Its Good To Be Us

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No good in goodbye

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And Winnie over at Buckymania is off on a new endeavor which will take her away from her blogging duties. I wish her the best, and hope to see her back blogging periodically (We will miss you terribly Winnie!)

I am posting some prognostications on the upcoming (and vacant) tour schedule. It has to be coming out soon, but in the meantime keep checking in with Buckytown USA for their most excellent sidebar, and also pollstar.com.

One coming up in my neck of the woods, Rhinelander - if I want to join 10 or 20 thousand other fans. I learned last summer that I am not a "huge" fan of "huge" music festivals. They have their good points most definitely, lots of vendors and food choices, lots of acts, lots of fans to share the experience with. Tickets are usually quite reasonable for the number of acts as well. Often to the tune of $60 ish a day, not too shabby for 3 or 4 great acts. My only complaint is, well - lots of fans. We haven't been able to bankroll VIP seating or even reserved thusfar, so we end up way out in the back 40. I suspect that I saw Taylor Swift last summer - Brad Paisley too. But I wasn't close enough to confirm....thank goodness for the big screens, at least I could see who I was "seeing". But I am not for sitting 300 rows back, fighting upstream for food and bathroom breaks, etc. Too difficult. It might well be a different story if we go reserved or VIP - stay tuned for a review of that adventure later this summer.

In the meantime, I leave you with a photo from my archives.

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Terra & "Rocky"

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Indiana State Fair - 8-21-09

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Boone County Fair - Belvidere IL, August 12

2009-08-13T17:42:00.001-05:00

Well - happy to report that I survived what I believe to be my 16th date with Bucky. Wahoo, 16 and counting :) It was a great show, and lots of fellow Buckaneers there to share it - Dakota and her mom Judy, Tina, LaPaula, guitel, Buckyfan3, Cookie, nursetaz, and the list goes on. Sorry for the combination of screen names and "human" names, don't know everyone's "secret" identity over on BCO.

So recap - got there early and ran into Judy, Dakota - and Mr. Judy right away, along with LaPaula. Watched some of the stage set up, then were prompltly escorted out of the grandstand for sound check (the nerve!) We could still hear it, and could see bits of it over a fence, but all sounded good. Rumor had it they were letting everyone in 1 hour before showtime, and that the track seating was first come first serve...so we were preparing to run for the good seats. Fortunately the kind people at Boone County Fair felt sorry for us having waited so long and let us in early. The first 2 rows had a GREAT Buckaneer showing! Was wonderful seeing all the dedicated fans up close, and hopefully even the "bad" seating gained some new fans. The fan count in all was low, show attendance was around 1000 per Steve over at the Shiny Bass blog. I can tell you the crowd may have been small, but we weren't quiet. Bucky was very well received by fans old and new.

Set List from Jeff (sorry Jeff, Steve stole it for me!)
American Friday Night
Back When We Were Gods
Different World
Suspicious Minds
Giants
Seven Spanish Angels
I'm Good
Hold A Woman
Evil Knievel
I'll Walk
Unchain My Heart
Mexicoma
Bible and the Belt
Good To Be Us
I Want My Life Back
Hands to Yourself

So a nice long set, everything was tight and sounded great!!! Bucky even shocked us by (see below) bringing out a cowboy hat to wear for the last 3rd of the set (I have mentally divided the show into thirds, LOL - shades, no shades, hat!) Was great seeing everyone, and with no shows on the near horizon, was a wonderful way to end summer. Thanks Bucky and band, it was a great 16th "date"!

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Madison, WI - Capitol Brewery; Star 96.3 7/7/09 Bucky Covington Stripped

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Willie Beamon's Country Kickoff - Neenah, WI 6/20/09

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Bucky's Holiday Gift and more

2008-12-17T12:44:00.004-06:00

They say a picture is worth a 1000 words. Sometimes yes - sometimes not, so I am adding some words to go with the pics below :)

The pics of Steve are him receiving the album that had photos submitted by a great many Bucky fans of Steve live at shows. He was thrilled with the gift and thanks everyone. I could tell it is a gift that will mean a lot to him for years to come. Steve - you are most welcome from ALL of us, and we are glad you enjoy the gift and the thought behind it. Sorry there wasn't a card, the thought escaped me - but I did inscribe the inside first page, so that should do.

The pics of Bucky with a gift are indeed pics of Bucky opening his gift from the fan club. As many of you know, a dedicated Bucky fan helped to set up an account with St. Jude's Childrens Hospital under which fans can donate in Bucky's name. He received a card detailing the reason behind the certificate and photo along with the amount donated. After reading the card he then opened the photo and certificate. Regretfully we cannot show the childs photo, but we have included pics of the certificate itself including a close-up shot from Buckyfan3 (note - she is the dedicated Bucky fan mentioned above who helped to set this awesome idea up!)

Bucky loved the certificate and the very thought that the fan club did this thrilled him. This account is going to remain at St. Jude's under Bucky's name for years to come, and I hope we can revisit the page now and then and donate some spare change. Every little bit adds up, and while I regret not being able to donate for the holiday gift I do plan to give in the future when budget permits. (I am sure Bucky would have been equally thrilled with my towing bill and new tire that I had to buy to even get to the show....argh). Anyhow - those are the stories behind the pics. The pic at the very bottom with Bucky holding his heart while singing was during "To Hold a Woman". The shot touches me deeply and I felt I should share it with you. On that note, I am sharing it again today. It is a window to his soul, and shows just how passionate he is about his music as well as his fans.

2008-12-15T21:37:00.000-06:00

Bucky Fan Club Christmas Gift Presentation

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Steve's Fan Club B-Day Gift

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Joe's Bar Pics

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Pics are from Joe's Bar on 12/12/08. Recap available on Bucky's official fan club site, buckycovington.com

Upcoming "Date"

2008-11-17T08:11:00.004-06:00

Looking forward to my upcoming "date with Bucky Cov- ington". Have tickets for his show in Chicago at Joe's Bar on December 12th and can't wait! I have not been to Joe's before but tons of fans who have sing it's praises as a concert venue. I get to test drive it this Friday by indulging in one of my other favorite artists who I came to like via concert contagions.

I have said it before and even dedicated an entire post to it; one thing leads to another. I started out seeing Bucky, then added Jason Michael Carroll to my regular list of "must see". At a Jason show I discovered Jake Owen (ok, so someone obviously discovered him before me, thus the concert - but still!).

So I am off to Joe's to check out Jake Owen and am pretty excited. He has a beautiful voice and also writes the majority if not all of his own lyrics. Currently on the charts for him is "Don't Think I Can't Love You" - which is a beautiful song that touched me deeply. Especially with current state of the economy - this song says it all. You might not get diamond rings, roses, a new car - whatever...but it doesn't mean that he can't love you. 'Nuff said.

Half a Post?

2008-11-06T11:06:00.001-06:00

Ah hah! I caught myself, I gave the leader for "A Day in the Life" yesterday, and forgot entirely to post the video! Check out Bucky doing Bucky things in this great video of "A Day in the Life"

A Day in the Life...

A Day in the Life, Birthday Challenge!

2008-11-05T06:41:00.004-06:00

Just a reminder - this is the week for that Birthday challenge! Get out and pick up your new copy (or copies) of Bucky Covington's self titled debut album. Can't find it in store? Ask them to order you a copy, then stop back at Bucky's official site and report your find under "contests". The big day is less than a week away, then our favorite twins will no longer be 30.

On the airwaves, I'll Walk is rallying again, so get those requests called in and tell your DJ how much you enjoy hearing it played.

November 8th Challenge!

2008-10-28T12:50:00.005-05:00

Here we go, I haven't had a challenge since the It's Good To Be Us contest...congrats once again to Florida Shine by the way. Why am I challenging you now? Well - November 8th is Bucky Covington and twin brother Rocky Covington's birthday. What can you get for the boy that has most everything he can want? How about a firm nudge on CD sales! I challenge YOU the fans to go out the week of Nov 9th and buy yourself a new copy or three of Bucky's self titled debut CD. This is a great time for you to share the Bucky with those on your holiday gift giving list AND push those sales higher. Buck has held his sales steady for the last month or two, but I want to give a good push for the boys birthday.

So get out there, look for a copy or 3 of that CD! If you are at Target or Walmart don't forget to get a count and note the display so that you can enter Bucky's current contest at the Official Bucky site. This is your chance to share everything Bucky including top 10 hit "I'll Walk" with everyone around you. I am getting 2 for sure, so everyone get out there and get that CD!

Also throw in an extra request for I'll Walk today for Deb, our guru for all things Bucky. Today is her birthday - wahoo! Cake, candles - top 10 hit. What more can a girl ask for? Bump up your requests a notch or two over the upcoming weeks and lets get that baby to #1!!!

In Case You Weren't Paying Attention...

2008-10-27T09:30:00.006-05:00

Alright - I have to say it. Steve Cook (the bass player Steve, not the guitar player Steve *that note intended for jaded journalist*) is one of my favorite people in the band. Yeah, there are some other great members. Bucky comes to mind (hehe), and then there is Rocky, and Ducky too. Can't forget Scott and of course Tom...oh and Brian is awesome too. But really, Steve is one of my favorites . *EDIT* OMG - I forgot Jeff - Jeff, you are one of my favorite people too, honest! ***and Terra, and Katherine - and anyone who happens to ride on the bus more than once a year!

Recently a jaded journalist (see above) wrote what is best described as a scathing recap - 'nuff said. He deserves no further attention, except what Steve had to say on the deal... "Because really – shouldn’t you judge for yourself?" Check Steve's Shiny Bass blog for the rest of his very enlightening take; Steve Cook | Shiny Bass | Journal

Meanwhile - don't forget to check Bucky's MySpace page today - that trivia contest should be updated and be ready to text to win!

#9 Baby!

2008-10-25T08:34:00.002-05:00

This morning finds Bucky Coving- ton's "I'll Walk" firmly planted in the #9 slot on Mediabase weighted. Way to go Bucky and each and every fan who has dialed themselves silly requesting "I'll Walk"! Keep going, lets push this baby up!

Bon Voyage Little Buddies!

2008-10-24T23:20:00.004-05:00

If you are having an odd sense of deja vu, that is ok. So am I. The beloved Bucky Buddies have spent the summer and part of the fall desperately trying to break free from mine and Buckyfan3's homes. Murphy's Law has been involved in each and every failed attempt, along with some astronomy most likely ("the stars are not aligned"). Anyhow - the little buggers have been staying rent free for FAR too long and is time to kick them to the curb.

