Josh Goodlett talks about balance family alongside music career

Josh Goodlett

Growing up in Taylorsville, Kentucky, Josh Goodlett was always drawn to music.  When he was 26 years old, he performed his first show in front of an audience at Aunt Bees.  It was that day at the ice cream and pizza shop in Georgetown, Indiana, that he would decide that he wanted to try a career in music.  These days, Josh has been burning up the road opening shows for the likes of Craig Campbell, Tyler Farr, and even Big Smo.  This Saturday, he will be part of the WFKY Froggy Field Party in Eminence, Kentucky.

While out on a radio tour, the first station that he heard his songs playing was one out of Louisville.  According to Josh Goodlett, "even though that was the first one, I will have to say that WFKY Froggy out of Frankfort has consistently played my singles.  I am very thankful for the support that they have given me."

Being a newcomer, Josh Goodlett has opened up for several popular acts in music.  When asked who has given him the best advice, one would be suprise that it was Big Smo, country-rapper making a name for himself.  "Big Smo was very influential," Josh recalls.  "He told me not to quit, play whenever, wherever, and get the music out there, even if it is free."  Another artist that has provided advice was traditional country artist, Ray Scott.  "I met Ray Scott at Unbridled Eve Derby Eve event.  We hung out and I know that I can text him with any questions.  He is one of those people that enjoys helping others.  He and Big Smo are guys giving back to others because they have been in that same spot," Josh said.

What can fans expect when they see Josh Goodlett perform live?  Josh explained that "I give everything I have and leave it on stage.  I try to mirror other people, like Waylon Jennings, Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, those guys.  I want to make sure that the audience feels it.  I'm excited that my 82 year old grandma is coming to the Froggy Field Party.  She doesn't get to see many shows, so this one will be very special."

Off stage, Josh Goodlett is a very busy family man.  Not only does he work full time with his music career, but he holds a full time job, along with coaching Little League, and balance family responsibilities.  How does he balance this hectic schedule?  Josh said, "It is hard to balance it all, but when I'm with my family, I put them first and don't take calls while at home."  To him, family comes first and that is how anyone should be.

Currently, Josh Goodlett's latest single, "I Don't Usually Do This," has been released to radio, as well as a music video.  Fans can expect a new album in the next year.  In the meantime, fans can keep up with Josh Goodlett and his touring schedule by visiting www.joshgoodlett.com, or Facebook at www.facebook.com/joshgoodlettband.

For more information on the WFKY Froggy Field Party, featuring Sundy Best, Josh Goodlett, Larry Williams, Jamie Tingle, and Don Endlin, be sure to visit www.froggykycountry.com

Kentucky native Larry Williams reflects on his journey to Nashville

Kentucky native, Larry Williams, performing at The Stage in Nashville, TN.

On Saturday, August 6, 2016, Kentucky music fans will be gathering for the 8th annual Froggy Field Party, hosted by WFKY.  Those performing include Sundy Best, Josh Goodlett, Larry Williams, Jamie Tingle, and Don Endlin.  The festivities start at 5:00 pm with the gates opening and the music starting about 5:30.  It will all take place at the Kentucky Renaissance Fair on 955 Elm Street in Eminence, Kentucky.  More information can be found by clicking here.

Froggy Field Party to host Aaron Lewis and Brian Davis

It is no secret that the Froggy Field Parties are legendary here in Kentucky.  If you have never been, let me tell you that you need to go!  Country radio station, WFKY out of Frankfort, Kentucky, will be showcasing both local and national talent during their 7th Annual Froggy Field Party.  It will be held on August 15, 2015, at the Kentucky Renaissance Fairgrounds on 955 Elm Street in Eminence, Kentucky.  Doors open at 5:00 pm.

Headlining the Froggy Field Party is Aaron Lewis with special guest Brian Davis.  Aaron Lewis has well known for being a singer-songwriter in both the rock band, Staind, as well as setting out on his own as a solo act in country music.  

