drunk and fight." Shane:  And I know every time I see you I ask you to do this but will have to spell it out in big letters, can you give us and old Sooie Pig?  Joe: "WOOOOOOOO, PIG!  SOOOOOOE!

Joe's a pal it's always good to see him.  And you can see him Saturday morning when he performs at 10:00 am at the Riverfront Park.

After we spoke with Joe, we talked to a couple of true country fans who were decked out in full festival fashion.  We talked to them about the required uniform for surviving the festival:

We are here with two country music fans attending the 2008 CMA Music Festival and what are your names and where are you from?  Rebecca:  I'm Rebecca Gayhart and I'm from Crestwood, Kentucky.  Brice:And I'm Brice Gayhart from Crestwood, Kentucky. Shane:  Well the reason I came up to you is because you guys are outfitted for the day, you know -- you don't come to fan fair wearing a coat and tie, you gotta come with the right equipment and the right clothes to stay cool.  Tell us about your outfit here.  Rebecca:  It's just a tank top and shorts.  Brice:  We learned from before, we know what to wear.  Rebecca:  So far we are having a great time here, this is our 2nd time here.  Shane:  So here's a big question, you've got the bottle water, you got the back  -- you're ready to rock, but you have the most essential item for surviving fan fair... The Fanny Pack.  If you don't mind, will you tell us what's in there?  Rebecca: A fan.  Shane: That's why they call it fan fair!  Rebecca:  Um, pens, autograph book and a camera.  Shane:  Sounds good to me!  Good luck at fan fair and have a good time.

Well, there you have it.  A lesson in survival.  Learn it and live it, fans!  Otherwise, you'll wind up as a sweaty little puddle on the sidewalk and odds are that will take away from your enjoyment of the festival. THat's all for now.  Next, we're off to Andy Griggs Fan Club Party.  We'll be talking to Andy, listening to his music and chatting with his fans... but mostly we'll be scarfing down the free buffet.  And we'll tell you about it all when we come back.  Adios for now...

Hi-diddly-ho, neighbors!  The CMT Blog Team just returned from Andy Griggs Fan Club Party and quite a party it was.  Lots of fans and lots of free food!  Burgers right off the girll, big, juicy dogs and big ol' bowl of the musical fruit... baked beans.  That bountiful buffet provided us with plenty of nourishment from our four favorite food groups: meat, grease, salt and cheese.  That's genuine Music Fest food, right there!  Nobody eats salad during this unless they're a communist!

While we were all shoveling it in like we were going to the electric chair, we ran into our favorite beauty queen from last night's fashion show, Taylor Ann Stefans.  She and her mom and dad were making the round and were waiting for Andy G.  to make the scene.  Just then, to our surprise, Andy's publicist invited us on his bus.  Not only that, but Andy's buddies Rhett Akins and Marty Brown were there providing moral support for their pal as we got up close and personal with Andy.  Here's what Mr. Griggs had to say about this party, his new record and most importantly, his fans:

Out of all the events this one matters most because now we're working for the boss.  You know you've got publishers, managers and you got everyone pulling you sideways but you only have one boss... and that's the fans.   I mean you try to please them because man they are... if you can picture it this way, they are the person behind the desk either accepting your music or they're not so this is the best week out of the year.  More so than the ACM Awards or the CMA Awards or anything else that can happen because this week is all about the boss. Shane: Tell us a little bit about your fan club party and your new record.  Andy:We've been looking forward to this and I've got two of my best friends in music with me.  I got Rhett Akins and we've known each other for I don't seven or eight years I guess.  He was probably one of the first artists that I ever met and he probably don't even remember doing that but he was being charitable and shook my hand and all that.  And of course Marty Brown I've been a fan of.  I was a fan of his and his songwriting and his style.  You know we decided, me and Tracy Byrd, we decided alright, we both miss the intimate fan club parties.  We had been doing the big parties at the Wild Horse and it was almost too big and it lost it's personal touch so we ended up last year looking at each other and saying "that was the last one wasn't it?"  And I said "yeah yeah, I miss it".  And he said "I miss mine too."  So before we started inviting people I said, "I get Marty and I get Rhett, so it's gonna be a lot of fun.  We're fixin' to go in there and play some songs and I can't wait to look everybody in the eye.  And like I said this is a special week and if you have a family inside of country music, it's your fan club members, so this is like a family reunion.  Marty:  Let's promote that new record!  Tell em' that! Andy: Ah... we got a brand new record that just came out. It's called The Good Life and it's with Montage Records and it's doing great.  We're really, really, really looking forward to it and doing big things.  We're fixin' to be releasing a single and actually I'm on the Pickin' and Poker Tour and we're fixin' to play The World Series of Poker and one song fits it so that may be the new single and it's called "It's All About the Money." Shane:  I can tell you from experience this fan club parties already been a success because the hot dogs were high quality my friend.  Andy:  (In a possessed auctioneers voice) "Well we're down here at good ole' Andy Griggs fan club party with Good Ole' Rhett Akins, Marty Brown it's where the hot dogs are hot and the cokes are cold."  Shane:  Thanks man!  Andy:  You bet!  That was cool.

