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"COUNTRY SPIRIT"
July 5th and 6th, was two days of enlightenment for me. We had planned a benefit to help fund the Child Alert Foundation, an organization that locates missing children. We did not have Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson or Loretta Lynn. We had names like, Joe and Tamra Tinoco, Hanna Michal, Faye Martin, Hoyt Hughes and Jesse Zane. Maybe the names are not familiar to you, but I hope you get to know them before this letter is finished. I am not just referring to talent, but real determination and a Spirit of giving. The performances began at noon and went well after midnight. Performers who travelled from Florida, Georgia and Nashville, all donating their time AND paying their own expenses. Most even donated a portion of CD sales to the charity. These were independant performers, who struggle daily against the odds for a shot at Nashville. The producers were absent, the record executives were not in attendance, no one from the CMA came. But they performed, and sweated and continued to perform time and time again. They asked for nothing in return, only a chance to perform. I learned very quickly that the future of Country Music was in good hands. I was renewed in the sence that Country Music would survive and have a bright future. I felt in my heart that Ernest Tubb, Patsy Cline and my dear friend, Mel Street would be proud of every performer there. It wasn't about being better than the other person, or being the best singer. It wasn't about how many fans rushed you for an autograph. It was all about helping others. Its about Country Music and what it means to us all. With all the bad press lately about Country Music, you may think I am crazy to be positive about it's future. Maybe......Maybe I am, but I witnessed a glimpse of tomorrow, and what I saw, was a future filled with hope and success. Tomorrow looks good from where I stand...... Written By: Jimmy Williams E-Mail:jadkins@blueriver.net |