"Growing up with my grandparents, I was raised on traditional country music. It was the very first music that I listened to. From Waylon to Merle, grandpa would pull out his vinyl records and we would listen," Lewis recalls in an interview that I did with him in 2013.

North Carolina native Brian Davis is no stranger to the stage, whether it is a honky tonk or stadium.  He recently celebrating being a co-writer of Brantley Gilbert's number 1 song, "Hell of an Amen."  His high octane energy filled set is sure to get you grooving.  

When it comes to fans, Brian Davis said, What blows me away on a regular basis is that these guys could have done anything on a Friday night. They could have stayed at night, went to a ballgame, or go out to a vacant field and have a bonfire. But they chose to come here to see us perform. That means everything because ultimately without them we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. To know that we are connecting on that level is massive for me. It’s humbling for me,” Davis recalled. Check out my interview with him by clicking here.

On the Local Stage, Jamie Tingle will be hosting R&R (Rayna & Ramsey), CJ Cumberland, and Ashley Renae Smith.

Tickets are $25 for general admission online, $30 at the door.  All ages are allowed.  Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs if they choose to sit.  Food and drink will be provided on site, so keep your coolers home.  You should slap on some sunscreen and some bug spray - it is a field party outside!  Most importantly - wear comfortable clothes.  There is no need to wear heels (yes I've seen chicks wear them) or a big fancy dress.  

Tickets for the event are available at https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/856011/tfly and more information at www.froggykycountry.com

Blackberry Smoke leaves a major impression with Kentucky concert

Blackberry Smoke at Froggy Field Party - photo by Amy Poche

When it comes to entertainment, there could not be a better pair than the WFKY Froggy Field Party and the band Blackberry Smoke. Saturday evening proved to be filled with musical entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Despite the humidity, over 1,700 fans showed up to rock the night away.

Prior to Blackberry Smoke taking the stage, Korey Wayne Sorg, Jordan Bales, and Donald Hinely took part of the Songwriters Stage, showcasing their musical and songwriting abilities. Nashville recording artist, David Adam Byrnes, joined in to play some of his hit songs including "Alcoholiday," "Sweet Distraction," "She Only Wanted Flowers," and "I'll Be Your Whiskey." On the main stage, Eddie Barber warmed up the crowd mixing original songs as well as cover songs throughout his set list.

Blackberry Smoke came out with a bang, opening with "Leave a Scar." Kicking it into high gear, the band played a mixture of their hit songs from their current album "The Whippoorwill," as well as previous albums. The crowd kicked up the momentum by singing along to the music while dancing to "Up In Smoke," "Good One Coming On," and "Like I Am." The band would mix in "Midnight Rider" with "Sleeping Dogs Lie," much to the excitement of the fans. Charlie Starr would show off his groovy dance skills along with mastering the guitar.

Being in Kentucky, it was only fitting for the band to cover "Man of Constant Sorrow," which was originally recorded by Dick Burnett of Monticello, Ky. The 90 minute set would conclude with an encore of "Ophelia" and "Shake Your Magnolia."

After the last note was played, fans were left with a real appreciation of good music. With each Froggy Field Party, the radio station raises the bar in pure fun and entertainment for the whole family.

Blackberry Smoke Set List
Leave a Scar
Like I Am
I'd Be Lyin
Lucky Seven
Six Ways to Sunday
Good One Coming On
Pretty Little Lie
Sleepin Dogs Lie
Restless
Everybody Knows She's Mine
Up In Smoke
Ain't Got the Blues
Ain't Much Left of Me
One Horse Town
Man of Constant Sorrow
Ophelia
Shake Your Magnolia

For more information on WFKY and view more photos, be sure to visit www.myfroggyville.com.

Josh Thompson, Ashley Ray, and Six Miles South know how to throw the perfect field party

Josh Thompson - by Jessica Blankenship

On Friday night, the small town of Owenton, Kentucky, showed how to throw a perfect field party filled with music and memories. Froggy 104.9 FM out of Frankfort held their second annual Froggy Field Party at the Owen County Fairgrounds. It was in conjunction with the Owen County Fair. Joining the Field Party were the likes of Six Miles South, Ashley Ray, and Josh Thompson.

