OK! LAST WORD

JULIANNE HOUGH: The Last Time I Felt Guilty

THE DANCER, SINGER AND BURLESQUE STAR, 22, DISHES ON EVERYTHING FROM HAIRDOS TO DOG DOO

LAST TIME I DYED MY HAIR:

For my role in Burlesque. I loved being a redhead! It definitely helped me transform form the girl everyone knew from Dancing With The Stars into a new character.

LAST ERRAND OR CHORE:

I took my dog Lexi out and cleaned up her mess. I have such motherly instincts when it comes to my dog – she’s definitely my daughter.

LAST TIME I FELT GUILTY:

Last night, when I had two bread puddings and ice cream instead of just one.

LAST TIME I WORKED OUT:

Yesterday I ran four miles on the treadmill and also did some ab workouts. I felt great. I felt so refreshed and energized and ready for the night.

LAST TIME I FELT COMPETITIVE:

Every day I’m competitive with myself in everything I’ve got going on career-wise.

LAST SPLURGE:

Shopping in New York a few months ago. I bought clothes, clothes, clothes.

- Valerie Nome

A special treat for some very special campers.

The campers with the ACM Lifting Lives Music Camp are teens and adults with something called Williams Syndrome.

One unique trait is their love for music, so you can only imagine their reaction when Julianne Hough joined them for some karaoke.

CLICK HERE to watch the FOX 17 Nashville Interview

July 05, 2010

Country singer Julianne Hough recently participated in the ACM Lifting Lives Music Camp for people with Williams Syndrome. She sang karaoke with campers and signed autographs. CLICK HERE to view the AP Interview.

Julianne Hough Knoch's It Out of the Park

Julianne Hough has fun on stage as she performs at the Naperville Ribfest at Knoch Park in Naperville, Illinois on Friday evening (July 2).

The 21-year-old actress/singer caught up with ET over the holiday weekend, inviting them to her family’s bash in Nashville and has an answer to everyone wondering about her relationship with Ryan Seacrest.

Julianne shared, “If you guys want to know anything about boys or relationships, you’ll just have to listen to the music, ’cause it’s all in there.”

Hmmm….so who is going to buy Juli’s upcoming album?

10+ pics inside…

http://justjaredjr.buzznet.com/2010/07/05/julianne-hough-knochs-it-out-of-the-park/#ixzz0suqx8bwg

Julianne Hough Releases New Single “Is That So Wrong?”

Julianne Hough’s new single “Is That So Wrong?” is available today at digital retailers! The debut single off of her forthcoming second record on Mercury Nashville has been described as “a charming piece of modern country-pop” and “is exactly what could get her the first Top 10 hit of her young career” and went for adds on radio yesterday. Her album is expected to hit store shelves Nov. 2010. Click here to grab your copy of “Is That So Wrong?” for just $1.29 at iTunes

http://gotcountryonline.com/?p=3160

Julianne Hough Says 'Footloose' Will Be 'Edgy'

In addition to new music, Julianne Hough is also starring in a pair of upcoming big-screen movies. There have been a few changes going on with her turn as Ariel in 'Footloose,' but with a new director and new script, the film seems to be back on track.

"This has been such an ongoing thing for me," Julianne tells The Boot. "Everybody's read so much about it, and [they're thinking], 'Would they just shoot this movie already?' But I could not be more excited now than before because there has been so much direction and growth through the movie. It was going to be this singing, dancing, big shebang movie, and now it's going to be more like the original and really, really holding all the key points from the movie. It's great for me, because I feel like it's a real performance, acting piece for me. I don't sing or dance in it, so it's going to be really fun and challenging. The director, Craig Brewer, he's unbelievable. He did 'Hustle & Flow' and 'Blacksnake Moan,' so it's going to be edgier, still PG-13, but it's definitely going to be a little edgy."

Brewer took over at the helm of the project after Kenny Ortega left the movie. Shooting on the film is expected to begin this summer, even though the male lead, played in the original by Kevin Bacon, has not been confirmed as of yet. Chace Crawford and Zac Efron both dropped out soon after commiting to the role.

Julianne, who is hitting the airwaves with her new single 'Is That So Wrong,' also has another big-screen movie in the works. "I just finished shooting a film called 'Burlesque,' with Cher and Christina Aguilera, Stanley Tucci and an amazing cast. It was really fun, my first movie role, and it was a great transition -- I got to sing and dance and do all that. I'm definitely different. I hope you can recognize me. I've got red hair and I'm pregnant. [laughs] But it's fun. It's definitely like a 'who's that?' kind of thing."

The singer-songwriter-dancer looks up to Cher and had a few scenes with the woman she affectionately refers to as 'Cher-Bear.' "If anybody deserves the right to be a diva, it's Cher, but she is so far from being a diva it's not even funny. She's so chill and down-to-earth. She's the one sitting on set when everybody's saying, 'Can we go to our trailers?' And she's like, 'No, I'm cool.' But she's really encouraging. I did a great scene, a very emotional scene with her, and she just knew exactly what to say to me to get me emotional after 17 takes. I feel so blessed to even have been in her presence and have worked with her."

'Burlesque' is currently expected to hit theaters nationwide Nov. 24, the same month Julianne's new album is also slated to be released.

http://www.theboot.com/2010/06/17/julianne-hough-movies-footloose-burlesque/

Julianne Hough “Is That So Wrong”

Review by Amy Blizzard

Most singers work odd jobs before they land their big break and have the pleasure of turning in their two-week notice. Plenty of recording artists and musicians at one time in their lives have waited tables, worked a cash register, stocked shelves or sat behind an office desk.

Buy "Is That So Wrong" on Amazon after June 22nd

Julianne Hough, however, made a unique transition into the world of country music, working first as a professional dancer and fan favorite on the ABC hit show 'Dancing With the Stars'. In spite of the incredibly hectic schedule that came with training celebrities to do the rumba and waltz, Hough was not content to only bring her dancing dreams to reality when there was a song in her heart that she wanted to share.

In 2008, she released a self-titled album through Mercury Records' Nashville division and began to receive airplay for the lighthearted, youthful single 'That Song In My Head'. While she promoted the album, filming music videos and appearing at festivals and performing as an opening act, Hough kept up with her day job at 'Dancing With the Stars'. Now, as she prepares her sophomore album, which is tentatively scheduled to hit stores in November, she has decided to temporarily retire her dancing shoes to focus solely on her musical endeavors.

