CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS
NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED FOR 2021 CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS
CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION AND ANDRULONIS MEDIA RECOGNIZE LOCAL MUSICIANS
Fayetteville, N.C. (December 3, 2021) –The Carolina Country Music Association, a trade association representing singers, songwriters, musicians, and other allied professionals in the country music industry, has announced the association’s nominations for all twelve categories for the 2021 Carolina Country Music Awards (CCMAs).
This year’s nominees are as follows:
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Dustin Chapman (Whiteville, NC)
Fritz Frye (Aynor, SC)
Jordan Pickett (Siler City, NC)
Lecretia Ann (Spartanburg, SC)
Randy Atwood (Little River, SC)
Rivermist (Fayetteville, NC)
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
AJ Sanders (Hartsville, SC)
Currie Wayne Clayton Jr (Fayetteville, NC)
Fritz Frye (Aynor, SC)
Jason Lee Cook (Walterboro, SC)
Jason Ray Welsh (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Will Ness (Myrtle Beach, SC)
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Faith Bardill (Sanford, NC)
KasCie Page (Conway, SC)
Lecretia Ann (Spartanburg, SC)
Paige King Johnson (Angier, NC)
Taylor Mason (Wallburg, NC)
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
Carolina Ignition (Eden, NC)
Kyle Dills Band (Rock Hill, SC)
Rivermist (Fayetteville, NC)
The Blue Pickups (Columbia, SC)
The Piedmont Boys (Greenville, SC)
DUO OF THE YEAR
Mark McKinney & Company
Walter Finley & April Dawn (Charlotte, NC)
COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“Black Creek” Rivermist
“Bottles and Barstools” Faith Bardill
“Coming Home” Randall Fowler
“Man I Miss It” Mark McKinney & Company
“She Holds This House Together” Paige King Johnson
“Trouble Is” Cliff Wheeler Band
COUNTRY MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
“Black Creek” Rivermist
“Carolina Shine” Carolina Shine
“Words & Alibis” Dustin Chapman
CHRISTIAN COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“Cowboys Of Faith” Jordan Pickett
“Sing His Praise” Greg Rowles
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Cliff Wheeler (Lemon Springs, NC)
Currie Wayne Clayton Jr (Fayetteville, NC)
Paige King Johnson (Angier, NC)
Rick Courtney (Wilmington, NC)
AJ Sanders (Hartsville, SC)
COUNTRY TOUR OF THE YEAR
Cliff Wheeler Band (Lemon Springs, NC)
Diamonds and Whiskey (Charlotte, NC)
Gary Alexander (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Jason Lee Cook (Walterboro, SC)
EMERGING NEW ARTIST
AJ Sanders (Hartsville, SC)
Diamonds and Whiskey (Charlotte, NC)
Dustin Chapman (Whiteville, NC)
Kevin Nichols (Myrtle Beach, SC)
DAMIEN HORNE HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Kevin Nichols (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Randy Atwood (Myrtle Beach, SC)
The Blue Pickup Band (Columbia, SC)
Tim Hair (Sandford, NC)
A production of the Carolina Country Music Association, the Carolina Country Music Awards is an annual event open to performers who grew up in or now reside in North Carolina or South Carolina. The show’s Executive Producer is Sweet Tea, who is also the afternoon DJ on the Carolina Country Radio Network (100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville, NC and 103.7 WNMB in North Myrtle Beach, SC).
According to Sweet Tea, “I can give them the canvas…which are the giant megaphones of our Radio stations. But our artists have to create their musical masterpieces. The CCMAs allow these musicians to be recognized for their hard work.” She also says that country music fans aren’t neglected because the show is also a way for fans to connect with the musicians. For more information please visit www.CarolinaCountryMusicAwards.com or email SweetTea@Andrulonis.com.
The Executive Director of the Carolina Country Music Association is Christy “Sweet Tea” Andrulonis.
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CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS
WINNERS FOR CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS
CAROLINA COUNTRY RADIO STATIONS RECOGNIZE LOCAL MUSICIANS
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (January 28, 2021) – Winners have been announced for thirteen categories for the 2021 Carolina Country Music Awards (CCMAs).
The “Entertainer of the Year” will be determined by listeners to 93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach, 106.3 WYAY in Wilmington, 93.7 WMIR in Georgetown/Charleston, and 100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville. Remaining categories are selected by a panel of judges from the music and broadcasting industry and announced in January. Winners are as follows:
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Whits End (Kershaw, SC)
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Gary Alexander (Myrtle Beach, SC)
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Paige King Johnson (Angier, NC)
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
The Cliff Wheeler Band (Lemon Springs, NC)
DUO OF THE YEAR
Walter Finley & April Dawn (Charlotte, NC)
COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“He Didn’t Come Back The Same” Whits End
COUNTRY MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
“What I See” AJ Sanders
CHRISTIAN COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“Not So Broken” Faith Bardill
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
“Any Way She Wants It” Mark McKinney & Jonathon Locklear
COUNTRY TOUR OF THE YEAR
Paige King Johnson & Faith Bardill
EMERGING NEW ARTIST
Paige King Johnson
COUNTRY YOUNG ARTIST
Jordan Pickett (Siler City, NC )
DAMIEN HORNE HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Randy Atwood and the Renegades (Surfside Beach, SC)
A production of the Carolina Country Music Association, the Carolina Country Music Awards is an annual event open to performers who grew up in or now reside in North Carolina or South Carolina. The show is typically held at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach, but was held in a “virtual” manner in January 2021 due to the pandemic. The show’s Executive Producer is Sweet Tea, who is also the afternoon DJ on Carolina Country (106.3 WYAY in Wilmington, 100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville, 93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach, 93.7 WMIR in Georgetown/Charleston).
