Sound Kitchen Studios

NFL Legend, Jerome "The Bus" Bettis at The Sound Kitchen!

2011-12-21T18:43:00.000-08:00

Collectively known as "The Bus," retired NFL football halfback, Jerome Bettis attended an NFL VIP event held at the Kitchen. The Bus played for the St. Louis Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers, and took the Steelers for the Super Bowl win in 2006. He has been featured on several popular television shows, such as Chuck and The Office, as well as owning a restaurant in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, named Jerome Bettis' Grille 36, among many other entrepreneurial endeavors.

Sound Kitchen Alum, Eric Lee Beddingfield, is Billboards Top Single(s) of 2011!

2011-12-20T20:26:00.000-08:00

Fast rising country-music singer, Eric Lee Beddingfield, is an honorable mention with Billboard's 615 Top Singles in 2011, with his tributary song for country music legend, George Jones, "The Gospel According to Jones". He joins in the ranks with several hot acts, such as Miranda Lambert, Brad Paisley with Carrie Underwood, and Blake Shelton, with other popular artists, with their catchy, touching and fun singles.

Check out the full roster HERE.

Beddingfield recorded the single at the legendary, award-winning studio, The Sound Kitchen, located in Cool Springs, just outside of Nashville Music City.

Connect with Eric: Facebook/Twitter/YouTube

Connect with Sound Kitchen: Facebook/Twitter/YouTube

Sound Kitchen Connects with Connection

2011-06-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

Sound Kitchen Studios Hosted 300 of Nashville's most successful Commercial and Residential real-estate brokers who are members of WRCE (Woman in Commercial Real-Estate. Beginning with cocktails and hor d'oeuvres in the Sound Kitchen's courtyardguests networked and noshed their way through the Kitchen's storied hallways back into the beautiful Big Boy Studio lounge where more hors d'oeuvres and cocktails were served. This gathering is only held once a year and the Sound Kitchen was honored to host this year's event.

Eat Music.... Live Life to the Fullest

Gloriana Brings Some Spice to the Kitchen!

2011-06-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

Gloriana was back at the Kitchen to record some amazing music in the Kitchen's BIG BOY Studio. Gloriana has been hard at work on their new recording for an upcoming major motion picture soundtrack. Gloriana was also interviewed and filmed for an upcoming article in 17 Magazine as well as Gloriana's famous music in random places. The band members of Gloriana are incredible singers and multi-faceted musicians. After tracking on the last day they hopped on their bus to head out on tour. The Sound Kitchen wishes them great success on their upcoming tour and album and we can't wait until they return to the Kitchen.

Eat Music....Live Life to the Fullest!

Mark Connors Brews Up Some Music at the Kitchen!

2011-06-14T11:49:00.000-07:00

Mark Connors was back in the Kitchen's Studio E recording three new songs for his upcoming album! It was a full day of tracking with an overdub day in the Sound Kitchens Studio E. In addition to being a masterful musician and singer, he is also a coffee enthusiast, so he brought in his own "Mark Connors" Coffee and it was fantastic. It is always great having Mark back in the studio. The release date for one of his new songs is scheduled for July 4th The Sound Kitchen wishes you great success on its release!

Eat Music.... Live Life to the Fullest!

Sound Kitchen Welcomes Lucid Music!

2011-06-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

The Sound Kitchen would like to welcome multi-Grammy winning Paul Ebersold of Lucid Music to the Sound Kitchen family! Paul has taken over the Sound Kitchen's Studio D and turned it into his private tracking and mixing suite; installing an amazing array of gear and equipment to the studio. Paul is a welcome addition to the Kitchen and is the third major producer and writer to join the Kitchen Family over the last three and half years. So, along with Skid Mills of Skiddco Music and Kent Wells of Kent Wells Productions, each of these brilliant producer/writers provides a refreshing perspective to their craft. Much continued success to all at the Kitchen!

Eat Music

Third Day with Jars of Clay hold listening party at famous Sound Kitchen Studios

2011-05-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

Provident Music Group's Third Day and Jars of Clay held a listening party in the Sound Kitchen's "BIG BOY" Studio in Franklin, TN.

Jars of Clay with the Album "The Shelter" features eleven songs released in 2010. Jars of Clay just wrapped up "The Shelter Tour" on May 7th in Jackson, MS after performing eighteen shows across America. The album has achieved a great success. The tour was sponsored by the Blood:Water Mission . This is an organization started by Jars of Clay to help provide clean blood and water in Africa.

Third Day showcased their new album "Move" This album hit the top 10 of the billboards top 200 after its release and later hit number one on the Billboard's Contemporary Christian charts. Third Day has achieved multi platinum sales and numerous number one hits.

Photographs courtesy of Michael Wootton Photography

COUNTRY WEEKLY Features SOUND KITCHEN STUDIOS

2011-02-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

Sound Kitchen Studios was just featured in the Feb. 14th edition on page 52 of COUNTRY WEEKLY Magazine. The PRO File article focuses on the business philosophy of Ira Blonder, Managing General Partner, of the Sound Kitchen. The article also features a picture of the GRASCALS and Dierks Bentley, who were in recording their latest project in Studio E for St. Judes' Hospital and Cracker Barrel.

Sound Kitchen Studios Sends Congrats to the Grascals and Cracker Barrel

2011-01-11T06:37:00.000-08:00

CRACKER BARREL HAS A TIGER BY THE TAIL WITH NEW GRASCALS & FRIENDS CD

Exclusive CD “The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics with a Bluegrass Spin”features eight great country artists and a rich blend of styles

Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores releases "A Tiger by the Tail" by The Grascals, reigning 2010 Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America (SPBGMA) Bluegrass Band of the Year, along with twelve other country classics, on the newest CD in its exclusive music program. The Grascals teamed up with eight of their famous friends, including Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Charlie Daniels, Dolly Parton, Tom T. Hall, The Oak Ridge Boys, Joe Nichols, and Darryl Worley, to create the crossover album. The Grascals & Friends – Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin CD hits the shelves exclusively at all Cracker Barrel locations today.

The Grascals, fresh off of a year packed with over 150 shows, are in the running for 10 of the 37th Annual SPBGMA Awards including Instrumental Group of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year, Bluegrass Band of the Year, and Entertaining Group of the Year. In spite of their packed schedule, they took time to visit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during their travels, and to write a bonus track “I Am Strong” for the album. All of the artists who sang separately with the Grascals on the CD joined their vocals together on the “I Am Strong” bonus track. In addition, the Grascals’ new video, “I Am Strong” featuring Dolly Parton premiered in mid-December on AOL. Because of The Grascals caring spirit, Cracker Barrel is donating a percentage of the proceeds from the CD to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“The Grascals never cease to amaze me with their talent, creativity and first-class performances,” said Gracie Muldoon, founder of WorldWideBluegrass.com. “However, it is no surprise, that their hearts are as big as they are – with their contribution to St. Jude and sick children with the release of “I Am Strong.” It shows the world that the representatives of Bluegrass music have hearts as big as their basses, as big as their talents. The heart of the Grascals is there beating along with their music as they share their love for humanity of the weakest, no, make that the “strongest” members, the beautiful children.”

“The Grascals are steeped in bluegrass tradition and at the same time are in touch with their contemporary audiences, bringing authenticity as well as freshness to the music,” said Chris Ciavarra, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Cracker Barrel. “We are pleased to be able to offer our guests this unique CD as the latest album in our exclusive music program.”

The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin is the latest in Cracker Barrel’s exclusive music program, which features numerous projects. In November of 2010, Cracker Barrel released Smokey Robinson’s Now & Then which features six of his current songs and live versions of six of his classics that were recorded last year. It debuted at #19 on Billboard magazine’s R&B chart. September saw the release of the self-titled Rodney Atkins, which includes four #1 hits, and also released Mandy Barnett’s Winter Wonderland, which offers up all the authentic sounds of the holiday traditions so many of us cherish. In July, the company released Craig Morgan’s That’s Why-Collector’s Edition, and in May the release of Wynonna’s Love Heals debuted at #7 on the Billboard Magazine Top Country Albums chart. February’s release of Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Bluegrass Albums chart, where it spent nine weeks in the top position and 18 weeks overall in one of the three top positions since its release on February 1st. Releases in 2009 included November’s Songs of Love and Heartache by Alan Jackson, September’s release of an exclusive new version of The Foundation by the Zac Brown Band, August’s George Jones’ release of A Collection Of My Best Recollection, May’s release of Montgomery Gentry’s For Our Heroes, which debuted at #5 on Billboard Magazine’s Top Country Albums chart, and March’s release of Dolly Parton’s Collector’s Edition of Backwoods Barbie, which debuted at #9 on that chart. Over the last few years, Cracker Barrel has released exclusive CDs with Bill Gaither, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs, Aaron Tippin, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Josh Turner, Amy Grant, Sara Evans and Charlie Daniels.

