8:07- I’m guessing a standing ovation for The Grascals and the girls who joined them for “I Am Strong.” A moment for them to remember and not even I’m a bit enough jerk to criticise that performance.
8:08- Carl Jackson and Louisa Branscomb to present
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
Blue Highway
Dailey & Vincent
The Gibson Brothers
Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver
Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out
The Gibson Brothers finally come through for me. I think I called that one, or did I go with Blue Highway?
8:11- The first mention of ‘it is just an honour to be nominated.’
8:12- A teleprompter slam. But rehearse, I’m guessing.
Some life from Carl J. Some spontaneity.
Bass:
Barry Bales, Mike Bub, Missy Raines, Mark Schatz, Marshall Wilborn
And the 2011 IBMA Bass Player of the Year is…Marshall Wilborn. That one I did predict.
I have the highest regard for Marshall. He has been to Red Deer a couple times, once with Lynn Morris and again with Flamekeeper. A gent he be.
8:15- you can feel the love for The Boxcars as they head into “December 13.” A very good band, without doubt. Don’t take my previous comments out of context, please; I’ve enjoyed listening to their album since I bought it. I just think a band- any band- has to ‘earn’ their awards. They are all vets, so I guess they’ve earned the accolades. Just not as The Boxcars, perhaps.
I have a feeling the results of tonight will prove me wrong. Again.
8:18 Another break. Kyle- “Song of the Year” isn’t a major award? Okay, I’ll stop.
8:19- Live to tape with Chris Jones: Michael Cleveland and Charlie Lawson- I really respect M.C.’s devotion to traditional bluegrass and really wish I had been more ready to talk bluegrass with him when he was in Red Deer with Dale Ann the first time. Obviously a wealth of information.
Fervor Coulee- roots music opinion 