For more information, visit www.CarolinaCountryMusicAwards.com.
NEWS RELEASE
BIGGEST EVER CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS SHOW
January 26, 2020
NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (January 27, 2020) – The Carolina Country Music Association’s 2020 Carolina Country Music Awards (CCMAs) presented awards in twenty-one categories Saturday night, January 25, 2020. A standing room only crowd estimated at 2,500 filled the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach to watch the annual show, which is hosted by Jimmy G and Sweet Tea, on-air personalities at Carolina Country (100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville, 93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach, 106.3 WUDE in Wilmington, and 93.7 WYAY in Georgetown/Charleston).
The show’s Executive Producer is Sweet Tea, who is also the afternoon DJ on Carolina Country. According to Sweet Tea, “We appreciate these artists telling their stories through music. We’re proud to be able to provide a platform for these artists who want to be on the Radio. And besides that, it’s a big party for both the artists and the fans. Everybody gets to enjoy some great ‘Carolina roots’ music.”
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Mark McKinney & Company (Pembroke, NC)
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Kevin Nichols (Myrtle Beach, SC)
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Jessie G (Southern Pines, NC)
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
Mark McKinney & Company (Pembroke, NC)
DUO OF THE YEAR
McKenzies Mill (West End, SC)
COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“Hands Down” Diamonds & Whiskey-Jennifer Webb (Charlotte, NC)
COUNTRY MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
“Jon Boat” Cody Webb (Ridge Spring, SC)
CHRISTIAN COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“I Was Made To Worship” Shecaniah (Raeford, NC)
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR
Robby Lee Van Hoy (Red Springs, NC)
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Gary Alexander for “Like A Love Song”
COUNTRY TOUR OF THE YEAR
Moonshine Madness Tour Featuring The Blue Pickups Band
EMERGING NEW ARTIST
Jessie G (Southern Pines, NC)
YOUNG ARTIST (16 & UNDER)
Cody Newman (Charleston, SC)
DAMIAN HORNE HUMANITARIAN AWARD
KasCie Paige (Red Springs, NC)
GUITARIST OF THE YEAR
Jimmy Rogers (Columbia, SC)
BASSIST OF THE YEAR
Garret Wheeler (Wilmington, NC)
FIDDLER OF THE YEAR
Jim Graddick (Columbia, SC)
KEYBOARD/PIANIST OF THE YEAR
Sean Hiler (Myrtle Beach, SC)
STEEL GUITARIST OF THE YEAR
Hugh Jackson (Dunn, NC)
DRUMMER OF THE YEAR
Greg Adair (Fayetteville, NC)
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Greg Rowles (Myrtle Beach, SC)
A production of the Carolina Country Music Association, the Carolina Country Music Awards is an annual event open to performers who grew up in or now reside in North Carolina or South Carolina. To submit an artist packet or for more information about the show, visit www.CarolinaCountryMusicAwards.com.
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GREG ROWLES TO RECEIVE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
July 25, 2019
The Carolina Country Music Association, a trade association representing singers, songwriters, musicians and other allied professionals in the country music industry, has announced the association’s “Lifetime Achievement Award” is being given to Myrtle Beach country music icon Greg Rowles.
The Executive Director of the Carolina Country Music Association is Christy “Sweet Tea” Andrulonis, who also hosts the afternoon show on Carolina Country radio stations (93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach and 100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville). She says the association’s decision to award Greg Rowles the “Lifetime Achievement Award” is the perfect choice for 2019. Sweet Tea says, “Greg has been entertaining country music fans for forty years and continues to wow them nightly at the Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach. It will be an honor to award Greg with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Greg Rowles says “I’m incredibly humbled with this recognition. I still get a thrill every day as I walk on the stage and the curtain opens. My dad told me as a young man when entertaining to just love the people and they will love you back. Well, that is an understatement because I’m overwhelmed daily from folks that still come to see me entertain. For the last 20 years, we’ve called South Carolina home and it is beyond belief to be honored with this award. Many thanks to the Carolina Country Music Association and everyone who has supported me throughout the years. But also I would like to say thank you to my bride Brandee and our three incredible kids, Courtney, Grayson, and Ashton for their support and sacrifice over the years. I would also like to that my Alabama Theatre family as well. My greatest thanks to God for the gift of music and using my gift to help others.”