Tracks on The Grascals & Friends - Country Classics With A Bluegrass Spin:
1. Tiger By The Tail (with Brad Paisley)
2. Folsom Prison Blues (with Dierks Bentley)-Recorded at Sound Kitchen
3. Pain of Lovin’ You (with Dolly Parton)-Recorded at Sound Kitchen
4. I Am Strong (with Dolly Parton)-recorded at Sound Kitchen
5. Louisiana Saturday Night
6. The Year That Clayton Delaney Died (with Tom T. Hall)-recorded at Sound Kitchen
7. White Lightning (with Darryl Worley)
8. The Devil Went Down To Georgia (with Charlie Daniels)
9. Leavin’ Louisiana In Broad Daylight (with The Oak Ridge Boys)
10. Mr. Bojangles (with Joe Nichols)
11. Born To Boogie / All My Rowdy Friends Are Comin’ Over Tonight (Hank Williams Jr. Medley)
12. Cracker Barrel Swing (Instrumental)
13. I Am Strong (Bonus Track) Featuring guest appearances by Dolly Parton, The Oak Ridge Boys, Darryl Worley, Charlie Daniels, Terri Clark, Randy Owen, Steven Seagal, Tom T. Hall, Joe Nichols, Ansley McLaurin - partially recorded at Sound Kitchen

Safety Suit's Jeremy visits the Sound Kitchen

2011-01-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

We were quite surprised and very pleased to find Jeremy wandering the halls of the Sound Kitchen, where the group, Safety Suit, just completed their 2nd album project. The group just returned from an extended tour entertaining our troops aboard an aircraft carrier. Check out Jeremy's pictures of the tour on his Facebook page ...really fantastic group of pics!

MusicArtists4U Offers “One-Stop” Music Experience filmed at Sound Kitchen

2010-12-26T13:52:00.000-08:00

MusicArtists4U Offers “One-Stop” Music Experience
Peter Cronin •

MusicArtists4U.com, billed as a “one-stop interactive experience featuring live and taped performances, music videos and the ability for the consumer to purchase music, videos and artist merchandise,” was launched April 19 by interactive music marketer Bruce Uher. The new online music venture will feature performances by emerging and established artists and singer/ songwriters from a variety of music genres and will initially include Country, Rock and Singer/Songwriter channels.

Another area of the site will facilitate venues across the globe booking the artists featured on the site. The site will also include an internet radio station for each genre of music, which will front and back-announce song titles and artist names along with several different radio programs and artists interviews. Also featured on the site are an online magazine with video musical equipment reviews, instructional videos on playing various instruments and songwriting.

Uher owns Ohio-based MultiMedia-Interactive and works with artists including Charlie Daniels, Confederate Railroad and Tracy Lawrence.

“Now is the time because almost everyone has access to high speed internet” says Uher, who has teamed up with former Sony Music A&R executive Anthony Martin to launch the new venture. “The music business is changing, and MusicArtists4U.com will allow artists of all genres to be seen and heard.”

E1/Koch Entertainment has teamed up with MusicArtists4U.com to give fans the opportunity to purchase and download music from all E1/Koch artists. Koch artists Confederate Railroad and Cody McCarver are now on MusicArtists4U.com, and both acts will be releasing new music in June.

Longtime WSM radio DJ and Grand Ole Opry announcer Keith Bilbrey has signed on to host MusicArtists4U.com’s country television show, with the premiere episode featuring country rock hitmakers Little Texas. The country show is filmed at Sound Kitchen Studios in Franklin, Tennessee.

Uher also announced Coca-Cola as a major sponsor, with RoadHawg Cases signed on as a co-sponsor of the series. MusicArtists4U.com is also dedicated to charitable organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and a portion of all proceeds will be earmarked for those organizations.

Sir Cliff Richard Releases "Bold As Brass" Recorded at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-12-22T05:57:00.000-08:00

CLIFF RICHARD'S BOLD AS BRASS OUT NOW!

To celebrate Sir Cliff Richard's 70th birthday, EMI Music released 'Bold As Brass', a show-stopping album of swing and big band favourites with a classic Cliff twist, recorded live at Sound Kitchen Studios, Franklin, TN.

Including such classics as 'They Can't Take That Away From Me', and 'I've Got You Under My Skin', Bold As Brass showcases Cliff's voice in a spectacular and unique way. Famed "We Are the World" producer, Michael Omartian, was at the helm in Sound Kitchen's Big Boy Studio.

This must-have for all Cliff fans is out now on CD, Digital Download and a Limited Edition Box Set with exclusive Jigsaw & bonus 2 track CD.

Sound Kitchen was honored to have recorded with Sir Cliff Richard, who has sold more than 260 million albums worldwide. An amazingly successful artist whose body of work spans generations.

See www.cliffrichard.org for more details.

Dailey & Vincent record at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-12-20T12:39:00.000-08:00

Sound Kitchen Studios Congratulates Dailey & Vincent on the release of "Biscuits, Gravy, and Bluegrass" Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers, on Cracker Barrel/Rounder Records, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Bluegrass Albums chart, ultimately spending 19 weeks in the top 3 and earning Dailey & Vincent their second IBMA Award for Album of the Year. It was also the Hot Shot debut on the Country Albums chart, coming in at #19, and it debuted at the top of the Heatseekers chart. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store lent their support to the Dailey & Vincent Front Porch Tour, and the band traveled the country in their Prevost bus wrapped with the Cracker Barrel logo and images from the CD booklet. The album is #3 on Billboard’s year-end Bluegrass Albums chart, while Dailey & Vincent are the #2 Bluegrass Artists of the year.

Dailey & Vincent were just in the Sound Kitchen's Studio A to record background vocals on Dolly Parton's newest album.

Sound Kitchen Studio Congratulates Billy Currington On His New #1 Hit

2010-12-15T13:41:00.000-08:00

Sound Kitchen would like to acknowledge Billy Currington for all of his chart success with his new album, "Enjoy Yourself", and your #1 hits recorded at the Sound Kitchen; produced by Carson Chamberlain. And, if achieving another number one hit wasn't enough, Nashville Lifestyle Magazine recently named Billy as one of the most beautiful people in Nashville. Congrats to Billy for all your success.

Sound Kitchen Studios Hosts Benefit Vintner's Evening For The Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee

2010-12-15T13:29:00.000-08:00

The Down Syndrome Association Of Middle Tennessee Vintner's Evening "Sip 'n Savor" recently held at the Sound Kitchen Studios. According to NFOCUS, this was a "super cool and unique event held in the Big Boy Studio, making it a night that stood out in our book." Not only was it a special evening filled with acoustic music, but it was a tremendous financial success, thanks in part to the Laird Family Estate Vinyards and the wonderful cooking of Franklin's caterer to the stars, Constant Craving. Sound Kitchen was featured in the October issue of NFOCUS Magazine.

Music Connection Magazine names Sound Kitchen's Managing Partner, Ira Blonder, one of Country's Best Studio Managers

2010-12-15T11:38:00.000-08:00

Music Connection Magazine names Ira Blonder, Managing Partner of the Sound Kitchen Studios, one of the nation's top studio managers. In the article, Ira offers his unique perspective and business philosophy on how to operate a studio and succeed in turbulent times.

Sound Kitchen Studios Featured in Fringe Magazine

2010-12-15T11:21:00.000-08:00

Fringe Magazine, a Nashville based cutting edge, indie artist magazine, is published by David Kiggins. Sound Kitchen Studios offers its congrats to Fringe magazine's continued success! Recently, the Sound Kitchen was featured in the magazine, showcasing its long and storied history as one of the country's top recording studios. Along with thousands of indie acts, internationally known artists, spanning all musical genres have recorded at the Sound Kitchen; artists like Dolly Parton,
Sir Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, RUSH, Chicago, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Sir Cliff Richard, & Keith Urban to name a few.

Sound Kitchen Records Legendary Band, Chicago, & World Renowned Producer, Phil Ramone

2010-12-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

In Sound Kitchen's "Big Boy" studio, Chicago, and Phil Ramone (15 time Grammy Award winning producer)collaborated on Chicago's new Christmas album.

Sound Kitchen Client, Mark Connors, Featured In Country Weekly Magazine

2010-12-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

Sound Kitchen client, Mark Connors,was recently featured in the December issue of Country Weekly Magazine. We encourage you to learn more about the man and his music.

Sound Kitchen hosts We Are Building Lives Benefit Concert

2010-10-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

We Are Building Lives Third Annual Concert at Sound Kitchen Studios on
Saturday, October 30, 2010

Time: 6:00pm - 10.00pm
Location: The Sound Kitchen 112 Seaboard Lane, Franklin, TN

Performers:
Aqua Nets, Platform 54, Joshua Adams, Eric Lee Beddingfield, Bluesgrass

Tickets are $150 Tickets can be purchased through PayPal at www.wearebuildinglives.org

Corporate Sponsorships are available.
Contact Tammie Shannon at 972-3451
or
tshannon@shannoninsurancegroup.com
for information.

Whitney Wolanin wins an ASCAP Plus Award

2010-09-20T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Sound Kitchen would like to congratulate Whitney Wolanin for winning the 2010 ASCAP Plus Award for her songwriting in Popular Music. Congratulations Whitney!

Sound Kitchen Welcomes Darius Rucker

2010-09-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

Sound Kitchen recently had the pleasure of hosting an event with Empire Sports Management. Entertainment for the evening included blues singer Erin Mitchell, hit songwriter, Chas Sandford and Country Music star Darius Rucker.

Eat Music, Ride Harleys every Friday - Free Concert Series

2010-09-01T13:23:00.001-07:00

Sound Kitchen Studios, Harley Davidson of Cool Springs and 105.9 The Rock invite you to attend a free summer concert series, featuring some great Nashville talent, each and every Friday. Located at the Cool Spring Harley Davidson location on Cool Springs Blvd/Free Parking is located at the Cool Springs Gallaria. The beer is free! And Mickey Roos will have some great Texas barbecue on hand, so remember....EAT MUSIC, RIDE HARLEYS. .