There's a man with a lot to say and who says it very well. There's lots more coming up at this years CMA Music Festival and we'll give you the inside scoop on as much as we can... at least until our legs give out or we collapse from heat stroke.  Our dedication only goes so far.  That's it for now!  Stay tuned...

So even though it's CMA Music Festival week, some people still have to work... like Shane Caldwell. So, Brian (photographer) and I (Jen the typist) went out to capture more of the happenings around town. 

We were flat out asked if we were the "funny ones" who write the live blog when speaking to James Otto.  We hung our heads in shame and had to confess that Shane's comedic mastery is the sole purpose of everyone's interest here unfortunately not ours.   But that shall not deter us and we will carry on in the spirit of CMA Music Festival.  With that... here are James Otto's thoughts about CMA Music Fest, his fans and his Number 1 Party...

You know -- we've been from the softball game to the parade, I was the Grand Marshall.  And then all the signings and everything else.  We've just been busy meeting fans and doing as much as we can. I would like to say to all my Ottomaniacs -- "Thank you for the number one record and I'm looking forward to this next single.  I hope you guys like it as much as I do and I just got started lovin' you all!"  Jen:  And you have a Number 1 party coming up tonight correct?  James: I do, there's a number one party at Limelight this evening and I get to celebrate that victory, it's pretty cool.  Jen:  How great is it to do that during fan fair week?  James:  Absolutely unbelievable!  The timing of all that stuff is amazing you know so I think it's probably going to be packed and I'm gonna have a lot of my friends over for a jam afterwards Limelight around 11:00 and I'm really looking forward to all that.  Jen:  And how do you feel about fanny packs?  James:  Well ya know, I guess you can fit a lot in those fanny packs and they are stylish!

As we were leaving the dark abyss of the media room (very scary I might add -- we were summoned to booth number 10 and wondered if the light above was going to start shaking) we stumbled upon All-American country artist Mr. Aaron Tippin.  He was gracious enough to give us a few minutes...

I've been at the booth signing autographs.  We just did Riverfront Stage and had a great show over there and I'd just like to say to everybody come on over and see Aaron!  I'll be signing 10-12:00 tomorrow  and then I gotta gig out of town but I'll be back Sunday.  So tell 'em to come see me! 

So you heard him -- go see him! And we were told by one of Aaron's people about what happened at his performance he had just completed at the Riverfront Stage.  She said, "Aaron doesn't like to boast about himself but he was just honored with an award from the military for his numerous performances in Iraq.  The award was presented to him by Judy Seales."  Aaron does a lot of performing and traveling for the soldiers.  He then told us that he goes to Bethesda Hospitals and Walter Reed Army Medical Center and visits soldiers right after they have been wounded.  One soldier in particular who had been wounded in the jaw and right arm had a big orange sign on his door that said "If you are going to come in here, I want no sympathy or pity.  I was doing a job that I love for a country that I love."  And we loved that! We send a hearty thank you to all of those protecting us.

From the media room we ventured into the "belly of the beast" and started drifting around the convention center floor.  We laughed, we cried, we took pictures just like everyone else.  And this is what we came up with...

Our first stop was our own alma mater... The CMT Booth. It was packed with country music fans, fanny packs, cowboy hats, rhinestones, and the ocean of orange CMT handbags!  Emily West was drawing the crowds so we snapped off a picture and moved along.

And just like the other throngs of fans we saw Kix Brooks, Wine maker extraordinaire!  We do love that Red Fox Red! We also saw fan fest favorite, Neal McCoy, female favorite Luke Bryan as well as everyone's favorite gladiator... The Wolf!

