"Keep On Lovin' You"

You're busy, you've got things to do, a million things on your mind, and too many people to please in one day. Usually, all the priorities you need to get done can't get done in one day so it rolls over into tomorrow, and the next day, so that we are so busy and so preoccupied that time flies and life flashes right before our eyes.

I moved to Nashville exactly one year ago. I moved with a little money (and I do mean a little) in my pocket and a big dream in my heart. I moved not knowing one soul and without a GPS system (big mistake). I moved with family by my side but eventually life called them back home and before I knew it, I was on my own, and this was my home. The year behind me has been one of the best I've ever had. The new things that I've learned, experienced, seen, witnessed, played, written, sang, almost wet my pants because I was so nervous.. they were completely and totally awesome. There are things that were so amazing, I cried. There are things that were so unbelievable, I thanked God. And there are things that were so funny, I'm still laughing :) I want to share with you a few of these from the 'Year of Fear' we'll call it, because let's face it, I came. I feared. I conquered. I'm stayin'.

So Amazing, I Cried:
So this story will have to be the one previously told about my family coming to surprise me. If you haven't read it, here's the brief. I got my first gig playing at a bar in Nashville and no one could come. I didn't tell anyone I felt sorry for myself but my family was on the way that day and I had no idea. They showed up an hour before showtime and I was so gosh darn excited. I had fans! :)



So Funny, I'm Still Laughing
Sooo, I have a friend, her name is Mallory. And I also have a habit of snapping random photos of ole Mal when she's not paying attention. Everytime she came to visit, I sent her home with a souvenir from Tennessee.. herself. Having a grand time. :) Enjoy. PS. I got her permission, and she rocks. :) Love you Mal!!




So Unbelievable, I Thanked God
No one had any idea what was hitting us until it happened. A reported 6 months of rain in 2 days destroyed so many parts of Nashville and Middle TN and the whole city stepped up to help. Only being here 9 months at the time, it was my first time seeing such a huge natural disaster and I wasn't alone. People living here all their life had never seen anything like it either. We were all one. I thanked God because I live on a hill. Everyone was not so lucky but everyone else dropped what they were doing, took off work, set aside their to do lists, and put Nashville at the top. I was so proud of us.



Here are some extra photos of the year in review:

Paul McCartney's guitar on the Gibson bus


A Nashville fall


Awesome bosses and people I've worked with
Matthew Stevens manager, drummer

Kiel Tyler producer, drummer

Bruce Wallace songwriter

Collin Raye recording artist


Nights out in town
Jake Owen

Frankie Ballard

Claire & Matthew

The man who gave me $100 because he like my sequin jacket

Callie, Mallory, Erin, Rachel, Mary Britton

Bobby Spivey and friends

Karen Waldrup

Craig Joe

Ashley, Heather, Erin, Logan

Friends after watching 'The Rockettes'


Family visiting
Matthew & Lanie

Edi-Ann taking a break while shopping

Matthew, Me, Mary, and Andrew @ CMA Fest

Matthew's mom and sister, Lisa and Carli

Mary & I @ Gaylord Hotel

Gran & I walking around downtown Franklin

Dad, Rachel, & Edi-Ann @ Science Center

They fam @ the Gaylord Hotel during Christmas

My Love



Music, shows, and fans








So, now I have friends around here, I have more than a little money cause I got a job, and I stole my brother's TomTom. I'm settled in, getting things done and looking forward to another year and many more here in TN. I have NEW MUSIC on the way for you, a CD, NEW PHOTOS AND WEBSITE UPDATES. Expect to see and hear new things around the 1st of August. And for those of you in Mississippi get ready because we will be down for a CD Release Party/Throwdown when it's done!! I'll keep you updated on venues and dates. Until then, thank you for being so supportive and loving fans, friends, and family. Love to you all!!!! xoxoxoxoxo

(NEW MUSIC/CD = YYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
get freakin' excited cause you're buyin' one. =)

"The Climb"

I know I've been gone for a while, but that only means 2 things:
a. I have more information to share with you
b. I have a long list of 'songs I'm loving'

So, it's all working out for you. :)
When I blogged about having high hopes for the month of March, I had no idea it would flow into the latter part of April and keep me this busy. Let me clarify that busy=good. How does time go by so fast? It never did this when I was in college. Only when I really NEED it to slow down, does it speed up. I wish life sometimes had emergency brakes.

After traveling back to Mississippi in March for some gigs and an Easter trip home to see family, I've been playing shows around Nashville and getting settled back in here in the big city of dreams. Dreams are what they are. Actually, let's call it wishful thinking. 1. Because we are all hopeful that stardom will arrive in a shiny white Hummer limo 2. Until you are handed your backside on a silver platter. 3. So, you go from singing at bars to drinking at bars. 4. Then, drinking probably refuels your appetite for success. 5. Repeat process. (Let's rephrase that to wishful Drinking). Every person on every corner can play some type of instrument. Every one in every local hangout or karaoke bar can sing or.. think they can. Every college student plays, not every bar owner pays, and everyone is looking for the next big star. ... I want to be the next big star.
Of course you do, that's what we all came to town for, dumbass. Get in line. I'm a hard headed Southern girl with a microphone and a big mouth. I'm not going down without a fight. Thank you and God Bless.

I've been patient, I've been kind, and it has finally paid off. I went to the studio yesterday to pick songs for the new cd. Yes, my cd. Yes, my songs. And no, I am not kidding. The day has finally come! There will be an absolute throwdown when it is finished and I expect to see every single one of you there. :) I will keep you updated on progress.

I wanted to share this tiny story with you before I go:

Before we found a studio, I felt like I was in a rut. My career is in drive but I felt like maybe I was stuck in the Itta Bena "bowl" and my tires were spinning like crazy to get out. The day I went in the studio was a terrible day for me. Not the actual studio part but earlier instances had made me question if I should even go. I decided I should read my devotional for the day so I picked up the book and flipped to April 22, 2010 and read. I sat there still. Then I read it again. Then I looked up to see if anyone was watching me, and I read it for a third time. In that moment I knew God is with me, God is guiding me, and God has plans for me. It was like He was pushing me out the door saying Gooooooo, what are you waiting for?? Now, the studio, the recording, the songs are in place. So.. here I go..

