The Boot News Roundup: Maren Morris Named Texas Music Project Honorary Chairwoman + More
Welcome to The Boot's News Roundup, a morning rundown of the news country music fans need to know. Read on to learn more about the latest goings-on in the country, Americana, bluegrass and folk genres.
Native Texan Maren Morris has been named honorary chairwoman of the Texas Music Project, a non-profit that supports music education for students across the state. According to the organization, a young Morris attended a songwriting camp sponsored by the Texas Music Project 11 years ago, and per the Dallas Observer, the organization raised funds to send her to a Grammy songwriting class as a teenager. In her role as honorary chairwoman, Morris will assist the Texas Music Project in "spreading the word on saving the arts in Texas."
"Folsom Prison Blues," "Jackson" and "Cry, Cry, Cry" are among 14 classic Johnny Cash tunes that will be re-imagined for the 88th release of Rockabye Baby, a series of albums that turn popular songs into lullabies. Set for release on Feb. 23, Rockabye Baby: Lullaby Renditions of Johnny Cash will debut around what would have been the Man in Black's 85th birthday.
Garth Brooks, Chris Stapleton, Brad Paisley and Jason Aldean have been announced as performers for the 2018 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Hosted Feb. 27-March 18, the event will also feature performances from Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town, Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett, Chris Young, Cody Johnson, Zac Brown Band and Keith Urban. Tickets for the individual concerts are on sale now.
Before Super Bowl LII kicks off in Minneapolis, Minn., Kelly Clarkson is set to perform twice. The singer will perform at a pre-party open only for Super Bowl ticketholders the weekend of the big game, and she will return for a performance inside U.S. Bank Stadium before Super Bowl LII begins. Super Bowl LLI is set for Feb. 4.
Heads up, mobile gamers: Big & Rich have officially launched Git Big $ Rich Casino, a free casino-style smartphone game that will allow fans to accumulate "loyalty points" that can be redeemed for Big & Rich gear. “We are excited about the debut of our casino game," the duo's Big Kenny says in a press release. "Now, go get this sucker, and let’s rock that spin button.” Git Big $ Rich Casino is available for download via all digital app stores.