MBN: The Monte Bubbles Network: CMT NEWS

Sept 4

Hank Williams Jr. to Be Honored as Next CMT 'Giant' in New Two-Hour Special 'CMT Giants' Taping October 25 in Los Angeles

Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Kid Rock, Gretchen Wilson, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Buddy Guy to Pay Tribute to Bocephus with Live Performances

Jimmy Kimmel and Terry Bradshaw Set to Present

Tickets Go On Sale Saturday, September 22

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- CMT honors the extraordinary life and music of the legendary Hank Williams Jr. in the two hour special, CMT GIANTS: HANK WILLIAMS, JR, which will be taped before a live audience on Thursday, October 25 at the Gibson Amphitheatre in Los Angeles. Tickets go on sale Saturday, September 22 at www.ticketmaster.com. The tribute will feature live performances by superstars Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Kid Rock, Gretchen Wilson, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Buddy Guy, with more soon to be announced. Jimmy Kimmel and Terry Bradshaw are slated to present. CMT GIANTS: HANK WILLIAMS, JR will premiere on CMT on Saturday, November 17 at 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

Hank Jr. has long been the voice of the common man, serving up observations on life and society that have made his fans listen intently and respond with a rousing "Hell Yeah!" as he puts words and music to their thoughts, hopes and everyday life. Nicknamed "Bocephus" by his famous father, he was only three when his father died in 1952. Eight years later his mother was coaxing him on stage to sing his daddy's songs, urging him to continue the legacy. He made his debut on the Opry at 11 and by the time he was 14 he was in the studio recording his debut album. His rendition of "Long Gone Lonesome Blues" became a hit and all eyes were on the artist, constantly looking for shades of his father's genius.

What followed in the years since has been a whirlwind ride during which the younger Williams successfully emerged from his famous father's shadow, forging a career of his own. He managed to create music that resonated with the same gut-wrenching emotion that marked his father's best work, yet beyond that he left little room for comparison as he blazed a trail with such classic hits as "Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound," "All My Rowdy Friends," "Old Habits," "A Country Boy Can Survive," and "Born to Boogie."

The CMT GIANTS franchise began last year when Reba McEntire was honored for her stellar career by such stars as Faith Hill, Trisha Yearwood, Kelly Clarkson, Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles, LeAnn Rimes, Megan Mullally, Wynonna and Dolly Parton, each of whom paid tribute to Reba by lending their voices to her biggest hits.

CMT GIANTS is produced by Tom Forrest and Tailight TV. John Hamlin and Margaret Comeaux serve as executive producers for CMT.

CMT, a unit of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is the leading television and digital authority on country music and Heartland entertainment, reaching more than 84 million homes in the U.S. CMT and its website, CMT.com, offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand. The network's digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT's broadband channel, CMT Loaded.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom, is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: CMT

Web site: http://www.cmt.com/

August 21

CMT’S ACCLAIMED PERFORMANCE SERIES “CMT CROSS COUNTRY”
DEBUTS ITS LATEST PAIRING ON CMT LOADED
“CMT CROSS COUNTRY: JACK INGRAM AND MIRANDA LAMBERT” premieres Aug 27
on CMT LOADED before the network’s Aug 31 premiere
NASHVILLE – August 21, 2007 – NASHVILLE – August 21, 2007 – CMT CROSS COUNTRY: JACK INGRAM AND MIRANDA LAMBERT will kick-start online when the all-new episode of the acclaimed music series premieres exclusively on the network’s broadband channel CMT LOADED on Monday, August 27. The hour-long episode will go live online a full four days before its television debut and marks the first full-length concert special to premiere on CMT LOADED at CMT.com. CMT LOADED is available online at www.cmt.com/loaded. CMT CROSS COUNTRY: JACK INGRAM AND MIRANDA LAMBERT premieres on CMT on Friday, August 31 at 10:00 p.m., ET/PT.

CMT LOADED is the largest broadband network designed specifically for country music lovers with thousands of exclusive performances and interviews, hosted series, original productions, plus music videos from across all genres. Available free and on demand at CMT.com, the 24-hour network features rare or exclusive footage from a wide array of artists, including the biggest stars, emerging artists, bluegrass, alt-country and more. CMT LOADED also features opportunities for user-generated content with contests and promotions, including the online talent search MUSIC CITY MADNESS which launched for a second year on August 1.