She returns to radio with 'Is That So Wrong?' a mid-tempo inspired by the inherent desire most people have to want someone special in their life. Though the idea may sound like an overly juvenile and even cheesy one meant to attract the attention of teenagers, the subject matter is handled in a way that makes it relatable to those of all ages, much like the little known Kristy Lee Cook track 'Hoping To Find'.

Julianne Hough shows a newfound maturity with a subtle, but effective vocal that exudes longing without transforming into desperation in the charming piece of modern country-pop that is laced with an easygoing, likable melody and chorus. Occasionally, the appearance of regnant, repeated lyrics can be off-putting but does not hinder the song's overall quality or enjoyable nature.

http://www.dixiestreams.com/julianne-hough-is-that-so-wrong/

Julianne Hough is a whipped spokesman

How does she get those shiny legs? Well Julianne would like to tell you that she uses Caress Whipped Souffle Body Wash to get her silky smooth skin.

Seriously, it's in her contract to inform you.

Julianne is the new Caress Whipped Souffle spokes-dancer-country singer-actress. You can check out Julianne giving hints on how to look your best on Caress' new website here.

Oh, and in case you were curious, Julianne is still doing the country career thing and her new single Is That So Wrong (cowritten with Sarah Buxton and Blair Daly) should start playing on your radio June 21st. I've listened to the song and really like it. I have to say I'm getting excited for the new album.

http://www.nashvillegab.com/2010/06/julianne-hough-is-a-whipped-spokesman.html

Julianne Hough Ships New Single, "Is That So Wrong"

June 4, 2010

Julianne Hough has shipped a new single, "Is That So Wrong," to country radio in advance of a new album tentatively scheduled to arrive in November. Hough co-wrote the song with Sarah Buxton and Blair Daly. Produced by Dann Huff, the track will go for adds on June 21. Hough is also scheduled to release a second fitness DVD in November. Her first, Dance With Julianne: Cardio Ballroom, was released late last year. Hough is a two-time champion on Dancing With the Stars.

http://www.cmt.com/news/news-in-brief/1640815/julianne-hough-ships-new-single-is-that-so-wrong.jhtml

Julianne Hough's New CD Will 'Sizzle' With Energy

Julianne Hough is getting ready to release her sophomore CD, and the blond beauty says it will allow her fans to finally get to know who she really is through her music.

"To me, it just feels way more me," Julianne says in YouTube video interview. "The whole record has this rush, this energy, but still kind of moody. It is like me to a 't.'"

The new record, the follow-up to her 2008 debut, started production while the 21-year old was going through several big changes. "There's a lot of personal situations that I've gone through that are on the record," she reveals. "I wrote a lot of songs with Sarah Buxton and Blair Daly. It was literally like a therapy session. I had just broken up with a boyfriend [fellow artist Chuck Wicks], so, of course, I wanted to write about that. And then starting to date somebody and those first initial feelings. I feel a little more mature. I think there's a lot more depth to this new record."

One song specifically hints to the rumors of a budding new relationship. "There's a song called 'Butterflies,' and it was basically like, I feel like I've been a little numb this whole time, like I haven't really felt those butterflies for a long time and they've kind of just been sleeping, and this person woke them up."

Each song, she says, reflects how she was feeling as she dealt with different situations, which makes it hard for her to decide which track she likes the most. "I can't even decide what my favorite song is off the record, because I think they change," she explains. "One week I'm obsessed with 'Wildfire' and then the next week I'm obsessed with 'That's What the Night Is For' and the next week I'm obsessed with 'That's So Wrong.'"

In addition to promoting her new album, the professionally-trained dancer recently announced she would rejoin the cast of 'Dancing With the Stars' this fall. The budding actress will also appear in the upcoming film, 'Burlesque,' opposite Christina Aguilera and Cher. Her new CD will hit stores in November.

http://www.theboot.com/2010/06/04/julianne-hough-sizzle-new-album-2010/

Julianne Hough - "Is That So Wrong"

By: Matt Bjorke
June 4, 2010

When “That Song In My Head” came out in 2008 Julianne Hough started off her music career after a successful run on Dancing With The Stars as one of the top dancers. While she eventually went on to the show once again with then-boyfriend Chuck Wicks, Julianne was really trying to break away from the ‘dancer’ typecast and shows off her talents as a country singer. While the single and the Julianne Hough album were both successful, neither did as well as Julianne or her record label Mercury Records had hoped.

One of the reasons for the moderate instead of smashing success was the ‘dated’ production style throughout the album. It felt like a relic of the 1990s/early 2000s and not something from 2008. While this fact likely had some folks loving the record, it was enough for radio to not want to listen to more of the record. That production was from well-known veteran producer David Malloy and while it served the purpose that album was supposed to do –introduce Julianne Hough to the country music audience –it may have hurt her more than helped her.

Fast forward to now and here I sit with “Is That So Wrong,” the brand spankin’ new single. This single, written by Julianne with Sarah Buxton and Blair Daily, certainly sounds like a different, more mature Hough. Buxton’s influence is prevalent throughout the song, from the vocal phrasing to the lyrics of the track, which deals with a woman who is rallying herself after bad break-up, saying ‘I don’t want to be alone, is that so wrong?’ The production on the single is handled by stalwart Nashville producer Dann Hough and he completely gives the song the ‘current’ sound that Julianne Hough needed to set herself back on the path to country music stardom.

“Is That So Wrong” is a mid-tempo track complete with a strong, able vocal performance from Hough. It’s the kind of song that radio should like and if they allow Julianne the chance, it is exactly what could get her the first Top 10 hit of her young career.

http://www.roughstock.com/blog/julianne-hough-is-that-so-wrong-

Julianne Hough: New Single Sent to Radio!

MON, 07 JUNE 2010 AT 11:05 AM

Julianne Hough keeps it simple and striking in a Camilla + Marc Caraletta Frock as she arrives at the 2010 MTV Movie Awards held at the Gibson Amphitheatre at Universal Studios on Sunday afternoon (June 6).

The 21-year-old country cutie just released her upcoming single to radios.

Julianne teamed up with Sarah Buxton and Blair Daly to write “Is It So Wrong?” You’ll be able to hear it on radio on June 21st.