That's it for our day here at CMA Music Festival. Next will be Jenna Lee's report from the nightly concerts at LP Field...

Hi ya'll!  This is Jenna Lee reporting live from the first night at the CMA Music Festival... and I must say, this was one great night of music to get the party started.  Phil Stacey got things rolling by singing the National Anthem with accompanying fireworks and fighter planes flying sky high over LP Field in downtown Nashville.

So with 90% of the fans with beer in hand and the cowboy hats to complete the country look...it was time to start the party!  Miss Jennifer Hanson was the first to take the stage singing "Love Will Find a Way Around,"  which is from her new album that was released on June 3rd. 

After Jennifer was the infamous Montgomery Gentry.  The crowd really went wild for these guys!  Troy Gentry rocked the stage with his suave looks and Eddie Montgomery was doing crazy flip tricks with the microphone stand while sporting a flashy black cowboy hat and shades.  After their performance, all the fabulous CMT Interns swarmed lucky section #113 to throw out hundreds of #1 Fan foam fingers.

Next up was southern belle, Kellie Pickler, who rocked the crowd with her sassy style.  This is Kellie's second performance at the CMA Music Festival, but she looked like a veteran up there!  Kellie performed her new single, "Don't You Know Your Beautiful' and the crowd loved it!

SURPRISE!  Guess who showed up!?  Yes, Jessica Simpson!  Jessica has a new album coming out in September... and she has gone country!  Her single on the album is, "Come on Over," although she didn't sing it for us! 

Luke Bryan was the next artist to take the stage... he has been performing at the CMA Music Festival for the past three years.  He was a hit with all the fans, getting out of their seats clapping to "All My Friends Say."  And I'm sure a lot of fans are not going to have a clue of what went down tonight!

Taylor Swift made her way to the middle of the sea of fans to introduce Jewel who was sporting a neon green long sleeved dress.  She rocked it and had the crowd excited by playing her well-known hit, "You Were Meant For Me."

THEN...we were graced with another surprise... Rascal Flatts stormed the stage and the crowd went insane jumping to their feet.  They kicked their performance off with "Me and My Gang" and finished out right with "Bob That Head."  And congratulations Joe Don Rooney on your new baby boy, Jagger Donovan Rooney. 

Now for the part of the night that I couldn't wait for and apparently the massive section of fourteen-year-old girls behind me felt the same... I may need to have ear replacement surgery tomorrow! But the lovely Taylor Swift took the stage and the entire stadium was going crazy for her!  Rockin' her signature dress and cowgirl boot look, Taylor sang, played the trashcan (yes, I did say trashcan), and showed off her skills on the guitar.  I don't know how she does it... I tried my best at Rock Band on guitar the other day and it sounded like a cat was being tortured... which is why I was in the audience and not up there with her!

And last, but certainly not least, was Sugarland...there was laughter, dancing, screaming and even tears!  Well it was either tears or sweat!  Sugarland put on one hell of a show, they were great!  I even made a friend down in the sea of fans, Farmer Ned and his pig Bo... we went out for a burger after, great guy!  Ok... I'm just kidding!  But Nashville sure had a great time tonight and all of the performers did an amazing job.  CMA Music Festival is by far the craziest, most fun country party in the world!

Well, that's all for tonight everyone.  Check back tomorrow for up-to-date blogs on the cool happenings of the 2008 CMA Music Festival.

Click to see more live blog photos from the 2008 CMA Music Festival

6:19 --We'll here we are in the plush employee lounge, right here at CMT in NashVegas!  We are awaiting the start of the 43rd Annual ACM Awards from exciting Las Vegas.  And just like you...we are sitting on the couch in our sweats and t-shirts, potato chips in one hand, beer in the other watching the Flavor of Love Marathon until the awards start. As always the fabulous Jen Morrison is manning the keyboard and will be keeping you up-to-date live as it happens right before your eyes. It's gonna be a big night.  Lots of big stars, lots of big songs and lots of costume changes by host Reba McEntire.  To honor Reba's many fabulous costume changes, I will be regularly changing my underwear during the evening.  We'll be describing that to you in disgusting detail as the night goes on.  Stay tuned....

6:21 -- Here's a special pre-show message from Emily West..."Hey guys!  It's Emily West!  I just walked the orange carpet at the ACM's and am now sitting in the VIP room.  It's hot!  Thank God my makeup isn't falling off my face! If anyone is interested, I am wearing a light ballerina pink silk Jessica Maros couture.  I look fabulous by the way...my cutlets are not sticking though!"