This upcoming week they will be heading to their forever homes, split just a bit off from down the middle, a herd of painfully cute plushes are headed to Milwaukee Children's Hospital on Monday, and the rest of the pack will be making their trip hopefully Tuesday to Ronald McDonald House - Madison. I have taken photos along the way - if you flip back a few pages you should be able to see them, if they aren't there, click the Bucky Buddies Blog link. Tonight I had a chance to finish getting them ready, and then shot some photos of the crew in their travel bags and ready to go.

If you have missed the Bucky Buddy discussion - Bucky Buddies are plush animals lovingly selected by Bucky Covington fans who in Bucky's name will be heading off to live with children who are under treatment at hospitals. (We tried St. Judes, they don't take plush animals - and we already had them all set to go.) So each Buddy has a hang tag "Bucky's Buddies" that hangs around their neck. The tag is denim and super cute (Buckyfan3 - you rock girl!) With the plush goes a Bucky poster (courtesy of me) and a personal note autographed by Bucky (Bucky - you rock too!) The icing on the cake came courtesy of Lyric Street. Each Buddy is accompanied by a self titled Bucky Covington CD. I need to thank Deb for helping facilitate that - and Lyric Street for coming through.

The buddies will be moving into their new homes just prior to the holidays which should help bring a smile or 60 to the kids, and Bucky's debut CD will provide something to sing along with while they wait for the sophomore release. The blame for this goes to the "It's Good To Be Us" contest - pesky thing that it was, this idea was born of it (Buckyfan3, did I mention you rock?!) and has been literally months in the planning. Powers that be willing, it is something we will repeat yearly, hopefully with Lyric Street's blessings. Enjoy the pics - and wish the little guys good luck with their new families!

Is It Lonely at the Top?

2008-10-24T09:17:00.002-05:00

Gosh no! Bucky's I'll Walk has topped the chats - at #1 on the Music Row Chart. Wahoo!!!! Keep on requesting, we can make this happen on Billboard, Radio and Records, Mediabase - and any other charts that might be lurking out there.

Thanks to Buckymouse on the BCO boards for this fantastic news!

New Contest!

2008-10-15T08:34:00.003-05:00

It looks like Music City Networks has snuck in another contest on the Bucky Covington official website. And this is one we do every time we set foot in a Wal-Mart or Target, so easy enough to do! MCN wants you to check your local Target's and Wal-Mart's for Bucky's CD.

They want to know:

How many are in stock?
Is the CD in the New Release, Country, or Best Seller section?
Is it displayed at the end of a row (end cap) or in the regular bins?
How much does the CD cost?

And just to give a little added incentive they are offering prizes, wahoo!!!

Grand Prize: 8x10, CD, t-shirt and hat - ALL autographed by Bucky!
15 Runner-up Prizes: autographed 8x10

Each fan who participates will also be automatically entered to win.

So how do you participate you ask!? Why go to Bucky's site - you don't even need to be an official fan club member for this one, just register for MCN. Click on the home page, then click Contests. It explains how to enter your info and has a handy "submit" button to go along with that.

I have checked 2 stores thusfar - and was entirely bummed to find not a single CD where formerly 3-4 had been found. The header card is gone too, not sure if someone is walking off with them - or if they aren't stocking it anymore. Hopefully by reporting that, MCN and Lyric Street can work to get the CD's back in stock in time for the holidays!

Happy Wednesday!

And the connection is....?

2008-10-10T22:36:00.004-05:00

So I stumbled into an online auction for an autographed guitar, and thought - well, that is cool - who autographed it? The answer: Cast and crew of Big Brother. See for yourself CBS Big Brother signed guitar (Former HG's &Production) - eBay (item 190258478502 end time Oct-20-08 19:00:00 PDT)

Now I officially confess to being a Reality TV-a-holic...fortunately I am able to keep it slightly controlled through the modern miracle of network TV (wahoo!) So I have been known to watch most everything they put in front of me if it involves watching someone else live. Perhaps a bit voyeuristic? Who knows. If I am, many are equally guilty as evidenced by ratings.

I have been known to watch "So You Think You Can Dance", "Dancing with the Stars", "Survivor", "Next Top Model", "Amazing Race"...and yes, shocking..."American Idol"! As for the above mentioned guitar - yep, they have me too, I watch "Big Brother". Nothing more amusing than a bunch of lab mice trying to sort things out without killing each other, all the while having every moment filmed.

So when I saw the autographed guitar, my first thought was - COOL! Then I thought about it a bit more...aside from Evel Dick, I don't see any major connection between a guitar, and the theme of the show. They don't try and start a rock band while living in the house (thank you very much), they were lucky enough to score some video games - I think Guitar Hero might have been one, but umm...still not a major connection. So what is the allure with the guitar for me? Nothing - zip, zilch, nada. Were they house guests and crew to sign oh, I don't know - the Power of Veto box - that I would go for. Autographs on the wheel of doom that they put those keys in? You betcha, I would be game for that too. Even that rubber ducky that spent the summer cruising in circles in the little pool...at least the ducky was there. Sign the ducky, and I have a memento of the show.

Comparison - lets say you are a big fan of "Amazing Race" - so they hold an auction for a pair of Mark Ballas dancing shoes. Sweet - dancing shoes...and those relate to Amazing Race how???? Give me one of those cool "detour" cards, that to me screams "Amazing Race"; dancing shoes? Not so much.

So I am not bidding on the guitar - if you do, good luck in the auction. If you see the "Power of Veto" box up for sale, give me a shout. I am heading off next week to see Jason Michael Carroll, Trace Adkins and Craig Morgan - maybe they will have some Bucky Covington merchandise for sale...

Trace's New Video

2008-10-08T00:08:00.002-05:00

Check out Bucky Covington's former (and certainly future) tour pal, Trace Adkins new video for Muddy Waters.

Q106FM Madison's Country | Photo Album |

2008-10-05T20:27:00.001-05:00

The radio station that sponsored the St Judes event has their pictures up - lots of fantastic Bucky Covington ones, along with John Michael Montgomery and Joe Nichols. It was a fantastic event and a full house as the pics will show! Have a great Monday!

Q106FM Madison's Country | Photo Album |

Take Me Back...

2008-10-01T21:53:00.003-05:00

If you haven't seen it yet - check out the fantastic video of Bucky Covington singing 'Ol Kentuck - it is amazing, awesome - and totally cool too. Includes lots of clips from shows, some outtakes plus behind the scenes clips - all most skillfully edited together to make one head bangin' video. Enjoy!

Bucky Covington - Ol' Kentuck

Day Late and a Dollar Short?

2008-09-29T23:50:00.004-05:00

As usual, here I am - right on time as promised - give or take a day or two. Sorry for the delay, busy weekend and was trying to recover from my Bucky Covington show - plus trying to figure out how fast I can get to the next one. Morris IL's Grundy Corn Festival was on my "places I wanted to be" list, but it just didn't happen. Fortunately I still got to take in the Storyteller's show, so got my dose of Bucky along with the added perks of John Michael Montgomery and Joe Nichols. I have to say - John Michael Montgomery has been through hell and back a couple of times over - and his music is no worse for the wear. He played some great songs, including the emotional "Letters From Home" which he dedicated to Joshua Michael Scott who had flown helicopter overseas and was killed in the line of duty. It was quite emotional for the audience, as Joshua's uncle mentioned the song and told John how much the song meant, so John promised he would play it and dedicate it to the family and memory of Joshua.

Edited to include link to the video clip where John Michael Montgomery listens to the story about Joshua Michael Scott
YouTube - Joe Nichols & John Michael Montgomery @ Q106 Storytellers Jam 6

It really brought to light the current situation overseas, and while I do not know anyone serving presently - if I talk to one or two people, one of them WILL know someone who is or has fought. I want them home, all of them. This war has gone on too long for there to be no end in site. I don't want another killed in the line of duty, or shot down during missions - or even taken prisoner. I am tired of it and I want it over. I cannot begin to thank ALL of the country artists who have contributed songs to the cause, dedicated to the troops or to family - Trace Adkin's Arlington is another one that will tug right at your heart strings and bring you smack down to earth where you can think about things. So to all the songwriters and the artists - thank you for putting words and music behind our thoughts and sharing them with the world. I can't begin to guess how many lives those songs have affected, but I am sure it is in the 10s of millions.

As I mentioned, Joe Nichols was the other artist at the show. He has a gorgeous voice that cuts the air like silk. If I could hear angels sing, they might well sound like Joe. He has had some issues over the years too but has come out a better man both personally and muscially. He told the story of his first #1 song on the radio - he went to get gas to go to the #1 party - and all he had was 84 cents in his ash tray - he put that in and went to the party, then borrowed $20 from his manager. So there he is, #1 song - and has a whopping 84 cents. Things are looking up though, he and the Mrs. recently purchased Vespa type scooters - they can go alot further now on that 84 cents.

And of course - the main purpose of this blog, Bucky. Bucky was fantastic, as has been shown on a live video posted over on YouTube - his I'll Walk performance was one for the record books. Definitely worthy of the standing ovation it received, and worth your time to head over to YouTube and google "Storytellers". There are a number of clips from the show, but that was an amazing moment and it is all captured on digital.

Also had a chance to talk with Bucky after the show which was great - nothing like spending 10 or so minutes just chatting about this, that, and the other thing. Talked to him about St. Judes, and we had a chance to bring up the account that has been set up in his name for Country Cares. He is very excited about this and hopefully we can get this together. If you have not already, take a visit over to St Judes Fan Club Challenge and give what you can in Bucky's name. Looks like he is on the bottom right. All donations in his name will be tallied and the artist will be updated periodically. This is an ongoing account, but we are hoping to present him with his first "tally" near the holidays.

Enough for now - hope your week goes great!

Artist of the Day!

2008-09-27T04:35:00.002-05:00

Bucky Covington got top honors over at New Music Reviews - Home of DJ Willis. Bucky was highlighted Friday as the Artist of the Day. Click and go. Bucky Covington | New Music Reviews - Home of DJ Willis

Also posted my recap of the St Jude's show over on BCO - I will add a bit more news here tomorrow from that show, but be sure and check out the recap and pics on the official Bucky site.

Meanwhile - have a great Saturday!

Slow Learner?

