Archive for November, 2009

Fashion After Dark struts into Nashville with 2-part event~

Fashionistas have been in heaven since Fashion After Dark strolled into Nashville Saturday night. Elizabeth Scokin; model, philanthropist and event planner created the 2-day event. “An Evening of Enchanted Elegance” kicked off the fashion festivities Saturday night, as Lexus of Nashville was transformed into a fabulous event space for the charity fashion show benefiting The Minnie Pearl Cancer Foundation. Guests sipped cocktails, nibbled on canapés and watched some of Nashville’s top models walk the runway in evening wear by Argentian designer Gustavo Cadile.

The guests and front row seats included a whose who of fashion lovers from across the country. Among those pictured- event creator Elizabeth Scokin with Peter Bitzer, Houston’s Lindsay Love & Nancy Golden, Stephanie Beck Williams, Recording Artist Julie Garcia & Stylist/Dancer Ashlee Marie chowing down on some lamb, associate editor of Vogue Eve MacSweeney, Georgette Mosbacher hosting, Morelia & Manuel Cuevas, J. R. Roper, Aron & Courtney Leigh, Lyn Paulsin & Dorothy Shepherd, Maile Misajon & Meredith Carr, Carla Retief & Michael Stephanids, Ricardo Galan and Mack McClung with model Justina Karol.

The event was indeed fabulous, but the fashion festivities aren’t over yet. Tuesday night (tonight) Tiffany & Co, Levy’s, Miro District and Manuel are just a few of the many unique retailers and specialty shops opening their doors and giving 5% of proceeds to the
Minnie Pearl Cancer Foundation. For a full list of participating spots click HERE!

Seen in the City: Mickey Avalon, Kix Brooks, KOL & more

Celebrity cook Paula Deen and her family stopped by The Loveless Cafe Wednesday for a holiday photo shoot. On Thursday, she joined country singers Louise Mandrell and Montgomery Gentry, as well as the famed Rockettes for Gaylord Opryland’s lighting ceremony on the Magnolia Lawn to kick off their annual A Country Christmas holiday celebrations.

Kings of Leon’s Nathan Followill and musician Jessie Baylin tied the knot in Nashville last weekend. Actress Scarlett Johanson was among the celebs at the wedding. Nathan tweets, “My lips are swollen from all the smooching.” How cute! The couple also hung out Wednesday night with Bruce Springsteen after he performed at The Sommet center. It was Jessie’s 1st time to ever see The Boss!

Speaking of KOL, Monday lead singer Caleb Followill passed through Miro.
Shaun Bertrand (pictured), Andrew Bailey (pictured) and Aixclusive Party Kings have had several celebs pop by their Monday night party, Martini Monday. The party featured music by Don Juan and live painting by Muzik Mafia’s Rachel Kice (pictured). Among those pictured from the event are; Terry Hudson, Antonio Johnson & Jamie Woodruff, Eli Smith, Sarah Caddell & illusionist Harris III, Joel Hysmith, Kip Moore, Lindsey Nicole & Karen Higbee, Heide Rojas, Ali Frazmand and Ashley Puckett.

On Tuesday, Kix Brooks (of Brooks & Dunn fame) dropped into Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge on Lower Broadway, where he jumped on both the front and back stages for an impromptu performance. Kix then snapped a photo with two of Tootsie’s bartenders, before settling into the famous front corner booth to sip on Miller Lites and Crown Royal.

Mickey Avalon, Kesha and Beardo (all pictured) performed a wild show at 12th and Porter Wednesday. Country singer Jake Owen was among those in the packed crowd. Kesha utilized her stage time by cart-wheeling, pushing her band around and bringing out drag queen backup dancers, while sounding a bit like Peaches meets cheerleading camp. Nashville’s Justin Kase has jumped on the road with her as the touring band. I was amazed at the nice tour bus she rolled up in, the film crew that followed her every move and the fans that surrounded her for pics outside. I have a feeling this gal is about to be overexposed quickly. Beardo entertained the crowd next with a slew of cover songs, mostly about America. He also got caught up talking about how much Nashville likes to snort drugs, comparing snorting vicodin to a breakfast sandwich. Yeah, it was a bit overkill and too much for me. Finally, Mickey Avalon took the stage. Impressing the crowd with his skills and two sexy back up dancers. I love Mickey, but was disappointed that they played a recording of his famed song “My Dick” over the speakers, after he had left the stage. He came back out to sign autographs, but rolled out shortly after.

Also last weekend, the burlesque beauties of Panty Raid brought their moves to Exit In. Cirque performer Chris Lemon (pictured with The Spinderellas), who performed aerial while hanging by his hair, was among the special guests.

Grand opening for Nashville Center Stage

Brent Young & Chad Lauderdale hosted The Grand Opening Party/Concert for Nashville Center Stage this past saturday night with over 600 in attendance. Joe Hilton, Isaac Hayden, Chad Lauderdale, Ben Sturgell, Ty Herndon and Sixpence None The Richer were among those that performed at the new venue, that’s just across the street from The Cannery. DJ Anthem provided dance music after the live performances.
Photos by Tish Kinsey.