7:00 --And we're off!  With the beautiful Carrie Underwood singing it like she means it!  And speaking of an Underwood...the name reminds me of Underwear and I promise, I'll be keeping you up-to-date on my underwear changes this evening.  Right now....oxford cloth boxers with a tasteful plaid pattern.  And speaking of tasteful...there she is the lovely Reba McEntire in a stunning blue gown. Oops -- she stealing Larry the Cable Guy's material.  And to confuse you even more tonight...here's a report right from the awards tonight our correspondent, Shane Tarleton, to give a live on the spot report...

7:00 -- Shane T: OMG! Keith and Nicole came down the orange carpet last minute.  Both look hot! Shane Tarleton...on my way backstage...

7:02 -- Shane T: LeAnn Rimes is flawless as always...

7:03 -- Shane T:  Wow!  How hot was Carrie?

7:11-- Uh Oh...Reba's working blue.

7:15 --We have it on good authority that the silouetted dancer behind Toby Keith is actually Vegas icon, Debbie Reynolds...still getting it done after all these years.

7:16 -- Criss Angel just walked on the stage.  What country awards show would be complete without a magician who's into leather.  Shane T:What in the hell is Criss Angel wearing? Surely this is an illusion!And here's an on the spot report from Capitol artist Emily West..."I have floor seats.  I'm sitting next to Carrot Top!" 

7:18 -- Sugarland just won another award for Stay. Something tells me they're gonna ride that baby all the way to the finish line.  And by the way...I know I'm not the designated fashion expert on this blog...but I've just got one word to say about Jennifer Nettles dress...Damn! Shane T:Love Sugarland!  Killer song...but why is he acting shocked?

7:22-- Sorry, we froze up for a second folks, so lets catch up.  Wow!  We've already had one commercial break and Reba's in the same outfit.  I however have already changed my underwear and am now wearing a snug fitting 50/50 pair of boxer briefs. And to answer our reader NashMan's question...wait till I get my Hanes on you!  Jason Alexander proves that even though you don't have a neck, you can still wear a fashionable tie.  Brad Paisley...still a guy and still can play the hell out of a guitar.  And we have a winner for New Female Vocalist...Taylor Swift.  Will so many awards shows...I hope she doesn't run out of prom dresses, and she just made her mom cry! Shane T:(on the Taylor Swift win and speech) Ka-Ching! Girls everywhere loved that!  So did moms...records are flyin' off the shelf!

7:36 --We just finished our first bag of pork rinds and whats this???  Two commericial breaks and Reba STILL hasn't changed outfits!?  This is an outrage! Blake Shelton...showing who wears the pants in this relationship!  And oh my, she wears them well!

7:42 --  Our buddies Lady A just scored a win as Top New Duo or Vocal Group.  They are also the tallest New Duo or Vocal Group.

7:46 --Okay this is getting ridiculous -- Reba is still in the blue gown.  I'm ashamed. Not only because of that but because I'm now wearing Olympic style pair of speedo's.  Not a good choice for a fat man. Rodney Atkins just took the stage...I'm a little unsure about the lyric, "He couldn't have his toy until his nuggets were gone..." Maybe someone can explain to me.

7:52 -- Congratulations to our buddy Jack Ingram for winning Top New Male Vocalist.  Like he said... It only took him 20 years, but winning this award is new to him...so God bless you Jack.  An inspiring speech if we may say.

7:53 --We just got a special message from Phillip Sweet from Little Big Town..."Hey this is Phillip from Little Big Town  and we are sitting in our seats at the awards show.  We just watched Jack Ingram win his award and we are so proud of him! We are really excited for Lady A and we are just happy for all the up and commers in this business. We are excited to see you out on the road and so glad to be here at the awards. Everybody take care. "  Shane T: Little Big Town always the best dressed!  Those girls wear the highest :heels under the sun!

8:02 --Finally...Reba changed costumes.  I was about to commando in protest.  And here's our boy Kenny C.  Ditching his usual skin tight jeans for a pair of pants that he borrowed from Julio Iglesias Jr.  Shane T:First wardrobe change of the night for Reebs...looks to be a good night.  I sure miss the days of glitzy gowns. Thank God she ain't wearin' jeans.