"It's Your Time To Shine! Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9 (Your Best Life, Joel Osteen)

NEVER DOUBT THE PLANS GOD HAS FOR YOU!!! :)
Hope everyone has a great week, check the website for updates, and here's a list of songs I'm loving:
www.meaganraemusic.com

Mallary Hope- Blossom In The Dust
Mallary Hope- Love LIves On
Emily West/Keith Urban- Blue Sky
Kelly Clarkson- Cry
Tenth Ave. North- Healing Begins
Fee-Everything Falls
Eli Young Band- Guinevere
Jessica Harp- A Woman Needs
Martina McBride- Wrong Baby Wrong
Jake Owen- Tell Me
Jason Aldean- Crazy Town
Keith Urban- I'm In
Little Big Town- Little White Church
Whitney Duncan- Right Road Now
Brantley Gilbert- My Kind of Crazy
Luke Bryan- Rain Is A Good Thing
Jerrod Niemman- Lover, Lover

"Nobody But Me"

January feels like the unwelcome roommate that you must have in order to pay rent, instead, January sticks around trying to make all twelve months count. If I could pull a few friend's birthdays and the one where I get to eat black eyed peas, I'd say to hell with it altogether. So, I kicked January out and invited February in as long as it promised to be quick and deliver no snow. Snow still happened. Never trust February. So, today marks the 1st of March and I have high expectations for this month, mainly, of course, because today is my birthday. :)

I've always expected so much out of birthdays. If birthdays were in the Olympics, March 1st would be Lindsey Vonn. Christmas would be the whole USA hockey team (more people, more presents) and January would be the guy who face planted on the downhill ski event. For those of you who did not watch the Olympics and are pissed that I used that as an anology, here is another example. If birthdays were on The Bachelor, March 1st would be Tenley and January would be Vienna, the crossed eyed contestant. (Just get rid of it altogether). If you don't watch the Olympics OR The Bachelor then quit reading this immediately and go back under the rock you've lived under all this time. Me, 'Tenley' and the 'Olympics' not only celebrate on the glorified day, but usually the entire week. Birthday Week (n.)- A week in which a person is born on one day of that week, but uses the "It's My Birthday" card as entitlement to recognize it every single day. For a week. Everyone likes having birthday week.

Birthday week started last Monday when I realized my birth date was in week. Recognizing the holiday is the first step. Birthday dinners, outings at the local bars, and occasional desserts followed as the week progressed. Monday is a crappy day for a holiday but things turned out quite amazing, and I had the whole day to myself.

I've never had a birthday alone. I don't know how to do that. It's like Algebra all over again. Just give me tutors or someone to cheat off of and it's an A+. Give me streamers and 5 friends and it's a party. (You can't have a party without streamers taped to the wall. Or the ceiling fan.) Facebook gave me wishes from friends, but only my checkbook could buy me a Birthday Happy. Birthday Happy- (n.) A certain oversized clutch with sparkles. In this case, blue and green sequins on that bad boy from Forever 21. What an adventure this will be: The Mall Dun Dun Duuuuun.. (in the scariest voice possible.)

Ello, preety lady, can I ask question to you?
"Nope, uh uh, Don't want any."
Don't want ninny? Can I ask you question?
I don't know what you're selling but I don't want it. I don't care how fast it works or how great it smells, I'm not buying your magic cream for FORTY FIVE DOLLARS! (This is a thought not a statement).
You look so yooty-full this day, must be you birthday!
How. Did he know that?

Well, I got past Psychic Sanjuan, now let's venture into Dillard's. Or let's not because the checkout lady is officially stalking me. Every turn I make there she is popping up behind the clothes rack. HELLO! I can't even concentrate on what I think is.. CAN I HELP YOOUU??.. cute because she's staring me down in hopes of a sale. YOU LOOK LIKE A NEON KIND OF GIRL! How do I look neon? LOOK AT THIS BATHING SUIT HERE! Neon, not for me.

Sequined Clutch- Check

A couple laps around that place will wear a girl out. Especially when you're looking for a store that's not there." The guitar store is down the street you stupid, illiterate idiot!!" At least that's what his face said. "A-ha! Genius! You only have 2342387 stores in this stupid mall, why would you put a music store smack dab in the middle of Music City??" At least that's what my face said. On the way out, I grabbed my favorite Frappe Latte even though it's cold as a toilet seat outside. Because, it's my birthday, that's why. The guitar shop ended up being a grocery store, so I TomTom'd the next one. My TomTom is named Richard. And Richard is the dumbest kid in GPS school. (Like me in Algebra). Richard took me 24 miles out of the way to the capital of Nowhere, Smackdabinthemiddleof. There's only one reason I'm telling you this story. Richard may have gotten me lost but I found it. It. Alan. Jackson's. House. Ahhhhhhhhh. I knew he lived in Franklin but unless you have Richard as a guide you would never find it. Turns, curves, railroad tracks, gravel, tunnels for one-car-at-a-time, then there it stood. A shining white shrine. I picked up my jaw, somehow found my way to I-65 and thought about how lucky I was to even run into something like that. I don't even know what I would do if I actually saw him. Maybe follow him home, pull out my "It's My Birthday" card and demand a song on the spot. Ok, I take that back. I caught myself second glancing for blonde locks in the driver's seat of every pimped out Ford pickup I saw on the way back. That guitar shop does not exist, but when I finally got home, flowers had been left on my doorstep and I knew I was a very lucky, blessed birthday girl.

Since the real day was spent alone, I'm spending the rest of the month with people I love. This includes Reba McEntire, George Strait, and Leann Womack on Thursday and everyone in the tri-county area of Greenwood the week following.This year, I'm on the 3 Week Birthday Plan. :) I am so so so lucky to have the best friends, fans, and family in the entire world. Thank you to anyone who sent love my way today. Happy Birthday to me!!