CMT, a unit of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), is the leading television and digital authority on country music and Heartland entertainment, reaching more than 84 million homes in the U.S. CMT and its website, CMT.com, offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand. The network’s digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT’s broadband channel, CMT Loaded.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

July 13
Hank Williams Jr. to be Honored as Next CMT 'GIANT' in New Two-Hour Special 'CMT GIANTS' Premiering in November

-- In the music industry, there are very few artists who surpass superstar status to become true American icons. Hank Williams Jr. is one of those deserving few, and his work and his legacy will be honored in the new special CMT GIANTS, premiering in November on CMT. Throughout his career, Hank Jr. has helped shape country music's cultural landscape with his unbridled creativity, from the gut honesty, and unwavering personal convictions. His music not only reflects his own life, but the common experiences that unite fans around the world.

CMT GIANTS is produced by Tom Forrest and Tailight TV. Margaret Comeaux serves as executive producer for CMT.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom, is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: CMT

Web site: http://www.cmt.com/

'TY MURRAY'S CELEBRITY BULL RIDING CHALLENGE' Premieres Friday, August 10 on CMT
Rodeo Champion Ty Murray Instructs Famous Cast Including Vanilla Ice, Leif Garrett, Stephen Baldwin, 'Rocket' Ismail, 'Cowboy' Kenny Bartram, 'Nitro' Dan Clark, Jonny 'Fairplay' Dalton, Josh Haynes and Francesco Quinn

Nine celebrities learn that the cutthroat world of Hollywood is nothing compared to the real life thrills of professional bull riding in the six-episode series, TY MURRAY'S CELEBRITY BULL RIDING CHALLENGE, premiering Friday, August 10 at 9:00-10:00 p.m., ET/PT on CMT. Hosted by accomplished rodeo athlete and nine-time All-Around World Champion, Ty Murray, CMT's TY MURRAY'S CELEBRITY BULL RIDING CHALLENGE follows a group of high-profile city slickers as they travel to Murray's ranch in Stephenville, Texas to tackle the dangerous and fascinating sport of bull riding in less than two weeks.

The cast features stars from different walks of life and realms of entertainment and sports, including:

* Vanilla Ice (Rob Van Winkle) -Rapper/ Musician

* Leif Garrett -Actor/ Musician

* Stephen Baldwin -Actor/Writer/Producer

* "Rocket" Raghib Ismail -Former NFL Football Player

* "Cowboy" Kenny Bartram -Motocross Rider, X-Games

* "Nitro" Dan Clark -Actor/ "American Gladiator"

* Jonny "Fairplay" Dalton -Reality Star ("Survivor")

* Josh Haynes -UFC Fighter

* Francesco Quinn -Actor ("Platoon," "24")

Murray leads each episode with daily tutorials where cast members are taught how to mount a bull in the chute, take major falls, practice extreme mental concentration and survive the most intense eight seconds in sports, and perhaps their lives. As their time on the ranch progresses, the stress is amplified as the bulls become increasingly more intense.

After long days of training and riding, the cast finds their own ways to unwind: Murray and girlfriend, Jewel, host a BBQ at their home that transitions into open mic night at the ranch; Rapper Vanilla Ice pays homage to Ty Murray in the form of a new tattoo; former wide receiver, "Rocket" Ismail, accepts an impromptu race challenge issued by a local resident; and Jonny Fairplay entertains a crowd at a bar in the town square.

Those who survive the work, and the play, will compete at an official Professional Bull Riders event in Nashville, Tenn. where they will ride for a final time in front of a stadium full of fans, alongside bull riders who have trained for years. With the help of Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame member Cody Lambert and other guest bull riders, Murray is bound to determine the weak from the strong in this uniquely demanding challenge.

For exclusive extended coverage of the series, visit CMT Loaded on CMT.com and CMT Mobile. CMT.com also features an enhanced Web site with photo galleries, message boards, extended clips, deleted scenes and exclusive outtakes.

TY MURRAY'S CELEBRITY BULL RIDING CHALLENGE is produced by Scott Messick at Mess Media. Bob Kusbit and Melanie Moreau will serve as executive producers for CMT.