2008-09-23T19:09:00.005-05:00

It is official - Bucky Covington's road manager Don Harris' last gig as tour manager has happened - this past weekend in New York. I am terribly bummed about this, but wish the best to Don. Hopefully he isn't "leaving" so much as branching out. If anyone has info, please let me know.

So out with the old (sorry Don - had to say it!) and in with the new. Mick Cyrus is the new tour manager, and is half brother to Billy Ray Cyrus. I hopefully will get a chance to see/talk to Mick at the upcoming show, but it is going to be awkward. Finally had Don figured out, and then they go and change things up.

So first the band changed - now the manager. The music industry is a dynamic one to say the least, with things constantly in motion. My other favorite artist (read below for a hint, cooties post) also has a new road manager - and recently "lost" one of his main band members to another artist. A bit confusing going to a show and looking around for "Dan", even asking the DJ's about him - only to find out there is no "Dan". "Dan" also went to another artist. So if I really dig the tour managers - am I supposed to follow them with their new artists, plus the old artist with the new manager - plus the new artists of old band members? There are only 365 days in a year (well, most of the time...) and I don't see how I can possibly keep up with all these people who I have grown fond of, much less make it out to see them. A few of them hold special places on my myspace list, but others were never added and now are mere memories.

Tonight I will crack open a lite and say a toast to my friends past. To Don, Shaun B, Hans, Dan and Trey - I wish you nothing but the best and I hope our paths will cross again. To Shaun M, Collin, Steve, Jeff, Tom, Scott, Bruce and Mick - welcome and hope you can stay a while.

A little behind...

2008-09-23T00:47:00.003-05:00

Sorry I have fallen a big "behind", have my big date with Bucky this Thursday - yippee! Not to brag, but I also have a date with John Michael Montgomery AND Joe Nichols. I haven't been on a triple date since the Raisin' the Bar tour (which was one fine tour - which I would love to see revisited in the future).

Regarding the aforementioned medical situation, things are looking pretty good. It does not look cancerous, but we will leave that to the pathologists. If you can spare a few thoughts this way and maybe even a prayer or two, it would be greatly appreciated.

Oh geeez, 3 days til the show? What do I wear? It is still shorts weather - but on the cusp of jeans - shorts and sandals? Jeans and cowboy boots? Decisions decisions - thank goodness I have a couple days to compare the options - plus wait for the weather forecast. Have a good week, will try and get in another update prior to my "date" :)

Thought Depository

2008-09-19T00:22:00.002-05:00

So things are really rocking and rolling with Bucky's devoted crew of fans organizing donations to St. Judes. Going to be awesome to get together and do this as a group without all the pressures of a contest. Just being kind and giving, it is a nice feeling.

On other fronts - I am in a bit of a fix over a medical situation with a close family member. No official word thus far as to exactly what the "situation" is. I can disclose that it involves an ovary and a cyst, and eventual surgery. It is not my ovary nor my cyst, but the diagnosis once that time comes it may well have a very large effect on my reality. Time will tell, and I will try and update as I feel it is necessary.

Also looking forward to next weeks Bucky show - I have no idea what to expect, but I am thinking it will be like one of those "unplugged" sort of things - maybe Steve and Ducky, with Bucky of course. Should be a great time, never seen the co-headliners either - hopefully I like them but don't fall in love, I can only afford so many indulgences.

Bringin' Back the Bucky

2008-09-06T18:25:00.002-05:00

Oooh happy dance! Thanks to one of my myspace friends - I have been oh so enlightened to a Bucky show coming up - right in my hometown! Yippee! Not one to complain, I did get that three-in-a-row a couple months back - but wahoo anyhow!

Life couldn't be sweeter. Seems Bucky is joining the bill with Joe Nichols and John Michael Montgomery for Q106 Storytellers tour. I have heard rave reviews about the stations Storyteller's series, but have yet to have the pleasure. It sounds much like the VH1 Storytellers - very laid back, a few songs, a bit of talking, maybe a bit of off-the-cuff improv from the musicians. I can't wait, but wait I must - the magic date is September 25th. For more info visit: Q106FM Madison's Storyteller's Jam VI
See ya there!

Contagious - Kinda like cooties...

2008-08-27T23:52:00.007-05:00

And hello to my 2 or 3 readers. Thanks for stopping by and making me part of your day. I haven't had much to say as of late - that combined with Thumper's motto "If you can't say thumthin nice...don't say nuthin at all" has kept me away and working on other projects.

In case you haven't looked outside or perhaps live in a cave, fall is approaching and the days are getting shorter. The festival tour dates are winding down, but I definitely got in my "fair" share of midway food and rockin concerts. This summer has treated me to some great local "warm-up" bands, as well as introducing me to yet another new national artist. That is why concerts (and country artists) are contagious.

I started out with BuckyCovingtonitis (why did the spell checker not laugh at that?) which I thought was bad enough. The symptoms were terrible, I spent hours glued to the TV screen, only to end up in tears at the end. The TV symptoms wore off but were replaced by the need to buy concert tickets and merchandise. Now this was all pretty much ok. Loving one artist is pretty easy, following one tour schedule even easier. Requesting one artists songs? Piece of cake! I can speed dial 4 radio stations for requests in record time. I was quite happy with the way my BuckyCovingtonitis manifested, I made the local shows and had a ton of fun, and then expanded my "travel radius" to accomodate even more shows. No big deal - only one artist! I can do this, I can cope with BuckyCovingtonitis.

Unfortunately my BuckyCovingtonitis made me extremely vulnerable to Acute JasonMichaelCarroll Syndrome which I promptly caught. It is clearly highly contagious, as I passed on to both my husband and my mother. The syndrome manifests similar to BuckyCovingtonitis, with the exception of you now have to follow 2 tours, request for 2 artists - and find places for that extra merchandise (oooo look, a new t-shirt design!) I was not expecting to catch Acute Jason Michael Carroll Syndrome, but I caught it anyway. I blame the Raisin the Bar tour on that one, so I am thinking that the Acute JasonMichaelCarroll Syndrome is a mutation of BuckyCovingtonitis - but no lab tests would show that.

So I dedicated my spring, summer - and soon fall to my disorders. I extend my travel radius as needed (2 hours max, no farther than....ok, we can make that show, only 3 hour drive....well, 3hrs and 46 minutes is really CLOSE to the 3 hour cutoff). I should have expanded my travel radius to both oceans in no time at this rate. I have to say this has been a rockin great summer music wise - even with BuckyCovingtonitis and Acute JasonMichaelCarroll Syndrome. Unfortunately though - I have contracted yet another condition. JakeOwen Dysfunction Virus. I caught this unsuspectingly while recieving treatment for Acute JasonMichaelCarroll Syndrome.

So the saying goes - one thing leads to another. It does indeed. I can only hope that I can get this under control soon. I have at least 5 more shows coming up, who knows what might happen. And don't even get me started about my Ideopathic DierksBentley Disorder or my LukeBryan Fever....

Bucky Take A Picture

2008-08-14T00:04:00.001-05:00

My Dad Can Beat Up Your Dad

2008-08-06T23:45:00.003-05:00

And other exciting things...

That is the best simile I could come up with at the moment. While things are calming down on many fronts, I am still feeling conflict over on a certain message board. Postings are down the last couple days and I hate to see that sort of thing happen.

There is of course a chance that I have a distorted view of reality (it has been known to happen a time or two), but there seems to be some muscle flexing going on and for me at least, it is causing a feeling of tension. As I mentioned a couple days ago - request how you will, support Bucky how you will - it is YOUR decision. I for one choose to request both either by phone or by emailing my local DJs. I value the relationship with them and the community, and appreciate the them more than I can say. I do not rush around telling everyone that I just called the station and requested. I do it, it is done. No bragging rights in it, none that I can see anyhow. I have even been known to request songs by other (gasp) artists from time to time. Just something I do, if I like a song - I might be inclined to request it.

I feel that the wedge that has been driven between members of the fan club is being pounded deeper and deeper on a daily basis. "I did, he did, she said, you didn't" etc is all good and well - if you are in grade school - or if the chores fairy still visits your house to stick shiny stars on your chart. I don't feel any of us are worthy of the bragging rights that seem to be going around on the boards (you know which ones). If anyone at all is worthy of bragging rights, it is the man himself, his folks, his siblings and friends. They have raised up a fabulous person who we all love. That is it, that is where the credit lies.

I don't care if you personally telephoned 500 stations yesterday to put in your requests - I really honestly don't. I don't care about the mediabase requesting because it is something I don't believe helps and do believe may indeed cause harm. There is no proof to back this, but I adhere strongly to the "request in your area" mantra - I will gladly call and request in YOUR market and ask that the song be dedicated to you, but that is where I draw the line. I get that if I don't care about it, don't read it - don't do it - don't listen, etc. I find that difficult to do when the topic continues to be at the top of the page with ongoing discussion and pep talks. It makes me not want to visit the boards, as I feel like I am in the wrong for my own thoughts.

A few people are sitting at the back of the bus (the cool kids from school) and the rest of us are stumbling around looking for a seat where we won't get spit balls thrown at us. Not always an easy thing...maybe before you throw the spit balls, you should consider the feelings of the people on the receiving end. They didn't really like it in grade school even if they didn't speak up about it. I can assure you they don't appreciate it now either.

Nuf said for now...but I am still pretty sure my dad can beat up your dad.

Bon Voyage, Little Buddies...

2008-08-05T02:25:00.003-05:00

The Bucky Buddies are at this moment preparing for their voyage to their new homes with 60 very lucky children at a local childrens hospital. If all goes according to planned, they will make the trip on Wednesday. It has been a long journey for them and I am sure they are ready to move on with the next stage in their lives. All have been bedecked with ribbons and Bucky Buddy tags - and in fact one has already been delivered to Bucky himself.

On the heels of yesterday's post, timing seems odd for this. As I said, everyone does what they can. I need to add that this is NOT something that we really "could" do, it took time, lots of discussing options, many visits to local office stores, craft stores and department stores for supplies, and some space taken up while they hung out waiting for their pending "adoptions". So we couldn't really do it, we couldn't afford it for the most part, other corners needed to be cut here and there. All that aside, we did do it. We are using the Bucky Buddies as ambassadors on behalf of Bucky. Sometimes you need just a little help to spread the word....and if we had it to do over again - would we? Yep! It might not happen often, but we would sure do it again.

It's Good To Be Us - Not Always...