"Open Arms"

Pancakes make me happy. There is one problem though. I get so excited and stack them up high only to conquer a fourth of the food on the plate. They fill me up so fast, I want it to last longer! I have no real topic today, but instead, I'm going to use this time to update you, or the ones who care, on some little things going on in my life.

A. Every night I wake up to this horrible noise on my porch. The first time it happened, I thought it was someone breaking in. I grabbed my mase and almost peed in my pants until I looked out the window to find 4 cats chillin' on my patio furniture. The strangest part is that one of them was aggressively eating my charcoal from the grill. um, normal? So, now that they've found the motherload of ashes they come back every. night. How can I keep them away??
B. At the beginning of this year Mary Britton and I decided to participate in the Country Music Marathon here in Nashville. Well, I take that back, we decided to attempt to walk/run/jog the half marathon, which is 13.1 miles. I don't run thirteen miles often so this, my friends, is a challenge. So I've been "training" for two weeks now and it's actually going better than I expected. I've only gotten up to six miles but I'm
definitely making progress. The run is on April 24th so 12 wk training starts today! Pray for me. :)
C. I keep having dreams that T. Swift and I are really good friends. Last night we went riding around and talked about not liking
cats. She posts pictures of her cat on Twitter so I know for a fact that she has one, so I'm not sure why she said she didn't
like them. Why the crap am I dreaming about cats? Or Taylor Swift?
D. I was scheduled to do a benefit show for Nashville Heart & Soul where all the dinero goes to the American Heart Association. It was on Saturday night but the weather got so bad that I was snowed in! (They rescheduled.) The snow was beautiful. There's still a lot outside but the roads are clear now. Matthew and I didn't have a sled but improvised with tubberware for sledding. Being snowed in isn't half bad. We made lunch, tacos for dinner, a tent for the living room, videos for everyone back home and brownies. It was good weekend.
E. WHO DAT? Saints for the Superbowl!
F. I recently put some videos on YouTube. I've never wanted to do this until now. I decided that all the songs don't make it on the demo can still be videoed and put up for everyone to hear anyway. So if you have a chance, check them out, and let me know what you think.

That's all I can remember right now, I'm going to practice guitar. :)
"Love the life you live. Live the life you love."

PS. New songs for the iPod?
o Jason Aldean- The Truth (not new, but in love)
o Lady Antebellum- American Honey
o Miranda Lambert- The House That Built Me
o Justin Beiber- Baby
o Rascal Flatts- Unstoppable
o Daughtry- Life After You
o The Script- Breakeven
o Jason Derulo- Whatcha Say

"Break Down Here"

I woke up January 2nd at 8am for the Victoria's Secret Semi-Annual Sale. The biggest sale of all time (to women, of course). Underwear for $3? Don't mind if i do. I pulled a smart move and decided to heat up the car before we headed out. In midst of the 17 degree weather and my running to make it there faster, I missed the important fact that my entire parking lot was covered in ice. On a hill. And here I go. In a flash, I could see my legs flying up over my head, the sky blue, and the ground a few feet under me that I was guaranteed to hit in 3.. 2.. 1.. I landed on my backside. Next to hit was my elbow. I sat there and scanned the area to make sure no one saw my acrobatics. In a usually busy parking lot, not a soul in sight and not a soul saw me. I picked myself up, brushed off the icy dust, and tried again. And in the midst of all this commotion I hadn't seen it.. the beautiful snow falling around me.

In 2010, as with previous years, I have made 'resolutions' that seem more like 'bad decisions' after 2 months of not sticking with it. But this year's resolution is different. This year, quitting a bad habit, gaining money, and losing weight are not the priorities on my list. Sure, it would be nice to check these things off, but this year, I'm looking at the big picture. The whole year. I have prepared myself for a long road ahead that includes hard work, determination, and eliminating the option of ever giving up. My uncle Mitch never gave up.. so I'm following his lead. There will come a time when I might climb the ladder of this music industry and get knocked down on my backside, and land on more than my elbow but I will pick myself up, and try again. I will try, and try, and try, until I'm standing up and see the beautiful things falling around me. (And if you keep God in the picture, He will make sure that when you fall, no one sees you make an idiot out of yourself.) There is a grand possibility that I might get my heartbroken. There is a definite possibility that I will hear the word 'no'. But through all of this lies the beauty of something great, and the reasoning of why I am here.

Now, what I didn't tell you is that my butt is bruised, my tailbone is sore, and my elbow is cut up. After living here for only six months now, I can tell that I will have many more ailments. Some due to icy weather that I'm not used to, and some due to the musical politics of this city. "Everybody's your friend, you can never be sure", sings Sugarland. You can chase a dream but you can't get lost in it. You must keep your faith, your family, and your gut feelings close by. But throw the fear out the window. During this journey, whether it takes me 10 months or 10 years, I will come out of this with a few bumps and bruises, inside and out, but all for a reason.

Here I come 2010.

"No matter how dark the moment, hope and love are always possible."

Happy NEW year everyone! xo, Meagan Rae

"I'll Be Home For Christmas"

"I really can't stay, baby, it's cooold outside." It's 32 degrees outside to be exact. My tree is shining bright. I have some of my gifts wrapped under it and the other half waiting for a box their size. The warm glow at night when the lights are on is the same way I feel inside. It's the best time of year. Everyone is nicer. Everything is prettier. I check my mailbox everyday for new cards and letters from people back home. I have to say I've done a fairly great job at making myself feel at home here in Nashville. Driving home Sunday, I felt like I have two homes. Going there, or here, is fine with me because I'm going home both ways. The roads are lined with wreaths and trees for sale. The Radio City Rockettes are showing at the Opry. Red and green are everywhere. Everyone is trying to outdo the other in the front yard. Blow-up Santas, merry-go-rounds, and nativity scenes create an atmosphere for the holiday. It's the best holiday. It's my favorite time of year.