KOL & Taylor Swift Dine at Bound’ry: Update

Steph spies report that Country cutie Taylor Swift and lead singer of KOL, Caleb Followill, his girlfriend and some Industry insiders had dinner Friday night at The Bound’ry in Nashville. Taylor, who has had a big week after the CMA’s, was also spotted Thursday night at Tim McGraw’s screening of The Blind Side. The 19 year old was dressed in black and stuck to a diet coke and a white pizza for dinner. A wedding party sat close by and the stars were kind enough to sign autographs and take pics for the table.

On a side note, I am told Kings of Leon drummer, Nathan Followill and fiance Jessie Baylin will marry in Nashville Saturday. The bride to be donned a cowboy hat that read “Bride” at her bachelorette party Thursday night at the Lipstick Lounge on the East side.

If you see any celebs out and about email me by clicking HERE!!!

Taylor Swift & KOL dine together…

Steph spies report that Country cutie Taylor Swift and rockers Kings of Leon dines at The Boundry Friday night. Hmmm interesting, wonder if a collaboration is in the works…. more details coming soon!

On a side note, word around town is that Kings of Leon drummer, Nathan Followill and fiance Jessie Baylin will marry in town Saturday.

CMA Awards wrap and after parties~

The 43rd Annual CMA Awards took over downtown Nashville Wednesday night and Taylor Swift took home most of the honors. Taylor adds four CMA Awards to her collection, winning Entertainer, Female Vocalist, Album and Music Video of the Year at the awards show held at The Sommet center. By winning Entertainer of the Year, 19-year-old Swift is the youngest performer to ever win the honor and the first female to win since Shania Twain in 1999. “I’ll never forget this moment,” an emotional Swift said, “because at this moment everything that I have ever wanted just happened to me.” Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood hosted this years show, which boasted a list of performances by artists like; Kid Rock, Dave Matthews and George Straight. Among those pictured on the red carpet- Big Kenny & Christiev Alphin, Martina McBride with hubby John and Tim McGraw with his lovely wife Faith Hill.

After the Awards celebs, music insiders and such scurried off to various parties around town. Most of the music labels held private functions at their offices, which many of the stars headed to. I checked out the official CMA After Party at the convention center. The decorations, food, drinks, etc. were all top of the line. The dance floor and general admission area was packed. However, the VIP was nearly empty except for a few industry insiders. Julianne Hough, the Carter Twins, Trent Tomlinson and 2-Foot Fred were among those spotted at the official CMA After Party. Whitney Duncan, Jessie James and Sarah Buxton are just a few of the artists that took the mic on the large stage at the after party. CAA’s Jim Butler & Maribeth Abels, Shaun Bertrand, Chris Borchetta & Ashtyn Wallace and Hugh Lombardi, Brock Jones & Susan Clark of The Sommet Center are among those pictured from the event.

Next I headed over to The Spot, where John Rich was celebrating with a full house and band. Wynonna Judd hung on the couches chatting with folks for hours and Kid Rock made an appearance later in the night, early morning. Cowboy Troy, 2-Foot Fred, Manuel, Sinister from Daisy of Love (who recently moved to Nashville) and Bobby Pinson were also among those mingling in the room.

Upstairs from the Spot, The Zac Brown Band was having their own party. Big Kenny and Kid Rock were among the celebs I spotted there.

If you made it to any of the after parties feel free to share your celeb sightings with me by clicking HERE!!!

Kris Kristofferson, Taylor Swift, Bobby Pinson and more get top honors at BMI Awards~

The 57th Annual BMI Country Awards celebrated this years top hit makers Tuesday night in Nashville. The organization recognized the songwriters and publishers of the past year’s most performed BMI country songs. Taylor Swift’s Love Story raked in Song of the Year, while Bobby Pinson (All I Want to Do, Already Gone) was honored Songwriter of the Year and Brooks & Dunn received the President’s Award. Kris Kristofferson was crowned Icon of the year at the black-tie, invitation-only gala. Patty Griffin, Vince Gill and Willie Nelson all performed in Kris’s honor songs like; Bobby McGee, Help Me Me Make It Through the Night and Why Me Lord, which brought many in the crowd to tears.

Among those pictured- Little Big Town, Bill & Heidi Newfield, Miranda Lambert, Jason Aldean, Josh Turner, Jimmy Wayne, Kris Kristofferson, Lady A, Kristian Bush, Sarah Buxton, Rodney Crowell, the band Gloriana, The Band Perry, Kix Brooks & wife Brabara, Eric Church (who fell on stage and had to strut in his crutches at the event), Bill Anderson, Jason Michael Carol, Big Kenny, Taylor Swift, Ronnie Dunn, Keith Urban & Nicole Kidman, Lee Ann Womack and Sara Evans who walked the carpet with her brother. Miley & Billy Ray Cyrus had confirmed coming to the event, but didn’t show. Taylor Swift & Keith Urban were among those that opted to skip out on talking to TV crews. Carrie Underwood also opted to skip past media, but was spotted at the cocktail party.