Julianne’s second album is due out in November.

http://justjaredjr.buzznet.com/2010/06/07/julianne-hough-new-single-sent-to-radio/

Will Julianne Hough Return To ‘Dancing’?

As Julianne decides if she’ll return to “Dancing with the Stars,” she has another big decision ahead of her — which dress to wear for the CMT Awards in June and fans can decide on her actual red carpet ensemble by logging on to CMT.com. CLICK HERE to watch Access Hollywood’s exclusive video.

Sugarland, Julianne Hough and the Incredible Machine Tour brought the house down

Universal Nashville label mates, Sugarland and Julianne Hough gave 6000 plus fans more than their money's worth Thursday night as they lit up the Idaho Center. This marks Sugarland's first major national headlining tour, and they proved to one and all they have everything it takes to headline arenas. Sugarland's Incredible Machine Tour, along with Carrie Underwood and Tim McGraw who will both be hitting the valley this spring, is among the year's most highly anticipated country events.

From the moment Sugarland hit the stage behind a screen which partially obscures the stage, the crowd was higly enthusiastic, and with good reason. The band bounced from their "Love On The Inside" intro straight into their hits "Settlin," and "It Happens," never taking their foot off the gas for the next 85 minutes.

When the curtain dropped so did our collective jaws as we laid eyes on the unique and visually impressive stage set, that recalls elements of Time Machine, Willy Wonka and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Any attempt to describe the stage and or the outfits the band members wore would be inadequate, so see for yourselves in the fan photos below.

The Incredible Machine tour is named after their upcoming October album of the same name, and the band chose a few songs representative of their next CD (the title track, "Find The Beat" and "Wide Open" among them), which gives the listener a hint at a more pop direction than we've heard so far. And why not? Jennifer Nettles has an incredible voice, and the duo's sound should simply be called American rather than country...But back to the show.

The duo of Nettles and partner Kristian Bush, along with the other five members of their band delivered a stunning show, playing most of the band's hits, along with a few cover splices, like a mix of Beyonce's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)" and the Jackson 5's "I Want You Back" in the middle of "Everyday America." They also closed out one of their new songs, "Find The Beat" with a bit of Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline."

Some of the show's highlights included an acoustic perfromance of "Stay" by just the duo, and a fun and intimate half circle acoustic performance of their debut hit "Baby Girl" with the whole band. After the latter, Bush went into the crowd and gave away an autographed acoustic guitar to a child in the audience.

The band closed out their pre-encore set with Bon Jovi's "Who Says You Can't Go Home" and their own "Something More."

For their final encore the band did a cover of Blondie's, "Heart of Glass," and Julianne Hough returned to the stage to help out.

Hough did a short but tight set of material from her debut album and her forthcoming follow up. She performed her hits, "That Song in My Head" and "My Hallelujah Song" the latter of which opened her set. From her as yet unreleased sophomore effort she performed "Too Good To Be True," and the song, "Wildfire," which she claimed sort of defines who she is.

The two time Dancing With The Stars winner made sure to change up her warddrobe a couple of times during the set and showed off her trademark dance moves, uses an elevated stage, replete with a swing she could flirt with the crowd from.

Sugarland's last trip to Boise was as opening act for Brooks and Dunn, and in perhaps some ironic way, the latter have passed the torch to the former as America's reigning country duo. If there was anything to nitpick about Sugarland's show it was that it could have been a few hits longer. With only three studio CDs under their belts, it's hard to headline and leave out any of your hits. That said, they knocked the ball out of the park on this tour, and Jennifer Nettles continues to prove just how strong a performer she is.

The unsung heroes of the night were the band members who brought the music to life for both acts without stealing the spotlight. For Sugarland that was, bassist Annie Clements, guitarists Scott Patton and Thad Beaty, drummer Travis McNabb, and keyboardist Brandon Bush. The Sugarland roadcrew has to be commended for their efforts as well given the scope of the band's set.

Stars' Secret Lives on Tour

JULIANNE HOUGH

Just because you're on the road, doesn't mean you have to rough it! Hough and her pals indulged in a mini spa day while on their tour bus. "Uhh girls gone insanely wild!!" the country singer joked about her tame ways of cutting loose.

» www.peoplestylewatch.com

JULIANNE GOES TO THE DARK SIDE

Julianne turned heads at the ASCAP Country Music Awards in Nashville, Oct. 19, with her slightly darker hair color.

BAREFOOT AND CRAZY

“I was surrounded by my brothers and sister…five in my immediate family. And we were always singing and dancing and making up skits in front of the camera. So I was just used to that whole atmosphere. It’s always been in my family and it’s been kind of ingrained in me. Literally, my mom would take us to lessons every day in a big red van. She would stay in the car and sew or do her thing. And I remember – she might get mad at this – but I never would wear shoes because I’d be dancing in my bare feet. So I didn’t wear shoes. I shorts on and a T-shirt, and that was it.”

TWILIGHT ZONE

Julianne Hough looked stunning in basic black and white Nov. 16 as she walked the red carpet at the premiere of the new movie The Twilight Saga: New Moon at the Mann Village Theatre in Westwood, Calif. Julianne posed with actress Jennie Garth, whose husband, Peter Facinelli, stars in the film.

“It Girls”

Julianne Hough, sporting newly darkened hair, and her sister Marabeth were among the stars hitting the read carpet at the premier of This Is It, the movie tribute to the life and career of Michael Jackson. The movie played to dozens of stars at the Nokia Theater L.A Live venue in Los Angeles, Oct 27. Julianne’s bust week kicked off with a rocking concert performance at the North Carolina State Fair in Raleigh, Oct 21.

Julianne’s Big Screen Dance

Julianne Hough has reportedly joined Cher, actress Kristen Bell and pop star Christina Aguilera in the cast of the upcoming movie Bulesque. The film is set for release in fall 2010, and concerns the efforts of a small-town singer played by Christina to make her way at a Hollywood burlesque club owned by Cher’s character. Julianne will also appear in the upcoming remake of the 1984 hit movie Footloose, set for release in June.

"Dancing" star helps raise money for sick kids and hospital research

Cause Celeb highlights a celebrity’s work on behalf of a specific cause. This week, we speak with dancer, country-music singer and actress Julianne Hough about her passion for helping children, including her support for The Children’s Miracle Network. The nonprofit organization raises funds for more than 170 children’s hospitals across the country. Donations help fund medical care, research and education.

