Across the Country with Amanda

Top Story: Megan Moroney and Ella Langley are making headlines for becoming the first country artists to simultaneously top the all-genre Billboard 200 and 100 charts. I dive into every album and song that has achieved success on those charts.

Trending Stories: I dive into this week's biggest stories in country music including new music from Kacey Musgraves.

On the Record: I'll share my thoughts on Vince Gill's new EP, plus look back at a classic from Hal Ketchum.

Host Amanda Tempel is a nationally syndicated radio host. Find more details on where to listen and discover even more country music news at AcrossTheCountry.com.

In this episode of Across The Country With Amanda, we dive into "Better Man," the second single from The Warren Brothers' debut album, Beautiful Day in a Cruel World. Despite its low peak at 32 on the country charts, "Better Man" remains a standout in their catalog. The episode also highlights the Warren Brothers' successful songwriting careers including cuts from major artists like Faith Hill and Tim McGraw.

00:00 Introduction to Better Man by the Warren Brothers

00:10 The Warren Brothers' Early Career

00:46 BNA Records in the '90s

01:23 Better Man: The Song and Its Impact

02:07 Songwriting Success in the 2000s

02:35 Recent Activities and Personal Stories

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In this episode of Across the Country with Amanda, Amanda reveals her top contenders for the 2025 Country Music Hall of Fame's Modern Era category. She discusses a range of artists who achieved national prominence at least 20 years ago, highlighting their significant contributions to country music. Featured artists include Steve Wariner, Roseanne Cash, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Shania Twain, and many more. Amanda also makes her pick for the 2025 inductee, praising their innovative impact on the genre. Tune in for insights and predictions on future Hall of Fame members.00:00 Introduction to the Modern Era Category00:43 Overview of Recent Inductees01:13 Underrated Artists from the 80s02:15 Influential Women in Country Music04:01 The 90s Country Music Boom04:45 Future Hall of Fame Inductees05:03 2025 Predictions

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In this episode of Across the Country with Amanda, Amanda explores Martina McBride's 1999 album Emotion. Highlighting how the album stood out during a competitive era in country music, Amanda discusses its deeper themes, unique production quality, and chart successes like "I Love You." She also covers Martina's significant moments at award shows and how the album contributed to her career surge. The episode provides a nostalgic look at the impactful music and performances of Martina McBride, making a case for why Emotion still resonates today.

00:00 Introduction to an Underrated Album

00:59 Setting the Scene: Martina's Career in the Late 90s

02:18 The Release of 'Emotion' and Its Impact

03:52 Martina's Milestone Moments

05:23 Chart Success and Continued Dominance

06:58 Production Insights and Crossover Success

08:27 Reflecting on 'Emotion' and Its Legacy

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In this episode of Across the Country, Amanda discusses the underrated Conway Twitty song "She's Got a Man on Her Mind" from his Even Now album. She explores how Conway Twitty was able to naturally adapt to the contemporary 90s country sound of the time without seeming out of place. Plus, find out which country singers, including a future hall of famer, provide background vocals. Tune in to discover more hidden gems in country music and subscribe for more episodes.00:00 Introduction to Underrated Country Songs00:14 Spotlight on Conway Twitty00:57 The back-story of "She's Got a Man on Her Mind'"01:55 Conway Twitty's Impact and Legacy02:21 Where to Find The Song

2025 Veterans Picks for Country Music Hall of Fame | Across the Country with Amanda

Radio Personality Amanda Tempel dives into her picks for the 2025 inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame in the Veterans category. She also explains the Hall of Fame election process, including the different categories and the voting procedure. Additionally, she discusses the Hall of Fame's medallion ceremony and past surprise performances honoring inductees. Amanda highlights notable classic country artists and their contributions to country music.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:10 Understanding the Election Process

01:03 The Voting and Induction Ceremony

02:14 Special Performances and Surprises

03:35 The Backlog and Special Inductions

04:19 Veterans Category: My Top Picks

12:09 My Top Pick

13:08 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion

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Carly Pearce's album Hummingbird, is a bright spot for contemporary country music. In this episode, I discuss how she blends storytelling, musical arrangements, bluegrass roots, and touches of humor, resulting in a mainstream masterpiece. Tune in to discover why this album is a must-listen!

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This series explores underrated country songs that missed the top 20, delving into their backstories, chart history, and radio impact.

In this episode, we look back at Sons of the Desert and their song "Albuquerque." Known for their rich harmonies, the band first made waves in 1997 with "Whatever Comes First", a top-ten hit.

They also contributed background vocals for artists like Ty Herndon and Lee Ann Womack, even winning major awards for I Hope You Dance. Despite label disputes and an unreleased album, "Albuquerque" found its place on their 2000 album Change under MCA Records. Sons of the Desert eventually disbanded in 2002, but lead singer Drew Womack later became the frontman for Lonestar.

A hidden gem of '90s country, "Albuquerque" stands out for its haunting, pensive style—showcasing why this group remains one of Nashville’s most underrated vocal acts.

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Host Amanda Tempel is back with a big update! Across The Country With Amanda is branching out and is now also a syndicated radio show. Learn where you can listen to the show, the format, and all the exciting details in this episode!

The ACM Honors are happening on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, and I have your honoree preview.

In This Episode:

Find country music news and interviews at AcrossTheCountryWithAmanda.com.