For more information, visit www.press.mtvn.com/tcajuly07.

Visit CMT's press-only Web site www.cmtpress.com for more information and downloadable photos on all of CMT's programming.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Web site: http://www.cmt.com/

CMT Heats Up Summer With a Smokin' Line-Up of Hot New Music Specials and Returning Favorites
Music Specials featuring Sugarland, Sara Evans, Big & Rich, Miranda Lambert, Jack Ingram, LeAnn Rimes and Joss Stone Ignite CMT Programming

As summer heats up, CMT introduces a smokin' line-up of new and returning favorites in late summer and early fall, including new specials, CMT AT SUMMERFEST with Sugarland, Sara Evans and Big & Rich and BIG BREAK with Sara Evans, as well as all-new seasons of the popular COUNTRY FRIED HOME VIDEOS and TRICK MY TRUCK.

CMT returns for a second year to what is billed as the "world's largest music festival" -- CMT AT SUMMERFEST 2007 -- for three, one-hour concert specials featuring country music favorites Sugarland, Sara Evans and Big & Rich, to premiere nightly Friday, August 3-5 at 10:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT. Summerfest 2007 celebrated 40 years of music this June, when thousands of fans descended upon Milwaukee, Wisc. for 11 straight days of live music from across all genres. CMT's Lance Smith will host the three specials.

In an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, aspiring artists compete for a chance to perform as Sara Evans' opening act in the new CMT special, BIG BREAK, premiering Saturday, August 4 at 9:30 p.m., ET/PT. In the half-hour special, dozens of artists audition, but only one is given the chance to take the stage before one of country music's biggest stars.

CMT CROSS COUNTRY will debut its newest country powerhouse combination, a tribute to Texas music, with Miranda Lambert and Jack Ingram taking the stage together to share songs, stories and their love for all things country. Shooting before a live Nashville audience in July, CMT CROSS COUNTRY: MIRANDA LAMBERT AND JACK INGRAM premieres Friday, August 31 at 10:00 p.m., ET/PT.

Country chanteuse, LeAnn Rimes, and British soul singer, Joss Stone, share the stage when genres collide in the newest episode of CMT CROSSROADS. Both known for their strong vocals and retro stylings, LeAnn Rimes and Joss Stone will prove, yet again, that great music knows no boundaries. CMT CROSSROADS: JOSS STONE AND LEANN RIMES will premiere in Fall 2007.

CMT's SURE THING FRIDAYS return with another serving of COUNTRY FRIED HOME VIDEOS hosted by Bill Engvall, the series that shows what everyday Americans do for fun and 15 seconds of fame, Fridays at 9:00 p.m., ET/PT. Chock-full of viewer-generated video moments, the third season of this popular series serves up a heaping helping of hilarious moments like seeing the "female follies" or a 90-year-old grandfather in a wrestling ring. In each 30-minute episode, the funniest video is awarded Engvall's infamous "Here's Your Sign" cash prize award.

Also back for a third season, the popular big rig makeover hit, TRICK MY TRUCK, premieres Friday, July 20 at 9:30 p.m., ET/PT. The Chrome Shop Mafia, a down-home crew of truck mechanics, takes their creativity to a new level as they prove that they can trick out more than big rigs and branch out to overhaul a tow truck, ice cream truck and even a farm pick-up. One special episode features a semi that is tricked out to become a moving tribute to breast cancer research in honor of the driver's mother.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: CMT

http://www.cmt.com/

'DALE' to Make Its Television Debut on CMT in an Exclusive Limited Run
ONLY AUTHORIZED FILM ON RACING LEGEND DALE EARNHARDT TO PREMIERE ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 AT 8 PM ON CMT

He was the one they called the "Intimidator." His fans knew him by his famous No. 3 black Chevrolet and fellow racers knew him as the man to beat. Dale Earnhardt is known as one of the most legendary drivers in the history of NASCAR, and his life both on and off the track is featured in the new two-hour CMT feature, DALE, premiering Tuesday, Sept. 4 at 8:00 p.m., ET/PT on CMT.

DALE will encore at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 5 and Thursday, Sept. 6, with those being the only additional scheduled airings of DALE on CMT prior to the film's release on DVD next year.

