What a great time it is to be a fan of Randy Travis and his incredible musical prowess. 'Faith in You' has been echoing from car radios across the nation, 'The Wager' was just recently released on DVD to critical acclaim, and we are getting extremely close to the release of 'Around the Bend.' July 15, 2008 will truly be a day solidified in the history of country music, as the guiding light of the genre himself partners with Warner Music Group once again on an all new release.

The amount of radio and television exposure that Randy and his impressive catalog of hits have been receiving is gratifying. Residing in Connecticut, I have personally heard DJ's commending Randy's return and drive to continually succeed. Hearing Randy speak out in podcasts and radio interviews via the Internet is also a nice treat. After a new wave of fresh faces stepped into the country scene while Randy focused on Christianmusic, it is great to see the throne reclaimed. As some great singer once said, There's no place like home.

Team Travis has been doing a phenomenal job in fueling the promotional machine behind Randy's return as well. Securing appearances on TV broadcasts, radio, as well as heavy advertising through social networking websites like MySpace are actions that are reminding the casual Randy fan what a powerhouse he was and is in the studio. The constant maintenance they are providing on the website and the chronic updates/uploads are something that this website had been lacking. Randy Travis now has a tangible web presence with a cargo load of information and facts.

I would like to take a brief moment to give my honest critique of the DVD release 'The Wager' starring Randy Travis and a host of seasoned actors. Randy impressed me greatly with his acting ability and dedication to a role. You could tell that Randy truly became this character once the film started rolling. After being missed by many (especially myself), we saw the return of Candace Cameron-Bure (DJ Tanner of Full House fame). She played her role as the high-maintenance, flirtacious, and bubbly actress to perfection, and worked well with Randy. Nancy Stafford also complemented Randy well as his community-bettering sister, Annie. Writer Judson Morgan Pearce allows the viewer to see the tight bond and unwavering trust that Randy's character, Michael Steele, and Annie have for one another. This type of angle is important for this style of film. As Michael Steele becomes tested by relationship problems and false accusations, his one cornerstone, his one rock to lean on, is his sister. Nancy did it well and Judson's writing was superb. I do not want to spoil too much of this film, because it is a great watch for those heavy into relgion and those who may be more lax. I highly recommend you grabbing a copy.

In my previous blog, I suggested a studio recording of 'You Can't Beat the Real Thing' from Randy's 80s Coca-Cola commercial. After receivimg some rather interesting e-mails supporting this, I e-mailed Coca-Cola corporate with the suggestion. No answer from them as of yet, but hopefully they'll peruse through my message at least.

Speaking of Randy Travis and marketing, I know I am very excited about Randy appearing on QVC on June 9th at 11 PM. A bonus CD will be included with the 'Around the Bend' pre-order?! What will be on it? Will it be re-recordings of classic songs? Exclusive new material only available in this offer? A video disc with music videos? I guess we evidently have to wait to see, but it promises to be gold whatever it may be. Definitely check that out.

Now on to a little e-mail & comments...

Welcome Back Anthony. I have missed your blog. Glad to know everything is going well for you again.

- Kaylee

Thank you Kaylee. It is good to be back among the Randy Travis fan community. This fan club should be a fun time as well when it launches!

Hi Anthony. Do you have any idea when the Randy Fan Club will start up or any features??? Love your stuff.

- Thomas Willington

I hear it should launch very soon. Not sure on the exact features, but knowing Randy and his team...it should be quite the experience!

I REALLY ENJOY ALL OF YOUR BLOGS MAN. MY WIFE AND I LOVE FOREVER AND EVER AMEN. WE ALSO ARE STARTING TO GET INTO THE MAN AINT MADE OF STONE ALBUM. WHATS YOUR FAVORITE ON THERE?

- Sideshow Bob

The title track on that album is pure gold, along with the music video. 'Sometimes all it takes..is facing the night alone...' Haha. I love it.

Do you know the exact date of the new Randy Travis album? Would you like to be my MySpace friend??

- Amber

July 15th. And you have been friend requested. :-)

I love the Coca Cola commercial with Randy Travis. I have it on an old movie tape I recorded off of TV back in the day and even my kids love it!

- Florence

Cool to hear. I am looking for a high quality digital copy, as all I have is a low quality VHS rip myself.

I really love that video for that Turn It Around song. When does it come out?

- Gary Henderson

Haha thanks. That is just an unofficial little video promo I made. I am not sure if the song will have an actual music video, but if it does, I would guess late June or early July. I received positive comments from Matt Kennon who wrote the song, on the editing of that video. Very proud of his work.

Keep those e-mails coming! And July 15th, you seem closer than ever. Long live the illustrious career of Randy Travis.

Until next time,

Forever and Ever Amen,

Anthony

anthonymaurizio2k2@yahoo.com
http://www.myspace.com/kid_dynamite85