Hough, a professional ballroom dancer, has sashayed her way into America’s homes as the two-time winner of "Dancing With The Stars." She has also recently released her self-titled album and signed on to play Ariel in the remake of the 1984 film "Footloose."

Q: Can you tell me a little bit about Children’s Miracle Network?

Julianne Hough: Well, it’s funny. In Utah, its very, very well known and I know Marie Osmond definitely contributed her time to it as well. I didn’t really get involved until a little bit later. Basically, it’s a mission to generate funds for programs for sick kids and hospital research. It helps kids in communities and research to get better. I’ve done a couple of things with them. It’s pretty amazing the children that you meet. It’s pretty unbelievable.

Q: How did you get involved and what is your role?

JH: They do a fundraiser every year. I went down to Florida and I was a part of that. At first, I thought it was a great idea. Anything to do with children. They’re the future for us. Anything we can do to better them. I thought, “You know, I’ll do this little thing and be apart of it.” Once I was there, I got to meet the kids. I really took a better interest in that and thought, “You know, I want to do this for a long time. I don’t want this to be a one-off.” So, I started looking into it and it’s just amazing. It’s a nonprofit organization so any money that people donate just goes to research. I think it saves lives of 17 million kids a year. So it’s pretty unbelievable.

Q: What is the most rewarding thing about being involved?

JH: For me, I feel so blessed with everything I do in my life that I want to do something and be a part of something that gives children that hope, that maybe they can do and follow their dreams at some point. Of course, they have to get better; otherwise, it’s not going to be easy for them. To do something where I come in and I perform, it gives them hope and the encouragement so that they can keep going and have dreams and hopes. It’s really rewarding. Just being able to meet them.

I remember I did this show for [the kids] one time. There were a bunch of a kids just sitting on the ground and I said, “You know what, come on up here!” Everybody just came up on stage and we were all dancing together and singing along. It was just amazing. It’s all about the kids. It’s really rewarding just to be apart of their lives and hopefully they can look back at that and be like “Oh man, I remember that was so cool. That’s what I want to do when I’m older.” Anything I can do for their hopes and their dreams.

Q: Is there a particular story or moment that has resonated with you while working with Children’s Miracle Network?

JH: I think just when I did that show and having that experience with them all coming up on stage. It was just supposed to be a one-off thing. I thought, “Oh, it’s a really cool program, of course I’ll go and give my time to it.” And then I had that experience with the kids coming up on stage and having such an awesome time. Just kind of forgetting about everything that they were going through. Afterward I was just like, “This is something that I want to be apart of, not just for one time, but for a long time.”

Q: What can other people do to help? Is there a message you would like to get out there?

JH: Basically, it’s trying to be more aware. We’re trying to make it more aware for people around the country, around the world. If there is anybody that can donate money. Celebrities in general, just to kind of get the name out there. It really is going to help with research and donating money for kids to get better. More medical machines, and all that kind of thing. I just think anybody who can make it more aware for people, and do fundraisers, anything like that is just unbelievable.

Q: Anything else you’d like to add?

JH: It’s a great program and if you think about it, it’s all for the kids. They’re the hope the future for us and we need to get them better and give them a shot at their dreams too.

Interviewed by Kelly Rippin, NBC News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 27, 2009

FIRST PRESENTERS ANNOUNCED FOR "THE 43rd ANNUAL CMA AWARDS"

NASHVILLE - The excitement is building as the first group of presenters are announced for "The 43rd Annual CMA Awards," hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, and airing live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Wednesday, Nov. 11 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network.

The first celebrities announced as Awards presenters during "Country Music's Biggest NightT" are NASCAR superstar driver Dale Earnhardt Jr.; stars of ABC's "The Middle" Neil Flynn and Patricia Heaton; Julianne Hough; nominee Randy Houser (for both New Artist and Music Video of the Year for "Boots On"); nominee Jake Owen (New Artist of the Year); Kellie Pickler; CMA Award winner LeAnn Rimes; and ABC News's Robin Roberts, co-anchor of "Good Morning America" and host of the upcoming "Robin Roberts: Bright Lights. Big Stars. All Access Nashville" ABC television special (airing Nov. 10).

In addition, hot emerging trio Love And Theft will host the Pre-Telecast Awards, which are given out during the half-hour before the televised event begins. Among the Awards presented during this time are the CMA Broadcast Awards, which recognize the Broadcast Personality and Station of the Year in four categories (small, medium, large, and major market) as well as the National Broadcast Personality of the Year.

Performers already announced include Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney and Dave Mathews, Billy Currington, Vince Gill and Daughtry, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Reba McEntire, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, George Strait, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, and Zac Brown Band, with more to be named soon.

Tickets for the 2009 CMA Awards can be purchased by logging on to www.ticketmaster.com; calling (800) 745-3000; or in person at the Sommet Center box office, located 501 Broadway (corner of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, in Nashville). Ticket prices begin at $110 for Upper Level. Great Lower Level seats are also available. All ticket prices include sales tax, but exclude applicable service/handling fees.

"The 43rd Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer, Paul Miller is the Director, and David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.

Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards. American Airlines is the official airline of the 2009 CMA Awards. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music.

STORY:

New do, new look. The budding country star highlights her darker blonde haircolor with a flame-red gown at the ASCAP Country Music Awards in Nashville.

This year, music fans will enjoy an early holiday gift with the October 6 release of Now That’s What I Call A Country Christmas. This music-packed stocking stuffer comes on the heels of the multi-platinum NOW Christmas series of double CDs, and the chart-topping success of NOW That’s What I Call Country Volumes 1 and 2.

For the first time, this double-disc set includes 29 of the most beloved holiday favorites from country greats like Elvis and Johnny Cash, alongside current country stars like Kenny Chesney and George Strait, making this the perfect holiday gift for the entire family.

NOW That’s What I Call A Country Christmas is the newest of the world’s best selling multi-artist album series, NOW That's What I Call Music! The Now series is collectively responsible for sales of 73 million albums in the U.S. over the last 10 years. Every album in the series has reached the Billboard Top 10, and is the only non-soundtrack, multi-artist collection to reach #1 Billboard status on the Billboard Top 200 Album Sales Chart.