What Christmas means to a 24 year old:

• Music- There are some Christmas tunes that make me well up out of nowhere. I think maybe it's because I miss the ones I've lost. This will be our first Christmas without my Uncle Mitch and the second without my sweet granddad. I guess it's the getting older and realizing how precious time is. It seems like we lose so many great people in our lives and you just want to get the year over with and start again. My granddad always sang Christmas carols and had the deepest voice, sounding like Bing Crosby. Maybe that's where the emotion comes from. It's also my first Christmas away from home. It's hard to think that my sister and mom are at home shopping, making cookies, and decorating without me? Can't be.. I'm the ringleader of these events. But, life goes on and so does the baking. Things have to get done whether I'm at home or not. This is why I have decided that getting older, busier, and broker is really cramping my style. The good news is Nashville pretty much shuts down during this time for a 'winter session' so I will get to go home for a while. And all the way home I will jam out to Christmas CD's. Here are some of my faves:

Sugarland- Gold and Green (the entire CD)

Martina McBride- White Christmas (the entire CD)

Faith Hill- O Holy Night

Bing Crosby- I'll Be Home For Christmas

SheDaisy- Deck The Halls

Trisha Yearwood- It Wasn't His Child

Josh Groban- The First Noel

• Loving People More- Not more, just amplified. This might sound silly, but during December I just want to hug everybody. I want everyone's plans to work out and things to go their way. I love the Wendy's worker at the window and the homeless man on the street. (which by the way is not there anymore.) I miss people, too. I went Christmas looking the other day bc I really didn't need to spend my money buying and they had all the Christmas stops pulled out. The decor, the music, the lights, the people. I was sad. I missed my Gran and how we make any excuse to drive to another town to shop for gifts. I miss my brother. I miss Edi-Ann. I feel like she grows a foot every time I see her again. Last time I was home I told her I was going to put books on her head to keep her from growing. She said, "But when I'm big, you can still hold me." :) I miss my dad. He's the funniest, funnest, most awesome dad ever. I miss his jokes that he finds funnier than anyone. I miss sleeping in my sister's twin bed just to annoy her. I miss my Aunt Pam's chicken and dumplings. My whole family believes in me, THANK YOU GOD. That's why I miss them, cause they're so awesome. I know, it's a lot, but it makes you appreciate what you have. And I am so blessed.
• Giving Back- Oh, how I love giving what I don't have. :) I'll tell ya, if one day I do have money, I will spend half on others. I love the looks on people's faces when you do something so unexpected, because, let's face it, selfless things don't happen too often. Try it. You don't have to be Oprah and buy everyone a car, it can be simple. I try to buy the person's food behind me in line sometimes. It may be cheap, but the feeling you get is something you can't buy.
• Bonus Features- There are a few extras that come with the season and some that come with moving further North! Snow is one of them. I cannot wait to see a white city. Living in the Delta didn't furnish much precipitation in that manner but now, YES! My stepdad is currently snowed-in in Dallas and I want him to bring that weather with him. (I have a plan to get my family snowed-in here so they have to stay. evil laugh. Muhahahahahah.) And what about getting everyone to come HERE for New Year's Eve? Don't mind if I do. No more trying to find a place to go. I live there. A few other things I love to 'tis the season that don't need discussin' are Christmas cards with cute little faces on them, watching "A Christmas Story" 24 hours on Christmas Eve, fireplaces burning, sleeping with my sweet baby sister on Christmas Eve waiting on Santa to bring her 57 baby dolls, "The Night Before Christmas", and of course, apple cider. :)

On a closing note I would like to say that Christmas is ultimately all about Jesus, otherwise there wouldn't be one. There wouldn't be holiday hustle and bustle, no caroling, no gift giving, there would be no season to celebrate if there wasn't a celebration when Christ was born. And it was an Old Testament throwdown when this man was brought here. They SANG to HIM. They brought GIFTS to HIM, and so the tradition lives on. The problem is, I think our government has forgotten. They can take Christ out of Christmas and called it a holiday. And they can quit saying Merry Christmas and say Happy Holidays but you and I know that as hard as they try, Jesus is more powerful than them all, and He will never really go away. So, MERRY CHRISTMAS, AMERICA!!!

I hope everyone has an awesome Christmas season. Remember to give without taking, do without asking, and believe without knowing.

xoxo, Meagan Rae

Luke 2:13

And suddenly there was the angel, a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: "Glory to God in the highest."

"There Ain't Nothin' Like A Memory"

Story #1

Picture this:

You are in a bar, in the store, in your car and the song that you thought they would never play, that you haven't heard in years, that defines that one moment in time.. is on. You freeze, even if it's for a second, and go back to the exact minute when you first heard it. You remember who you were with, what you wore, what they said. And even though you maybe shouldn't, you can't help but let the song take you back for one more ride back in time.

This subject is MY subject for the new song written last week. 'There With You" was co-written with a very talented Nashville songwriter, Bruce Wallace. After writing a sassy little number on the gossip-driven and inescapable scandals of living in a small town, my well had run dry. Sitting on the 'inspiration deck' looking out into the blue, conjuring up any ideas we had left, I suddenly remembered the topic I had longed to pursue. I had an hour worth of driving to do so before I left the house, I rummaged through the big, leather case of CDs from high school. I randomly picked ten or so and was on my way. Gator Boots, Standing Still, and Killing Me Softly all perked me up, and sooner than later, I was singing very loudly, and recalled every word. As soon as Track #8 was played, I quit singing. Not because I didn't know the words. I was in another moment, reminiscing and allowing it to all play back in my head. The motions and emotions were real and didn't need help unfolding.. It all came at once and in perfect order. When 2 minutes and 39 seconds ended, it felt like the shortest song ever made. I wanted to play it over and over again to stay where I was, and where I had been so many years ago. I changed the track and vowed to let that topic lead me to the music. Bruce agreed and so we now have a song, and a hit in my opinion. =)

Songwriters remember: Real Life Experience = A sure fire song

(Join us at The Carroll County Market, November 28th, 8pm to hear the track "There With You" live)