Produced by NASCAR Images and CMT Films, DALE is the only authorized film on Dale Earnhardt. Narrated by Paul Newman, this portrait of Dale Earnhardt includes archival race footage, rare outtakes, never-before-seen family home videos and interviews with his closest friends and family, toughest competitors and most avid fans, illustrating the depth of Earnhardt's influence in the racing world and beyond. DALE was produced with the support and endorsement of Richard Childress Racing, plus the Earnhardt family, corporation, and team.

"Dale's legendary persona inspired people who had never even met him," says wife Teresa Earnhardt, "and this film will keep inspiring those who see it and help to carry on his legacy."

"Dale Earnhardt will always be one of the most dominant figures in the history of NASCAR," said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing, Earnhardt's team owner and best friend. "He meant so much to the millions of his fans throughout the world and I think DALE will give everyone a unique perspective on him both as a racer and as a human being."

Prior to airing on CMT, DALE was launched theatrically in February 2007 and premiered in select cities on the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series(TM) circuit. DALE will be available on DVD first quarter 2008.

Dale Earnhardt is widely regarded as one of the greatest NASCAR drivers of all time. In his 22 seasons on the NASCAR Winston Cup Series circuit, he racked up an amazing 76 wins and seven championships, with career winnings totaling more than $41 million. A perpetual fan favorite, Earnhardt was nicknamed "The Intimidator" for his competitive instincts and highly aggressive driving style. Although his death in 2001 on the last lap of the Daytona 500 cut short his legendary career, he will always be remembered for his skill, determination and passion for the sport.

NASCAR Images, the exclusive rights holder of NASCAR event footage, is a marketing and entertainment company in business to leverage The Sight, Sound and Emotion of NASCAR(R) through TV and Film production, home video, licensed consumer products and premiums for the sports' sponsors, tracks, teams and fans. www.nascarimages.com.

DALE is executive produced by NASCAR Images' Jay Abraham and Jim Jorden, with Ryan McGee serving as editor-in-chief; Rory Karpf and Mike Viney, producers; and Al Francesco, director of photography. For CMT Films, Jeff Yapp, Paul Villadolid and Lewis Bogach serve as executive producers.

Formed in 2005, CMT Films is a division of MTV Networks that uses innovative distribution methods including theatrical and television network premieres to distribute its films before premiering them on CMT and releasing for DVD sales. The first CMT Film, Toby Keith's Broken Bridges, debuted in National CineMedia theaters in September 2006, on CMT in December 2006 and on DVD January 9, 2007. More information is available at country music's biggest website, www.CMT.com.

Source: CMT

Web site: http://www.cmt.com/
http://www.nascarimages.com/

JAY FRANK JOINS CMT AS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, MUSIC STRATEGY

NASHVILLE – June 26, 2007 – Jay Frank has joined CMT as Senior Vice President, Music Strategy, it was announced today by Brian Philips, executive vice president and general manager, CMT. Frank will oversee CMT’s Music and Talent division, and all of the network’s on-air and digital music initiatives across multiple platforms, including CMT’s vast range of properties such as films, games, touring and other program enterprise businesses. Serving as the brand liaison to the country music community, Frank will relocate to CMT’s Nashville office from Santa Monica and report to Philips. Frank will begin his post at CMT in August.

Frank comes to CMT from Yahoo! Music where he was Vice President of Music Programming and Label Relations, responsible for all the company’s music programming, working closely with record labels and managers to oversee artist promotions. He was integral in securing music premieres and performance exclusives for Yahoo! Music from such artists as Madonna, Faith Hill, Big & Rich, Toby Keith, Eminem, Nelly, Linkin Park , 50 Cent, Coldplay and more.

“Jay is a pioneer, among the first to see the potential for music on what literally became the biggest music website in the world,” said Philips. “He’s an experienced dealmaker in the fastest-breaking field of entertainment – digital music. He finds and breaks new artists, has a natural flair for promotion, and will make sure music saturates every CMT platform. Jay enjoys a terrific reputation with our partners – the talent, managers and labels – and belongs in the MTVN Music/Logo Group family.”

Frank adds: "For several years, I've watched country music change into a genre that embraces many styles and is no longer just enjoyed by pure country fans. Working with the largest country music network and website in the world is an enormous opportunity for me to help strategize the growth of these new fans and take country music to new, unforeseen heights. The combination of the amazing talent on the entire CMT team, alongside the format's growth potential, creates an exciting opportunity I can't wait to begin."