8:10 -- If George Strait is 56 years old.  I wanna know what he's putting on his cereal.  That guy hasn't aged a day in the past 20 years. It makes you wonder if he made a deal with the devil. Maybe it's just that his diet doesn't consist of meat, grease, salt, and cheese like mine does. Damn he looks good to be 56. I'd hate him if I didn't like him so much. Shane T: I swear George Strait will still be singing number 1 hits in the year 2108.  Not my speed, but damn there's no stopping him. Emily West: I took the toilet paper out of my dress from stuffing my boobies and wiped my eyes after Sir George's performance.  Worship that gentleman.

8:16 --Holy S*&@!  I think Jennifer Nettles just raided Catwoman's closet. I know what all I want to do is... By the way...I think Kristian raided the Joker's closet! Shane T:Cute Sugarland song.  That girl is too cute.  What is that jacket Kristian is wearing? Not feelin' it. OMG is her hair all cut off of just put up? Too cha-cha for words.

8:21 -- Here's one we didn't see coming.  Miranda Lamber just won Album of the Year...Good for her!  Anytime Blake gets out of line, she can just pull out that award and shame him!  Shane T:OMG!  I think she just said Holy S$*%! Exactly what I said too...I bet Blake gets lucky tonight!

8:28 --A little B & D on a Sunday night. By the way...Jen just told me she caught a buzz at Kix Brooks winery last evening.  She didn't have a hangover though, cause she never stopped drinking! 

8:31 -- Wow another costume change for Reba! She's getting with the program now. Shane T: Wow Reba and her quick change!  Reckon she knows the words???

8:32 --  Bingo!  Sugarland two for two.  I'm not gonna say I predicted it...but I predicted it. They're going to "stay" around for a long time. hahahahahahahaha.  Get it? I'm almost as funny as Reba was in her opening monologue.  By the way another costume change for Sugarland.  This time...I think they raided the wardrobe room of the children's production of Alice in Wonderland. Shane T: Love that she's (Jennifer Nettles) crying and mentioned that her label has balls without saying that.  But what the hell is she wearing? She almost never misses.  Why are they matching?  Ugh?

8:38 --Is Taylor Swift planning to knock off a convenient store to tonight?  Either that or she's playing a hobbit in the next Lord of the Rings sequel. Shane T:Umm...Taylor, is she in sweats?

8:41 --What the....Taylor Swift magically changes costumes right before our eyes.  I smell Criss Angel...or did Jen just cut one?  Great God almighty...now she's got it raining here...what's she gonna do next part the Red Sea? Shane T: Oh thank God.  Luv that warddrobe change on stage.  You know Sandi Spika is responsible for that! She did all the fab Reba stuff in the 90's.  Love the drama!

8:42 --This is Mica Roberts and I just want to say congratulations to Jack Ingram...It's about time!  Amen.  I'm so proud of him, I'm just so freakin' proud of him! We've been very busy, we've done a lot of radio stuff and getting ready to do our All Star Jam tonight after the ACM's and everyone's coming back to the hotel and get their second wind. So it's the last night and I'm happy cause I'm so ready to come home.  And to the fans...thanks for continuing with me on this journey we'll kick ass on the upcoming Biggest & Baddest tour.

8:46 -- Okay, I was enjoying this show until now.  Who invited that bag of gas, Dr. Phil, on this show?  Congratulations to Brooks & Dunn for being named Top Vocal Duo...I hope it didn't take too much of the shine off of winning by having it presented by Dr. Phil.

8:49 -- Trace Adkins is performing his newest single and he's not even nominated for an award tonight. That's a class act right there. Of course I had to say that or he could hurt me.  Emily West: Holy Cow!  I heart Trace...he should be our president.

8:53 --This is to Shannon who asked for my prediction for Entertainer of the Year...In light of Rascal Flatts Humanitarian Award, there's no way they are going to win that and Entertainer of the Year.  That leaves me a 1 in 4 chance.  They've already praised George Strait too much throughout the show so he won't get it and I don't have a strong feeling for Brad or Keith.  I'm just not feeling it for them. So that leaves me with one choice...Kenny Chesney as Entertainer of the Year.  You read it here first!  However, if I'm wrong...we'll go back and change it so I'm right!