Greg Rowles has been an active musician since the age of twelve when he began playing in a band with his mom, dad, and brother. An accomplished musician on various instruments, Greg credits Ernest Tubb, George Strait, Faron Young, Porter Wagoner, and Conway Twitty as his musical heroes.
Greg is a former male vocalist of the year from “Star Search.” In fact, the victory was the first in the show’s history that fans voted for their favorite performer. Eighteen million votes were cast and Ed McMahon announced Greg as the champion.
This year Greg added to his list of titles, “Award Winning Broadcaster” recognized by the National Motorsports Press Association. You can see Greg’s work daily on WFXB FOX TV anchoring “Carolina AM”, and “Not the News” daily, in addition to “FOX Racin’ News” weekends.
Greg works closely with his corporate sponsors, Wrangler, Elixir Strings, Steve Clayton Custom Picks, Holt Custom Guitars, Fender, and Gretsch Guitars. Greg is also the spokesman for Beach Automotive Group representing Ford, Lincoln, Mazda, and Volvo.
Greg entertained at the Vatican in Rome, Italy, three years ago at the request of James Nicholson, the U.S. Ambassador to The Holy See, who also served President George W. Bush as Secretary of Veteran Affairs. Greg also performed numerous times as a solo artist on the Grand Ole Opry. This year marks his 40th year in show business and his 20th season here where he has been honored to be named as “Alabama Theatre’s Good Will Ambassador.” Greg’s latest CD, “Country & Gospel Special,” was recorded live at the theatre earlier this year.
Greg served for over 14 years in Christian ministry as a music pastor and now consults with churches forming praise services. Greg is most proud of his bride of 27 years, Brandee and their three incredible children, Courtney, Grayson, and Ashton.
The “Lifetime Achievement Award” is awarded each January at the Carolina Country Music Awards. Next year’s awards show is set for Saturday, January 25, 2020, at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach. Tickets are on sale now at CarolinaCountryMusicAwards.com.
CAROLINA COUNTRY 93.9 WMIR PROGRAM DIRECTOR NAMED TO HALL OF FAME BOARD OF DIRECTORS
July 23, 2019
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (July 23, 2019) – Christy “Sweet Tea” Andrulonis has been named to the Board of Directors of the South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall of Fame. The organization honors South Carolina natives and others with a strong connection to the Palmetto State who have achieved national success in the entertainment and music industry. Currently, the organization is working to rebuild the Hall of Fame, which suffered a devastating fire in 2012.
Sweet Tea says she’s honored to be named to the board. “There are so many talented musicians who call South Carolina home. But sometimes your home state tends to forget about you and the Hall of Fame is a way to make sure that no one ever forgets their contributions to entertainment and music.”
Christy, known as “Sweet Tea” on the Radio, is a native of Greenville, South Carolina. Sweet Tea has been entertaining country music listeners for over a decade and currently hosts the afternoon shift on Carolina Country (100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville and 93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach). In addition to her extensive on-air work, she’s also the Executive Director of the Carolina Country Music Association, an industry trade group for singers, songwriters, musicians, and country music fans. She produces and hosts the Carolina Country Music Awards at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach each January.
She is also the Vice President of Colonial Media + Entertainment and Andrulonis Media, which operates 21 Radio stations (4 AM/13 FM + 4 HD Radio digital simulcasts) in five markets over four states. In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Company owns Carolina Country 93.9 WMIR (Country), 95-5 The Drive (Adult Hits), and Rejoice 1200AM/103.5FM (Gospel). Other stations are located in Fayetteville, North Carolina; Olean, New York; and Bradford, Pennsylvania.
NEWS RELEASE
GREG ROWLES TO RECEIVE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
July 25, 2019
The Carolina Country Music Association, a trade association representing singers, songwriters, musicians and other allied professionals in the country music industry, has announced the association’s “Lifetime Achievement Award” is being given to Myrtle Beach country music icon Greg Rowles.
The Executive Director of the Carolina Country Music Association is Christy “Sweet Tea” Andrulonis, who also hosts the afternoon show on Carolina Country radio stations (93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach and 100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville). She says the association’s decision to award Greg Rowles the “Lifetime Achievement Award” is the perfect choice for 2019. Sweet Tea says, “Greg has been entertaining country music fans for forty years and continues to wow them nightly at the Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach. It will be an honor to award Greg with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Greg Rowles says “I’m incredibly humbled with this recognition. I still get a thrill every day as I walk on the stage and the curtain opens. My dad told me as a young man when entertaining to just love the people and they will love you back. Well, that is an understatement because I’m overwhelmed daily from folks that still come to see me entertain. For the last 20 years, we’ve called South Carolina home and it is beyond belief to be honored with this award. Many thanks to the Carolina Country Music Association and everyone who has supported me throughout the years. But also I would like to say thank you to my bride Brandee and our three incredible kids, Courtney, Grayson, and Ashton for their support and sacrifice over the years. I would also like to that my Alabama Theatre family as well. My greatest thanks to God for the gift of music and using my gift to help others.”
Greg Rowles has been an active musician since the age of twelve when he began playing in a band with his mom, dad, and brother. An accomplished musician on various instruments, Greg credits Ernest Tubb, George Strait, Faron Young, Porter Wagoner, and Conway Twitty as his musical heroes.