Sound Kitchen Congratulates The Grascals for their IBMA Nominations

2010-08-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

The Grascals Receive Five IBMA Nominations
Genre-bending sextet celebrates #1 CD on both Bluegrass Charts; Gives Hank Williams, Jr. his first IBMA nomination

Nashville, TN - Two-time IBMA Entertainers of the Year The Grascals are in the hunt for the 2010 Awards, making the final ballot in the following categories:

• Entertainer of the Year
• Album of the Year (THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S)
• Recorded Event of the Year for "I'm Blue, I'm Lonesome" with Hank Williams, Jr.
• Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year for "Blue Rock Slide"
• Reigning two-time Banjo Player of the Year, Kristin Scott Benson, is nominated again for the award

"The Grascals are now six years old and we're still in the dance with the rest of the great bluegrass artists out there. We're very honored for all our IBMA nominations received today. Special thanks to all the fans, radio and IBMA members for their vote," says Jamie Johnson. "Thanks to the good Lord for letting us make the music that we love and continue to love - and will love for the rest of our career!"

Known as a genre-bending sextet that strives to give their audiences 110 percent each time they take the stage, The Grascals borrowed The Monkees' pop hit, "Last Train to Clarksville," and "grassed it up"as the first radio single and video from their fourth album, THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S, which currently sits at #1 on both the Bluegrass Unlimited and Bluegrass Music Profiles charts. They will continue to open dates this Fall for the Hank Williams, Jr Rowdy Friends Tour, along with Jamey Johnson, Eric Church, Colt Ford, Gretchen Wilson and Sunny Sweeney.

The announcements were made this morning at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum; winners will be announced September 30 during the IBMA Awards Show at the Ryman Auditorium.

Eat Music Ride Harleys!

2010-08-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

Sound Kitchen Studios and Cool Springs Harley Davidson invite you to attend their summer concert series on Friday, August 13th, located at the Cool Springs Harley Davidson location on Cool Springs Blvd. Grab a drink and some food and listen to some great Nashville music!

The Kentucky Linemen and Mootown Entertainment at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-08-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

Following three weeks of recording in Studio E, with engineer, Matt Coles, at Sound Kitchen Studios, the Kentucky Linemen just released their video, garnering some 16,000 views on You Tube. Mootown Entertainment and The Kentucky Linemen. They filmed a portion of their video for their lead off single, "Walk On", in the Big Boy Studio and at Lookout Mountain. It is definitely a must see video. The group's harmonies are extraordinary.

"The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom" comes to Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-08-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Music Legend, Dolly Parton, recently worked in Studio D, performing a voice over for Palomar /Buffalo Gal Pictures. The session was recorded for an upcoming movie entitled "The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom".

Dolly Parton Theresa Piercy

The story goes like this.....it's 1976 and Elizabeth is just your average suburban 11-year-old praying for adolescence to arrive, when she discovers her whole life has been a lie. With only her imagination to guide her, Elizabeth runs away in search of her true identity. Her adoptive mother, Marion is then forced to break out of the carefully constructed "truth" she's been clinging to, and go after her daughter. This leads to a cathartic cross-country trek by a mother searching for a daughter who's searching for a mother - both of them really searching for themselves.

The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom is a poignant, sometimes funny, very female coming of age story that explores the tension between creating identity and finding it within...

Eat Music Ride Harleys

2010-08-03T14:15:00.000-07:00

Sound Kitchen Studios and Cool Springs Harley Davidson invite you to attend their summer concert series on Friday, August 6th located at the Cool Springs Harley Davidson location on Cool Springs Blvd. Grab a drink and some food and listen to some great Nashville music!

ROCKVILLE comes to Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-08-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

Tre Michaels, grandson of Country and Rock Legend,Conway Twitty,recently recorded a seven song EP in the Sound Kitchen's Big Boy studio. Songwriter of the Year and uber-producer, Rusty Golden, was at the helm, fusing country and rock genres, utilizing the talents of legendary "Rock" musicians to play on "Country" songs. All the songs which were written by hit country songwriter, Jeffrey Steele. The session musicians included Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, bass player, Rudy Sarzo Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot, Blue Oyster Cult),drummer Troy Lucketta (Tesla), guitarist Kenny Olson (Kid Rock, 7 Day Binge), Guitarist Mark Matejka (Lynyrd Skynyrd) and background vocalist Jason Scheff (Chicago). The four day video shoot will be featured in an upcoming documentary called "Rockville", which explores the changing landscape of music in Nashville, a city known as "The Country Music Capital of the World". Noted entertainment photographer, Anthony Scarlati,was in the studio documenting the entire session as only he could. All of the sessions and interviews were filmed by Liquid Crystal Productions. Check out the video teaser below.

Swamp thing Promo final - Computer from Brian Harstine on Vimeo.

Sound Kitchen Studio is featured in Nashville Lifestyles

2010-08-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest issue of Nashville Lifestyles for a great article about The Sound Kitchen by Zoe Hyams.

Sip'n'Savor for DSAMT at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-08-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

Come join us on August 28th for "Sip'n Savor at the Kitchen" for some great music, food and wine. Event sponsors include Laird Family Estate, Constant Craving Caterers, Cumberland Investment & Trust, Southern Events, Diversified Trust, Sherry Hoskins,CPA, SpeechPath and Sound Kitchen Studios. All proceeds benefit the Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee. Take a moment to visit their website at www.dsamt.org to learn more about this event.

Sound Kitchen Studios and The Blonder Group support The River Swing Saturday September 25th

2010-07-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

You can also bid on a select set of LIVE AUCTION items
Hang by the Bonfire
and more...

Tickets are $125 a person.

Purchase tickets online or by contacting HRWA.
Be a TABLE HOST and pull a group of 10 friends together.

Be a Corporate Sponsor of the Harpeth River Swing
Click HERE for information on sponsorship benefits.

We want to thank the many businesses who are already sponsors and partners with in-kind support for the Harpeth River Swing

Kent Wells Productions @ 12 & Porter

2010-07-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

We're proud to be sponsoring a free concert series at 12th & Porter this summer, showcasing the incredible and diverse talent of Kent Wells Productions. We would love to see you out at the show this Monday Night, 6 pm @ 12th & Porter. It's going to be an evening loaded with the hottest emerging talent in the Country, Southern Rock, and Rock music scene! Please join us and your many friends that will be in attendance! We would love to see you there!

Congrats to Billy Currington!

2010-07-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

The Sound Kitchen would like to congratulate Billy Currington on his smash single "Pretty Good at Drinkin' Beer." Billy recorded the track at the Sound Kitchen in The Big Boy Studio & mixed it in Studio C with producer Carson Chamberlain and engineer Matt Rovey. We wish Billy and his team much continued success!

Hello Dolly! in Sound Kitchen's Big Boy Studio

2010-06-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

Country Music Legend, Dolly Parton, was in Sound Kitchen Studio's, Studio E, to cut some vocals with producer Kent Wells. Dolly took a few minutes from her hectic schedule to pose for some pictures with the staff and even a few Sound Kitchen clients. Members of the pop/rock band, Safetysuit, were thrilled to be recording in the same studio as the "legendary Dolly Parton". Safetysuit has been cutting their new record with producer/engineer Greg Archilla for the last month.

Producer Kent Wells, Dolly Parton, & Ira Blonder, Sound Kitchen Owner

Tate Cunningham, Dolly Parton, Greg Archilla

New RUSH Single Hits Radio- Recorded at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-06-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

"Caravan" is the first single from Rush's new album “Clockwork Angel’. It was released to radio stations and saw digital release on June 1, 2010. The B-side is an additional studio track titled “BU2B”. Both songs were recorded with producer Nick Raskulinecz with mixing and engineering done by Richard Chycki in Sound Kitchen's Studio C. According to drummer Neil Peart’s latest personal essay, these two new songs are the initial parts of what he refers to as an “extended album-length story”

Puddle of Mudd to play the Wildhorse on June 4th

2010-06-04T08:08:00.000-07:00

Join us in supporting Puddle of Mudd, who will kick off the re-opening of Nashville's Wildhorse Saloon on Friday June, 4. The Wildhorse was one of the hardest hit businesses by the May flood. Puddle of Mudd is sure to make their re-opening a "Bang". Showtime is at 7:30pm.

Puddle of Mudd's newest album was recorded in Sound Kitchen's Studio B, with famed producer, Skidd Mills at the SSL board.

Conway Twitty III and Rock Legends Record and Film at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-06-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

Michael Jenkins, grandson of the late, great Conway Twitty, recently recorded an EP in The Sound Kitchen's Big Boy studio. Michael is looking to fuse the country and rock genres by having well known "Rock" musicians play on "Country" songs, all of which were written by hit country songwriter Jeffrey Steele. The session musicians included bass player Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot), drummer Troy Lucketta (Tesla), guitarist Kenny Olson (Kid Rock, 7 Day Binge), Guitarist Mark Matejka (Lynyrd Skynyrd) and background vocalist Jason Scheff (Chicago). All of these songs will be featured in a documentary called "Rockville", which will explore the changing landscape of music in a city that has traditionally been known as "the country music capital of the world". The film will feature interviews with many Nashville musicians including Autovaughn, Safety Suit, Jeremy McCoy (The Fray, One Republic), Mark Slaughter and many others.