2008-08-04T01:11:00.002-05:00

Speaking on behalf of a great many Bucky Covington fans, I can say that Bucky's fans come in all shapes, sizes, ages, abilities....what began as each of us privately enjoying Bucky either on American Idol, or perhaps hearing one of his songs over the radio morphed into a shared interest with many others. There is still plenty of time to enjoy Bucky's talents privately, but when you join a fan club you cross over into the land of enjoying him on a less private and more public basis. How you choose to participate is up to you, there are hundreds of Bucky's official fan club members who either very seldom or never post to the forums. They may lurk and read up on Bucky, and they may smile at the same posts we do. They might be doing radio requests, or dragging unsuspecting folks along with them to Bucky concerts. As a fan, everything we do for Bucky is done in hopes of eventually helping him. Ticket sales to shows, CD sales, air play, and the easiest and most popular - word of mouth.

I need to say here, which I have said before elsewhere. Not everyone is capable of committing to the same level as others when it comes to promoting Bucky. This does not make any of us less of a Bucky fan. I can assure you that Bucky appreciates each and every one of us, no matter at what level we are involved. That is the way he is, good old southern boy old school type - who knows the value of a few thousand good fans.

Recently lots of fur has been flying on the subject of requesting (how, when, where?) and the level of dedication as a fan that we have to Bucky (and the other fans). This is sadly the sort of thing that both pushes fan clubs together AND pulls them apart. No one has the right to say anyone is any less of a fan OR any more of a fan based on what they do daily, weekly, annually. Some may have more spare time for some extra requests, some may be creative and design items to help promote Bucky. Someone else may have a super awesome idea of ways to bring in even more fans by sharing the Bucky love. Yet another fan may be going through a divorce and getting 3 kids ready for the fall school session - and not have a lick of time to do anything else than to parent her children. She is still a fan, and may even need both Bucky and the fan family more than anyone else.

Where am I going with this? Nowhere in particular...I just want you to know - I don't care if you are green with purple polka-dots, if you live in a grass hut in the middle of the desert, or if you haven't ever requested a song. If you are a fan of Bucky's, you are part of a very large (and sometimes very dysfunctional) family. We are here if you need us, you know where to look. I also need to let you know that we are human - just like Bucky. As such none of us are perfect. Honestly it would be a pretty boring group if we were.

Where to now?

2008-07-08T22:51:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the major lack of updates. I was pretty much out of Bucky updates that weren't redundant. Editorials are great - but I often think of them when I am nowhere near a computer, and by the time I am - the idea has gone poof. I have been spending the last few weeks trying to decide whether to close the blog all together, whether to recreate the blog as something else, etc. Some of the options I have been pondering:

I would love to do an animal control blog. It is my job and my life. I have more fun, more emotion, and more challenges than I have ever had in a previous job. I have tear-jerker stories to share, along with ones that are downright hilarious, and a few that would have been potential challenges for "Fear Factor".

I would really like to start a fan blog for another new country artist, along the lines of Buckytown and Buckmania. These are excellent resources for the fans, and a great way to get your one-stop news and updates.

I could shut this blog down, or simply update it periodically. Bucky is an amazing artist and a wonderful subject to blog about, but I found myself struggling for topics day-to-day that were not simply recounts of what someone else had said.

So that is where we stand - no where in particular. I haven't forgotten the blog or the readers, I just don't have much to say right now.

Two Country Fans Walked Into a Bar...

2008-06-13T23:38:00.003-05:00

Photo of fans showing their love for Trace Adkins
So I googled that tonight hoping to share a clever joke. Nada, zip, zilch. No jokes seem to have those words in them. Amazing since everything is online and jokes about country music abound. For years I have remembered (and giggled) at the old standby, "What do you get when you play a country song backwards?" It was a joke looooong before it was a song, decades if not longer. (In case you haven't heard it.... you get your house back, you get your dog back, you get your wife back..etc).

So I went wandering looking for other good country jokes. I need to say there are not a lot of nice jokes about musicians in general, much less country music or musicians. Seems most of the jokes were written by folks staring in the window at orchestra or marching band practice. Yep, musicians often started out as geeks, it is true. The guys in high school that played rocking licks spent hours at home practicing and often hours at someone else's home jamming, aspiring to come up with something that someone somewhere would listen to and like. I am guilty of having been in marching band, practiced and practiced and occasionally the practice paid off. I guess in the end it didn't since I am not making a living playing clarinet. I did learn to appreciate music though, and I am nothing but flat out impressed by a good sax or horn player.

I have tried in my "second childhood" to get back into music. I have an electric guitar and an electric bass, complete with cords and amps (I have a kickin' bass amp). Unfortunately these are taking up residence in the guest room and I have no clue how to play either of them, much less what a chord is or how to finger one. At a meet and greet Bucky Covington passed on a helpful hint to the hubby (the aspiring guitarist, that bass is mine!) Learn the chords C, G and D and you can play a ton of songs. That was last summer, guess we have some homework to do.

Steering back in the direction I was headed, country music! I found a list of "real" country songs. I did not have time to verify, but I recognize a good handful of them (noted in bold) and have actually heard them on the radio - so in theory the rest are real as well. Read on:

- Do You Love As Good As You Look?

- Drop Kick Me, Jesus, Through The Goalposts Of Life

- Her Teeth Were Stained, But Her Heart Was Pure

- Here's A Quarter, Call Someone Who Cares

- How Can I Miss You If You Won't Go Away?

- Been Roped And Thrown By Jesus In The Holy Ghost Corral

- I Changed Her Oil, She Changed My Life

- I Keep Forgettin' I Forgot About You

- I'm Just A Bug On The Windshield Of Life

- If Love Were Oil, I'd Be A Quart Low

- If The Phone Don't Ring, Baby, You'll Know It's Me

- If You Don't Leave Me Alone, I'll Go And Find Someone Else Who Will

- If You Leave Me, Can I Come Too?

- My Every Day Silver Is Plastic

- My John Deere Was Breaking Your Field, While Your Dear John Was Breaking My Heart

- My Wife Ran Off With My Best Friend, And I Sure Do Miss Him

- Pardon Me, I've Got Someone To Kill

- She Got The Gold Mine And I Got The Shaft

- She Made Toothpicks Out Of The Timber Of My Heart

- She's Got Freckles On Her, But She's Pretty

- Thank God And Greyhound She's Gone

- Velcro Arms, Teflon Heart

- When You Leave Walk Out Backwards, So I'll Think You're Walking In

- You Can't Have Your Kate And Edith Too

- You Can't Roller Skate In A Buffalo Herd

- You Done Tore Out My Heart And Stomped That Sucker Flat

- You're The Reason Our Kids Are So Ugly

Have a great weekend!

Quick Post

2008-06-12T21:35:00.003-05:00

Just a very brief reminder:
CMT's Power Picks match tomorrow Friday June 13; Bucky Covington's "A Different World" goes up against Dierks Bentley's "Trying To Stop Your Leaving". Showtime is 11AM ET, check in a few minutes early at CMT Power Picks and get ready to vote vote vote!

Thunderstorms and tornado warnings are to blame for the very brief post - have a great Friday all!

No News Is Good News

2008-06-11T22:39:00.002-05:00

I think that is how the old saying goes. Not much on the Bucky Covington front as of now, he should be wrapping up his portion of filming for the upcoming Hannah Montana movie in the next day or so, and then be able to get back to doing what we love best, hitting the road on tour.

I'll Walk is still holding steady just below that #40 spot on the charts. If we can hit that Top 40, more radio stations will add it to their play lists and we should be able to move it right on up from there. So keep listening, call your DJ and request it. If they haven't added it, request one of Bucky's other singles and be sure and let the DJ know you are looking forward to hearing the new single. While it is discouraging watching a song climb slowly, it is worth the wait and makes that Top 40 prize even more enjoyable when we get there.

On the I'll Walk front, while we have no official news regarding a video for the single - grapevine rumors tell us that there are no plans in the immediate future. This is all the more reason for those of us who are true Bucky fans to push the single harder on the radio stations. If it is not going to be hitting GAC and CMT with a video, it will miss a huge audience that would have helped to push it up the charts. So keep it up, spread the word. Play the single for a friend or 3, and when you are in line at the next concert, remember that word of mouth works! Talk to folks in line and around you about the song, and recruit them to help us with the push.

And lastly - a big shout out to Buckymouse who's banner submission over at Buckytown USA won the banner design contest. Check Bucktown USA in the upcoming days and watch for that smokin' new banner!

Nashville Star Debut!

2008-06-09T22:31:00.003-05:00

I finally was able to watch Nashville Star tonight, thanks to it being moved to network TV. I have to say I am giving it a big thumbs up, even if one of my faves to win was voted off at the end of the first episode. Watching the judges interact with the stars, and Billy Ray giving everyone a good old southern wahoo after each performance was well worth the wait. It will be great to see how it pans out, there is some genuine talent on the show, along with a token hottie or 2. Missed it this week? Check your local listings for NBC on Monday nights.

Today I have been stumbling across bizarre little bits and pieces of news. Some have baffled me, some made me say "WOW!", and some are just plain cool....allow me to share:

James Otto is apparently 6 foot 5 inches tall, dang!

Taylor Swift has been added to the growing list for the upcoming Hannah Montana movie. Tally thusfar to the best of my knowledge is Rascal Flatts, Marcel, Bucky Covington and Taylor. I am sure I missed someone, but I am enjoying watching the list grow!

Trace Adkins will be making an appearance on next weeks Nashville Star (I am a big Trace fan, so any time Trace is on tv is notable!)

At the Fan Fair, Bucky sang A Different World, It's Good To Be Us and Another Brick in the Wall. I'll walk was noticeably absent. Inquiring minds wonder why?

While I am not a gigantic fan of Toby Keith, I cannot get that song "She's A Hottie" out of my head. It makes me want to get out in the street and dance.

A fellow blogger has compiled a list of the "Cool" and "Uncool" of country music. I don't know what the criteria is based on, but she lists Bucky as "Cool, but challenged" (?) Sweetpea's Blog!!: THE LIST (don't get me started on what she said about JMC)

That wraps up the discoveries for the day. By my clock voting has closed for the Banner Contest over at Buckytown, USA . There have also been some updates to the tour schedule at Buckytown, plus links to some awesome pics from the weekend.

Lastly - if you have not already done so, check out Bucky's MySpace (linky to the right) for some great photos of his booth from this weekend. I even caught a glimpse of the new t-shirt in the background! Can't wait to add it to my collection.

Get Out The Vote!