While at Yahoo! Music (formerly LAUNCH), Frank is credited with growing its audience exponentially to a current monthly audience of approximately 25 million people. He oversaw its radio programming, with a listenership greater than any single radio station in the US . He also coordinated artist relations and was instrumental in helping break many acts, including Taylor Swift, Sugarland, Big & Rich, My Chemical Romance, Chris Brown, James Blunt, among others.

Frank has been featured on Digital Music panels throughout the world such as South by Southwest, MIDEM, Billboard Radio Monitor, DemExpo, MusExpo, Jupiter Plug.In, Canadian Music Week, R&R, Winter Music Conference, CMJ and others. Frank is the programmer for the ‘Ypulse Music Mashup’ conference and is also on the committee for the ‘What Teens Want’ conference.

Prior to joining Yahoo! Music, Jay was senior music director at The Box Music Network, managing all daily music activity on the music video network and coordinating programming efforts that resulted in the network's first Emmy award. He has also acted as marketing and A&R for Ignition Records, managed a live music venue, programming broadcast radio stations and creating two local music video shows.

Frank holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Ithaca College in Ithaca , NY and sits on the Board of Directors of the Academy of Country Music . He is also a Member of NARAS, the CRS Agenda Committee, Leadership Music and Leadership Music Digital Summit.

CMT PREMIERES A NIGHT OF ALL NEW ORIGINAL MUSIC SPECIALS

“CMT CROSSROADS: KELLY CLARKSON AND REBA McENTIRE,”

“BON JOVI UNPLUGGED ON CMT,”

AND “CMT DIARY: MARTINA McBRIDE”

TO PREMIERE ON SUNDAY, JUNE 24

NASHVILLE – June 18, 2007 – It’s a big night of music on CMT as three, all new music specials, CMT CROSSROADS: KELLY CLARKSON AND REBA McENTIRE, BON JOVI UNPLUGGED ON CMT and CMT DIARY: MARTINA McBRIDE premiere Sunday, June 24 beginning at 8:00 p.m., ET/PT.
CMT CROSSROADS: KELLY CLARKSON AND REBA McENTIRE – 8:00-9:00 p.m., ET/PT - Taped at the historic Ryman auditorium in Nashville, Tenn. before an invitation-only audience, Clarkson and McEntire rocked a full house to its feet with super-charged versions of their biggest hits, including “Walkaway,” “Why Haven’t I Heard From You”, “Since You’ve Been Gone” and “Fancy.” For the first time onstage, the two performed an emotionally-charged version of “Because of You,” the current single from McEntire’s forthcoming Reba Duets album. During a candid interview, Clarkson discusses how it feels to share the stage with her idol, while McEntire reflects on her career and her favorite song of Clarkson’s.
BON JOVI UNPLUGGED ON CMT – 9:00-10:30 p.m., ET/PT - The Grammy Award -winning series, “Unplugged,” premieres on CMT with a 90-minute episode featuring the multi-platinum group Bon Jovi, performing their classic hits including “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “You Give Love A Bad Name” and “Who Says You Can’t Go Home,” as well as new songs from their upcoming Island Records release, Lost Highway, in stores June 19, featuring the Top 20 single “(You Want To) Make A Memory.”
BON JOVI UNPLUGGED ON CMT will also feature special guest LeAnn Rimes, who appears on the new Bon Jovi album. In addition to the CMT airing, “Unplugged” will air across multiple MTV Networks brands with a 30-minute episode airing on MTV on June 22; and a 60-minute episode airing on VH1 on June 23. As legend has it, the first “Unplugged” concert broadcast was inspired by Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora’s surprise acoustic performance at the 1989 MTV Video Music Awards.
CMT DIARY: MARTINA McBRIDE – 10:30-11:30 p.m., ET/PT - CMT DIARY provides an inside look at one of country music’s biggest stars as she gears up to promote her new album on a whirlwind promotional tour. Cameras follow Martina McBride as she hits the television talk show circuit, opens to a sold-out crowd in Kansas City , Mo. , and prepares to perform her newest single before a live audience at the “CMT Music Awards.” Devoted to her family, McBride skillfully balances the demands of being a mom with the pressures of a being a country music superstar.
Exclusive video clips of CMT programming are available online at CMT.com and on CMT Mobile. In addition, CMT.com will feature extensive news coverage, photo galleries and more on America ’s number one country music website.
Encore Airings are as follows:
CMT CROSSROADS: KELLY CLARKSON AND REBA McENTIRE – June 24 at 11:00 p.m.; June 25 at 7:00 p.m.; June 26 at 6:00 and 10:00 p.m.; June 28 at 11:00 a.m.; June 29 at 6:00 p.m.; June 30 at 10:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.; and July 1 at 2:30 p.m.
BON JOVI UNPLUGGED ON CMT -– June 25 at 12:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; June 26 at 11:00 p.m.; June 27 at 3:00 p.m.; June 30 at 7:30 p.m.; and July 1 at 1:00 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
CMT DIARY – June 26 at 5:30 p.m.; June 27 at 6:30 p.m.; June 30 at 2:30 p.m.; and July 1 at 10:30 a.m.
*All times are ET/PT
CMT, a unit of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), is the leading television and digital authority on country music and Heartland entertainment, reaching more than 84 million homes in the U.S. CMT and its website, CMT.com, offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand. The network’s digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT’s broadband channel, CMT Loaded.