Mark Matejka, Adam Deane, Steve Cirkvencic, Skip Mitchell, Michael Jenkins ,Rudy Sarzo,Rusty Golden, Troy Luckketta, Kenny Olson, Mark Slaughter, Mark Allmand

Taddy Porter Records Their Debut at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-05-26T10:39:00.000-07:00

Skidd Co. Music recently finished up work on Taddy Porter's debut record at the Sound Kitchen Studios, Franklin, TN. The first single the retro-rocking "Shake Me", is sure to be a smash hit. The band recently signed to Primary Wave Music, who will release the record later this year.

2010 SGN Music Awards Handed Out

2010-04-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

Jim Booth, Rusty Golden, Ronnie Booth, Lari Goss, Michael Booth

Congratulations to our Sound Kitchen Clients! All of these winners have worked with us throughout the years and we're very excited about their success.

Karen Peck & New River, Booth Brothers, The Isaacs, and songwriter Rusty Golden Named Big Winners

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – The 2010 SGN Music Awards were handed out at a special concert celebration in Smyrna, Tennessee to a standing room only crowd. The award winners were spread evenly throughout the course of the evening as three artists and one songwriter walked away with four awards apiece.

Karen Peck & New River, who tied with the most nominations this year, walked away with Song of the Year and Country Song of the Year (for “I Want to Thank You”), Progressive Southern Album of the Year (for No Worries), and Fan Favorite Artist of the Year.

The Booth Brothers won their sixth Male Group of the Year award this year, as well as Progressive Southern Song of the Year (for “What Salvation’s Done For Me”), Best Live Performer, and Special Event Project of the Year (for Jubilee!).

Hit songwriter Rusty Golden was the most awarded individual of the night – taking home four SGN Music Awards for his songwriting contributions. He won Song of the Year and Country Song of the Year (for co-writing “I Want to Thank You”) as well as Progressive Southern Song of the Year (for co-writing “What Salvation’s Done For Me”). Rusty also won the coveted Songwriter of the Year (Professional) award. What an amazing group of artists. We continue to celebrate their success!

Paramore Films at Sound Kitchen Studios in Big Boy Studio

2010-04-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Franklin, TN: Rock sensations, Paramore, stopped by The Big Boy Studio to film some footage for FUSE TV. The piece will air later this month on Fuse.

Pictured: Ira Blonder, Hayley Williams, Jeremy Davis

The power-pop-punk fivesome known as Paramore dates back to the band's high school years in suburban Franklin, Tennessee. Lead singer Hayley Williams was just 14 when she met guitarist Josh Farro and his younger brother, drummer Zac. Jeremy Davis and Hunter Lamb joined on bass and guitar respectively. The group started off gigging in Nashville in 2004 and quickly rose to popularity in early 2005, when Fueled By Ramen (The Academy Is..., Gym Class Heroes, Panic! At the Disco) founder John Janick signed the band almost immediately after seeing them perform in Florida. Paramore played the Warped Tour during the summer of 2005 and then released their debut album, All We Know Is Falling -- hailed by The New York Times and Spin magazine -- followed by a sold-out tour of North America in 2006. Paramore recorded their sophomore album, RIOT! in the winter of 2007 and released the album June 12 of that same year, selling 44,000 its first week in the U.S.

Little Texas brings it home for A Vintage Affair

2010-04-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

Little Texas brings it home for A Vintage Affair

By Mindy Tate, Editor
mtate@williamsonherald.com

Celebrating the end of their 20th anniversary tour by headlining A Vintage Affair’s “Legends at the Sound Kitchen” April 12 seems completely appropriate to Little Texas drummer Del Gray because it fits with the band’s commitment to family and community.

“Back in the 1990s, we were gone all the time, playing 300 dates a year,” said Gray. “Now we play 60 to 80 dates per year. We say we get to go out on the weekend and be rock stars and then come home in the week and spend time with our family and go to our kids’ games.“As we get older, speaking for all four of us, we realize how important community is,” Gray said. “A Vintage Affair is a valuable organization that has given so much back to the community and we are honored to be part of the event at the Sound Kitchen.”

A Vintage Affair is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Since its inception by founder Ralph Drury, the event has raised more than $750,000 for charities that benefit women and children and this year hopes to break the $1 million mark. As the kickoff event for the weeklong A Vintage Affair, Gray promises attendees will go away wanting more from the band whose biggest hits include “What Might Have Been” and “God Blessed Texas.”

“We are what we ware. We are a rocking country band,” Gray said. “I am not sure how long we get to play, but it will be up beat and exciting. “We are basically a rocking Eagles. We have big vocals,” said Gray, adding the guys in the band — bassist/vocalist Duane Propes, lead guitarist/vocalist Porter Howell and rhythm guitarist/vocalist Dwayne O’Brien — have written many of their hits, as well as having success individually as songwriters.

“We are just about to go in the studio again,” Gray said. “Unfortunately, we had a record deal that tied us up for a few years where we couldn’t record. We are writing and starting to record again.“We are getting older and I think the themes of our music are a little more mature. No telling what we will come up with,” Gray said. “Time certainly does fly, but we have been blessed. We have been able to make a living doing what we love to do and making music and it is a good time to be in Little Texas.”

The band showed its community spirit last year when they served as the “pep band” for the Nov. 6 regional playoff game between the Brentwood Bruins and the Rossview Hawks after O’Brien heard the marching band would be out of town.“I hope they ask again,” Gray said of the experience, in which they wore Brentwood Bruins jerseys and performed not only their songs, but classic rock and roll between plays.“You get called to do that and then you think, man this is a great football game,” Gray said. “If we get asked again, we will come prepared with a strong set list.”

Filling out the bill at “Legends at the Sound Kitchen” will be Crossville native Mandy Barnett, who started singing at 5-years-old and as a teenager, drew national acclaim when she starred as country music legend Patsy Cline in the stage show “Always . . . Patsy Cline” at the celebrated Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Barnett has released two albums and has appeared on “The Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” as a result of her acclaim.

She is currently working on a variety of projects and a new CD for release this year. She continues to play shows, both nationally and internationally, and is a frequent guest on the Grand Ole Opry. Barnett will reprise her role as “Patsy Cline” in the acclaimed production “Always . . . Patsy Cline” at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, during June and July 2010, in honor of the 50th anniversary of Patsy Cline’s induction into the Grand Ole Opry.

Tickets to “Legends at the Sound Kitchen are $100 and First Tennessee is the sponsor of the evening, which features heavy hors d’oeuvres and the wines of Robledo Vineyards, a longtime

A Vintage Affair favorites.

A new event Tuesday, April 13, “Cigars & Cordials,” will be held at the Franklin Men’s Club, featuring the food of Giovanni’s Restaurante in Nashville, as well as the cigars of CAO and cocktails created by Horizon Wine and Spirits. Century Construction is the evening’s sponsor and tickets are $75 per person.

A Vintage Affair Managing Director Ashley Roberts the event will feature a “speakeasy type” atmosphere with the vintage cocktail recipes and CAO cigars, but the Men’s Club does feature a non-smoking area where those not wishing to be near the cigars can enjoy the evening.

Order tickets online or get more info at www.avintageaffair.org for this or any of the week’s events, including the Main Event April 16 at The Factory at Franklin.

NATALIE MERCHANT’S FIRST STUDIO ALBUM IN SEVEN YEARS

2010-03-31T12:45:00.000-07:00

Sound Kitchen Studios had the pleasure of working with multi-platinum artist Natalie Merchant, who tracked her album in studio E with producer/engineer, Nick Brophy. Natalie's new album, "Leave Your Sleep", will hit the stores April 13th.

NATALIE MERCHANT’S FIRST STUDIO ALBUM IN SEVEN YEARS

LEAVE YOUR SLEEP
OUT APRIL 13 ON NONESUCH RECORDS

"One of the most successful and enduring alternative artists to emerge

from the eighties –- intact and uncompromised." —Vogue

Natalie Merchant is poised for the release of Leave Your Sleep, her first studio album since 2003’s The House Carpenter’s Daughter. Out April 13 on Nonesuch Records, this release is the culmination of six years’ research and collaboration and is, in Merchant’s words “The most elaborate project I have ever completed or even imagined.”

A two-disc set, Leave Your Sleep is a collection of songs adapted from poems selected by Merchant including pieces by both well-known and obscure writers. Featured are works by British Victorians, early- and mid-20^th century Americans and contemporary writers as well as anonymous nursery rhymes and lullabies. Among the authors included are Ogden Nash, e.e. cummings, Robert Louis Stevenson, Christina Rossetti, Edward Lear, Gerard Manley Hopkins and Robert Graves. Please see attached for a complete track listing.

In addition to a new method of lyricism, Merchant stretches out musically on Leave Your Sleep by collaborating with a broad spectrum of artists—some old friends, some she has admired from afar—including the Wynton Marsalis Quartet, Medeski Martin & Wood, members of the New York Philharmonic, The Klezmatics, Lúnasa and Hazmat Modine. “The sessions were recorded in live ensemble settings to capture a fresh and spontaneous energy,” notes Merchant. “They were some of the most magical experiences I’ve ever had making music.”

Having sold millions of records worldwide over the course of her recording career, Merchant has remained busy in the time since her last studio album by curating compilations for both 10,000 Maniacs’ Campfire Songs and her own Retrospective. Additionally, Merchant performed live to the accompaniment of Philip Glass, Dr. John, Pete Seeger and Wynton Marsalis and collaborated with British composer Gavin Bryars as part of The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Complete Works series.