Greg is a former male vocalist of the year from “Star Search.” In fact, the victory was the first in the show’s history that fans voted for their favorite performer. Eighteen million votes were cast and Ed McMahon announced Greg as the champion.
This year Greg added to his list of titles, “Award Winning Broadcaster” recognized by the National Motorsports Press Association. You can see Greg’s work daily on WFXB FOX TV anchoring “Carolina AM”, and “Not the News” daily, in addition to “FOX Racin’ News” weekends.
Greg works closely with his corporate sponsors, Wrangler, Elixir Strings, Steve Clayton Custom Picks, Holt Custom Guitars, Fender, and Gretsch Guitars. Greg is also the spokesman for Beach Automotive Group representing Ford, Lincoln, Mazda, and Volvo.
Greg entertained at the Vatican in Rome, Italy, three years ago at the request of James Nicholson, the U.S. Ambassador to The Holy See, who also served President George W. Bush as Secretary of Veteran Affairs. Greg also performed numerous times as a solo artist on the Grand Ole Opry. This year marks his 40th year in show business and his 20th season here where he has been honored to be named as “Alabama Theatre’s Good Will Ambassador.” Greg’s latest CD, “Country & Gospel Special,” was recorded live at the theatre earlier this year.
Greg served for over 14 years in Christian ministry as a music pastor and now consults with churches forming praise services. Greg is most proud of his bride of 27 years, Brandee and their three incredible children, Courtney, Grayson, and Ashton.
The “Lifetime Achievement Award” is awarded each January at the Carolina Country Music Awards. Next year’s awards show is set for Saturday, January 25, 2020, at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach. Tickets are on sale now at CarolinaCountryMusicAwards.com.
CAROLINA COUNTRY 93.9 WMIR PROGRAM DIRECTOR NAMED TO HALL OF FAME BOARD OF DIRECTORS
July 23, 2019
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (July 23, 2019) – Christy “Sweet Tea” Andrulonis has been named to the Board of Directors of the South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall of Fame. The organization honors South Carolina natives and others with a strong connection to the Palmetto State who have achieved national success in the entertainment and music industry. Currently, the organization is working to rebuild the Hall of Fame, which suffered a devastating fire in 2012.
Sweet Tea says she’s honored to be named to the board. “There are so many talented musicians who call South Carolina home. But sometimes your home state tends to forget about you and the Hall of Fame is a way to make sure that no one ever forgets their contributions to entertainment and music.”
Christy, known as “Sweet Tea” on the Radio, is a native of Greenville, South Carolina. Sweet Tea has been entertaining country music listeners for over a decade and currently hosts the afternoon shift on Carolina Country (100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville and 93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach). In addition to her extensive on-air work, she’s also the Executive Director of the Carolina Country Music Association, an industry trade group for singers, songwriters, musicians, and country music fans. She produces and hosts the Carolina Country Music Awards at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach each January.
She is also the Vice President of Colonial Media + Entertainment and Andrulonis Media, which operates 21 Radio stations (4 AM/13 FM + 4 HD Radio digital simulcasts) in five markets over four states. In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Company owns Carolina Country 93.9 WMIR (Country), 95-5 The Drive (Adult Hits), and Rejoice 1200AM/103.5FM (Gospel). Other stations are located in Fayetteville, North Carolina; Olean, New York; and Bradford, Pennsylvania.
PRESS RELEASE
CAROLINA ARTIST SHOWDOWN SINGERS/SONGWRITERS
ANNOUNCED FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY ON
93.9 CAROLINA COUNTRY (WMIR) & CAROLINA COUNTRY 100.1 (WFAY)
LOCAL ARTISTS GET AIRPLAY ON MYRTLE BEACH & FAYETTEVILLE, NC COUNTRY OUTLET
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (January 30, 2019) –Four local artists have been named for the February 2019 Carolina Artist Showdown. The Carolina Artist Showdown airs daily on 93.9 Carolina Country (Myrtle Beach, SC) and Carolina Country 100.1 (Fayetteville, NC).
AJ Sanders with Chevy and Daddy (Hartsville, SC)
Gary Alexander with Like A Love Song (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Matt Dylan and The Honky-Tonk Outlaws with Carolina Moonshine (Winston-Salam, NC)
Outshyne with Rumors (Laurens, SC)
The Carolina Artist Showdown gives local artists from the Carolinas the opportunity to receive daily Radio airplay of their song, known as “spins,” on 93.9 Carolina Country and Carolina Country 100.1. Listeners vote for their favorite song and artist on the Carolina Artist Showdown “Group Page” and the top vote-getter each month becomes the Artist of the Month and will move to the finals in the month of December. All artists are invited to perform the one song airing on the radio stations on the Mainstage at The House Of Blues in North Myrtle Beach in January 2020.
Andrulonis Media (http://www.andrulonis.fm) Program Director Sweet Tea hosts the afternoon show on 93.9 Carolina Country and Carolina Country 100.1 also oversees the competition. Sweet Tea says that “spins help these local artists immensely. Each artist gets over twenty spins during the month. We’re so pleased to profile these local artists who have so much talent and get them on the Radio, many for the first time.”