June 6
TWO OF AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS UNITE FOR AN ALL NEW EPISODE OF “CMT CROSSROADS" FEATURING KELLY CLARKSON AND REBA McENTIRE PREMIERING JUNE 24
NASHVILLE – June 4, 2007 – The series that proves great music knows no boundaries returns, bringing together two of America’s sweethearts, Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire. It was only five years ago that Clarkson first made her adoration of McEntire known to the world and since that time, the two have performed together and become friends both on and off the stage. The two friends and collaborators ignite the stage for another explosive pairing on CMT CROSSROADS: KELLY CLARKSON AND REBA McENTIRE premiering Sunday, June 24 at 8:00 p.m., ET/PT.

Taped at the historic Ryman auditorium in Nashville, Tenn. before an invitation-only audience, Clarkson and McEntire rocked a full house to its feet with super-charged versions of their biggest hits including “Walkaway,” “Why Haven’t I Heard From You”, “Since You’ve Been Gone” and “Fancy.” For the first time on-stage, the two performed an emotionally-charged version of “Because of You,” the current single from McEntire’s forthcoming Reba Duets album. During an intimate interview segment, Clarkson discusses how it feels to share the stage with her idol and how McEntire’s voice feels like home to her while McEntire reflects on her career and her favorite song of Clarkson’s.

CMT CROSSROADS: KELLY CLARKSON AND REBA McENTIRE will be retelecast on Sunday, June 24 at 11:00 p.m., ET/PT; Monday, June 25 at 7:00 p.m., ET/PT; Tuesday, June 26 at 6:00 and 10:00 p.m., ET/PT; Thursday, June 28 at 11:00 a.m., ET/PT; Friday, June 29 at 6:00 p.m., ET/PT; Saturday, June 30 at 10 a.m. and 9 p.m., ET/PT; and lastly on Sunday, July 1 at 2:30 p.m., ET/PT.

CMT CROSSROADS is presented by Alltel Wireless, the first title sponsor of the critically-acclaimed series and new advertiser for CMT. Alltel is owner and operator of the nation's largest wireless network and has 12 million customers.

Clarkson burst onto the music scene with her 2003 album debut, Thankful that debuted at No. 1 and was certified double-platinum. With her 2004 RCA Records sophomore album, Breakaway, the small town Texas native did just that, rushing past her competitors to sell more than 6 million in the U.S. and 10 million worldwide, producing five No. 1 singles. In February ’06, Clarkson took home a pair of Grammy Awards including Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The album also nabbed four American Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, one People’s Choice Award and 11 Billboard Music Awards. In 2006, paying tribute to her musical hero, Clarkson delivered truly memorable performances on the special, CMT GIANTS: REBA, singing two of her favorite Reba hits. Clarkson’s newest project, My December, featuring the hit single, “Never Again,” hits stores on June 26.