NOW That’s What I Call A Country Christmas Track Listing

DISC ONE

Darius Rucker Winter Wonderland

Brad Paisley Away in the Manger

Julianne Hough Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

George Strait Joy to the World

Lady Antebellum It's Cold Outside

Brooks and Dunn I'll Be Home for Christmas

Luke Bryan Run Run Rudolph

Josh Turner The First Noel

Kellie Pickler Santa Baby

Trace Adkins It's Christmas

Little Big Town Go Tell it on the Mountain

Lee Ann Womack The Man With the Bag

Taylor Swift Christmases When You Were Mine

Kenny Chesney Silver Bells

DISC TWO

Gene Autry Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

Elvis/Martina McBride Blue Christmas

Merle Haggard Jingle Bells

Vince Gill O Little Town of Bethlehem

Alison Krauss Shimmy Down the Chimney

Reba McEntire Up On the Housetop

Glen Campbell O Holy Night

Tanya Tucker What Child Is This

Alabama Christmas In Dixie

Brenda Lee Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree

Kenny Rogers Kentucky Home Made Christmas

Dolly Parton Hard Candy Christmas

Amy Grant A Christmas to Remember

Johnny Cash Silent Night

Burl Ives Holly Jolly Christmas

Julianne Hough is Wizard of Oz Wonderful

Julianne Hough’s pup Lexi gets really interested in The Wizard of Oz character Scarecrow as they attend the Netflix outdoor concert and movie screening at the Rumsey Playfield, Central Park in NYC on Tuesday night (September 29).

The 21-year-old actress/singer has been touring the country and singing her heart out but took time out to see one of her favorite movies, The Wizard of Oz in NYC.

Julianne tweeted earlier, “At the studio in NY with the boys working on The Wizard of Oz songs.”

Next for Julianne: Footloose with Chace Crawford and Kenny Ortega.

15+ pics inside of Julianne Hough…

READ MORE HERE

Julianne Hough Has No Regrets About Not 'Dancing' This Season

'Dancing With the Stars' will be missing one familiar face when the show's ninth season kicks off Tuesday night. Julianne Hough, after appearing on the show for five seasons, and winning the coveted mirror-ball trophy twice, is sitting this season out to focus on her music career. But fans of the songstress might still catch a glimpse of her on the show.

"I'm not closing any doors or anything," Julianne tells Toledo radio station KISS FM. "I definitely want to come back at some point, whether it's to do the results show where they have the artist come on and then dance. I'm sure I'll do something this season."

Julianne had talked about taking a break from the hit show last year, before agreeing to one more season, during which she danced with real-life boyfriend Chuck Wicks. And in spite of the heavy demands of the show, the multi-talented Julianne has no regrets. "We definitely knew it was going to be a tough thing, so we both went in there, thinking 'Alright, let's just go in there, being professional.' Luckily, he's cool. He let me be dominant. It didn't hurt his male ego. And for me, I guess I kind of took a little bit of a step back from how I usually teach. Usually I'm a little bit more tough. But ... relationships are a little bit more important."

Taking time off from the show was hardly an easy decision for Julianne, CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST AT THEBOOT.COM

She may have jitterbugged, shuffled and foxtroted into America’s hearts as one of the professionals on “Dancing with the Stars,” but in the last year, Julianne Hough’s focus has shifted from fancy footwork to vocal virtuosity with the release of her eponymous debut album in May 2008, featuring two singles, “That Song in My Head” and “My Hallelujah Song.” Currently, the talented singer is working on a second album and writing some of her own songs. Hough, who recently turned 21, is also a becoming a true triple threat, taking on a role in the upcoming remake of Footloose. Hough performs at Mandalay Bay Beach Sept. 5 and promises audiences a sneak peek at some of the songs from her new album.

Whats On: Is there more pressure to be the headliner than when you’ve been the opening act for other country music stars?

Julianne Hough: I like to headline because opening up for somebody, you only get a certain amount of time to connect with the audience and, sometimes, it’s in the daytime, nobody can see, everybody’s doing their own thing, they’re not really settled yet, so I like to headline. I think it’s more relaxing. I feel like I can take my time onstage and really engage with the audience.

WO: Are you still dancing or is the focus completely on your music right now?

H: It’s completely on music. I’m going to take a couple of seasons off [from “Dancing with the Stars”], but then I’ll be back. I’m working on my new record, and I’ll make sure it’s the best it can be.

WO: How do you compare preparing for a concert to preparing for a dance performance?

As a dancer, Julianne Hough studied five years in London before becoming the youngest ever — and the first American — to win Junior World Latin Champion and International Latin Youth Champion at the 2002 Blackpool Dance Festival in England.

She went on to stardom in the American version of the popular "Dancing With the Stars" TV competition, winning it twice.

As a country singer, Hough snagged both the 2009 Top New Artist and Top New Female Vocalist awards from the Academy of Country Music. She has spent most of the past year on the road, opening for Brad Paisley and George Strait in addition to festival and solo appearances, promoting her year-old eponymous debut album.

As an actress, she is set to star in the anticipated remake of "Footloose," which will co-star Chace Crawford of "Gossip Girl" fame and be directed by Kenny Ortega ("High School Musical"). Filming should begin next spring.

So what is she: Dancer? Country singer? Actress?

"I'm an entertainer," Hough — pronounced "huff" — says without hesitation. "I love to dance. I love to sing. I want to act. All around to entertain."

We caught up with Hough, 21, last week at a concert stop in Delaware to chat about her show Saturday at Desert Diamond Casino.

You're still on the road with George Strait. Have you spent any alone time with him, picking his brain?

"We see him going from his bus to the stage and from the stage to his bus. Actually Chuck (Wicks, her boyfriend) was out, and he was like, 'So do you see George often?' And I basically said no, I don't really see him. Right after I got finished saying that, we see George in catering and we ended up talking for 30 minutes."

What have you learned from being out with him?

"I think the biggest thing I've learned, even from the Brad Paisley tour (summer 2008), is just how they are both so great to every single person they work with. With George, it's a testament if you look at the people who have worked with him for 34 years, from the beginning. They are very, very loyal. Somebody's not going to be loyal if they aren't loyal in return."

The last young, blond singer to open for Strait was Taylor Swift. We all know what happened after that. Are you hoping for a similar fairy tale?