ABOUT ANDRULONIS MEDIA
Andrulonis Media Chairman/CEO Jeff Andrulonis is a well-known local entrepreneur with interests including real estate, broadcasting, and retail. Andrulonis owns Andrulonis Media, which is an integrated marketing organization that specializes in marketing and promotions for local businesses. With Radio stations, numerous websites and social media, event marketing opportunities, and even full ad agency consulting, Andrulonis Media can help local businesses craft an engaging message and then powerfully deliver that message over the numerous megaphones of the Company.
The Company’s Radio Group operates 21 Radio stations (4 AM/13 FM + 4 HD Radio digital simulcasts) in five markets over four states. In Fayetteville, North Carolina, the Company’s offerings include Carolina Country 100.1 WFAY (Country) and The River / 106.5 WMRV (Adult Hits). In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Company owns Carolina Country 93.9 WMIR (Country), 99.9 WNMB (Adult Hits), and Rejoice 1200AM/103.5FM (Gospel). The Company’s Olean Radio Group division is based in Olean, New York, and includes Eagle 96.7 (Country) and The Mountain (Adult Hits). Colonial’s Quaker State Broadcasting division is based in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and includes Eagle 103.9 (Country) and The Mountain / 106.3 WXMT (Adult Hits). And in Georgetown, South Carolina, the Company owns 93.7 Rejoice FM (Gospel).
Andrulonis Media’s Sports Marketing division offers the opportunity for local businesses to partner with NASCAR, University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Penn State Nittany Lions, East Carolina Pirates, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and numerous high school teams.
Andrulonis Media’s event marketing opportunities include the Olean Fourth of July Fireworks, the largest in the market; and the Carolina Country Music Awards show in Myrtle Beach each January.
Andrulonis Media’s ad agency consulting is performed via Andrulonis Media Strategies, a full-service ad agency providing services to clients in the medical/dental, power equipment, and home improvement categories, among others.
More information is available by going online to www.andrulonis.com.
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2019
CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS
CAROLINA COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS HELD AT HOUSE OF BLUES
SELLOUT CROWD SEES LOCAL MUSICIANS RECOGNIZED
WHAT YOUR MUSIC NEEDS
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (January 27, 2018) – Twenty-five local artists walked away with “Sweeties” after winning their category at the Carolina Country Music Awards, held Saturday night at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach, with a sellout crowd in attendance.
Ryan Trotti, a country singer/songwriter from Springfield, S.C., was crowned “Entertainer of the Year” after winning the annual Carolina Artist Showdown competition heard on 93.9 Carolina Country (WMIR FM) Myrtle Beach, SC and 100.1 Carolina Country (WFAY FM) Fayetteville, NC. The “Entertainer of the Year” category is voted on by listeners. Remaining categories are selected by a panel of judges and the nominees and winners were as follows:
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Ryan Trotti (Springfield, SC) WINNER
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Doug McCormick (Patrick, SC) WINNER
Kevin Nichols (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Chris Munson (Fayetteville, NC)
Bryan Mayer (Trent Woods, NC)
Ryan Trotti (Springfield, SC)
Cody Webb (Ridge Spring SC)
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Faith Bardill (Sanford, NC) WINNER
Shelby Raye (Chapin, SC)
Dani Dease (Rock Hill, SC)
Marlisa Small (Little River, SC)
KasCie Page (Conway, SC)
Paige Johnson (Angier, NC)
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
Mark McKinney & Company (Pembroke, NC) WINNER
Blue Pickups (Columbia, SC)
The Cliff Wheeler Band (Lemon Springs, NC)
DUO OF THE YEAR
Saluda Shoals (Charleston, SC) WINNER
Sweet Sweet (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Prettier Than Matt (Columbia, SC)
COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“Swerve” Kevin Nichols (Myrtle Beach, SC) WINNER
“Grandpa’s Song ” Mark McKinney & Company (Pembroke, NC)
“Too Much Of A Good Thang” Ryan Trotti (Springfield, SC)
“Good Beers Left” Doug McCormick (Patrick, SC)
“This Is Me” Bryan Mayer (Trent Woods, NC)
“Keep Me Saying Yes” Chris Munson (Fayetteville, NC)
COUNTRY MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
“Good Beers Left" Doug McCormick (Patrick, SC) WINNER
“Grandpa's Song” Mark McKinney & Company (Pembroke, NC)
“Roam” Sweet Sweet (Myrtle Beach, SC)
“This Is Me” Bryan Mayer (Trent Woods, NC)
“Boat Docks” Logan Robinson (Raleigh, NC)
CHRISTIAN COUNTRY SINGLE OF THE YEAR
“Out Of This World” Cody Webb (Ridge Spring SC) WINNER
“Grandpas Song ” Mark McKinney & Company (Pembroke, NC)