Having held the title of Top Female Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year and drawing in millions of fans through her music, television show and clothing line, McEntire duly deserves the title of CMT GIANT designated to her in 2006. She was the first country female artist to sell five million copies of one album since Patsy Cline and has collectively sold over 50 million albums. In a career that has expanded beyond music, McEntire is also a multiple award winner in the acting arena. Her critically-acclaimed Broadway debut in 2001’s “Annie Get Your Gun” was awarded both the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Awards and her self-titled TV show, “Reba,” landed her a Golden Globe nomination and a People’s Choice Award. McEntire’s illustrious career includes 33 No. 1 hits, 29 albums, 15 American Music Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, seven Country Music Association Awards, two Grammy’s and the CMT Johnny Cash Visionary Award. McEntire’s latest project, Reba Duets, is scheduled to hit stores in September and features duets with Clarkson as well Ronnie Dunn, Justin Timberlake, Don Henley, Kenny Chesney, Vince Gill, Carole King, Faith Hill, Trisha Yearwood, LeAnn Rimes, and Rascal Flatts.

CMT CROSSROADS pairs country music stars with popular artists from other genres—pop, rock, R&B—to play together, swap stories, and share their common love of music. Recent episodes of CROSSROADS have included Bruce Hornsby and Ricky Skaggs; Lindsey Buckingham and Little Big Town; Steve Earle and Rosanne Cash; Bonnie Raitt and Lyle Lovett; Lionel Richie and Kenny Rogers; Bon Jovi and Sugarland; and John Fogerty and Keith Urban.

CMT CROSSROADS is produced by Taillight TV. Sarah Brock and Margaret Comeaux serve as executive producers for CMT.

For more information on CMT CROSSROADS log on to CMT.com

Visit CMT's press-only web site www.cmtpress.com for more information and downloadable photos on all of CMT's programming.

CMT, a unit of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), is the leading television and digital authority on country music and Heartland entertainment, reaching more than 84 million homes in the U.S. CMT and its website, CMT.com, offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand. The network’s digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT’s broadband channel, CMT Loaded.

May 30

CMT GEARS UP FOR THE “2007 CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL” WITH HEAVY PROMOTIONAL BLITZ ACROSS MULTIPLE PLATFORMS
NASHVILLE – May 30, 2007 – CMT announces its support of the “The 2007 CMA Music Festival” with a marketing campaign in promotion of the week-long event, June 7-10 in Nashville. CMT will be providing heavy promotional support for the 36th annual event across the network’s multiple platforms, including on-air, CMT.com, CMT LOADED and CMT Radio Networks.

CMT.com, America’s No. 1 country music Web site, is host to a comprehensive micro-site featuring up-to-the-minute news, a schedule of festival events, artist photo galleries, sweepstakes, and interactive games. In addition, CMT.com has recruited several “unofficial” Fan Photographers who will document their CMA Music Festival experience for photo galleries on CMT.com. CMT Loaded will tape an episode of CMT LOADED OUTSIDER, with host Adam Black taking a comical look at the week’s events.

The CMT Radio Network will provide daily news updates and backstage coverage for over 150 affiliate stations, as well as live reports for more than 20 markets nationwide. CMT INSIDER and CMT LOADED cameras will be on-site at the festival for exclusive interviews with the stars as well as a look at the fan experience.

Nashville-based CMT will ramp up its presence in Music City with billboards on West End, 5th and Commerce Ave, Demonbreun, the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Nashville International Airport.

In addition to the pre-festival coverage, CMT will be enriching the fan experience on-site at many of the “The 2007 CMA Music Festival” events including:

- Fan Fair Exhibit Hall - CMT will be on-site at the Fan Fair Exhibit Hall in the Nashville Convention Center (June 7-10, 10a.m.-4p.m.) with autograph signings with CMT hosts, Lance Smith and Katie Cook, as well as country artists including Bucky Covington, Billy Ray Cyrus, and more. Fans will have an opportunity to buy CMT merchandise as well as sign-up to become a CMT One Country volunteer at the booth (#701). The CMT Cross Country mobile marketing vehicle will be located inside the exhibit hall with free CMT premiums and trivia giveaways.

- Nightly concerts at LP Field - CMT Top 20 Countdown host, Lance Smith, will emcee the main stage concerts at LP Field on the opening and closing nights of the festival.