"Oh, absolutely. She's phenomenal. And George kind of took her under his wings — kind of the way he's been doing with me. And she's had so much success. Being on his tour and being in front of different audiences every night, . . . you kind of get to win over their audiences every night. It's great."

Have you figured out who your audience is?

"My audience is very strange, in a great way. Because of 'Dancing With the Stars,' they are so diverse. I have little girls from 3 years old that dance in front of the television when the show comes on all the way up to my grandparents' age. It's all the (TV) fans who have followed me over (to country music), and then people who only know my music and never watched the show. It's a wide demographic."

Would you chase the Disney 'tween crowd like Taylor?

"If it naturally happens, I think that's great. I think music is music. . . . If it does something for you and it can cross over to another genre, then I think that's great."

You've already begun working on your sophomore album, which is due out next year. What can we expect?

"I definitely want to have some songs that I can groove to up on stage and still feel like it's me. It's a little bit more edgy, a little bit more mature. The songs have a little more depth. I love my songs that I sing now, but . . . these songs are a little more personal."

When you take your final bow at Desert Diamond Casino, what do you hope the audience members say as they're driving home?

"I want them to walk away and say, 'Oh man, she's a better singer than she is a dancer.' "

CLICK HERE to check out Julianne on abc.com promoting the CMA Music Festival Special on ABC. Click on DAY 3 to see Julianne's interview.

ET was there as celebrity dog-trainer Tamar Geller showed "Dancing" pro Julianne Hough and country music singer/songwriter Lee Ann Womack how to teach their dogs to be perfectly behaved pooches!

Tamar helps Julianne's energetic dog Lexie become less skittish, and she coaches Lee Ann's canines Shadow and Wilson on how to think before they pounce. Click the video to watch!

AIRS MONDAY, AUG. 10 (Check your local listings for show times)

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE PREVIEW SEGMENT

Catch Julianne Hough interview with celebrity dog trainer, Tamar Geller, on Entertainment Tonight this Wednesday, August 5^th at 11pm CST.

http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2009/07/29/julianne-houghs-tips-for-getting-instantly-glam-on-tour/

Julianne Hough’s Tips for Getting Instantly Glam On Tour

Evan Agostini/AP

Julianne Hough may have traded her sparkling Dancing With the Stars costumes and glitzy Hollywood lifestyle for a grueling tour schedule with George Strait — but that doesn’t mean the country star is letting life on the road stop her from looking as gorgeous as ever. As part of her summer campaign with Gillette’s Venus Embrace razor, the singer has produced an online booklet which reveals style and real-life advice to her die-hard fans — and she’s sharing with PEOPLE.com a few more of her favorite secrets for looking her best on and off the stage. And if there’s one product she knows will never fail even under the stadium lights’ intense glare, it’s fake lashes: “I love Ardell–the individual ones,” she says. “I’ll just put them on and won’t wear mascara and it’s like, whoa,” she laughs. And mascara itself has been a bit of an issue on the tour. “Lately I haven’t been using waterproof mascara, so I’ve been having black all down my face when I get off-stage.” But there is one beauty product that has yet to let her down, “My foundation is really great,” she says. “I love the Armani Luminous — that’s my favorite. It still looks really dewy and fresh and bright, but it doesn’t run at all and stays on all day.” Check out more of Julianne’s get-glam-quick tips in her Goddess Guide to Getting Closer along with her tips on working out and dating at gillettevenus.com. Tell us: What are your get glam fast secrets?–Katie Kauss

American Red Cross Adds Five New Celebrity Volunteers

Announcement follows First Lady Michelle Obama's official launch of United We Serve initiative

National Headquarters
2025 E Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20006
www.redcross.org

Contact: Public Affairs Desk
FOR MEDIA ONLY
media@usa.redcross.org
Phone: (202) 303-5551

WASHINGTON, Thursday, July 30, 2009 — The American Red Cross is pleased to announce five new additions to its National Celebrity Cabinet, a group of celebrity supporters who promote Red Cross services by donating their time, helping neighbors prepare for emergencies, responding to disasters and lending a helping hand to those in need.

New members to the American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet include country singer and professional ballroom dancer Julianne Hough; Tony Award®-winner and actress Anika Noni Rose, who lends her voice to the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated comedy adventure “The Princess and the Frog” and appears in the HBO/Anthony Minghella television drama series,“#1 Ladies’ Detective Agency”; Hollywood Records artist and Disney Channel star, Demi Lovato, who is supporting disaster relief via a Text 2 Help campaign throughout her summer tour; actress Sally Pressman from Lifetime’s “Army Wives” who will be supporting Red Cross Services to the Armed Forces and actress Amanda Peet.

Peet has already made a personal commitment to support the Red Cross Measles Initiative. “As a mom, I feel privileged to support the American Red Cross in their efforts to vaccinate millions of children around the world through the Measles Initiative, a partnership committed to reducing measles deaths globally. I commend the American Red Cross for tackling this global health problem in developing countries, where measles remains a leading cause of death, despite the availability of a safe, effective and inexpensive vaccine. I am passionate about this cause and look forward partnering with the American Red Cross to ensure children worldwide have this life-saving opportunity.”

“The American Red Cross runs on the valuable service of volunteers to fulfill our mission, and we are grateful that these celebrities are setting an example by volunteering their time and talents to help raise awareness of our work in responding to disasters, providing blood, helping military members and their families and promoting preparedness through first aid or CPR classes,” states Gail McGovern, President and CEO of American Red Cross.

The announcement of these celebrity supporters closely follows First Lady Michelle Obama’s official launch of the United We Serve initiative, a call for nationwide service to begin a sustained, collaborative and focused effort to meet community needs. The initiative spans throughout the summer and will culminate with a National Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11. During this time, the Red Cross will promote volunteer opportunities throughout its network of more than 700 chapters to help encourage community service.

“I am honored to be a part of the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet and help support an organization that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war and aid to victims of devastating natural disasters. Being part of this amazing organization will provide me with an opportunity to join its efforts to help others and encourage the American public to become involved with their local Red Cross and make a difference,” said Julianne Hough. Please visit Celebrity Cabinet member quotes.

The Red Cross benefits from the involvement of public figures and celebrities dating back to World War I. Over the years, actors, artists, and sports figures committing their time and talents to the organization have played an important role in raising public awareness of Red Cross services nationwide.