Steff Nevers' "Skypes" a Recording Session

2010-03-22T13:45:00.000-07:00

Norwegian Country artist, Steff Nevers, "Skyped" a recording session in Studio E with engineer Matt Coles and session leader and percussionist Pete Abbott. A host of A-list session players; ie: Brent Mason, Michael Rhodes, Dan Dugmore, and Pete Abbott tracked Steff's project while Steff produced the session players from Norway. "The Skype tracking and mix sessions were flawless! So, it was like Steff was in room, all the while working from his home in Norway" commented Pete Abbott.

Steff Nevers was born in 1975 in the small Norwegian town of Drammen. He grew up in the similarly unknown town of Geithus in Modum. Still, the move was worthwhile for the toddler because it was here that he came into contact with music. He was already convinced at a young age that he would become a musician. Instead of a classic violinist, his original career goal, Steff Nevers became an outstanding guitarist. His speciality: finger picking. Soon the stocky virtuoso was a heavily booked session guitarist across all of Norway. KERRANG magazine said about the guitarist that he had a very promising career ahead of him.

In 2007 Steff Nevers decided to get involved in his own music, and realize his own dream, by recording an album in Nashville with the greats of the studio scene. With the assistance of the Nashville A-Team – drummer Eddie Bayers, guitarist Brent Mason, steel guitarist Paul Franklin & Co., the Norwegian was successful in making a highly acclaimed album, strongly linked to the roots of music. His first work in 2008 brought him a recording contract with Universal Music Norway and an international recording contract with AGR/Universal. The first album 'Closest To My Heart' earned rave reviews and was awarded Gold in Norway for selling more than 15.000 copies. The album was nominated for the Norwegian Spellemannsprisen 2009 (the local equivalent to the American Grammy). When Toby Keith visited Europe, Steff was personally invited to be support.

Lonestar returns to The Big Boy

2010-03-02T13:47:00.001-08:00

With over 10 number one hits under their belt, Lonestar was at Sound Kitchen Studios this past Sunday filming a live video to coincide with their new album release on April 27th.
This will be the band's first studio album in four years. Party Heard Around The World, their 10th album, is a total ‘hands on’ creative effort, produced by the band with eight of the ten tracks written by the foursome. Noted lead guitarist and original member Michael Britt said in a recent interview: “We feel that this album is a complete reflection of the group, circa 2010. It’s personal and powerful music that reflects the core values of Lonestar through lyrics, performance and production.” The Sound Kitchen is very proud to be part of their continued success.

Musicartists4U Films at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-03-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

Musicartists4U booked the Big Boy studio to film 10 different acts for the first round of internet broadcasts. The artists filmed included; Little Texas, Bryan Lewis Kalisa Ewing, Alex Call Band, Shawn Hammonds, Waymore’s Outlaws, Tailgate South, Andy Griggs, Blackhawk, and The Outlaws. Following the picture, I have included some brief info on Musicartists4U!

Little Texas

Little Texas

INFO ABOUT MusicArtists4U.com

"MusicArtists4U.com is a totally new media that will create a place for good quality music by talented musicians which up until now will never be heard. A place for established artists to be recognized and be able to be seen and heard again. A place for Singer/Songwriters with catalogs of great music that no one has ever heard will now be able to get their music in the hands of YOU the consumer! Everyone in the music business is trying to figure out how to introduce new artists and how to sell their music. It's almost impossible to get your music aired on radio or television so we have created a totally new media which allows all these artists to be seen and heard. Artists like Little Texas, John Anderson, Confederate Railroad and more have had new CD's released, but radio and television refuse to play their new material so the general public has no way of knowing they have new music available. We intend to change that! MusicArtists4U.com is a place where you will be able to buy and download the artists music, videos, as well as purchase artist merchandise.

High Hopes "Strings and Stories" a Huge Success!

2010-02-24T10:12:00.000-08:00

High Hopes and Sound Kitchen Studios would like to thank everyone who participated in the "Strings and Stories" event this past Saturday night. The evening was filled with great food, friends and music. Among the artists who performed were Chas Sandford, whose songs have been recorded by the likes of Chicago, Stevie Nicks, and John Waite, Tim Nichols, who has written hits for Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, and Faith Hill, Greg Barnhill, who has had cuts with Martina McBride, Vince Gill and Etta James. Marabeth Poole, Sam Hunt, Erin Mitchell and the Myers Brothers rounded out the evening's entertainment. The sold out benefit event was a huge success, with thousands of dollars raised for The High Hopes Inclusive Preschool and Pediatric Therapy Clinic. Event photographers were Scott Hammaker and Michael Wootten.

Click here for the Nashville Lifestyles Gallery!

Full Sound Kitchen Gallery Here

Sound Kitchen Interviews Consumed By Fire

2010-02-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

Rock band, Consumed By Fire, recently spent two days in the Big Boy studio recording songs for their first full length album set to be released later this year. The band partnered up with producer Trent Rhodes from Severe Records and noted engineer George Tutko. We sat down with the band and asked them a few questions about their music.

What brought you together?

Three of us (Josh, Jordan, and Caleb Ward) are brothers. We grew up playing music together. We met Ervin at church several years ago and have been like brothers ever since.

In a nutshell describe your music.

Music that is created to meet the listener wherever they are, and put them in a position to receive something they need. All of this of course being put into straight up Rock & Roll, and touching ballads.

Who/ what has inspired your music?

Jesus Christ. Family. Life. Rock and Roll. That's what matters to us and what our lives and music reflect.

What makes your band different from others?

Everything we do is based on building relationships and integrity from song writing and performing, to contracts and recording. The most defining difference would have to be in the fact that we are not just doing this for ourselves.

What is the wildest ambition for your band?

That people will still listen to our songs 20+ years from now and get something out of it. When people talk about Elvis, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, artists like that, we'd love to be mentioned in that same breath. Someone once said: "Shoot for the stars, and you might just reach the clouds."

What’s playing on your ipod right now?

Oh boy, here goes... haha. Elton John, Hall & Oates, Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, Daughtry, John Denver, Taylor Swift, Pure Prairie League, Safetysuit, Nickelback, Kari Jobe, Hillsong United, Jason Upton, and John Mayer.... A pretty extensive & diverse list indeed. lol.

If you could have written any song, what would it be?

We have a big list, trust me, but here's each of ours.

CALEB- The Pretender by Foo Fighters

ERVIN- I know it's hard to believe, but... Love of the Road by Consumed by Fire

JORDAN- The Climb by Miley Cyrus

JOSH- Benny and the Jets by Elton John

Piano Microphone Shoot Out in Big Boy!

2010-02-08T13:52:00.000-08:00

The Sound Kitchen recently held a piano "Microphone Shoot Out" with our interns last week, to help them better understand the differences between the different types of microphones. Sean Shannon, SK Chief tech, had them mic up the C7 Yamaha piano in the Big Boy studio, with stereo pairs of Nuemann U87's, AKG C414's, AKG 452's, Audio Technica 3528's, Neumann TLM 170's, a PL20 underneath the piano with a Senheisser MD 421 on top and a pair of Milab microphones. The microphones were going directly into the API legacy console. No compression or EQ was added. Take a listen to the examples below. Which do you prefer?

Get Your Own Free Hypster.com Playlist.

Southern Gospel comes to The Sound Kitchen

2010-02-08T07:39:00.000-08:00

Award winning Southern Gospel trio, The Booth Brothers, have been working on their forthcoming album with Gospel Music Hall of Fame producer Lari Goss. The Booth Brothers are spending their time in Studio E, working on vocals with recording engineer Ronnie Brookshire. All I can say is they sound amazing. Their new album is scheduled for release later this year.

Taylor Swift Sweeps the Grammys!

2010-02-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

Sound Kitchen Studios congratulates Taylor Swift on her astounding Grammy wins this past Sunday evening. Taylor took home the show’s biggest honor, nabbing Album of the Year for 2009’s best-selling LP, Fearless. At 20, Taylor is the youngest musician to win Album of the Year. Her other Grammy awards included Best Country Album, Best Country Song ("White Horse") and Best Female Country Vocal Performance (“White Horse”). Taylor recorded portions of her album at Sound Kitchen Studios with producer Nathan Chapman and engineer Kenzi Butler.

How to Mic a Rock Drum Kit

2010-01-29T09:06:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows there are hundreds, if not thousands, of ways to mic up a drum kit. We're going to concentrate on a pretty standard way to mic up a "rock" drum kit. We've used a Palmetto kit with a Kick, Snare, Hat, Hi-Tom, Floor Tom, Ride and Crash.

For the Kick In mic, we've used and AKG D112 mic. 5" back from the head aimed 3" off the beater.
For the Kick Out mic, we used a Nuemann Fet 47. 3" from the back of the head and 5 1/2" from the rim.

For the snare top, we went with the "standard" Shure sm57. 1 1/2" from just inside the rim at a 50 degree angle aimed at the contact spot.
For the snare bottom, we used an AKG C452EB. Mirrored image of the top snare mic.

For the Hi-hat, we used another AKG C452EB, 4"up and 3" from the edge, angled toward the outside of the hat to help reject bleed .

For the toms, we decided to use Sennheiser MD421's. Both are 1 1/2" up just inside the rim at a 50 degree angle aimed at the center spot.

For the ride cymbal, we used an AKG C452EB 18" up aimed 7 1/2" from the edge.

For overheads, we went with AKG C414's. We placed them over the center of the kit 45" up off of the snare head. 16" apart, aimed toward the ride and crash cymbals.