Story #2

My boyfriend, Matthew (a cute little thing), lives in Columbia, TN so I often drive to see him. There is a RedBox at a Walgreens that we visit.. oh, every other day, to rent movies. The RedBox is not the only thing that lives at Walgreens, though. It shares this residence with a homeless man. I, Meagan Rae Mitchell, have the biggest, what-if, loving heart when it comes to unfortunates. I know there are times when they can't be trusted, you don't know their motives, and the joke is probably on you but I can't help but to take a different approach. Let me tell you about my friend: He is an older, black male who is a little hefty with gray hair. The four times I've seen him, he's had on the same red sweatsuit, sitting on a thin blanket. Seems to me the only thing he owns is a tiny radio whose antennae is pulled out as far as it will reach and bucket of KFC. Ok, so he has a few things, but no home, so isn't he still considered homeless? Matthew said since he had fried chicken he must be doing alright. But that doesn't look alright to me. Maybe he has some money but not enough to afford rent? We watched him a couple times. He never bothered anyone, not once did he ask for a dollar. I just wanted to know his name. We rented our movie, and drove back to our warm house, and slept in our warm bed. But the last time we visited, I couldn't stand it any longer. It's been raining here like it's the sky's job to drown us and if I didn't live on a hill, I'd buy a boat. That night was no exception and the temperature had dropped to the 40's. He was laying horizontal on the blanket, red sweatsuit covered him, as close to the brick wall as possible for this provided some protection from the rain due to the roof. The radio played a slow R&B song and the bucket of KFC smelled days old. I bet there are times when a song on that old radio can take him back in time, too, and let him feel the familiarity of comfort and hope, even if for a second. On impulse, I went inside, took a bag and started grabbing the essentials I thought it might take to survive a cold, rainy night. (By the way, Matthew is looking at me like I've lost it). I didn't want to wake him so I stood the bag against the brick wall and went back to picking out the DVD for the night. As we got into the truck, he woke and we stopped to watch. He spotted the green bag packed with a fleece blanket, an umbrella, a lunchable, a muffin, and a six-pack of Sprite. He immediately opened the blanket, spread it across him and went back to sleep.

So my approach is:

• I may not have a lot but he's got even less than I do.
• If I were in that position, I would want someone to think about me, no matter what mistakes got me there.
• What if that is Jesus waiting to see what I do?

Next time, we are taking a Bible. And I'm gonna find out his name. I'll keep you updated. Do you agree with what we are doing? Have you ever helped someone less fortunate? Do you have another opinion? Let me know what you think!

Story #3

My favorite picks for this week.

Top "Shake What Your Mama Gave Ya" Songs:

1. Down- Jay feat. Lil' Wayne
2. I Got A Feeling- B.E.P.
3. One Time- Justin Beiber

Top "Girls Rock Better Than You" Songs:

1. Party In The U.S.A.- Miley Cyrus
2. Already Gone- Kelly Clarkson
3. Paparazzi- Lady GaGa

Top "That's Country, I Don't Care Who You Are" Songs:

1. American Ride- Toby Keith
2. Hillbilly Bone- Blake Shelton/Trace Adkins
3. Gettin' You Home- Chris Young

Top "Country Females That Rock Your Socks Off" Songs:

1. White Liar- Miranda Lambert
2. Consider Me Gone- Reba McEntire
3. How Far Do You Wanna Go- Gloriana

Top "I Go Back To A Two-Toned, Short Bed Chevy" Songs:

1. Hanging By A Moment- Lifehouse
2. Which One Of Them- Garth Brooks
3. Someday- Nickelback

"Never Say Never"

Carrie Bradshaw writes a blog. Why can't I? I have always loathed and been a bit jealous of Sarah Jessica Parker sporting the latest high fashion trend, killer stiletto, and hair that when it's bigger, it's better. I guess in some way I looked up to the fictional Sex and the City character for being brave enough to wear geometric prints and having the courage to write a newspaper column that expressed everything she loved, hated, wished, hoped for, and dreaded about NYC, Sex, Friends, and, of course, Men. In a sense, Carrie Bradshaw and I are a lot alike. I would choose 1 pair of the sweetest shoes over 10 blouses. I searched high and low for the best boyfriend contender, and finally found my 'Big' (except he's 'Little') after a long line of losers. And I write weekly about the things I find necessary, sometimes inappropriate, always connected to my life in some way. The difference though, is when I blog, when I write, I am doing it for my love of music.

I got my first writer's night invitation from the sweet Johanna Jacobsen, a fellow Nashville resident, a couple weeks ago. Thrilled isn't the word. I've been on the scene since July waiting for this opportunity. In Mississippi, (and other parts), they say, "Oh, hell.. you can sing? Get up here girl. Sing for us a couple hours, and I'll pay you $200 bucks to do it." Here? It's a privilege to even step on the stage, sing 5 songs for 30 minutes and have 7 people looking at you. Sometimes clapping. They are looking for the best. Well, I'm here to be the best, write the best, and sing the best. So when I was asked to play, I jumped at the opportunity, asked the 6 people I knew in town and waited a week until the big day. When it finally arrived I was ready, nothing could get in my way. The only problem was the only 'fans' I asked had a lot standing in their way. Work, school, and other social events prevented me from having ANY support whatsoever at my very first show. ever. in Nashville. Except for my Little, he is always there. But that's okay, I don't need anyone's help, I can do it on my own. I've always been independent, headstrong, don't-help-me-I-can-do-it-by-myself. But I had to admit, a few people there to cheer me on would have been icing on the big, fat cake I had in front of me. It was time to get ready. I turned Family Feud on and watched as the people cheered so loud for their family members no matter how dumb their answer was. Knock, Knock. I looked through the trusty peephole and Flowers!! My sweet family couldn't be there, but they remembered me. I felt a slight feeling of disappointment knowing they couldn't share this moment with me but it was quickly washed away with the hope for one day this was all going to pay off. After putting on the makeup and preparing for the night, Knock Knock. (What now? Who now?) As I opened the door I found the sweetest, most awesome present of all. Out of nowhere, my sister is standing solo on my front door step, jumping up and down in excitement, saying she just drove herself here. I cannot cry, I cannot cry, I cannot cry. My mascara looks fabulous. She is literally sprinting around the room, yelling, while I am crouched on the floor, holding back tears and for.. Knock. Knock. As I opened the door, I screamed so loud out of excitement that my mom had joined her! What an awesome surprise. I am now jumping up and down on my bed and the mascara will have to be reapplied. Knock. Knock. Again? My grandmother. Another series of knocks. My aunt. Knock. Another aunt. KNOCK. KNOCK. KNOCK. My cousin. How does this get any better? How? Seven of my closest family members drove 6 hours and SURPRISED me on the day of my first show. They wouldn't have missed it. I almost forgot about the dang gig because I was so pumped. But I fixed my hair Carrie-ish, slipped on my heels, got my guitar, showed up at Music Row Bar & Grill and we rocked it. Not just me, all of the writers did awesome. And I had a cheering section all my own. All mine. I was so proud to be seen with such a beautiful group of women and knowing the whole time how much they love and support me. It sure does make this process a lot easier. I have the most wonderful, fun, awesome family ever. That's having a lot, even if you ain't got nothin'.