2008-06-08T23:15:00.003-05:00

The banner submission portion of the contest over at Buckytown, USA is officially over, and the voting has begun! Stop over and check out the entries, and be sure and email Fran and let her know your favorite! The winning banner will be gracing the header of her fabtastic blog, so your opinion counts!

Nashville should be rolling up the red carpets about now as 2008 CMA Music Fest wraps up, and the 2009 countdown begins. Buckaneer reports so far tell us that Bucky was very popular, and that it was H-O-T, both the music and the weather. I hope everyone who made the 2008 bash enjoyed it, hopefully more Buckaneers can join in for 2009.

Lots more in the way of festivals coming up, both the local county type as well as the "whole ton of stars over a few days" type. Check Bucky's schedule at either Bucky's Official Site, Bucky's Myspace, or Buckytown USA. (Hint - the most inclusive list seems to be the latter one, nice work BTUSA!)

More tomorrow, have a great week and Happy Monday!

Nothing Much Going On...

2008-06-07T20:54:00.014-05:00

With Bucky still firmly ensconced in the arms of CMA Fest, and the big show coming up tomorrow night (wish I was there!) it is a slow news day. I was wondering what I might have to post. Far be it for me to be speechless, I am a Leo...so courtesy of Google and the Winfield Roundup's deliciously updated website - I am sharing some pics, and then the link of our favorite boy(s), Bucky Covington and the band - including some fantastic pics of Rocky (finally, a photographer who knows how to cover the band!)

I feel that I should apologize
profusely for the obvious and flamboyant overuse of photos in todays post, I also apologize for the absence of a post yesterday - but holy hotcakes, these are some smoking hot shots, and they were begging to be shared. So again I am sorry, I hope everyone can forgive the transgression. There are even more super great shots on the Winfield Roundup website. Take a look at Friday May 29th

So yep, normally I don't post anyone else's pictures - and most definitely don't post a gazillion of them in one day, but every once in a while one most over indulge. I hope you enjoy the shots, and like I said, be sure and check out that website for more! Me, I am going to print a few off and put them under my pillow. The tooth fairy used to pay pretty good for teeth, I wonder what the going rate is for hot Bucky and Rocky pics?

On a completely self serving note, I have a perfect trifecta of shows coming up in July. I am absolutely thrilled to be able to attend 3 Bucky shows in 1 week. I will be "dating" Bucky in 3 states over the week of July 6-13, chasing him from IL to WI to IA. I promise to attend fully armed with cameras and to report back any and all Bucky related activity. Just a wee bit under a month until the "date"s, I hope Bucky is looking forward to it as much as I am .

Added: This last shot has left me both rather amused and perplexed. Click on it to see a larger version, and feel free to leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts! (hint: bud lite)

Bucky on the Big Screen!

2008-06-05T22:55:00.010-05:00

While I am sure it won't be nearly enough screen time for us diehard fans, Bucky has been offered a roll in Miley Cyrus' upcoming film -

LYRIC STREET ARTISTS BUCKY COVINGTON AND MARCEL TO APPEAR IN THE NEW HANNAH MONTANA MOVIE

Nashville, TN- Life will imitate art for Lyric Street recording artists Bucky Covington and Marcel when the two appear as musicians in the upcoming Hannah Montana feature film. Their appearance comes at the personal invitation of Billy Ray Cyrus.

"I've never been on a movie set so I don't know what to expect," said Bucky. "I've always been a fan of Billy Ray's music and it really is an honor for him to ask me to be a part of what is sure to be the biggest movie released next year."

In addition, the Marcel and Tony Mullins penned song "Backwards" will also be featured in the movie.

"I had heard early on that they were planning to make the song 'Backwards' a part of the movie," said Marcel. "That was really cool, and then to get the phone call from Billy Ray asking me to be in the movie, this is going to be really amazing."

Hannah Montana: The Movie, starring Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus, is currently filming in the pair's home state of Tennessee. The film is scheduled for release in theaters in 2009.

To learn more about Bucky Covington, log on to www.buckycovington.com or www.myspace.com/buckycovington. To learn more about Marcel, log on to www.myspace.com/marcelchagnon.

Lyric Street Records is a part of the Disney Music Group. The Disney Music Group is the recorded music and music publishing arm of the Walt Disney Studios.

So this is rapidly sizing up to be a fantastic week for him, with FanFest through the weekend AND a movie deal - wahoo! Release date 2009 - anyone besides me wondering if it is too soon to get in line? His new single "I'll Walk" is heating up the charts primed to break that Top 40 barrier which is guaranteed to bring in more stations, and "It's Good To Be Us" and "A Different World" are still making the rounds on the airways as recent visits to YES.com have shown.

If you have a few minutes check out Bucky's myspace (linky over ----> there), he has posted a blog asking us what we might like to see in the way of merchandise, and folks are certainly sharing their thoughts. The general consensus is that ANYthing with either a photo of Bucky or Bucky's name would be a big hit, but we are giving him a few more directions to go beyond that.

And don't forget for those of you in the heart of CMA FanFest, tomorrow will bring Bucky from 1:30-3:30 at his booth, and don't forget the concert Sunday night at LP Field.

Getting Back on Track

2008-06-04T20:30:00.007-05:00

Greetings all. I am going to try and get this derailment back on track. I apologize to the readers for the absence, there have been some family issues that have consumed much of both my time and thoughts. Nothing earth shattering, no one is dying or being born, just an accumulation that kept building up until enough was enough. BUT - as they say...enough about me!

Our boy Bucky Covington should be sitting somewhere around Nashville at this time, either wandering the Fan Fest and chatting, or enjoying a little down time at his house before the booth tomorrow and Friday. Be sure and check in at 2008 CMA Music Festival for updates, photos, and then you can check out 2008 CMA Music Festival for all the great fan gear you missed out on. Since I am *NOT* going to be a the biggest bash that country music sees yearly - I figured I should be happy I am not going. Thusly I bring you :

"Top 10 Reasons I am Happy I am Not Going to FanFest"
1o. Can save my sunscreen money and put it towards gas instead.
9. Don't need to lug around AND keep track of my "stuff" (see previous post)
8. Don't need to listen to the hubby whine as I drag him from one end of the fest to the other just to check and make sure I am not missing something really important.
7. Didn't have to battle it out with 1000's of other fans for a coveted motel room.
6. Don't need to worry about being stuck behind the tall guy with the cowboy hat.
5. I can work and save up $ for my upcoming "dates with Bucky"!
4. I don't need to worry about missing Bucky's concert because I got lost on the way there when I stopped to talk to Jason Michael Carroll.
3. I need not worry that the person in front of me or behind me might be FAMOUS and I don't recognize them.
2. I can keep my concert shirts clean for another week.
1. I will enjoy recaps and photos TWICE as much as I would if I went myself.

Soooo there we have it. I am thrilled that I am not going, you couldn't drag me there dangling Bucky 5 feet in front of me the entire way, nope nope. Alright, I give - I wish I was there and I think that speaks for all of us who aren't going. I hope all the Buckaneers have a safe and wonderful time, bring back pics, memories and some new Buckaneers! I will be thinking of y'all!

Bad Blogger....

2008-05-29T21:39:00.002-05:00

I apologize for the absence, lots going on right now on a personal level, and I just cannot dedicate the time to the blog for the time being. If you need your Bucky fix, please check the links to the right. Also pay a visit to Buckytown, USA for upcoming shows, news blurbs, concert pics and tons of other goodies.

Hugs to all. I will be back as soon as I am able to commit the time needed.

Catching Up

2008-05-11T23:18:00.002-05:00

Hi all! I want to sincerely apologize on behalf of my telephone service for last weeks absence. Dial up and noise on the line do NOT mix, and I was unable to connect at all. Lots happened in my absence though, so I will spend the next day or so catching up.

The first big thing I saw when I was able to get online is that Winnie over at Buckymania has been offered a new opportunity. As a result she is closing her Buckymania blog, but the archives (blogger willing) will remain for all to see. Winnie, we love you and will miss your daily musings, friendship and the occasional bit of rational advice when we stray just a wee bit off the path of being a good fan. Please don't be a stranger, Bucky and the rest of us are lucky to count you among our friends and we would all hate to loose that. Wishing you the best Winnie!

I would also like to welcome Fran to the blogging world. Fran has set up house over at Buckytown, USA and is still getting things settled in but her blog is shaping up to be a real winner. Stop over and say hi, and check out the helpful links she has graciously shared.

It has been nearly 1 week since Bucky Covington's 3rd single hit the ground running with its official release May 5th. We are back to pounding the keyboards and dialing digits to request the song to our local (and sometimes not so local) stations. "I'll Walk" is showing a steady climb upwards, sitting today at #51 on the Mediabase Top 500, and #53 on the weighted chart. The bullets are looking GREAT for a new release, so lets get busy and light up those request lines. This single is definitely a hit song in the making, so lets help get it there!

I will be back tomorrow with photos and more news, again I apologize for the absence. Sweet Bucky dreams to all!

Technical Difficulties

2008-05-08T18:50:00.002-05:00

Please excuse the lack of updates. I am experiencing technical difficulties and they should be repaired tomorrow (fingers crossed).

Meanwhile - get your requests in for I'll Walk to your local radio stations! It should have officially been released, so the time has come~

*If it has not been officially released, I apologize. A week without internet doesn't give me much in the way of current info!

DJ Training 101

2008-05-04T01:09:00.004-05:00

Today's post is about training your DJ. I know that sounds like a silly topic, but for those of us who's lives revolve around our favorite artist(s) a DJ is a very important friend to have. In all of my adventures requesting Bucky Covington's "It's Good To Be Us" or "A Different World" I failed miserably at striking up any sort of relationship with any of the DJs. It was surely not for a lack of effort, though I did call during the different shifts, and switched it around a bit so perhaps there was no traceable pattern which would work as a conduit for said relationship that never developed.