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR
Kerrine Gifford (Sweet Sweet/Myrtle Beach, SC) WINNER
Jonathan Locklear (Mark McKinney & Company/Pembroke, NC)
Angel Paez (Dustin Chapman Band/Whiteville, NC)
Jimmy Rogers (The Blue Pickups/Columbia, SC)
Jim Graddick (Columbia, SC)
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Warren Garett for “Girls Get Wings” WINNER
Andrew Locklear & Jonathon Locklear for “Grandpa’s Song ”
Bryan Mayer for “This Is Me”
Doug McCormick for “Good Beers Left”
KasCie Page for “Proud Of You”
COUNTRY TOUR OF THE YEAR
Little Bit Naughty Featuring Bryan Mayer WINNER
The Palmetto Roots Tour Featuring Cody Webb & Doug McCormick
Endless Summer Tour Featuring Mark McKinney and Company
Country on the Outskirts of Town Featuring Paige Johnson
COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR
“Sweet Dixie Memory” Doug McCormick (Patrick, SC) WINNER
“Turn the Radio On” Shawn Bilton (Pawleys Island, SC)
“No Filter” Shelby Raye (Chapin, SC)
“UnCover” Prettier Than Matt (Columbia, SC)
EMERGING NEW ARTIST
Cody Webb (Ridge Spring SC) WINNER
McKenzies Mill (West End, NC)
Dani Dease (Rock Hill, SC)
Warren Garett (Seneca SC)
Bryan Mayer (Trent Woods, NC)
HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Blue Pickups (Columbia, SC) WINNER
Bryan Mayer (Trent Woods, NC)
Dani Dease (Rock Hill, SC)
Shelby Raye (Chapin, SC)
Marlisa Small (Little River, SC)
GUITARIST OF THE YEAR
Jonathan Locklear (Pembroke, NC) WINNER
Gary Orlando (Sanford, NC)
Eric Upton (Forest City, NC)
Robbie Lee VanHoy (Red Springs, NC)
Jimmy Rogers (Columbia, SC)
BASSIST OF THE YEAR
Mike Sandvig (New Bern, NC) WINNER
Garret Wheeler (Wilmington, NC)
Rodney Davis (Columbia, SC)
FIDDLER OF THE YEAR
Jim Graddick (Columbia, SC) WINNER
Matt Parks (Spartanburg, SC)
Angel Paez (Charlotte, NC)
KEYBOARD/PIANIST OF THE YEAR
Sean Hiler (Myrtle Beach, SC) WINNER
Jamie Lee (Laurens, SC)
Karen Smith (Ashville, NC)
STEEL GUITARIST OF THE YEAR
Michael Boney (Bennettsville, SC) WINNER
Kenny Martin (Columbia, SC)
DRUMMER OF THE YEAR
Greg Adair (Fayetteville, NC) WINNER
Anthony Sightler (Swansea, SC)
Michael King (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Andrew Locklear (Pembroke, NC)
The Carolina Country Music Awards is an annual event open to performers who grew up in or now reside in North Carolina or South Carolina. The show’s Executive Producer is Sweet Tea, who is also the afternoon DJ on Carolina Country (100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville and 93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach). According to Sweet Tea, “I think there are a lot of great artists who aren’t typically heard on the Radio. The CCMAs give those musicians an opportunity to be recognized for their hard work.” She also says that country music fans aren’t neglected because the show is also a way for fans to connect with the musicians. “It’s a big party for both the artists and the fans. Everybody gets to enjoy some great ‘Carolina roots’ music.”
Tickets to the show are on sale now at www.CarolinaCountryMusicAwards.com.
ABOUT ANDRULONIS MEDIA
Andrulonis Media Chairman/CEO Jeff Andrulonis is a well-known local entrepreneur with interests including real estate, broadcasting, and retail. Andrulonis owns Andrulonis Media, which is an integrated marketing organization that specializes in marketing and promotions for local businesses. With Radio stations, numerous websites and social media, event marketing opportunities, and even full ad agency consulting, Andrulonis Media can help local businesses craft an engaging message and then powerfully deliver that message over the numerous megaphones of the Company.
The Company’s Radio Group operates 21 Radio stations (4 AM/13 FM + 4 HD Radio digital simulcasts) in five markets over four states. In Fayetteville, North Carolina, the Company’s offerings include Carolina Country 100.1 WFAY (Country) and The River / 106.5 WMRV (Adult Hits). In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Company owns Carolina Country 93.9 WMIR (Country), 99.9 WNMB (Adult Hits), and Rejoice 1200AM/103.5FM (Gospel). The Company’s Olean Radio Group division is based in Olean, New York, and includes Eagle 96.7 (Country) and The Mountain (Adult Hits). Colonial’s Quaker State Broadcasting division is based in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and includes Eagle 103.9 (Country) and The Mountain / 106.3 WXMT (Adult Hits). And in Georgetown, South Carolina, the Company owns 93.7 Rejoice FM (Gospel).
Andrulonis Media’s Sports Marketing division offers the opportunity for local businesses to partner with NASCAR, University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Penn State Nittany Lions, East Carolina Pirates, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and numerous high school teams.
Andrulonis Media’s event marketing opportunities include the Olean Fourth of July Fireworks, the largest in the market; and the Carolina Country Music Awards show in Myrtle Beach each January.