So the place that I call home now is Nashville. I will continue singing, writing, and working on my dream until it happens. Like Rev Run says, "Success is like being a stamp. Stick to it until you reach where you are going." I know that gig was the first of many, but it was special. On my 13th birthday at Pizza Inn, I got 3 tickets in a box to see Reba McEntire. That moment and this one are on the top of my list for the 'Best Days Of My Life' Category. Now, let's see if we can't get into other categories like 'Female Vocalist', 'Breakthrough Artist', 'Entertainer of the Year for the Whole Planet'. I'll take any or all of the above. And if Kanye interrupts me, he will get smacked.

My life is a roller coaster. My life is up. My life is down. My life is unfolding right in front of me. Maybe it should be called "Singing and the City"...... Music City, that is.

xo, Meagan Rae

"R.E.S.P.E.C.T"

I have to touch on a story that will be forever remembered and never forgotten. I'm taking time to express my opinion because the subject is not going away and this influenced me in a big way. 

You all saw it coming, the subject for today is no surprise: Taylor vs. Kanye

Let me just say first, if you are one of the 2% that haven't seen Kanye West slaughter Taylor Swift's acceptance speech for Female Video of The Year, take a look, then get back with us. 

http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1621389/20090913/west_kanye.jhtml

I've never been the die-hard Taylor Swift fan, I admit. I listen to her on the radio, I think she's a great songwriter. Sometimes her vocals could stand a lesson or two during live performances but she's cute and I respect her. But I guarantee that I don't jump up and down on the couch when she's number one on CMT countdown. That said, I don't think anyone, ANYONE deserves to be belittled, pushed aside or interrupted during an awards show in Kanye-fashion. People are fans of different artists, that's the way it works. For the 10% of the world that didn't know Taylor or didn't like her before last night, they do now. I even have a soft spot in my heart that hurt when I watched that. Like Katy Perry said, "F*** you Kanye. It's like you stepped on a kitten." And it is. In Nashville, TN most of all, musicians are family. We stick together. Kanye West has stirred up a whole lot of trouble with the roughest, toughest, most countrified family on the block. Stars, celebs, fans, and family vented their rage via Twitter, etc. to convey their emotions. None were shocking, all were shocked, a lot of them wished they could punch him. 

Music is universal. You probably won't find one person who likes only country, only hip-hop, or only rock. We're humans, we hurt and music heals us. It was an honor for Taylor to be nominated in a category for the VMAs, it was an honor for her to win the category, and it is an honor to have her leading the pack for country music. You can't break down someone's spirit out of jealousy, it will only come back to haunt you. It seems funny that the person Kanye was defending, brought Swift back onstage to relive her 'moment'. Beyonce so gracefully gave Taylor a second chance to say her peace, and while doing so, TS got a standing ovation. So now, Kanye West, your fans and sales have decreased and Taylor Swift is still on top. I, personally, hope you feel an inch tall for a long time. You should probably delete the attempt at an apology you wrote because it was absolutely superficial and a new career might be a good thing to look into. Like I said, people in this industry stick together, and we are all banding together against you. You might still have your Jay Leno gig, but don't even think about stepping foot in Tennessee. 

"I Ain't Settlin'.. For Anything Less Than Everythaaaanng, Yeah.."

I have NOT forgotten I had a blog. I just forgot to update it. (Forgiveness, Forgiveness.. Even if, even if, you don't love me anymore..) Thank you, Don Henley for getting down to the Heart of The Matter. =) So, so many things have been going on that I guess I just forgot to tell you. Well, I'm back, you can love me again, and we can move forward with this relationship. We can even make it official on Facebook if you want. (Just click 'Become A Fan' to the right). See, I'm doing all the work here! hehe.

I love putting my iPod on Shuffle. It's so the best. It plays the good oldies that you might have forgotten about like, Sugarland- Just Might Make Me Believe, Clay Walker- This Woman and This Man, Wade Hayes- In a Chevy, Garth Brooks- Which One of Them, Pink- Like A Pill. Ok, I'm stopping.

In the past couple of weeks I have seen my sister twice, painted my coffee table turquoise, attended the Keith Urban/Sugarland concert, gotten sick, had a bachelorette party, canoed, and played my first writer's night. Painting the table blue was on purpose, singing at a writer's night was not. This is how it went: Me and the boss man go to lunch at Jonathan's and decided to sit on the porch and talk about me becoming a big star and the steps we needed to take. I got my guitar out of the car, sang a few tunes, covers, originals, played some for the staff and the owner, had dinner with the owner (sweetest people ever). So I'm thinking my day is just going awesome. Then we left and went to Dan McGuinness to a writer's night to watch and someone didn't show up to play so Doc asked me if I wanted to play in their time slot. That was a silly question. So I got to sing 6 originals for the first time in Nashville at Dan McGuinness! (I know there will be many more shows, gigs, and writer's nights, but this was the first and worthy of being recognized!) Now I'm thinking my day is just going awesome and lucky. But I know deep down there's no such thing as lucky really.. that's just what we call it when God slips us good things that we deserve. I have to say that Matthew and I are out here trying our best to make a life that we will love every morning when we wake up. He is following his dream too, to be a baseball coach, and I love it. Push the boundaries, break the rules, step outside the box.. that's how I want to live my life. To the fullest. And we both know that if we are sitting behind a desk everyday, we aren't pushing or stepping outside of anything. Now, I'm not saying that isn't for everyone.. this is just our passion. So I believe that I was lucky to get here so quick (or God just made it easy for me to find a place). That's why it's not hard for me to picture big things in the future. I believe it will come with hard work, sacrifice, and thanking Him for every little opportunity I get. I'm so ready for it.