There was no compression or EQ used on any signal. Everything was going through the API mic pres on our board. Please listen to the examples below and then let us know your thoughts in the comments section.

Get Your Own Free Hypster.com Playlist.

Jordan Pruitt records at Sound Kitchen Studios!

2010-01-28T11:26:00.000-08:00

Hollywood Records recording artist, Jordan Pruitt, was in Studio C with her producer, Sam Mizell, (Jordin Sparks), to record vocals for her upcoming album, scheduled for release later this year. Be on the lookout for this amazing young talent!

2nd Annual "We Are Building Lives Event" Video Posted

2010-01-28T11:05:00.000-08:00

Video from the 2nd Annual "We Are Building Lives" benefit event has been posted to the Sound Kitchen's Youtube channel. It can also be viewed on the Sound Kitchen's home page (www.soundkitchen.com)

The live in studio event was co-hosted by Gunnar Nelson and Lane Brody. The performance roster included platinum selling rock band, "Saving Abel", country artists Keni Thomas and Eric Lee Beddingfield. Soul singer, Seth Rooks, performed a great set with Juan and Dre Willams. The Meyers Brothers and Bluesgrass kicked off the event with some great music. The evening was a huge success, with tens of thousands of dollars raised to benefit Nashville's homeless veterans. Please visit: www.wearebuildinglives.org to learn more about this amazing non-profit's work in our community.

Sound Kitchen Welcomes Leadership Franklin and Hit Songwriters

2010-01-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

Pictured from Left: Karyn Stayley, Marabeth Poole, Ira Blonder, Pam Rose, Buzz Cason

The Sound Kitchen recently hosted Leadership Franklin in The Big Boy studio this past week. The speakers included Kent Wells, Karyn Stayley, Pam Rose, Marabeth Poole and Buzz Cason.

KENT WELLS

Veteran musician Kent Wells has toured and recorded with many of the top artists in country music including: Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Lee Greenwood, The Oak Ridge Boys, Randy Travis, Brooks and Dunn, Travis Tritt and Keith Whitley to name a few. Kent has also appeared on numerous #1 Radio Hits and gold and platinum selling albums. As a Producer, he has produced projects for many hit country artists, Dolly Parton, Michael Peterson, Neal McCoy and 4Runner among others. He also played on and co-produced Dolly Partons’ Grammy nominated album, “Halos And Horns” and the Grammy and Oscar nominated song "Travelin' Through." He also produced Dolly Partons’ most recent CD release, “Backwoods Barbie” which was the highest debuting Billboard Chart album release of her historic career.

PAM ROSE

Few voices have the power to cut to the bone like Pam Rose's. Layer that over her profound songwriting gift and her consummate musicianship on an assortment of instruments, and you begin to get a glimpse of a real artist.
With longtime writing partner Mary Ann Kennedy, Pam has been nominated for two Grammy Awards, and has won praise for her powerful alliance with Mary Ann as the acclaimed duo; Kennedy Rose. The twosome won the ear of rock star Sting and recorded two CDs for his private label Pangaea Records. As an added treat, they were asked to open for him on one of his World Tours. As special guests of Emmylou Harris, Kennedy Rose also performed twice for President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton, and later at the Nobel Peace Prize Presentation in Oslo, Norway. As a solo artist, Pam has been touring with guitar virtuosos John Jorgenson and Tommy Emmanuel, and has recently rejoined Mary Ann Kennedy and Emmylou Harris to do an acoustic tour of Europe and North America in 2006 and 2007.

BUZZ CASON

Buzz Cason is an American rock legend; singer, songwriter, producer and author. His biggest hit as a writer, with Mac Gayden, was the song Everlasting Love, recorded originally by Robert Knight, which was a #1 hit in the United Kingdom when covered by the Love Affair in January 1968. Carl Carlton's popular version was a #6 hit in the U.S. in 1974 and has logged over 5 million plays, according to BMI.

Cason was also a backing singer for Elvis Presley and Kenny Rogers. In 1970, he founded Creative Workshop, a recording studio, where Jimmy Buffet, Dolly Parton, Jerry Reed, Merle Haggard, The Judds, The Doobie Brothers, Emmylou Harris and Olivia Newton-John have recorded material. His book, Living the Rock'N'Roll Dream: The Adventures of Buzz Cason (2004), is about music, freedom and adventure and sheds light on the events and careers that shaped the early days of rock and roll.
KAREN STALEY

Karen Staley is an award winning songwriter, with number 1 hits by Faith Hill, Tracy Byrd, 3rd Tyme Out and Michael Martin Murphy, Her songs have been recorded by both contemporary country stars like Terri Clark, Trick Pony, as well as icons like Reba, Dolly, Kathy Mattea, Conway
Twitty, Tammy Wynette and George Jones. Her list of hits include Take Me As I Am, Let’s Go To Vegas, Every Time I Cry, On A Night Like This, Across The Miles, Face In The Crowd, Keep Walkin’ On and more. Three of Karen’s songs, Take Me As I Am, Let’s Go To Vegas and Keeper Of The Stars have all achieved BMI’s Millionaire Award (songs surpassing 1 million radio airplays) twice over…two songs are approaching 3 million plays. Karen won the coveted Academy of Country Music’s Song of The Year award with Tracy Byrd's classic Keeper of the Stars which was recently featured on CMT's 100 Greatest Country Love Songs of All Time TV special. Her songs have been nominated for both ACM, CMA, Dove, Grammy and IBMA Awards. As a backup singer and rhythm guitarist, Karen has toured with Faith Hill, Reba, Patty Loveless and Russ Taff. She has also sung on many of their recordings as well as being in demand as a demo singer.

MARABETH POOLE

Marabeth Poole grew up in Utah as the second of five children in a family that lived and breathed music and the arts. She wrote her first song at age 15 and was asked to perform it at a Miss Idaho Falls pageant. The experience was one of the catalysts that set her on a path as a singer and songwriter. Knowing she wanted to start pursuing music as a career, she considered moving to Nashville. The decision was finalized after learning that her singing coach Brett Manning (Can You Duet?) was also making the move. To make ends meet, Marabeth did everything from waiting tables to working as a makeup artist. While living in the Spring Hill area, she saw an opportunity to open a day spa and salon. Today, Natural Oasis Day Spa and Salon has three locations in the greater Nashville area and has been voted among the top 200 salons in America by Salon Today magazine. Marabeth has also been recognized in the community as a stand out leader in the industry and was featured in the Who’s Who magazine – Women in Business: Seven Women You Should Know. Notably, her first song was cut by an ACM Top New Artist. “Dreaming Under the Same Moon” She continues to write songs and has enjoyed collaborating with many outstanding singer songwriters.

Platinum Selling "Saliva" in Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-01-15T09:14:00.000-08:00

Fresh from their success with the Spider-man Soundtrack hit, HERO, (Chad Kroeger and Josey Scott) Platinum Selling hard rock band, "Saliva," just wrapped up four days in the Big Boy studio with producer/engineer, Michael Watts. They were in the Sound Kitchen to record a new single for Saliva's Greatest Hits record to be released later this year.

Microphone Monday Series Part 1: Neumann TLM 170's

2010-01-13T14:42:00.000-08:00

This is the first of 5 installments of our microphone review series.

This week we have a pair of Neumann TLM 170's set up on our Yamaha C7 piano in Studio E. The signal is going through a Focusrite Mic Pre direct to Pro Tools. Have a listen and let us know what you think. Don't miss next Monday when we'll listen to the Nuemann U67 microphones.

Get Your Own Free Hypster.com Playlist.

Get Your Own Free Hypster.com Playlist.

High Hopes Benefit Concert to be Held at Sound Kitchen Studios

2010-01-13T13:36:00.000-08:00

We at the Sound Kitchen want to invite you to be a part of a very special night. Seating is limited so please call today to make reservations. Below are all the details and don't hesitate to contact us with any questions.

Presented by: Hometown Realty

Saturday, February 20, 2010

7:00 pm

The Sound Kitchen

112 Seaboard Lane

Franklin, TN 37067

www.soundkitchen.com

Meet and Greet the Artists session with wine, beer, hors d’oeuvres, followed by the musical entertainment of Chas Sandford whose had songs recorded by: Chicago, Stevie Nicks, John Waite, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Roger Daltrey Berlin, Brooks & Dunn, Alison Krauss,
Rick Springfield, Sammy Hagar, and others!
Also...
Tim Nichols whose had songs recorded by: Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Reba McEntire, Trace Adkins, Alan Jackson, and more!

Proceeds will benefit the children of High Hopes Inclusive Preschool and Pediatric Therapy Clinic

Ticket Price $125 per person

For reservations, call 615-522-5611 or mail checks made out to High Hopes, Inc.

c/o High Hopes Fund Development, 1647 Mallory Lane Suite 103, Brentwood TN 37027

Sound Kitchen Welcomes Brokenheartsville Records!

2009-12-18T09:55:00.000-08:00

Sound Kitchen Studios welcomes Brokenheartsville Records and its founder, hit songwriter Randy Boudreaux, to the Kitchen. Randy moved the company's business operations into Sound Kitchen Studios. A few of Randy's hits include "Brokenheartsville" sung by Joe Nichols, "Goodnight Sweetheart" sung by David Kersh, and "Alibis" sung by Tracy Lawrence. Randy also co-wrote the song "Matthew, Mark, Luke and Earnhardt", recorded by former jockey, Shane Sellers.