8:56 --  Not only has Reba changed again...but she's put her hair up. To coincide with Reba's change, I'm now wearing a mesh thong. Also known as the banana hammock or a visual vomit inducer when i'm wearing it!  Well I'll be G.D.'d!  It's GB! Garth Brooks has just taken the stage for a medley of his hits.  This should fill the complete last hour of the show. Shane T: Good to see Garth hasn't spent his money on a new wardrobe over the years.  Flash -- It's the 90's all over again! How in the hell did he get those jeans on?

9:03 -- Good God Almighty!  Trisha's showing off the girls! And that's about all I have to say about that...

9:05 -- James Otto sent us this message from his "hosting duties" on the show: "There was a lot going on backstage, it was a little nerve wracking but it felt good. I have been on the ACM Harley ride since it began 5 years ago so to be asked to be a part of the awards this  year was awesome!  I hope to be asked back next year."

9:09 --Miss Yearwood/Miss McEntire? Was that a Freudian slip?... or a Brooksian slip?

9:11 --A mixed martial artist and a C-list sitcom actress....to quote David Allan Coe..."If t that ain't country, I'll kiss your ass!"  So...I guess I'm gonna be kissing your ass.  So bend over.

9:12 --Rascal Flatts, Vocal Duo of the Year.  Like they need another award.  Reba just got in a good zinger on Paris Hilton.  Good job Rebbie!

9:17 -- Keith Urban performing in the middle of a bunch of rabid fans and not one woman jumped on him.  Security must be doing their job. Oh wow...another country icon...David Spade.  Is it hot in there or does he have malaria? Shane T:  Look at that cute Sarah Buxton back there singing with Keith Urban... heart her! So cute.

9:23 -- It's good to see the ACM paying a respectful tribute to one of the greats...Eddy Arnold.  He will be missed. Emily West:  Brad and Carrie stole this show.  Amazing. Shane T: Wow.  Brad and Carrie tribute to the nicest star we ever had, Eddy Arnold. Carrie looks so pretty - very tasteful. Those two sound great together.

9:31 --Kellie Pickler's got her party dress on and her ear monitor out. And she still sounds better than 90% of the people tonight! I have to admit, I am biased.  I would listen to Kellie Pickler sing the phone book... as long as I could look at her why she's doing it.  And yes, I am a dirty old man. Shane T:That Kellie Pickler is so cute, I want to bite her!

9:35 -- And the Top Male Vocalist is... Brad Paisley. Big winner in a field of tough competitors.  He's a good guy and he deserves it...and, he's got a hot wife. Damn, why can't I have his life. Oh yeah -- cause I have no talent.

9:43 --LeAnn Rimes is performing.  Using a white microphone that looks like it was borrowed from the Lawrence Welk Show.  However, that's the only thing that came from the Lawrence Welk Show.  You never saw Bobby and Cissy wearing an outfit like that. Of course, Bobby and Cissy weren't blessed with a body like that either... and yes that's my second dirty man comment for the evening. It won't be my last.

9:46 -- Carrie Underwood just won for Top Female Vocalist saying "God is good."  Does that mean God hates all the other nominees?  I guess Jesus "took the wheel" on this one. Thank you.

9:47 -- Hey, how 'bout that chinless Elvis?  It's like the King just came back from dead...except, it's not.

9:54 -- Montgomery Gentry... they sound just like themselves.

9:55 --Here we go folks...the one you've been waiting for...The big enchilada...Entertainer of the Year.  I was right!  Kenny Chesney!  I was right Shannon...you owe me a coke! He just tied Garth and he needs one more to tie Alabama.

9:57 --Luke Bryan is calling in to tell us about his night at the ACM's: "I just to thank the fans for yelling for me when my name came up as a ACM nominee and I want to send out my congratulations to Jack for winning and it's just amazingly deserved for him and am very happy for him. I want to let everyone know that I'm going to get him after the show for beating me.  I loved the Carrie and Brad tribute to Eddy Arnold, it was unbelievable I literally had tears in my eyes. Just want to say once again...thank the fans  and hope to see them out on the road.

10:02 --What a night. What a show. Reba was great as usual, we had some surprises, some great performances and some great wins for some very deserving artists.  In particular Jack Ingram who finally got his due. We're hoping to get some more comments from some of your favorite artists...but I'm signing off for now. In the words of Robert Earl Keen..."the road goes on forever and the party never ends." I'll see ya on down the trail my friends...adios!