Now finally (and at a good time certainly with Bucky's new single knocking insistently at the door) I have selected and trained my DJ. I have actually been listening to him for years, as he ends up with the early afternoon/drive home shift plus Saturdays. My job dictates that I spend the majority of my working hours on the road, so naturally the times I am at work are spent listening to the radio. In my conversation mentioned previously, I dialed up the local DJ to thank him for playing Jason Michael Carroll's new single "I Can Sleep When I'm Dead". I thanked him, told him I looooooove the song and so on. End of phone call, moving on. The next time I heard it was exactly 1 week later and within minutes of the time it was played the previous week. Hmmm, well that is bizarre, what are the odds? So again I call, and thank him. It went something like this me: "Thanks!" him: "I was wondering if you would call" me "I listen when I am at work, so I caught it and called". End of that days interaction. The following day - same time AGAIN he plays it, I call - "THANKS!", he says "you're welcome" and talked a bit about a visit he had with JMC in Nashville (and what a darn nice guy he is!) and we hang up, me grinning to myself. Today he played it, I called.....he answered "You're welcome!" so I said thank you, chuckling to myself as I hung up. That ladies and gentlemen is how to train a DJ in 4 easy steps. Gotta love it! Shout out to Tyler Reese with Star 96.3, you rock dude! 96.3 Star Country

Have a few minutes to spare? Allow me to continue promoting my other addiction, check out Jason's very new video for "I Can Sleep When I'm Dead" over on CMT!
CMT : Videos : Jason Michael Carroll : I Can Sleep When I'm Dead

Collecting Rocks?

2008-05-02T00:14:00.003-05:00

Thanks to a heads up from Winnie (hi Winnie!) I ventured over to Steve Cook's journal to see what the latest and greatest on tour adventures are. While I cannot speak for the rest of the folks on the bus, it seems Steve is busy filling the bus full of rocks. I can actually identify with that problem, I have always liked pretty rocks and have a hard time walking by a nicely landscaped yard and not taking one home with me. I actually have 2 geode pieces that I just found a few weeks back landscaping a park. Given enough time I would have taken home all of the pretty ones. Mind you Steve is working to landscape his own yard (perhaps one day I will visit and steal one of those rocks for my own collection) while I just snag them for no apparent reason aside from liking to look at them. I rent so I won't be landscaping...in fact the two treasures from my last adventure are sitting on my microwave, I guess I could landscape it. Check Steve's journal for more about life on the road Steve Cook | Shiny Bass | Journal

On a quick Bucky note, I spoke to my local DJ today after calling him to thank him graciously for playing JMC's "I Can Sleep When I'm Dead" and requested that he play Bucky to continue appeasing me. He said he would see what he could do, but asked me about my thoughts on his new single. Caught completely unprepared I told him it was beautiful. Hindsight is 20/20, I am not sure I would sum it up as merely beautiful. Anyhow I asked if it was on the play list yep (NOPE!) and asked when they would be adding it. He was able to confirm that it is being officially released as a single this coming Monday, so hopefully that will help get it into play. I can't wait til I hear it in the regular rotation!

Bucky Withdrawal

2008-04-30T23:05:00.008-05:00

Sitting here tonight feeling sorry for myself. My next Bucky fix isn't until June and I have no idea how I am expected to survive until then. Really isn't that expecting a lot? I mean it has been exactly 18 days since my last Bucky show and it feels like it was 10 years ago. What is up with that anyhow? I know we all feel the same once the after show aura wears off. It takes a week or so for that to happen, but within 2 or 3 weeks the most recent memory suddenly feels decades old, and you are craving and plotting your next fix. I even dream of one day being retired (and wealthy!) and following the tour around the country for a year or 10. I am not entirely sure if this addiction (which I admit to fully!) is really any different than any other addiction, with the exception that our therapy group doesn't meet weekly, nor typically in person. We often meet online in any of the forums listed to the right, and occasionally in person at concerts.

You can spot us a mile away too, we glance at our M&G pass noting it is the same as the other dozen plus we have collected at home, and then start talking to some newbie Bucky fan about how this is our eleven-hundred-thousandth time meeting him and how smitten we still are to this day. We then assure them they will feel the same way, while plotting our eleven-hundred-thousand and first M&G. We often bring gifts (hint: chocolate seems to go over big!) or photos to share, and we always bring a hug. We can be seen wearing a variety of clothing, from our classic Bucky concert tees to the now endangered Carolina blue It's Good To Be Us shirts. Some of us dress up quite a bit more, something a bit flashy perhaps - I freely admit to "concert shopping" in the days before a show looking for just the right thing to wear. I also freely admit to hauling way too much stuff to the shows. I have the camera and the purse, nothing too complex but then I add the really cool new tee that they are selling (tan one with the moon, I love it!) and a soda or water, plus the photo I want signed, plus perhaps a poster that I grabbed on the way in. At the last show things were going fine and I was doing a personal inventory of my baggage when I noted I was missing my purse. I had left it over at the counter when I purchased a soda. So yep, I bring too much stuff. If you bring so much that you don't immediately notice you are missing something, then you brought too much.

Next time maybe I will just load it all into a shopping cart and bring that along. Plenty of time to think about it, next show isn't until June.

*The Captain America Idol print was the last thing I gifted to Bucky....no, it is not chocolate. Yes, he seemed to think it was cool - and I doubt he has any thing quite like it LOL. Apparently when Captain America died, his replacements' name was "Bucky". Someone created the print and crossed it over to AI, pretty cool!

Wouldn't It Be Cool...

2008-04-29T23:04:00.002-05:00

So I shamelessly admit I have entered the contest for tickets to the Stagecoach Festival. I have also entered both of the contests for the CMA Fan Fest (check CMT for a new contest with Keith Anderson as your tour guide!) If it involves airfare, a motel and passes - sign me up now! If I win, I will be there with bells on and cameras in tow. I promise to be a good fan and be on my best behavior, I will applaud all artists and treat them with respect. I also promise to treat fellow fans with respect unless they are extremely drunk and obnoxious - then I will treat them politely while evading their proximity as rapidly as possible.

So if I win, I will behave. I most certainly will. I will pack minimally (I only have so many Bucky shirts!) I will take my cameras everywhere and indulge the world with photos afterwards of my most excellent experience. I also promise to take far more photos of Bucky than of any other artist. I am not sure who I will take with me - perhaps the hubby, he is a big fan of country music. I might take my mom or my sister instead. They also love country music and have the added bonus of credit cards not attached to my own.

I know I am up against hundreds or even thousands of other entrants in these contests. I wish them good luck, but not quite as much good luck as I wish myself. I also expect the above behavior of them if they win. Indulge us all with photos (again heavy in the Bucky area) and behave in ways befitting a proper country fan. It would also be great if you wore Bucky t-shirts to the event - if you win and cannot find yours let me know and you can borrow mine. They are big, so should fit anyone either as a shirt or possibly a dress.

Wondering where to sign up to win the contests that I wish to win? Check out the following:

Indio CA - Stagecoach Festival Stagecoach Contest
CMT Ultimate Fan Experience CMT.com: The Ultimate Country Music Fan Experience Sweepstakes
CMT Keith Anderson Contest CMT.com: C'mon to Music Fest with Keith Anderson Sweepstakes

And like I said earlier - good luck! (just not as much good luck as I wish myself...)

Check Check, One Two - Check

2008-04-28T23:34:00.004-05:00

Yesterdays post was about the outdoor concert season (yippee!!!) One of the things that I appreciate about the outdoor venues is that they are seriously lacking in pre-show privacy. No disrespect to artists intended, but the outdoor venues allow the fans a more unique opportunity to see them a bit more casually. Specifically the outdoor venue sound check. I absolutely love watching the sound checks, things don't always go quite right and the artists may not be at their best, but it is a perfect chance for us to see that they in fact, are not perfect. A star at sound check is most definitely human, far more so than at any other point during the show. There is a wonderful vulnerability to watching them work as a team to get things just right before the big show. Thumbs up, down, fingers to the left and right. Everyone giving signals that would put baseball catchers and umps to shame, until the sound is just so. Sound check is also the perfect time to realize that the amps that just traveled halfway across the country to get here maybe didn't make the trip quite so safely. Sometimes stuff just plain old doesn't work after being broken down, loaded up, trucked to here from there, then hauled back off the truck. Again we get to see the vulnerability as a backup plan is quickly formulated for the end product, which as always is that "the show must go on".

So my word of advice is if you have a chance to catch Bucky or for that matter any of your favorite artists this summer in a festival setting, try and get there early and grab a seat. Watching the sound check is a rare treat that we are not often privy to. It also grants you a sampling of the upcoming show, some bonus photo ops, and the chance to share some "down" time with your favorite star and their band, seeing them just a bit more laid back, a bit more squirrelly, and often just a bit more wound up. Well worth arriving a bit early for!

Summer Lovin....

2008-04-27T23:23:00.007-05:00

Spring is mostly here, and the spring/summer concert season filled with a bevy of outdoor festivals is rapidly approaching. This is definitely my favorite concert season - I love the laid back nature of the local fairs and festivals, and am looking forward to my first multi-artist multi-day event as well. I am not doing it big like others, no Nashville - I am going to settle for a little gig they have going in Oshkosh, WI called Country USA Country USA Music Festival - Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Looks like it should be an awesome time - surely it won't be nearly as cool as the whole Nashville experience, but it should run a close second - plus it is around 500 miles closer.

On the charts Bucky is looking good with "I'll Walk" sitting #62 and 63 on the Mediabase charts. Still haven't heard it locally, but I am waiting. The DJ says "not on our playlist yet" nod - uhuh. Well hurry it up! On a brighter note they have added Jason Michael Carroll's 3rd single off his debut album, "I Can Sleep When I'm Dead" is getting fairly regular play and has been nailing it on the local Top 9 At 9 show. It well on it's way to the Top 10 on the charts as well, sitting at #28 on both the Mediabase charts today. Perhaps he is blazing a path for his former tour pal Bucky? Time will tell, but I really think "I'll Walk" has what it takes to move right on up.

You Want My Opinion?

2008-04-24T21:44:00.003-05:00

It seems that everyone has an opinion about something. Politics, recycling, global warming, war, education, crime - all things quite worthy of having an opinion about. You may even wish to express your opinion through action, words or pictures. My opinions? Not into politics, need to work on recycling, worried about global warming, the war sucks, I have had enough education thank you - and crime is stupid. That said, I am not anticipating much fall out from my opinions. I don't expect pages of replies or hoards of new visitors coming to tell me what is what, and why.

Where, when and why do people voice their opinion about someone else's opinion? It seems that negative words bring that reaction, if I were to say "all dogs are horrible" I might fan a flame or two and elicit responses to both educate me that I am wrong. A couple folks may even chastise me for what I said. Of course if you hate dogs, you might well cheer me on and wish me luck in the battle against dogs. What does this have to do with anything you ask?