New Members of the 2009 American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet:

• Julianne Hough is multi-talented; a singer, a dancer and actress. She is widely known for being a two-time winner of ABC's “Dancing with the Stars.” Her self-titled debut album was released in May of last year, debuting at #1 on the Billboard Country Album chart and is currently in the studio working on her second. This spring, Hough won the Top New Artist award at the 44th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards. She can be seen on stage this summer as the opening act for George Strait's Summer 2009 tour.
• Demi Lovato burst on to the scene after starring alongside the Jonas Brothers in the Disney Channel Original film “Camp Rock.” She released her first album, Don’t Forget, in 2008 and will release her second studio album, Here We Go Again, on July 21, 2009. Demi also stars in her own hit series “Sonny with a Chance” and co-stars in the Disney Channel Original film, “Princess Protection Program” with Selena Gomez. Lovato performed as the Jonas Brothers' opening act for their “Burning Up” tour last summer, and this summer she has her own tour, with special guest David Archuleta. Additionally, Lovato’s family was devastated by a tornado that struck Mena, Arkansas on April 9 and Demi is committed to support disaster awareness through the American Red Cross Text 2 Help campaign.
• Amanda Peet gained recognition as the leading lady in the smash hit comedy “The Whole Nine Yards” with Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry. She was also named one of People's "50 Most Beautiful People in the World" the same year. Peet showcases her talents in feature films “Something's Gotta Give”, “Igby Goes Down”, “Syriana”, alongside George Clooney, and this year’s disaster film “2012”. Peet’s passion to serve is demonstrated in her support for non-profits and advocacy for childhood vaccination.
• Sally Pressman plays the role of Roxy LeBlanc on Lifetime's "Army Wives," and has previously acted in the independent film "The Dread" and the TV show "Shark". She was classically trained in ballet and is a former member of the Manhattan Ballet Company. She attended Yale University where she acted in several plays and received a B.A. in theatre studies.
• Anika Noni Rose won the 2004 Tony Award for her role in Broadway's "Caroline or Change", and this Spring she could be seen weekly as Grace Makutsi on HBOs "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency". She starred in the feature film "Dream Girls" alongside Beyonce Knowles and Jennifer Hudson, and this year Rose lends her voice to Disney's upcoming animated feature "The Princess and the Frog", becoming Disney's first African-American princess.

This group of newcomers joins the National Celebrity Cabinet that also includes Greg Biffle, Pierce Brosnan, Jackie Chan, Chayanne, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Sara Evans, George Foreman, Leeza Gibbons, Amy Grant, Pat Green, Marcia Gay Harden, Dwayne Johnson, Heidi Klum, Patti LaBelle, Peyton and Eli Manning, Marlee Matlin, Dr. Phil McGraw, “Access Hollywood’s” Nancy O’Dell, Masi Oka, Rascal Flatts, Raven-Symone, Elisabeth Rohm, Jane Seymour, Jimmy Smits, and Daddy Yankee.

The Red Cross is honored to have Sherry Lansing, former chairman and CEO, Motion Picture Group, Paramount Pictures and former member of the Red Cross Board of Governors, to serve as National Celebrity Cabinet Chair.

Please visit www.redcross.org/celebritycabinet/ to learn more about the Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at www.redcrosschat.org.

http://bit.ly/RedCrossCeleb

'Stars' dancer Julianne Hough says country music comes first

By Kellie B. Gormly
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Thursday, July 23, 2009

Ondrea Barbe

George Strait
With: Blake Shelton and Julianne Hough
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday
Admission: $15.25-$70.25
Where: Post-Gazette Pavilion, Burgettstown

Julianne Hough gathered a huge fan following as a professional dancer, particularly from her two-time champion role in the smash ABC series "Dancing With the Stars." Now, Hough has shifted her focus to her budding country music career, at least for the time being.

Hough -- who will perform Saturday night at George Strait's show, along with Blake Shelton -- says focusing on both ventures simultaneously would be exhausting.

"I never like to do anything halfway," she says. "For me, when I try to juggle both careers at the same time, I don't feel like I'm giving my heart and soul."

Hough, who also has worked as an actress, says she loves dancing, but her ultimate goal always was to become a country music artist.

"I love both careers," Hough says. "I'll always dance; it's a passion of mine. ... With the music, I feel like you can connect with (people) more and get instant feedback. You can see them singing along, and actually talk to them and have a conversation onstage.

"With the dancing ... it's a little more selfish; you dance for yourself," she says. "With lyrics and melody, you can touch people's lives."

The Utah native, also a songwriter, spent five years in London dancing. She moved back to America a few years ago to continue dancing here, and pursue her highest aspiration, to sing the plainspoken, humorous, realistic and touching music of country.

"With country music, we're basically like, 'Hey, we're just like you, and we go through these things,'" Hough says. "I think that's why country fans are so loyal. They get it, and they understand it."

Hough's self-titled debut album, released in May 2008, debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. The album includes the hit single "That Song in My Head." She followed up later that year with "The Julianne Hough Holiday Collection," part of the "NBC Sounds of the Season" series.

Hough is working on a new studio album and hopes to release a new single by the end of the year. She hopes to release the album early next year. Hough says she is excited, but also feels the pressure with her second album. Many artists fall victim to the sophomore jinx, where their second album isn't nearly as successful as the first.

Hough calls this next album her most important one.

"This is the one, I think, that's going to make me or break me," she says. "I could stay where I'm at or, hopefully, catapult" to a higher level.

Hough says she is thrilled to be opening for Strait, often called the King of Country Music. He is shy and does no media interviews, but Strait is very nice and a bit of a jokester, she says.

"He is just phenomenal ... a country music legend," Hough says. "He's somebody that I grew up listening to, and he takes me under his wing a lot."

Utah's Julianne Hough and Blake Shelton to open for George Strait in first Utah stop since 1998.

By David Burger

This should be a great week for Utah native Julianne Hough -- and not just because she's opening for the legendary country crooner George Strait Friday. On Monday, Hough turns 21. "I'm going to make a special trip and hang out and get all of my high-school friends to come and have a birthday party on the 20th," Hough said in an interview. It's been quite a life for the girl -- I mean, woman -- who spent formative years in Utah before becoming a two-time champion of "Dancing With the Stars." She released a self-titled debut album in May 2008, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard album chart, and has now sold more than 300,000 copies, which is one reason she'll be a special guest on Strait's first Utah concert stop since 1998.