10:19 --We have Ashton Shepherd calling in to give us a report on the ACM's: "Well hey ya'll this is Ashton Shepherd and I am here in Las Vegas for my 3rd time but my 1st time at the ACM Awards out here.  We've had a great time and I've been here with UMG watching it all. I'm really excited for Miranda Lambert for winning Album of the Year which is huge in itself.  We've been out here and have had a great time...we've been gambling and there's been fans asking for autographs, it's just been a blast!"

10:20 --Keith Anderson is joining us from the SonyBMG after-party in Vegas and telling us about his week leading up to the show..."We started out doing the Fremont St. Show in Vegas on Friday night.  Me and James Otto and Randy Owen.  Then we got up early and did the Harley ride with Montgomery Gentry.  We pretty much just hung out all of Saturday night.  Got up today and did the red carpet which was cool.  I was up for Song of the Year -- did not win it, unfortunately.  Darn it. Up for "Lost In This Moment" sung by Big and Rich.  Ended up sitting with...Carrot Top, who is huge, and a guy from American Gladiators. Who set this up?  Then I saw Blake backstage and we went out and had a drink on Miranda's bus.  Came back and enjoyed the rest of the show and it was great and big show!  Now we are at the SonyBMG party hanging out with all my label mates, Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney... Then we are going to take a team picture.  And then we head back to the hotel and going to the All Star Jam... then I'm staying for a few days to enjoy the sun and lay by the pool.  Thanks for continuing to request my new songs it's on top 20 this week.  Having a great time right now and hope to see you all at the shows."

10:23 -- And now Shane has left me here, all by myself.  But Chuck Wicks just called and he's gonna wrap this up for us... "Right now as we speak -- I'm waiting to take a shuttle maybe even a car... see here's the deal, should we take a shutle or a car?  We are on our way to the SonyBMG afterparty.  The awards show was great! I walked the red carpet and the funny thing is I remember watching the red carpet last year on my tv from my couch and I said 'Oh my gosh I would never wear a suit, it's so hot!'... and guess what I wore a suit on the red carpet.  But once I got inside and all my buddies went with me, it was cool. I'm about to head out on tour with Brad Paisley and so it was cool watching him win...cool to be apart of it.  So, I walked the red carpet, walked in, then got caught off gaurd in the vip room becuase they had all this food.  I wanted a burrito, but I had a suit on and I know I would spill something on it... and now I'm going to the after party and I'm going to look like a really big pig because all I'm going to do eat. As we are talking -- we are just asking random people are you looking for the shuttle?  Are you taking a shuttle? And then here's Chris Young and Chris Young got a private car, and I have to sit here and wait for the shuttle.  See look his manager got him a car.  That is so wierd. Chris Young's manager got him a car, and I'm looking at mine and saying 'wow, do you not love me?' Here I am, now I'm standing in the middle of the street, no big deal.  By the way I just shook Chris Young's hand with my pinky.  Two grown men just shook hand with pinky's.  Now we got a car...and we have a car.  That's how we roll.  Somebody who's not nominated and just came here to support his peers and friends said 'car'... and now we have a car.  Okay -- now I'm in the SUV and I'm on the way to the afterparty and then we are going to the All Star Jam and then we will have to find a car back."

10:39 -- This brings and end to our blog and I've only got one more thing to say "OMG! I saw Chuck Wicks and he was the best dressed man at the ACM awards -- it's amazing. No man should dress that good.  And he like long walks on the beach."  And no -- Chuck did not tell me to say that! ;)

5:55 -- Good evening country music fans around the world!  This is Shane Caldwell coming to you live from the Red Carpet Show at the 2008 CMT Music Awards.  Thanks so much for joining us tonight for this grandest of grand events.  I'm here with my blogging team Jennifer Morrison and Brian Bayley.  Jennifer's here because I can't type and Brian's here because I'm too fat to move around under my own power.  God bless them both. And God willing, we'll be with you all the way tonight.  From the arrival of the first celebrity to the presentation of the very last award when one lucky artist takes home the coveted prize of Video of the Year and the rest go home full of bitterness and hate.   This is truly going to be a night to remember...at least until we've all gotten back to our cars. I'll tell you, friends, this Red Carpet ceremony is already shaping up to be the best ever.  No one has arrived yet and I'm already seeing stars!  That's mainly because I was accidentally head-butted in the hoo-ha by a Little Jimmy Dickens impersonator but that means it can only get better from here on in. We're going to keep you up-to-date and in the know with exclusive, behind-the-scenes reporting from the red carpet, the green room, backstage, front of the house and all around the arena so don't... you... dare... go... anywhere! Back in a minute...