Well, it seems like Bucky fans have been spending a lot of time defending him these last few days. With new singles come new reviews, and reviews are opinions. Not all of these reviews for I'll Walk have been what I would call "glittering". Some are downright less than polite, nearly inciting riots in Bucky fans as they rush to the rescue. The strange thing about reading these reviews (opinions) is that we all read them different thus developing our OWN opinion of that opinion. Some of us may even interpret it differently than it was intended. From reading the reviews, I have learned that apparently overall talent has to do with if you can write your own songs. It also has to do with the plausibility of the story - could this happen, why or why not, and what is wrong with the picture. If someone doesn't like the way you look, you're voice probably doesn't even matter since their mind is set. Get your start on a reallity show? Yep, that takes away credibility too. Spent 10 years bumping around playing local gigs? Well, that apparently should lift you up to the all-star rank even if it was just playing with friends in local taverns. This just your first album? That doesn't matter either, the first should be the best. And it continues, blah blah blah (insert audio clip of Charlie Brown's teacher here.)

Someone somewhere (probably someone famous with credentials) once said "opinions are like xxxholes, everyone has one". Truer words have never been spoken if you ask me. That said, one other thing I have learned is that you shouldn't mess with Bucky fans. You pick on Bucky and you are going to have 50 of us knocking on your door before you hit the send key to post your thoughts. We will defend him, fight for him, argue for him and represent him. We don't give up easy, and we do have a voice, a very loud one. So you naysayers are entitled to your opinion, but don't be shocked if a couple dozen of us show up to share ours too.

2008-04-23T22:09:00.006-05:00

Power Picks Loss, CMA Sweepstakes

2008-04-23T22:09:00.005-05:00

Bucky did not pull off the Power Picks win today. Congrats to Trace - if we have to lose, might as well lose to someone Bucky has toured with. Check back early next week for more matches, if things continue the way they have we should have at least one match the upcoming week.

If you are trying to figure out how to swing that trip to the CMA Music Festival check out CMT.com: The Ultimate Country Music Fan Experience Sweepstakes for a chance to win airfare, tickets, motel - the whole shebang. Looks like you can enter daily - I know I will be!

Bucky's next single is moving it's way up the charts even prior to it's big "release" (date still not determined). It is sitting pretty at #73 on the Top 500 chart and #66 weighted. Looks like this song is bound for Top 10 in no time!

CMA Fest, It's Good To Be Us

2008-04-22T21:08:00.007-05:00

The official word is out for the big CMA Fest - Bucky is on for Sunday June 8th. Tickets are now on sale, both single day passes as well as event long passes. If you can make the Fest, be sure and tell Bucky I said HI!

IG2BU has officially gone recurrent on the Radio & Records charts, but is still receiving major airplay. Slowly stations are testing the waters with I'll Walk, and as mentioned it should be on your local station soon. Bucky's official website has also wrapped up the IG2BU Contest, congrats to the Florida Shine group! Hopefully everyone will enjoy a short break before we start pounding the pavement (and phone lines) for I'll Walk.

I should point out that this blog was created as a result of that same contest. I named the blog after the song, and have posted on the behalf of Team Wisconsin while continuing the blog. While the contest may be over, the friendships made both at BCO and on the individual teams will go on. It is my intention to continue the blog indefinitely and allow it to continue it's tribute to Bucky. Now I may deviate slightly. I am first and foremost a Bucky fan, but also appreciate other country music and artists. In fact I have Bucky to thank for my newfound "Honky Tonk Friend" status. Without Bucky I would not have discovered Jason Michael Carroll who I absolutely adore as well as Cole & Shade Deggs. Bucky has also brought me both Luke and Dierks, neither of which I would have pursued previously yet both of which I have gained an appreciation for. So thanks to Bucky - this will remain a Bucky fan blog but will also become just a little bit more from time to time.

Power Picks Match, Tour

2008-04-21T21:41:00.006-05:00

Edited cleverly to change Bucky's daily photo to one that was NOT posted yesterday...

The dial up powers that be have graced me with the ability to post today, wahoo! Good thing too, as we have a Power Picks match this week that should be a difficult one for us to win. Wednesday brings us Bucky's "A Different World" going up against Trace Adkins "You're Gonna Miss This". For those of you that have not been watching the charts, that would be Bucky against the (now descending) most recent #1 hit from Trace. It is sitting at #1 and #2 on the Mediabase charts today, and should provide us with quite a challenge. Be sure to be ready on Wednesday at 11AM ET and recruit a dozen or so friends to help us out on this one. As the Power Picks voting window has been hacking up hairballs recently, please note a tip that was shared - hit F5 to refresh your screen.

Also if you have taken your blood pressure medication, feel free to chime in on an ongoing and heated discussion surrounding Bucky's next single, "I'll Walk" at Bucky Covington - “I’ll Walk” -- The 9513 . I personally do not take blood pressure medication, but felt a definite need for a consultation following the review and replies.

And lastly - if you have not yet had the chance, check Bucky's tour pages. The Throttle Wide Open tour is still going strong, and while Bucky's set may be short, the show is awesome and well worth the cost of a ticket. Be sure and catch Bucky, Luke and Dierks at a venue near you!

Technical Difficulties, I'll Walk

2008-04-20T22:47:00.004-05:00

Technical glitches have left my delightful dial-up connection occasionally desiring not to do what it is supposed to do, dial-up. I apologize in advance for any days you visit the blog only to find no new post. It has been my mission since beginning this blog to post daily. It may not be an entirely relevant post, it may be short or overly opinionated - heck, it may even be without a picture (I try to avoid that faux pas too) but it is is still posted.

One website has posted that the release date for I'll Walk is (was?) April 14th. We have received no confirmation of that from Lyric Street, nor has it been mentioned on Bucky's official website or blog. That said, it is slowly but surely walking it's way up the charts. It sits tonight at #86 on the Top 500, and #72 on the weighted chart. Both are showing those beautiful bullets and it should be hitting your local airways any day now. Will post updates as they come (as my technical difficulties permit!)

Tour Updates, I'll Walk Starts to Climb

2008-04-18T22:47:00.003-05:00

If you have not had a chance to do so in the past week or so, please check Bucky's tour page either at his official website or on his myspace (links to the right for both). Lots of dates have been added, and the outlook is good for most everyone! I personally have been inking in my upcoming dates with Bucky and urge everyone to do the same. Also if you have the opportunity - find a friend who is NOT a Bucky fan and bring them to a show with you! I have done that with 2 people (one vehemently dislikes the country genre) and have turned 2 fans so far with more hopefuls on the horizon. Basically if you can't sell it verbally - take them to a show and let Bucky do what he does best - sell himself. I have yet to see someone leaving a Bucky show with slumped shoulders and mumbling "well, that sucked...". It just doesn't happen. He has enough energy for the entire audience and emits it throughout the entire "experience" (doesn't that sound so much better than calling it a show?) So if you have a chance, bring someone along, let Bucky show them his stuff. I assure you those people will leave just as enthused as you and will continue to spread the word that everyone simply must see a Bucky show! (disclaimer: Bucky "experiences" are known to be highly addictive, blog author not responsible for delinquency, work missed, money spent or in any other way. One who seeks a Bucky "experience" assumes full responsibility and complete liability for oneself.)

Meanwhile over on the Mediabase charts, It's Good To Be Us is slowly making it's way backwards from it's top spot of #9 (hooray for breaking the top 10!) and I'll Walk is starting a slow crawl up the charts. It has not been officially added to stations as of yet, but they seem to be testing the waters and the results are very good! It now has a shiny new bullet and is up to #97 on the Top 500 chart and #83 weighted! To compare - last week the song was not even on the weighted list, and was #247 on the Top 500. This is shaping up just the way we hoped it would. It is moving up the charts, and it sounds like both the DJ's and the listening audience are liking it. Way to go Bucky on your 3rd single, and soon to be 3rd hit! And way to go fans for helping make it happen, as they would say down south - y'all are great!

Happy New Year?

2008-04-17T23:48:00.004-05:00

Well, if April 17th was the one year anniversary of Bucky's CD release - does that make today New Years? I suspect in many ways it does, though there won't be hats or champagne or noise makers. Today Bucky starts his 2nd year, and faces new award opportunities, new touring locations and more challenges which he seems to take without so much as a second glance. He will surely be working on a video for I'll Walk which will immediately become the new fan favorite, and the imminent Top 10 Spot (did you say #1?) on the charts it will eventually reside in. So even though it is April 18th, in many ways it is indeed a new year.

As such, I am going to ask you, challenge YOU to be an even better Bucky fan than you were before. Each and every day new fans are born, from radio play, videos, and also through the concerts. If you happen to stumble across one of these new fans, please tell them they have joined a very special group. Also let them know they are now a fan of the best guy in country music. Let them know about the fan club too, nothing we like better than a newbie there who has freshly discovered Bucky. The enthusiasm is contagious, and is enjoyed by one and all. So this year - be a better Bucky fan.

Happy Anniversary Bucky!!!

2008-04-16T23:04:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow is indeed the big day! We will celebrate Bucky's CD's 1st anniversary and think back about all that has happened in the past year. I know if you ask Bucky, it has been an amazing ride. The fans feel the same way and can never find enough ways to show their unending support. I know we each have our own memories of the past year - each fonder than the one before. I am going to try and list a few of the accomplishments from the past year. I invite everyone to reply with the many that I will miss, I am sure they number well into the hundreds so I will touch on just a few.

The past year has seen Bucky join not one, but 2 huge tours. From Raisin' the Bar with Jason Michael Carroll along with Cole Deggs & the Lonesome, to the current Throttle Wide Open tour with Dierks Bentley and Luke Bryan, he has entertained us and gained many new fans while continuing to enchant those of us who were there "back in the day". He also had the amazing opportunity to join Trace Adkins on tour as well as Sawyer Brown. He even got to open for Kenny Rogers! Bucky has toured the US both by bus and by plane and is likely learning his way around menu's and their regional differences (gotta love that 'mashed potatos/smashed potatos' moment) and has certainly learned that his fans are as wide spread geographically as they are vast in numbers.

Bucky in his first year also gained a major tour sponsor, thank you Zippo! It is so great to see others seeing what we have been seeing all along. He has attended awards shows (CMAs, CMT Awards, and more) and has even received one - who can forget that golden mouse from CMT? His debut album blew off store shelves and has continued at a steady pace even a year later. He was honored as one of the Country Radio Seminar New Faces, and received many kudos for both his songs and their videos. He has managed to "keep it real". He loves each and every fan and takes time to show it. He performed live at the 2008 CMT Awards and has had numerous items up for bid this past year in charity auctions. Bucky's heart of gold knows no limits, he is always ready with a smile and looks at everyone as a true friend.