Fellow country singer Blake Shelton is another guest on Strait's tour, and he says he's proud to be opening for The King of Country. "Guys want to be [Strait], and girls want to be with him," said Shelton, who has charted 15 singles on the country charts, including five No. 1 hits: "Austin" (2001), "The Baby" (2003), "Some Beach" (2004-2005), "Home" (2008) and "She Wouldn't Be Gone" (2009).

While Strait wasn't available for interviews, one of the people who know him best was: Tommy Foote, Strait's tour manager since 1984 and the drummer for Strait's first band, Ace in the Hole. With Foote on drums, Strait's debut single "Unwound" was an instant success, and since then, he has amassed a total of 57 No. 1 hits, breaking a record set by Conway Twitty. And Strait isn't done yet -- his new album "Twang" will be released in August. Strait's concert this time around will be more than just another tour. "He's achieved a legendary status," Foote said. "It seems to be more of an event than just a concert. We're playing venues we haven't played for 15 years." The show should be considered an event, Foote opines, because Strait's voice is better than ever. "George is singing better," Foote said. "I don't know if it's a conscious decision, but it has gained more character and a timbre." If that's so, Hough will get one heck of a rendition of the "Happy Birthday" song from the headliner this weekend.

Country Gals Cover Shape Magazine

LeAnn Rimes, Martina McBride and Julianne Hough will be on the cover of the July issue of Shape magazine. Inside, the bikini-clad babes tell how they get (and keep) those fab bodies. Among the topics, McBride shares her fascination with nutrition and how she encourages her husband and daughters to eat healthily. She also discusses the importance of a positive self-image in addition to physical beauty.

"It's always been my passion to sing country music," says Julianne Hough.

"It's so real. I love listening to pop and rock, but there's something about country music."

Julianne Hough will bring ‘Taste of Country’ to Buffalo

By Joe Sweeney

When music is described as “real,” that’s usually code for stripped instrumentation or in-your-face production values—like a protest song from Bob Dylan or Public Enemy.

And in the glory days of country music, folks like Johnny, Patsy, Tammy and Willie were defined by this style. Songs were performed so honestly that the listener could feel every ache and pain as if they were their own.

Concert Preview

WYRK Taste of Country

Featuring Blake Shelton, Craig Morgan, above, Randy Owen and Julianne Hough, at 7 p. m. Friday at Coca-Cola Field. Remaining tickets are $25 and are available at the ballpark box office or through Tickets.com.

Now, the country genre has evolved into a glossier, more upbeat style that has crossed over in a major way. Instead of a lonely woman trying to convince us that she should stand by her man, contemporary country tends to be sun-drenched party music that borrows heavily from modern rock and pop.

But according to Julianne Hough and Craig Morgan—two high-profile performers set to take the stage at the 10th annual WYRK Taste of Country concert on Friday at Coca-Cola Field— country may have changed, but the realness has stayed the same.

“It’s always been my passion to sing country music,” says Hough, the 20- year-old singer who initially found fame as a dancer on the TV show “Dancing With the Stars.” “It’s so real. I love listening to pop and rock, but there’s something about country music. I don’t think any other genre [lets you] put yourself out there, open and accessible to everybody. That’s why our format has the best fan base in the world.”

Morgan, a 43-year-old Tennessean who has tossed off a string of hit records over the last decade and recently became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, clearly feels the same way.

“There is a realness to the country music format,” he says. “We do a fan music fest, and you don’t hear about anything like that in rock or pop or hip-hop. They don’t do that stuff. They don’t spend four days signing autographs for their fans.”

Agree with this assessment or not, there’s definitely a wide audience for the genre’s “what you see is what you get” attitude. The Taste of Country show is a much-anticipated event for local country fans, and they have a lot of concerts to choose from every summer — not to mention a popular radio station and clubs like the Sportsmen’s Tavern, which has become a major source of live, local country music.

Along with Hough and Morgan, the Taste of Country lineup features Blake Shelton, an Oklahoma native who has made his mark on the country charts since his 2001 debut album, and Randy Owen, lead singer of the legendary group Alabama.

Hough’s story is a remarkable one that should never be told to stage moms. Set on becoming a triple threat from a very young age, the Utah native worked hard on her singing, dancing and acting chops while her peers played with Polly Pockets. After studying dance in London in her early teens, Hough returned to the States, where she eventually landed the “Dancing With the Stars” gig.

She has been able to leverage her success on that show into a very promising country music career — Hough was named “Top New Artist” at the 2009 Academy of Country Music Awards, on the strength of her self-titled debut album. It’s a lot for a kid to absorb.

“I definitely feel blessed and fortunate,” Hough shares, when asked about her rapid rise to fame. “And, of course, it looks like it happened really quickly. But I’ve been performing my whole life, ever since I was 3 years old.

“I did grow up real fast,” she says. “And I could be really responsible at a young age. Now I can be a little bit looser, have a little bit more fun and not think so much. I think I’m less mature now than I was then!”

Morgan is a seasoned veteran with five albums under his belt, but he’s vehement that he’s still the everyman. After every show, the artist loads the equipment trucks alongside his crew.

When asked if he was looking forward to playing a blue-collar city like Buffalo, he responds: “I’m the same guy that they are. I still do all the same stuff they do. I don’t have a bunch of people hired to do everything.

“Why is it that when we’re successful, we’re not supposed to do anything anymore?” he asks. “It ain’t that way, and it ain’t that way for most people, too.”

Whether it’s an act or not, Morgan’s insistence on just being one of the guys is awfully appealing. Any struggling musician knows what it’s like to have to load your own gear into the van after a long set, dreaming that one day you’ll have a roadie to do it all for you. The fact that Morgan doesn’t just hightail it to the tour bus when he’s done playing is pretty fantastic.

No matter what your thoughts might be about country music in 2009, listening to a pair of its stars attest to its realness has got to leave a good taste in your mouth.

THUMBS UP!

Look ma, no cavities! Dancing With the Stars pro Julianne Hough (in a coral Jenny Packham dress) opens up backstage at the CMT Music Awards at Nashville's Sommet Center on Tuesday. Big winners at the country gala included Brad Paisley and Taylor Swift, who took home two awards for her video, "Love Story."