5:58 -- Before the show even starts we have four time Super Bowl Champion...Terry Bradshaw.  "It's an exciting night, lot of fun...all these guys that are performing tonight, and gals-- it's kind of cool, I know most of them.  My daughter, a Belmont student and aspiring singer/songwriter, Rachel, asked me to come with her tonight, so how could I say no.  Came in from Oklahoma, took a flight in this morning at 12:20 and came in."

6:05 -- Well the stars having started arriving. And if Elvis rode a dinosaur in here right now it wouldn't be as exciting as what I've just seen.  After Tom Arnold came through and wow'd the crowd with his down-home style, Blake Shelton came through with his dashing Brooks Brothers suit and had the women swooning.  I must admit... I felt a bit faint myself.  Looking for a cold compress to revive myself.  Back soon...

6:12 -- And the stars keep coming... new host of the brand new show, Can You Duet,(premiering tonight right after the award show) Rossi Morreale, just had a veritable love fest with the fans.  He loves them, they love him, this guy knows how to work a crowd.  Back soon with more.

6:18 -- Just spoke with Tom Arnold.  He promised before the night is over he'll stop by to make a special blog appearance for us with a special message for his fans.  As you know, he is the fabulous host of the wildly popular show, My Big Redneck Wedding.  More to come...

6:20 -- Miley Cyrus just walked by.  She is young.  She is fabulous.  I am old and she remind me that I am old and flabulous. 

6:22 -- I turned around and there was hot new artist James Otto and he has a message for all his fans... "Thank you for going out and buying my record, Sunset Man...and making my single number three this week...AND the number one album page this week on CMT.com! I love that!  You guys rock!"

6:25 -- We've snagged another one... Jake Owen has a message for his fans. "I wish everyone could be here with me to see all the exciting stuff going on right now.  I just got to shake hands with Terry Bradshaw and I got to meet Snoop Dog... and Miley Cyrus just walked by."

6:30 -- The stars just keep coming.  Just caught a glimpse of LeAnn Rimes dress, it's more amazing than a Beatles reunion on Mars.  Oh My God... Is that Nicole Kidman!?  Yes that is Nicole Kidman!  Is this heaven?

6:33 -- I just snagged that tall drink of water Chris Young, he wants to say hello to all his fans out there... "I still continue to see my video from a year and a half ago, so I just want to say thanks to all the fans for continuing to ask to see it. I also want to let everybody know that we just finished the new album.  The new single, 'Voices,' is about to come out and hopefully there will be a new video to ask for soon."

 6:38 -- We just found Bucky Covington.  A hot new star who want to send a hot message to all his friends.  "Okay, lets see here... Hey for all my fans out there on tonight's performance pay attention to the guitar and thanks!  Ya'll Rock!

6:39 -- Taylor Swift just walked by in 18 inch heels...I have never wished more that the Fountain of Youth existed so I could be young again and pretend I had a chance with her. Instead of being just a dirty old man.

6:45 -- Mega producer Tony Brown just walked by with his beautiful wife, Anastasia.  I got to shake the hand of the man who has been the guiding hand with some of the biggest albums in country music history.  He wanted to talk to us, unfortunately Anastasia spilled soda on his shirt and he had to go change it.

6:48 -- Taylor Swift just walked back through... I'm feeling older by the minute.

6:50 -- Just talked to Trace Adkins who has promised to be a guest blogger later in the evening.  He was very pleased with his second place finish on Celebrity Apprentice.  Coming in second means he doesn't have to spend the next year, as Trump's flunky.

6:55 -- Rock Legends Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit of The Eagles have joined us and want to say a word or two to the fans. 

Joe: "Hi, and it's great to be here.  We are giving an award and receiving an award.  It's going to be a wonderful evening.  Thanks to everyone for the support.

Timothy: "We are here, thank you for having us.  We are thrilled that the country community has embraced us like this, there's more to come."

7:00 -- Well that Red Carpet Show couldn't have been anymore amazing if Big Foot had flown in on Pegasus.  Stars galore and much more to come.  Bobby Brown just walked by and waved which means tonight is going to be a winner.   I'll be back as soon as I make it to the fabulous green room for more from the 2008 CMT Music Awards.

Click to see more photos from the CMT Live Blog.