NEW SHOW: THE CARROLL COUNTY MARKET, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28th

So, for the ones of you in the Greenwood area, make your reservations because it will be so flippin' fun you can't even imagine. I'm so excited to play for my family and friends close to home and show you all the stuff I've been working on. The CCM is known for its DELICIOUS food, great music, and great times had so come out if you can. There will be some kind of cover charge but I'm not sure how much. That is the weekend of Thanksgiving break so a lot of people will be out and I promise we'll make it worth it. www.myspace.com/carrollcountymarket

Ok, everyone has been asking me to list some more songs that I've found. I love doing this!! (Glad you like it)

• Matt Kearney- Closer To Love Mindy Smith- What Went Wrong
  
• Caitlin and Will- Address In The Stars Tenth Avenue North- By Your Side
  
• Joey & Rory- To Say Goodbye Parachute- She Is Love
  
• Plumb- In My Arms Reba McEntire- Consider Me Gone
  
• Kelly Clarkson- Already Gone Kellie Pickler- Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You
  

Remember to sign up as a Fan on Facebook so you can recieve special updates, schedules and photos. =)

xxxxxxoooooooo, Maaaeeeee

"Give me one reason to stay here, and I'll turn right back around" - Tracy Chapman

"I'm In A Hurry To Get Things Done"

I have a song on my mind and fish sticks in my belly! YUM. I am a big eater-outer. Even if its super cheap, I love dinner out and lunch dates. Living on a budget and learning how to do it has forced me to eat salad daily, fish sticks often, and ramen noodles as little as possible. I've got to find a way to make some dinero. Mucho dinero. I've thought of a few things.. but not all of them are legal. =) Dang you, starving artist. Jk. I am doing fine, just watching my step.

So going on in the world this week: (Locally/Nationally)

1. Reba McEntire releases her 1st CD in six years! Keep On Loving You hits stores today and I am so super excited about my childhood idol's new music. Its been too long. What a wonderful world. =) She did a GAC special Sunday night and said this album is more girl power, she's looking at new TV scripts, and she wants to work with Kelly Clarkson again. We would like that too, Reba.
2. Mr. Brett Farve, are you serious? After all this time, after saying no for once, and after retiring how many times already, you come back AGAIN? I will be honest, I am going to watch you play either way. Whether I am mad at you or not, I will stare at your hind end as you throw the passes, BUT you can only do this so many times. Quit it already.
3. "Music City Madness" is happening now. I haven't really heard of this until moving here but the Grand Prize is spending a day with Reba so I might have to check that out. (Also, recording time and few little perks, no biggie). I'm also trying to play around here at some writer's nights as soon as I can. Getting fit into the schedule may take some time considering most everyone knows most everyone here already. I'm going to have to inch my way in somehow but it can be done! Also, there is a website that I can't wait to be up and running where you, the people can visit and become a fan of new, unsigned artists, including myself! I will have to fill you in on details later but it is genius!
4. My heart goes out to the family of Jeffrey Jones (Greenwood, MS) who died Saturday evening, to the family of Steven Aldridge (Greenwood, MS) who died Saturday evening, and to my own family and step dad whose mother, 'Dot' Flowers (Rolling Fork, MS) passed away Saturday evening as well. I have recently felt the sting of death in a family and it is heart wrenching. When a life is cut too short, it is a hurt that the ones closest to them feel and it lasts for a long time. We can only remember the happy times and know that God needed them up there with Him, that they had done all they could do here on this uncertain earth. I pray for each of these and my family in these hard times.

So, I'm really excited to keep you all up to date with the exciting things that have been going on. I will let you all know more soon, when I can.

MAE

"You Shook Me All Night Long"

difference in a New Blog and a New Post? Can't I just write one new paragraph every week on totally irrelevant things and it be good to go? I don't understand. And for the sake of not understanding, we will keep publishing New Posts. =)

Today is a B-E-A uuuutiful day in Nashville. These are days when I think to myself, "Self, you are so damn lucky." I'm laying out by the pool as we speak, as I'm typing this, as the kid in front of me does belly flops and splashes everything I own. Isn't life grand? I decide right now, while listening to the trusty iPod, (Taylor Swift- You Belong With Me) that I'm temporarily tired of songs about high school boyfriends, cheerleaders, drawing hearts on notepads and fairytales that never happen. New Subject Please!!

Dear Taylor Swift,

Although you are an adorable little thing, I would appreciate it if your lyrics would accompany your age in 'growing up'. Everyone knows you aren't afraid to write about old flames or God forbid, put someone's name in the song, but come on, we could all do it. Do you know how many words rhyme with Drew and Joe? (A lot.) If you are going to continue to be a world phenom and have people drool over your average live performances then you need to find a new road to venture down. You were smart enough to convince them to let you perform 3 times at the CMT awards. Now, amaze us once more with new material.

P.S. I believe your writing skills highly surpass your vocal ability but I respect you. And that's very, very nice of me.

I have recently found things that (Finger Eleven-Paralyzer) are probably considered Not Normal. Here's a few:

a.) Forgetting to eat lunch today.

b.) Wearing a dress over bluejeans. (Don't do that.)

c.) The guy at the pool who wears a House Arrest anklet.