To our friend Bucky - you are truly one of a kind, we love you and support you and will continue to do so for many many years to come. Keep on keepin' on!

Power Picks Win, CMT One Country Auction

2008-04-15T23:37:00.005-05:00

Yippee!!! We did it again, wrist braces and high fives to everyone! Bucky is two for two with no more matches this week. No word yet on next week, but I will be sure and post as soon as I find out any news!

CMT One Country is holding an auction post CMT Awards that has some awesome one-of-a-kind items up for bid. One that might catch your attention is a shirt which Bucky has graciously donated from one of his "pre-fame" performances on American Idol. The item is described as a jacket, but it sure looks like the shirt he wore for Real Good Man (I am sorry Tim McGraw, but every time I hear you sing it now, I see Bucky!) Be sure to check it out and take a peek at the other auctions as well CMTauctions.com - Country Music Television Auctions

The challenge issued yesterday is gaining some serious momentum on the official Bucky Covington message boards and the word is spreading on Myspace. Don't miss out on this opportunity to help boost Bucky's sales! April 17th is the 1 year anniversary of our favorite artists very first CD. Get out there and buy a copy for yourself, and buy one or two as gifts. No one to gift it to? Some fans are looking to send a copy overseas to the amazing soldiers who are working so hard to protect our freedom, others are going to "pay it forward" and gift one to a complete stranger to make their day. However you choose to celebrate the big day, make sure it includes a new Bucky CD!

Power Picks, CD Challenge, CMT (non)Awards

2008-04-14T23:35:00.006-05:00

We have a Power Picks challenge Tuesday! Showtime is 11AM ET, so be front and center and have your clicking fingers ready. Looks like Bucky's It's Good To Be Us is up against Jack Ingram's Measure of a Man. Lets get everyone on board for this one and win it for Bucky!

Bucky fan's are issuing a challenge to all. April 17th is the 1 year anniversary of Bucky's freshman release of his most rockin self titled CD. Bucky is hovering around 350,000 sales give or take a few thousand, but the challenge is extended to one and all to celebrate the anniversary by purchasing a CD if you are able to, or even a couple (they make great gifts, honest!) If we can do this, we may be able to push it GOLD. I know of at least a handful of fans who will be celebrating the anniversary by boosting those sales, so we challenge YOU to do the same. Spread the word as well, the more the merrier as always!

Tonight brought us the long awaited and diligently voted for CMT Awards Show. I am sure that by now it is old news, but Bucky was nominated and Kellie Pickler took his award home. If I had to pick I would have chose Bucky to take the award home. Oh wait, I did pick. What the heck? I guess other people picked too. Anyhow - congrats to Kellie, and to Bucky - consider this your training for next year when we send that belt buckle home with you and hopefully many other awards!

Bucky Buzz Part Deux

2008-04-14T00:10:00.002-05:00

I do have to say, that is one pretty spiffy bus that Bucky is touring around in now thanks to Zippo's generous sponsorship. In Rockford out of the three tour buses, only one stood out, only one was "wrapped", and only one was Bucky's. I did not get a chance to see Bucky near the buses, but I did see Don briefly (he was wearing shorts, and it was snowing out!) The security kept us moving along, so no lingering/stalking was allowed, but I was very grateful for the chance to take photos of the bus and said so to the poor shivering man stuck with outside security duty.

So I am still coming down from my "Bucky buzz". I have sorted through the pictures, and sure enough nearly half were not much to brag about. That leaves a lot though that I am working on sharing either via the blog or moving them to my photobucket, or both. If you click on the bus photo it will take you to the photobucket where you can check out what is being (slowly) added. Gotta love that dial up!

I am mildly bummed that Bucky and I will not be having another date until June or July. That may change if I choose to travel for one of our liaison 's, or if he chooses to schedule a show (or 3, I am not picky!) closer. I want to thank everyone in advance for the recaps and photos that will help to tide me over until then. I promise to repay the favor when the time comes. Have a great week!

My "Date With Bucky"

2008-04-13T00:45:00.000-05:00

Tonight was the night of my long awaited "date with Bucky". I have to say other people showed up - maybe a couple thousand, but they did not detract too much from the evening. I do need to point out to those couple thousand people though - I did not come to see them. They need to sit down, or stand up - but they need to stay put. We had aisle seats - great for an unobstructed view - when it was unobstructed, which wasn't all that often. Apparently someone left a trail of popcorn from somewhere down yonder, to somewhere up yonder - which all the hamsters felt the need to follow repeatedly. The beer was flowing freely, so some of the hamsters dallied a bit en route, others stumbled, others simply stood there wondering what they should do (hint: move!). I am sure all these hamsters paid their way in as we did, but again I need to mention - I did not pay to see them. I paid to see Bucky, and got a bonus Luke and Dierks thrown in for good measure...

I did manage to take (gasp) 2063 pictures. I need to sift through them, which will surely cut the number in half (lots of pictures of those traveling hamsters). I got to use my shiny new camera - which sports a fantastic 28.7x optical zoom when maximized (wahoo!). Bucky's set was as mentioned in previous reviews - short, painfully so. It consisted of American Friday Night, A Different World, I'll Walk, Suspicious Minds, The Wall, It's Good To Be Us, and Bible & the Belt. I may have missed a song, and that is not the set order - but it was an excellent set nonetheless. The acoustic hiccups mentioned in other reviews were not audible, Bucky definitely played "over" the band rather than under, and it all came together nicely. I need to say I missed the Bucky/Rocky duet with Every Rose, but Rocky did step up during IG2BU and gave me a decent fix.

So nothing like starting in the middle...Luke actually started off the show. He has a fiddle player who rocked and made me wish I had caught one of the shows that Caitlin joined Bucky for. Luke's set was also short, but full of energy. He did treat us to Good Directions, which is the entire reason I brought Billy Currington's CD. I had no idea Luke wrote it, but it was great to hear him sing it! The main act, Dierks had a much larger following at the show and got everyone off their feet for most of his show. He is full of energy too, and complimented Luke and Bucky well. I am hoping watching him work the stage is a preview of Bucky once he gets to design his own stage sets. Dierks ran faster than I have ever seen anyone move in cowboy boots, and worked the crowd well. The finale - Folsom Prison brought all the boys back out. I had a spiffy video of it, until a diligent event staff member nailed me and made me delete it (she said she had to watch me do it!) I guess I don't think well under pressure because it is gone. Could have been worse, she could have asked for the memory card (Eeek!)

So the show rocked, it needed far more Bucky, but it still rocked. The meet and greet was short, but also awesome. We had to actually ride up the elevator to it and Terra was our escort, so had a chance to talk to her and gave her a pic of Rocky from a prior show which she appreciated. Did not see Katherine anywhere, but I am sure she was around someplace. Enough for now!

Top 5, Top 10 - What Next?

2008-04-12T00:56:00.001-05:00

Congrats to Bucky on his first two singles going Top 20. A Different World made it to #5, and It's Good To Be Us #9. The numbers on Mediabase indicate that It's Good To Be Us may well have crested, and be starting it's descent back down the charts. Does this mean we should stop requesting Bucky? Is that all she wrote?

Heck no! Keep requesting, request It's Good To Be Us and request A Different World. Both are still getting well deserved airplay, and we absolutely love hearing Bucky's songs on the radio. By now many of us have even gotten to know our DJ's on a first name basis. Keep those relationships going! In just a few short weeks "I'll Walk", Bucky's next single will be hitting the airways and we will be pounding the pavement (and phone lines) to promote it. You're DJ relationships will once again come into play, so don't take them off speed dial or delete them from your email lists.

Keep requesting Bucky, but take a bit of a break and catch your breath - conserve your energy for the next big push. It's Good To Be Us enjoyed a nice loooong run on the charts, and I'll Walk deserves the same.

Power Picks Win, Last Chance!

2008-04-11T01:01:00.000-05:00

I am absolutely thrilled to say that we (finally) won our Power Picks challenge today. Way to go all! This is a huge step for It's Good To Be Us, and may even help us nudge it back into the Top 20 Countdown. It is also a super way to kick off the weekend, but before you get too busy celebrating - head over to CMT and be sure and get your votes in for the CMT Music Awards. Your time runs out Friday night, so be sure and have your say NOW! Registration is free, and it is one vote per registered name - this makes it extremely important that each and every one of us gets our vote in.

On the heels of our Power Picks victory, we need some major help with radio requests for It's Good To Be Us. Our bullets are still missing, and showing very little hope for being resurrected without a major request campaign. That said remember the challenge issued yesterday - we have seen a lot of ups and downs on the chart, but we always bounce back. Pick up your phone and call your local DJ, let them know we need more "It's Good To Be Us". Lets get that bullet back and bring Bucky into the Top 10 again.

Personal side note - my "date with Bucky" is Saturday! I can't wait, promise recap and pics and more pics - I did score the increasingly endangered "Meet & Greet" pass too, yippee!

Request, Request, Request

2008-04-10T01:36:00.000-05:00

These cute little faces are asking you to please call your local DJ repeatedly through the next few days and ask them to play "It's Good To Be Us" by Bucky Covington. Please remember to thank your most excellent DJ's for meeting your requests. We are losing plays left and right, so it is up to us to let the radio world know we are not ready for the decrease! We dipped into the Top 10, and darned if we don't belong there. We need to work to get back there though, and it is going to take a few days of hard work to do it.

I am issuing the same challenge that Buckymania! and The Covington Times have put forth. We together challenge you to call in your daily requests on your local and live stream stations and all the night time syndicated shows. I would like to also ask that you not forget those lunch hour all-request shows and the drive-time request shows. Each play counts, so request it where and when you can, as often as you can! Together as a group, we can push this song up up UP!!!

The cute little guys who are begging you today are the Bucky Buddies in progress. Watch later in the week for an update to the Buddies site as to what we have been doing, what we have going - and how much closer we are to our version of "The Big Give" (ok, it isn't so big, but it should mean a ton to the kids we can share it with).

Thursday Power Picks!

2008-04-09T01:06:00.000-05:00

I almost thought we were going to go through a week with no Power Picks, but Thursday brings us a match of "It's Good To Be Us" against none other than Jason Aldean's "Johnny Cash" (again!). Looks like it will be the 2nd match, so be ready at 11AM ET Thursday and help click Bucky to victory!