Andrulonis Media’s ad agency consulting is performed via Andrulonis Media Strategies, a full-service ad agency providing services to clients in the medical/dental, power equipment, and home improvement categories, among others.
More information is available by going online to www.andrulonis.com.
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PRESS RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE
“Entertainer of the Year” Nominations Announced for
Carolina Country Music Awards
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (December 9, 2018) – Nominations have been announced for “Entertainer of the Year” for the 2019 Carolina Country Music Awards Show (CCMAs), coming to the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach on Saturday, January 26th, 2019.
Nominees for the “Entertainer of the Year” category are as follows:
Ryan Trotti (Springfield, SC)
Jacob Vaughan (Reidsville, NC)
Mark McKinney & Company (Pembroke, NC)
Kevin Nichols (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Faith Bardill (Sanford, NC)
KasCie Page (Conway, SC)
Danie Dease (Rock Hill, SC)
The “Entertainer of the Year” category for the 2019 CCMA Show is voted on by listeners. And last year’s “Entertainer of the Year,” The Blue Pickups, are among the artists who will be performing at the CCMAs in January.
A production of Colonial Media + Entertainment, the Carolina Country Music Awards is an annual event open to performers who grew up in or now reside in North Carolina or South Carolina. The show’s Executive Producer is Sweet Tea, who is also the afternoon DJ on Carolina Country (100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville and 93.9 WMIR in Myrtle Beach). According to Sweet Tea, “I think there are a lot of great artists who aren’t typically heard on the Radio. The CCMAs give those musicians an opportunity to be recognized for their hard work.” She also says that country music fans aren’t neglected because the show is also a way for fans to connect with the musicians. “It’s a big party for both the artists and the fans. Everybody gets to enjoy some great ‘Carolina roots’ music.”
Tickets to the show are on sale now at www.CarolinaCountryMusicAwards.com.
ABOUT COLONIAL
Colonial Media + Entertainment Chairman/CEO Jeff Andrulonis is a well-known local entrepreneur with interests including real estate, broadcasting, and retail. Andrulonis owns Colonial Media + Entertainment, which is an integrated marketing organization that specializes in marketing and promotions for local businesses. With Radio stations, numerous websites and social media, event marketing opportunities, and even full ad agency consulting, Colonial Media + Entertainment can help local businesses craft an engaging message and then powerfully deliver that message over the numerous megaphones of the Company.
Colonial’s Radio Group operates 21 Radio stations (4 AM/13 FM + 4 HD Radio digital simulcasts) in five markets over four states. In Fayetteville, North Carolina, the Company’s offerings include Carolina Country 100.1 WFAY (Country) and The River / 106.5 WMRV (Adult Hits). In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Company owns Carolina Country 93.9 WMIR (Country), 99.9 WNMB (Adult Hits), and Rejoice 1200AM/103.5FM (Gospel). The Company’s Olean Radio Group division is based in Olean, New York, and includes Eagle 96.7 (Country) and The Mountain (Adult Hits). Colonial’s Quaker State Broadcasting division is based in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and includes Eagle 103.9 (Country) and The Mountain / 106.3 WXMT (Adult Hits). And in Georgetown, South Carolina, the Company owns 93.7 Rejoice FM (Gospel).
Colonial’s Sports Marketing division offers the opportunity for local businesses to partner with NASCAR, University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Penn State Nittany Lions, East Carolina Pirates, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and numerous high school teams.
Colonial’s event marketing opportunities include the Olean Fourth of July Fireworks, the largest in the market; and the Carolina Country Music Awards show in Myrtle Beach each January.
Colonial’s ad agency consulting is performed via Colonial Media Strategies, a full-service ad agency providing services to clients in the medical/dental, power equipment, and home improvement categories, among others.
More information is available by going online to www.colonial.fm.
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MYRTLE BEACH COUNTRY RADIO STATION RECOGNIZES LOCAL MUSICIANS
January 1, 2025
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (January 22, 2018) – Eleven local artists walked away with “Sweeties” after winning their category at the Palmetto Chevrolet Carolina Country Music Awards, held Monday night at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach, with over a thousand in attendance.