(Casting Crowns- Praise You In This Storm) Oh! This song reminds me. I went to Brentwood Baptist last Sunday for church! Let me give you a little advice: If you decide to go to this place, take a friend and use the buddy system. It is the biggest flippin' thing I've ever seen. So I'm standing around with like 200 people waiting for what I thought was the service. Turns out, we were all in the Cafe. Excuse me, a restaurant!! It was amazing. They had that, a library, a bookstore.. who knows what they had to offer on the other wing. I like the feel of small and big churches. I'm good at meeting people and socializing so this didn't bother me so much. The reason I can't make up my (Matchbox 20- Push) mind is because of.. you guessed it, the music. Ok, I grew up traditional of course. But I've had experiences that I want to have again in a church. Pinelake in Jackson, MS is a good example. They have a slight mix of music, but mostly contemporary, young music. It moves me so much that I almost want to cry every time I go. But I'm feeling something, I'm not just going through the motions. Maybe BB just had a (Corinne Bailey Rae- Put Your Records On) traditional lineup for that Sunday, maybe I should try again, maybe I should try another. We'll see..

Side Note: I'm burning.

Last night, Collin Raye came into town to do a show at the Wildhorse Saloon. As part of my job, I got to run him around town, take him to soundcheck and watch him do all the things I hope to do one day. (Rhianna- Rehab) It was amazing to watch a guy I grew up listening to, watching on tv, singing the songs I always loved. The show was incredible. He's in better shape than most 20 yr olds I know. Jumping all over stage, playing on his knees on the floor, dancing.. He's still got it! I had to breathe, and say..ok, you are here for a reason, this is freaking awesome, you are sitting on the stage, this is freaking awesome, look at all those people, this will be you one day, this is freaking awesome. "So, is your last name Rae?.. No (laughs) My middle name.. Oh! So you aren't kin to me! What is your last name?.. Mitchell.. Wow, that's a great stage name (Wink)."

I'm getting in the pool before I fry. BBBYYYEEE. (Jason Aldean-Relentless)

MRM

"How Do I Live Without You"

I have a confession: I have 2 boyfriends. One is Matthew and one is music. This is no joke, it's true! I put any time that I'm not with my real human boyfriend into my love affair with any and all genres of music. ...ok, I take that back. I do not listen to Swiss Death Metal. =) I'm going to take a minute, because I'm feeling adventurous, and talk about some music I've recently uncovered. 

1. Sugarland- Joey, Wishing

("Yeah, yeah.. Sugarland?? Again, Meagan Rae? Come on!!" ... ok, i know, but seriously, if you've been under a rock and haven't heard their new cd 'Love On The Inside', i feel for you. You are missing out on some serious tunes, my friend. Joey is the new single out and Wishing is just UH-mazing. Pure, raw, real feelings. So.. I know I like Jen Jen and Christian.. and one day we will be bff's and travel to Hawaii together.. but until then, i feel that it's my duty to get you, to love them. If you like me, you will like them =)

Ps. If you've never been to a concert, follow these simple steps:

1. Slap yourself.

2. Buy the "Live On The Inside" DVD. It will change your life. 

2. Kings Of Leon- Cold Desert, Notion

(Two great pieces of work from the 'old, but new' group we like to call KOL. Ironically, they have been around for quite a while, yet just hitting the charts with their hits 'Use Somebody' and 'Sex on Fire'. They've continued to perform their songs, their way, and that's why we love them.. and why they will stick around for a while.)

Ps. Again- Sugarland covers KOL's 'Sex On Fire'- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4ldVNVrBHE

3. Dierks Bentley- Wanna Make You Close Your Eyes

(Hello, Hotness. If you thought Mr. Bentley made you melt before, wait until you hear this one. It's off his brand new cd, 'Feel That Fire'. It's slow, sexy and all I wanted from this little piece of perfection.)

4. David Nail- Red Light

5. The Fray- Never Say Never

(Ahh, one of my favorites. You can't listen to a 'Fray' song and not want to press Repeat at least twice. Catchy, emotional and to the point, these boys know how to do it. Never Say Never will pull at your heart.  "Some things we don't talk about, rather do without, just hold the smile.." It may be a generalization of a relationship trying its best, but at the end it will leave you wanting it to last. Repetitions of "Don't let me go, don't let me go.." puts you in the place of a person whose heart is wishing. Maybe for a second chance.. maybe to play the song again..=) I bet you press Repeat.)

6. Rob Thomas- Snowblind

(With a brand new cd, 'Cradlesong', I had to do some thinking over which song I was going to put in this here blog. You see, Rob Thomas does it like no other. He has a way of singing the songs that everyone wishes they were singing. Snowblind is an upbeat eye-opener. Discussing the issues of a relationship that "can't see where we are".  But not just this one, the entire cd is legit. Thank you, Rob, for making a record that has more than 2 average songs. All 14 are worthy.)

7. Jeremy Camp- Fade

(One of my favorite Worship musicians is Jeremy Camp. Ones of you who think worship music is always traditional and hymnal-type, it's not. You will be so surprised how contemporary people like Jeremy, Third Day, Casting Crowns, and Chris Tomlin make it. It's absolutely amazing and uplifting. Everyone wants a little uplifting in their life, I don't care who you are. Fade talks about letting the old life of sin fade away.. letting God take over. Rock on, JC. I'm forever a fan.)

8. Theory of a Deadman- All or Nothing, Wait For Me

9. Keith Urban- Only You Can Love Me This Way, Thank You, If Ever I Could Love

(I tried to tell him I could make him much happier than that Nicole girl.. whoever she is.. but considering they have a kid, he decided to stay with her. ;) I've been a long time fan of this Aussie hottie and even though he will never have my name tattooed on his arm, I will still show him love. Only You Could is the new single. Thank You was written for his wife, Nicole Kidman, and it is so packed with powerful lyrics, it's unbelievable. This one talks about the personal things and leaves nothing out. If Ever I Could Love is my favorite of them all at the moment. Learn it, Love it. It will be out soon as a single. I can feel it.)

10. Zac Brown Band- Free

(I've played it at least 99 times, so it's worth your 99 cents. Do it, you won't regret it.)

I hope all of you have a great week. And I hope all of these hit the charts. =)

           Meagan Rae