Even with the fear of rain, there was not a drop that fell for the entire evening. Pickup trucks lined the hill above the horse show arena where the stage was set. People would line up their chairs throughout the horse show arena and up the hill. Families brought their children and friends. Overall, it was a relaxing atmosphere full of camaraderie and fun times. Old friends saw each other and new friendships were also made.

First up on stage was Six Miles South of Henry County, KY. Fans of the band were in full force support, wearing shirts with the band's name and logo. Right off the bat, the band got the party started with "Turn it Up." They continued to sing several of their well-written songs before concluding with Baby's Gone. They fed from the energy from the crowd. Collectively the band put on a great performance from vocals to instrumentation. Six Miles South would be one to see again live. In speaking with Jamie Tingle after their set, he said that they are pushing to try to have their cd out within the next month. Check out my interview with Jamie here and check out Six Miles South on Facebook.

As the sun was shining over the horizon, the sounds of a truck came over. Around the corner a yellow pulling truck came towards the stage as the music on stage started. Inside was Texas hit-maker, Ashley Ray, riding in the passenger seat of the truck with the ever-fitting phrase "Ain't Dirt Cheap" across the front window. Ashley Ray took to the stage that was met with the fans screaming and clapping along. Her hour long set included personal well written songs as well as a few covers. Fans knew word for word for "Dirt Cheap," her song that has really done well on the Frankfort radio station. Ashley would also sing "Hurricanes," a song about a lover leaving her damage to her heart like a hurricane makes damage to the land. With "Red Wine with the Blues," Ashley would cover a subject that most record labels are afraid to release - a song about a woman letting herself free. The song has proven to be a hit with radio listeners in Kentucky and hopefully the record label will start listening themselves. Ashley Ray would meet with fans after the show. After speaking to several fans in the audience, they agreed that she is one to watch and they were very surprised with her stage presence. The sassy singer-songwriter really brought her A-game and we hope that she does come back to Kentucky soon.

As the sun was setting over the hills of Kentucky, fans gathered around the stage and all over the hill to prepare for Josh Thompson. Over the speakers, the tunes and Waylon Jennings began to pour out as another pulling truck, in blue, pulled up to the stage. Josh Thompson came out waving with his hand in the air before grabbing his guitar to take to the stage. He went into "Blame It On Waylon," one of his top honkytonking songs to blend it in with Waylon Jennings, "Lonesome, Onry and Mean" before bringing it back to his song. Right off the bat, the fans in the audience knew they were in for a good time. Thompson would entertain the crowd with selections from his current cd, "Way Out Here," as well as new songs and cover songs of Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash. The amazing part was that fans knew his songs, including the unreleased songs ("I Won't Go Crazy," note for note singing right along. Josh Thompson's set list also included acoustic versions of "I Like to Believe In That" and "Sinner," which he would bring back the band towards the end. He would cover David Allen Coe's "The Ride," Waylon's "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way," and Charlie Daniels "Long Haired Country Boy." After his two hour set, fans hollered for more and were excited as he and his band made their way back on stage. His encore included the Merle Haggard hit, "Footlights," as well as Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues" with a mix of "Jackson".

Overall, the Froggy Field Party II was a complete success and was an entertaining experience for the entire family. Fans in the audience probably would not have had such an intimate experience with these artists as they did last night. All three acts took time to meet and greet with the fans to have a little one on one time. Josh Thompson will be going back on the H2O Tour with Brad Paisley very soon, so shows like this will be few and far between. It is even more impressive that a local radio station such as Froggy 104.9 showed the big dogs how to have an excellent field party concert that will be the talk of Kentucky for quite sometime. Their risk of having a show of newcomers, along with allowing fans to stand/sit wherever they want, bring a cooler, camera, even some fried chicken for dinner, proved to be a win-win for everyone from the performers to the fans.