March 28, 2008
CRS-39
By C J Garten
Cowboy Carnival Records and Publishing
Lebanon, TN

I would like to take the time and thank everyone affiliated with and responsible for the Country Radio Seminar. This event has made a huge impact on me as an artist and writer. This was my first year to attend and I would have to say it has been the most valuable investment I've made through my years here in Nashville. I would highly encourage any one who wishes to pursue a career in this industry to attend and support CRS. It may be from being an artist themselves to an individual wanting to start their own label, CRS has it all.

I came into this not knowing what to expect. A good close friend of mine and a pillar in the song community, Doak Turner, suggested I attend the event. From the first day I arrived to the last get together I was welcomed and treated with care and kindness not only from the attendees but the staff as well. I have a new found respect for not only the individuals who spend and devote so much time and effort into CRS, but the music industry as a whole coming together for the greater good of country music and radio. The seminars are an invaluable asset, the relationships we make are uncanny, and the down home southern feel you get from everyone only encourages you to look forward to next years agenda. I had the privilege and honor to learn so much in so few days from those who have been in this industry for decades and tap into a knowledge that has taken these people many years to acquire. I would like to thank Becky Brenner, Ed Salamon and all of the CRB committee for their hard work and commitment to make CRS a success. I would also like to thank your CRB team and especially Merrill
Warner who went above and beyond to make my experience enjoyable.   

As those of you who attend know how educational this three day seminar is, I'd like to recall some highlights of this years events for me.
Right off the bat we met for a breakfast and a private show with none other than Garth Brooks. I was able to get a first hand look and interview with a man who has helped shape country music that brought new limits to what can be achieved in this industry. Afterwards was a day filled full of informative seminars, showcases, exhibits, and networking. I was also pleased to find that if I missed a session I could make it up by purchasing a taping of that specific seminar individually, or buy the entire week's sessions in one package. I loved seeing the current and upcoming artists at the showcases and at the nighttime activities. The networking activities at the hotel and at the evening events will be a tremendous value to my music career.

Country radio is the primary medium for the exposure of country music.  I believe we should give them the respect they deserve and educate ourselves on the market and the evolving world of the music industry today to help maintain and develop techniques that will continually allow growth and profit in this industry for years and generations to come. I as an artist and devoted fan of country music do not want to see the day when there is a world without country radio.  In closing I again thank everyone involved and give my commitment to supporting and attending all future CRS events and programs.