- CMT Fun Zone - At the CMT Fun Zone on Broadway between 1st and 3rd Avenues (June 7, 9a.m.-6p.m.; June 8-10, 10a.m.-6p.m.), CMT will be partnering with MTV Networks digital download music service, URGE, allowing fans the opportunity to sample and experience URGE first hand. The CMT Cross Country mobile marketing vehicle will be on-site with the URGE prize wheel featuring prizes from URGE and CMT.

- Hard Rock Café Stage - CMT Loaded host, Charla, will emcee the concerts on this stage June 7-9 at 10:30 p.m., including performances by Emerson Drive, Lantana and the Povertyneck Hillbillies.

- CMT Headquarters - At the CMT headquarters at 330 Commerce St, CMT will celebrate Country Fresh Appreciation days by giving away free CMT premiums (while supplies last) to fans stopping by the network’s headquarters. In honor of the 2007 CMA Music Festival, CMT will drape the building with Country Fresh signage.

- CMA Music Festival After Hours - After the nightly concerts end, CMT keeps the party going with official after hours events at The Stage on Broadway and Paradise Park Trailer Resort restaurant and bar, including nightly stage games and CMT giveaways.

CMT, a unit of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), is the leading television and digital authority on country music and Heartland entertainment, reaching more than 84 million homes in the U.S. CMT and its website, CMT.com, offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand. The network’s digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT’s broadband channel, CMT Loaded.

May 15
CMT EXPLORES THE COMPELLING STORIES OF EVERY DAY AMERICANS IN NEW DOCUMENTARY-STYLE SERIES, “BORN COUNTRY”
– CMT presents BORN COUNTRY, a new docu-reality series that depicts the compelling parallel stories of every day people as told by the characters themselves. From karaoke queens to over-the-top country weddings and die-hard “Dukes of Hazzard” fans, each episode of BORN COUNTRY highlights new remarkable, real-life stories of the best and most unusual in country culture. BORN COUNTRY premieres Friday, June 1 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

In the premiere episode, Karaoke Moms, BORN COUNTRY follows three country mothers whose shameless love of karaoke is a source of much pride and joy, as well as heartache and embarrassment. Cameras follow these high-spirited moms as they rehearse, compete and perform in order to win over their audiences’ and their families’ support. BORN COUNTRY: Karaoke Moms will re-air on Saturday, June 2 at 12:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m; and Sunday, June 3 at 2:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Future episodes of the series will feature singles looking for love, secret country dancers, crazy country families and other individuals on the fringe of mainstream society, including:

- I’m A Secret Country Dancer- Three people whose lives have been changed through their secret passion for country dancing surprise their skeptical friends and co-workers as they introduce them to the joys of the country line-dance scene. Premieres Friday, June 8 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

- My Crazy Family- Country family members learn to love the relatives who make them cringe. Premieres Friday, June 15 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

- My Big Redneck Wedding- Monster Trucks, shotguns, ATV’s and camouflage highlight these over-the-top weddings. Premieres Friday, June 22 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

- Looking for Love- Follow single country folk on their quest to find new love. Premieres Friday, June 29 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

- Addicted to Dukes of Hazzard: These Duke's devotees are ready to pack up their General Lee's and head to Hazzard County for the true fan's most anticipated event of the year – CMT DukesFest 07'. Premieres Friday, July 6 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

- Ladies Love Country Boys- These two cowboy heartbreakers are no stranger to using their good looks and Southern charms to meet women, and one country girl documents her quest to snag a country boy of her own. Premieres Friday, July 13 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.

- The Real Cannonball: One Lap of America- 100 Drivers. 4,000 miles. Blaze around the country on an eight-day race through 10 States. There’s no turning back, if they wreck their car, they’re done. Premieres Friday, July 20 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., ET/PT.
Bob Kusbit and Lewis Bogach are Executive Producers for CMT. BORN COUNTRY is executive produced by Lauren Lazin ("MTV True Life").

CMT, America’s No. 1 country music network, carries original programming, specials, and live concerts and events, as well as a mix of videos by established country music artists and new cutting-edge acts, including world premiere exclusive videos. Founded March 6, 1983, CMT, owned and operated by MTV Networks, reaches 84 million households in the United States. Go to country music’s biggest web site at www.cmt.com.