Blue Pickups, a country act from Columbia, S.C., was be crowned “Entertainer of the Year” after winning the annual Palmetto Chevrolet Carolina Artist Showdown competition heard on 93.9 Carolina Country (WMIR FM). The “Entertainer of the Year” category is voted on by listeners. Remaining categories are selected by a panel of judges and the nominees and winners were as follows:
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
1. Bryan Mayer (Trent Woods, NC) Winner
2. Shawn Bilton (Pawleys Island, SC)
3. Bert Murray (Greenville, SC)
4. Darrell Harwood (Salisbury, NC)
5. Trey Calloway (North Myrtle Beach, SC)
6. Sabin Sharpe (Swansea, SC)
7. Cody Webb (Ridge Spring SC)
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
1. Stephanie Quayle (Summerfield, NC)
2. Faith Bardill (Sanford, NC)
3. KasCie Page (Conway, SC) Winner
4. Jill Charles (Fayetteville, NC)
5. Tammie Davis (Lincolnton, NC)
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
1. Blue Pickups (Columbia, SC)
2. Outshyne (Laurens, SC) Winner
DUO OF THE YEAR
1. McKenzies Mill (West End, NC) Winner
2. Sweet Sweet (Myrtle Beach, SC)
3. Prettier Than Matt (Columbia, SC)
SONG OF THE YEAR
1. “Flags of Freedom” CC Martin (Shallotte NC)
2. “This Dirt Road” Shawn Bilton (Pawleys Island, SC)
3. “Home Is Where The Heart Is” Trey Calloway (North Myrtle Beach, SC) Winner
4. “One For The Money” Darrell Harwood (Salisbury, NC)
MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
1. “Red Neck Whiskey” Blue Pickups (Columbia, SC) Winner
2. “To The Stars” Sweet Sweet (Myrtle Beach, SC)
3. “Church” KasCie Page (Conway, SC)
4. “Leaving Town” Bryan Mayer (Trent Woods, NC)
5. “Doing Time” Darrell Harwood (Salisbury, NC)
6. “She’s Carolina” Cody Webb (Ridge Spring SC)
GOSPEL SONG OF THE YEAR
1. “Home Is Where The Heart Is” Trey Calloway (North Myrtle Beach, SC) Winner
2. “Set Me Free” Dustin Chapman (Whiteville, NC)
3. “Friend In Jesus” KasCie Page & Robbie Lee VanHoy (Conway, SC/ Red Springs, NC)
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR
1. Kerrine Gifford (Sweet Sweet/Myrtle Beach, SC)
2. Sean Hiler (Trey Calloway Band/ North Myrtle Beach, SC) Winner
3. Mike Sandvig (Bryan Mayer Band/ New Bern, NC)
4. Smiley Norris (Outshyne/ Laurens, SC)
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
1. Tammie Davis (for “This Face”)
2. Jill Charles (for “Cotton Candy Sky”)
3. CC Martin (for “Flags of Freedom”)
4. Sweet Sweet (for “To The Stars”)
5. Bryan Mayer (for “Little Bit Naughty”)
6. Cody Webb (for “She’s Carolina”) Winner
HUMANITARIAN AWARD
1. Darrell Harwood (Salisbury, NC) Winner
2. Kelly Wyatt (Columbia, SC)
3. Sabin Sharpe (Swansea, SC)
The Palmetto Chevrolet Carolina Artist Showdown airs daily on 93.9 Carolina Country (WMIR). The showdown gives local artists from the Carolinas the opportunity to receive daily Radio airplay of their song, known as “spins,” on 93.9 Carolina Country. Listeners vote for their favorite song and artist and the top vote-getter each month becomes the Artist of the Month.
Colonial Media and Entertainment (http://www.colonial.fm) Program Director Sweet Tea hosts the afternoon show on 93.9 Carolina Country and also oversees the competition. Sweet Tea says that “spins help these local artists immensely. Each artist gets over twenty spins during the month. We’re so pleased to profile these local artists who have so much talent and get them on the Radio, many for the first time.”
ABOUT COLONIAL
Colonial Media + Entertainment Chairman/CEO Jeff Andrulonis is a well-known local entrepreneur with interests including real estate, broadcasting, and retail. Andrulonis owns Colonial Media + Entertainment, which is an integrated marketing organization that specializes in marketing and promotions for local businesses. With Radio stations, numerous websites and social media, event marketing opportunities, and even full ad agency consulting, Colonial Media + Entertainment can help local businesses craft an engaging message and then powerfully deliver that message over the numerous megaphones of the Company.
Colonial’s Radio Group operates 21 Radio stations (4 AM/13 FM + 4 HD Radio digital simulcasts) in five markets over four states. In Fayetteville, North Carolina, the Company’s offerings include Sports Radio 100.1 WFAY (Sports) in Fayetteville and The River / 106.5 WMRV (Adult Hits). In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, 93-9 Carolina Country (Country), The Beach / 95.5 WNMB (Adult Hits), and Rejoice 1200AM/103.5FM (Gospel) are available. The Company’s Olean Radio Group division is based in Olean, New York, and includes V96.7 (AC), The Mountain @ 98.7 (Adult Hits), and The Eagle 99.1 (Country),. Colonial’s Quaker State Broadcasting division is based in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and includes The Eagle 103.9 (Country) and The Mountain / 106.3 WXMT (Adult Hits). And in Georgetown, South Carolina, the Company owns 93.7 Rejoice FM (Gospel).
Colonial’s Sports Marketing division offers the opportunity for local businesses to partner with NASCAR, University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Penn State Nittany Lions, East Carolina Pirates, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and numerous high school teams.
Colonial’s event marketing opportunities include the Olean Fourth of July Fireworks, the largest in the market; and the Carolina Artist Showdown awards show in Myrtle Beach.
Colonial’s ad agency consulting is performed via Colonial Media Strategies, a full-service ad agency providing services to clients in the medical/dental, power equipment, and home improvement categories, among others.
More information is available by going online to www.colonial.fm