Boudreaux also won a GMA Dove Award for Country Album of the Year in 1997 for producing Jeff Silvey's album, "Little Bit of Faith".

Sound Kitchen Welcomes Audioease to the Big Boy

2009-12-18T09:41:00.000-08:00

Audioease recently traveled from the Netherlands to Sound Kitchen Studios to "shoot out" the Big Boy Studio and Studio A for their amazing Altiverb reverb plug-in.Audioease plans to release its new version in 2nd Quarter 2010, featuring Sound Kitchen's studios.

"Altiverb 6 is a convolution reverb plug-in for Mac OS X and Windows XP. It uses top quality samples of real spaces to create reverb, ranging from Sydney Opera House to the cockpit of a Jumbo Jet. Altiverb 6 offers the most extensive set of parameters, it supports all professional plug-in formats including protools TDM on the Mac, parameter automation and surround. Altiverb 6 gives you a choice between iLok SmartKey or Challenge/response copy protection, it lets you sample your own spaces (currently Mac only), and Altiverb is efficient on your cpu."

Be sure to pick up the next version of Altiverb to get that "Big Boy" drum sound that everyone raves about.

Sound Kitchen Interviews Producer Skidd Mills

2009-12-08T09:45:00.000-08:00

Background:
Skidd Mills is the owner of Skiddco Music, a production company based at Sound Kitchen Studios in Franklin, TN. Currently, Skiddco Music has 4 bands on its roster. Saving Abel, signed to Virgin Records. Tetanus, from Memphis TN, Deepfield from Charleston SC, and Brent James. Saving Abel's debut
self- titled platinum selling album is available everywhere on Virgin Records. The band is currently touring behind their hit single "Addicted." Tetanus is available on I-Tunes. A special pre-release EP of Deepfield new material is available now on I-Tunes. Brent James is currently in production.

Sound Kitchen: How did you get your start in the music business?
Skidd Mills: Dumb luck. I was playing in a band in a club, and this guy walks up to me and asks me if I want a job at his studio. I was like “heck ya!”. I think he thought it would be easier to record my band if I was working there. So, I worked there for a few years, went to Fullsail for a year, and got a job at Ardent studios in Memphis TN. Just kind of worked my way up the ranks. Later, a producer friend, Paul Ebersold and I opened 747 Studios, and in June of this year, I moved my operation to The Sound Kitchen here in Franklin.

S.K. Who are your musical influences?
S.M. So many….My parents always encouraged anything musical. As a kid, I remember going to listen to my Mom practice organ and piano all the time. That really stuck with me through the years. Lots of classical stuff. And then I heard Moving Pictures by Rush and that blew me away. Then I got into Queen, Elton John, Genisis and then Metal came along and that was it. I liked all the 80’s bands. But I listen to everything….Rock, Pop….whatever.

S.K. How would you describe your role in the studio?
S.M. As a caretaker for songs. My job is to make the song the best it can be. Just serve the song always, on all levels…

S.K. What do you think makes a good producer?
S.M. I think being musical, and being able to bring out great songs.

S.K. What is in your CD player right now?
S.M. The only CD player I have is in my car, and whatever I’m working on now is what’s probably in there.

S.K. How did you get your first cut as a songwriter? Who was the artist?
S.M. My first cut was a song that I wrote with a band called Fighting Instinct. It was called “I Found Forever”. I was producing the song demos, and we just kind of came up with it. It ended up getting them a deal and cracked the top 30 on Active Rock I think.

S.K. What advice would you give to someone who wants to break into the music industry?
S.M. Good luck. Work hard. And…. My advice is that a great song will take you farther than anything. Once you can get past all the technical crap and truly focus on the song, then you can really start moving forward. I’m not saying technical stuff is not important, I’m just saying you gotta get to a point where you're not thinking about it and you are concentrating on the song.

WWE Super Star Mickie James Records at Sound Kitchen Studios!

2009-12-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

WWE® DIVA MICKIE JAMES IS RECORDING HER NEW ALBUM AT SOUND KITCHEN STUDIOS

(Nashville, TN) – Today WWE® Diva Mickie James announced the signing of an exclusive personal recording contract with famed Nashville music producer Kent Wells at Sound Kitchen Studios.

Wells has produced projects for country artists Dolly Parton, Michael Peterson, and Neal McCoy among others. He also played guitar on and co-produced Dolly Parton’s GRAMMY-nominated album, “Halos And Horns” and the GRAMMY and Oscar-nominated song “Travelin’ Through.” He also produced Parton’s most recent album, “Backwoods Barbie,” which was the highest debuting Billboard Chart album release of her historic career.

James and Wells are currently in Sound Kitchen Studios working on her first recording project. A spring 2010 debut release is anticipated. Last month, James announced signings with Sherry Massaro’s Nashville-based Skyline Management Group, Inc., as well as Don Grubbs’ Absolute Publicity, Inc. for public relations representation.

Sound Kitchen Studios Records Jessie James

2009-11-30T09:43:00.000-08:00

Jessie James recently paid a visit to The Sound Kitchen to record vocals for her new song "Bullet", (co-written with Katy Perry). Jessie has teamed with Fox-TV's cable network Speed as the face for their upcoming "Speed Dream Ride" programming and promotional event. The promotion is scheduled to run from Thanksgiving day through New Year's Day.

New Video Page at Sound Kitchen Site!

2009-11-23T07:27:00.000-08:00

We wanted to let you know we added a video page to our website. Some of the music videos which have been shot at the Sound Kitchen are now available for viewing on our Video Page. Artists ranging from Keith Urban to LeAnn Womack to Rascal Flatts to Taylor Swift were filmed in our Big Boy Studio. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!

What We Love About Country Star, Danielle Peck

2009-11-19T05:59:00.000-08:00

Country Music Star Danielle Peck recorded a music video at Sound Kitchen Studios. Country TV Host, Ashlie Kolb interviewed Danielle in the Big Boy Studio for her upcoming album. Danielle recorded her first album at the Sound Kitchen; however it is interesting to note that Danielle has been writing songs since she was ten years old.

Here are just a few things The Sound Kitchen love’s about Danielle:

1. Maxim Magazine recently named her one of the Hottest Women in Country Music.

2. If every waiter in Nashville is an aspiring musician, Danielle was no different. She started off in Nashville with a schedule of writing from eight in the morning until she had to work, often from 2PM until 3AM. Starbucks was her best friend.

3. She was recently honored in her hometown of Zanesville, Ohio with her own day. October 17th is now officially “Danielle Peck Day.” She said, “I was so shocked and frazzled by the news that I actually forgot the words to one of my songs once we began the show!"

You can check out Danielle at: http://www.myspace.com/daniellepeck or visit her site at DaniellePeck.com

Nick Raskulinecz mixes Alice in Chains at The Sound Kitchen

2009-11-17T13:30:00.000-08:00

Famed rock producer, Nick Raskulinecz (Rush, Foo Fighters, Paramore), recently mixed some live Alice in Chains tracks in Sound Kitchen Studio E. Check out the article about the making of the newest Alice in Chains record in the latest issue of Mix Magazine.

Congratulations to Darius Rucker and Frank Rogers!

2009-11-17T07:47:00.001-08:00

Sound Kitchen Studios congratulates Darius Rucker on his 2009 CMA win of "New Artist of the Year". Darius recorded his latest album with producer Frank Rogers in Sound Kitchen's Studio B with engineer Richard Barrow.

Check out Darius' CMA performance on youtube!

Congrats to Country Artist, Mark Connors!

2009-11-16T13:57:00.000-08:00

Country recording artist, Mark Connors, just completed his album at Sound Kitchen Studios. Mark was recently featured in November's People Magazine Country Edition. Congrats to Mark on his smash singles "You" and "I Think She Loves Me". Mark tracked his songs in Sound Kitchen's Studio E, with Producer/Engineer Mike Puwal.

Interview with Little River band founding member, Beeb Birtles

2009-11-11T17:51:00.000-08:00

Source

Yesterday, we had the amazing opportunity to sit down with Beeb Birtles, founding member and guitar player for the Little River Band, and ask him a few questions while he was recording in the Sound Kitchen.

Background; The Little River Band was formed in Melbourne, Australia in 1975 and since then have sold over 25 million records with 13 American top 40 hits.

Sound Kitchen: What projects are you currently working on?

Beeb Birtles: Right now I'm actually writing with a couple of different people. My last project was "Fall With Me" by Lauren Moses, a young woman from Charleston, WV. My partner, Bill Cuomo and I produced that together. It was Lauren's debut CD that consisted of seven tracks.

SK What advice would you give to independent musicians who are considering recording a demo?

BB I would advice them to work with experienced producers and recording engineers. If you would be so lucky as to have one of your demos recorded by an established recording artist, the A team studio musicians here in Nashville usually copy note for note what they hear on the demo.

SK What advice would you give to independent musicians who are trying to promote themselves?

BB You can never go wrong with a publicity photo and a bio to hand out to people. Plus nowadays you have to join MySpace, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to network.

SK Who are you listening to currently?

BB Right now for pure pop I'm loving Jack McManus' "Either Side of Midnight" CD. I love Jem's music. Her first CD was called, "Finally Woken" and her second one is called, "Down To Earth". I also love "Gossip In The Grain" by Ray LaMontagne. And Kings of Leon, of course!

SK What studio in the Sound Kitchen do you prefer?

BB The Big Boy studio is very impressive but I would probably feel more comfortable in one of the smaller, more intimate studios. But I'm sure that every room will produce the desired effect.