The evening was absolutely gorgeous and everyone looked fantastic! Hopefully, no one stayed out too late CMA’s are only hours away!

Seen in the city~

Legendary country couturier designer Manuel finally received his deserving caricature at The Palm Monday night. His face now sits in the bar area, near the top corner of the doorway. The room was elbow to elbow with people; many in support of Manuel, some eating dinner and others doing CMA pressers. Among those pictured from the event- Manuel, model Justina Karol with Sarah Mason Walden, members of the band Gypsi, Jayne Rogovin and pals sporting Manuel clothing, Darius Rucker and Manuel giving me the traditional kissy picture. The unveiling was a complete surprise to the designer.

Manuel’s official after party was held at John Rich’s private bar, The Spot. Rich, who was recently announced as the Parade Grand Master of the 57th annual Nashville Christmas Parade, was hanging out. Rockstar, Kid Rock also came out to the bar.

Also on Monday, pro football collided with the world of pro wrestling at The Wildhorse Saloon. Titans defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch’s (pictured with his wife Lindsey) hosted the special TNA Live! event. Several Titans players came out in support of the event that benefits the SACK Foundation. Among those pictured- Rob Bironas with Tandra Kaldwell, Vince Young and Cortland Finnegan. The players didn’t actually wrestle, but rather announced winners, etc. However, Frank Wycheck did jump in the ring.

Dolly Parton held a press conference Monday for her new Live from London DVD/CD release. Fox 17’s Stacy McCloud spotted Carrie Underwood, Wynonna and Kid Rock backstage at the event.

Droves of people came out to Nashville’s Music Mile Sunday to watch as Kid Rock, Dolly Parton, Charlie Daniels, the late Ernest Tubb and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge founder Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess were given Music City stars. The latest inductees join nearly 50 other Nashville musical figures who have stars in front of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Later Sunday night, Kid Rock was spotted hanging at Tootsies Orchid Lounge. No word on if he jumped on stage to sing a tune, which is not uncommon for the rocker.

Guitarist, singer and songwriter Billy Burnette who was part of the band Fleetwood Mac was spotted last week with model Justina Karol at Whole Foods. Steph spies say Kings of Leon drummer, Nathan Followill and fiance Jessie Baylin (who plan on getting married any day now) were also in the grocery store. Maybe Jessie’s pal Scarlett Johansson will be in town for the big day?

The celeb sighting are just getting started, with BMI Awards tonight and the CMA Music Awards Wednesday. Thanks to all my readers for the scoops! If you see any celebs out and about email me by clicking HERE!!!

Kid Rock to duet with Jamey Johnson & more on CMA Awards~

Straight off the press:
NASHVILLE - The performer lineup for “The 43rd Annual CMA Awards” grows even stronger with the announcement today that Kid Rock will join four-time nominee Jamey Johnson in their first televised duet. Kid Rock will also present an Award during the evening. In addition, four-time Female Vocalist of the Year winner Martina McBride will also perform.

Nine-time CMA Award winners The Judds, Country Music Hall of Fame member Kris Kristofferson, and six-time CMA Award winner Lee Ann Womack have been added as presenters.

“The 43rd Annual CMA Awards,” hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, airs live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Wednesday, Nov. 11th.

Seen in the City~

Photobucket Country star Alan Jackson visited tons of fans at Cracker Barrel in Mt Juliet Monday morning.

Taylor Swift was seen dancing it up at The Ryman for Paramore Sunday.

Warren G and his crew stayed at he Hutton Hotel over the weekend. The regulator performed at HAunted Valley Saturday, then hung upstairs in Mai’s VIP.

Keith Urban played a free gig Friday night at Verizon Wireless’ Cool Springs store.

Speaking of Keith Urban, he and Nicole Kidman were spotted backstage at the KISS concert last Wednesday. Steph spies also saw a couple guys from 3 Doors Down at the showe, as well as Josh Todd from Buckcherry who hung out in the soundboard area during the rock show.

SNL’s Kevin Nealon grubbed at Pancake Pantry Friday, before performing at Zanies later that night.

Hillwood Strike And Spare hosted a benefit Thursday for Happy Tales Humane, which featured supermodel Niki Taylor as the costume contest judge.

Looks like Ben McKenzie from the OC was in Music City for several days. Sightings poured in from both; Hillsboro Village and Lime last week.

Lat Thursday, two of the guys from Daisy of Love were spotted in Home Depot in Berry Hill. Steph spies write, “I think it was that little bitty “Sinister” dude, and his wormy sidekick/buddy (whatever his name is). Don’t know what they were doing, other than piddling around, but Daisy was nowhere to be seen.” Ha!

NKOTB’s Jordan Knight was in a Nashville studio working on his upcoming solo project last week. He also held auditions Wednesday at Hollywood Disco in search of female singers.

Thanks for the scoops! If you see any celebs out and about email me by clicking HERE!!!