SK What do you enjoy doing around Nashville when not in the studio.

BB I certainly like driving around the countryside on those days when you just want to get away. My wife and I have started canoeing on the Duck River. That's fun to do! I like trying different ethnic restaurants that are springing up all around Nashville.

SK Any last words of advice?

BB When it comes to recording, remember that LESS IS MORE. You know what they say about opinions, don't you? Yeah, everybody's got one! In other words, it's not what you add to your recording, the secret is knowing what to leave out. The Beatles recorded on 4 track recorders!

Artist News: New Album from Steven Curtis Chapman

2009-11-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

Renowned Christian artist and Dove award winner, Steven Curtis Chapman, held his CD listening party, Beauty Will Rise, at Sound Kitchen Studios, Franklin, TN, this past weekend. Chapman's album was written about the loss of his youngest daughter, Mary Sue Chapman, who was tragically killed in a car accident on May 21, 2008. Chapman started recording the album last year while he was on the road with Michael W. Smith; recording it from the Rupp Arena locker room to a hotel lobby. For more info on Steven’s album or his charitable works, please check out his video blog here

Sound Kitchen Mic Pre Shootout

2009-11-04T14:07:00.000-08:00

We recently held a "Microphone Pre-amp Shootout" with our class of interns in the Big Boy Studio. We had a singer repeat the same lines of a song for easy comparison. The signal flow was as follows...

A Neumann U-67 going to a "selected mic pre" going through a Purple Audio M76 compressor to Pro Tools.

Our Mic Pre list was as follows

API 212L

Avalon M-5

DBX 786

Martech MSS-10

Neve 1073

Summit Audio Dual Tube Pre

Take a moment to listen to the differences below.

Which vocal chain do you think sounds the best and why?

Are there any other vocal chains that you think sound amazing?

Please let us know what you think.

All of these outboard mic pres are available for rental when you book any studio at The Sound Kitchen.

Sound Kitchen Mic Pre Shootout

Billy Ray Cyrus In Sound Kitchen Studios For His New Movie

2009-11-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

Nashville native TV, Movie Star, and Country Artist, Billy Ray Cyrus just finished recording his voiceovers here in the Big Boy at Sound Kitchen Studios yesterday for his new movie, Christmas in Canaan. (Canaan, Texas that is.) The movie is based off of a book he and Kenny Rogers Co-wrote in 2002, (For more info, check out the book here ) and premiers December 12th at 7 pm CST on the Hallmark Channel.

In the movie, Cyrus plays a widowed father trying to raise three children in Canaan, Tex. during the Civil Rights Movement. We will keep you updated! In the meantime check out the cast list at IMDB.

Saving Abel Records at Sound Kitchen Studios!

2009-11-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

If you're a fan of Saving Abel, don't miss the great article Billboard.com did on their new album release and tour. Check it out here!

So why do we at the Sound Kitchen care? Saving Abel has just recorded their new album (not yet out) in our studios and recently played a sold out benefit show in the Big Boy Studio at the Sound Kitchen. Check out the pictures from the night!javascript:void(0)

Keith Urban records in The Sound Kitchen Studio A

2009-10-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Very cool 7 minute video of Keith and band in the studio making the "Love Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing" record in 2006.

Sound Kitchen Tech Sean Shannon

2009-08-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

With the help of our new tech, Sean Shannon, Sound Kitchen has made some awesome upgrades around the facility. If you have any tech-related questions about any of our studios, feel free to contact Sean directly at sean@soundkitchen.com.

KATIE ARMIGER TEAMS UP WITH GREAT AMERICAN COUNTRY (GAC) and SOUND KITCHEN STUDIOS FOR NATIONWIDE SWEEPSTAKES KAPTURING A LOVE SONG WITH KATIE ARMIGER

2009-08-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

GAC, Katie Armiger and the Sound Kitchen Bring Major Prize to West Virginian

March 18, 2009 — Stephen Shumacher, a 56-year-old country music fan from Charleston, W.Va., has the chance of a lifetime next week when he heads to Nashville to write a love song with Katie Armiger.

Stephen was one of more than 50,000 fans who took part in GAC’s February contest, Kapturing A Love Song With Katie Armiger, and he’ll co-write his piece with Katie and Love And Theft, a new band that will also produce a final version of the song at the Legendary Sound Kitchen Studios in Franklin, TN.

"I have always wanted the opportunity to be a part of writing a song, so this is truly a dream come true for me," Stephen says. "I sincerely want to thank Katie and GAC for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As both a singer and songwriter, Katie has a combination that makes her a truly gifted talent whose music belies her age. I still can’t believe that I won and get to write with her."

Katie, Stephen and Love And Theft will all write and record their song at the Sound Kitchen Studios in Franklin, Tenn., where such artists as Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Lonestar and the Dixie Chicks have recorded their major albums. In the meantime, Katie has other moments worthy of celebration. She makes her network television debut Saturday on the "CBS Early Show." And her "Trail Of Lies" video is currently ranked No. 12 on GAC’s Top 20 Country Countdown.

BRITISH INVASION: UK SUPERSTAR Sir Cliff Richard RECORDS AT SOUND KITCHEN STUDIOS FOR NEW ALBUM

2009-06-12T10:30:00.000-07:00

When music aficionados debate rock n' roll greats, you may hear names like Elvis Presley and The Beatles tossed around. If the name Cliff Richard came up in that conversation, your immediate response might be "Who?"Most people from this area would probably not put Cliff Richard and Elvis Presley in the same category nor mention them in the same conversation for that matter. In fact, most people from this area would be hard pressed to tell you who Cliff Richard is or what songs he has sung over the years.Cliff Richard is a name people might not recognize until you play one of his hit songs, such as "Devil Woman" or "We Don't Talk Any More." That's when people have that look on their face like "Yeah, I remember that song."Cliff Richard holds the record with Elvis Presley as the only act to make the UK single's charts in all of its decades (1950s-2000). He is the only singer to have had a number one single in the UK in five consecutive decades. On the British charts, Richard has had more than 130 singles, albums and EP's make the top 20, more than any other artist. He has sold more than 260 million records and has spent the second highest time on the British charts of any act, second only to Elvis and ahead of The Beatles and Elton John.One must wonder with all the success in the UK and all over the world why he isn't recognizable in the United States. Richard used to worry about his lack of popularity in the States. Now he enjoys the anonymity that he doesn't receive anywhere else in the world.Richard was in Franklin recently to record a new record at the Sound Kitchen Studio. "I will be spending five or six days in the studio, recording a whole album in a week." said Richard. "I have recorded 14 songs in two and half days; it's a marathon."The new record, which will be a "jazz bluesy swinging" sound, will feature Cliff Richard singing hits from artist such as Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, and Etta James. According to Richard, this record is different than anything he has ever done. "This has been a bit of a stretch for me, I have never sung these types of songs before," said Richard. "It's (jazz) an alien world. It took me two days to get used to the chord progressions. I love challenges and this has been out of my comfort zone, but working with producer Michael Omartian, the musicians, and the studio has been phenomenal." Michael Omartian is an accomplished producer of such acts as Michael Bolton, Whitney Houston, Rod Stewart, Clint Black, Amy Grant, and Steely Dan to name a few. He is probably best known as the co-producer of the No. 1 hit "We Are the World" in 1985.Cliff Richard has recorded in Nashville before, once in 1962, and at the Sound Kitchen four years ago. You can tell that Richard loves the time he spends in this area, as he raved about the geography, the studio, and the musicians he worked with. "I love the rolling hills of this area, and everything is so green. It's beautiful here. We have used 14 musicians on this album, all local musicians. They are like a community. There is a real sense of community with all of them and they are so talented. The studio is fantastic, small, and comfortable. I have really enjoyed making this record here."Ira Blonder, managing partner of Sound Kitchen Studios, lists Cliff Richards as one of his favorite clients. Blonder and Richard have worked together before when Richard was in the studio four years ago."Cliff Richard is an amazing talent and a gentleman to work with," said Blonder. "When artists come to record here, we typically get them back because of the experience, and Cliff is an example of the relationships we build here at the Sound Kitchen Studios. Cliff has already scheduled a return to record a follow up album next year," said Blonder.Richard was already talking about the next album. "I would love to name it Bold as Brass," said Richard. "I would love to do this as my follow up, maybe add string instruments in the studio."The comparisons to Elvis may be a distant memory to Cliff Richard, but Richard still welcomes the discussion and credits Elvis with influencing not only himself but all of rock n' roll."The British press called me the answer to Elvis," said Richard. "We were battling it out on the UK charts for years. Rock and Roll would have been much different without Elvis. He gave us our shapes; he influenced us. I look back on my career and when someone mentions me in the same breath as Elvis, I appreciate it."Blonder noted that he was always intrigued with Richard's relationship with Elvis. "Imagine being as big as Elvis everywhere in the world and not being able to walk out in public without being mobbed. Here in the U.S., Cliff doesn't get the attention he deserves," said Blonder.While visits to local restaurants like Sperry's and J. Alexander's went without any fanfare, a trip to the Ryman to see the Patsy Cline musical "Always" was a different story."There was a big group traveling from Europe on vacation and they noticed me at the show," said Richards. "The group was ecstatic that they came to Nashville to see country stars and they ran into Cliff Richard."At age 68, looking fit, trim, and youthful, Cliff Richards is not slowing down and ponders all the possibilities out there for him. "I love country music; maybe I could record with Allison Krauss sometime."