Casey James Heads to Nashville for Meetings – Could a Label Deal be Far Behind?

Its a great fit. Country isnt pure country anymore. Everyone is rock with country or pop with country. He will be able to take that blues and rock and make a great country cd. And he doesnt have to fake it. He has always said he loves bluegrass and coutnry as well as rock and blues. My guess is this trip is to make it official. He said in an itnerview yesterday he had a meeting today. Soounds like everything was good and he is heading there to sign. Plus watch out for him at the cmt awards tonight. Red carpet starts at seven

Good fit IMO. Casey’s got country in him musically and if he were to do a bluesy country rock album it would do well. There’s always been blues and rock influence in country anyway. There’s definitely popular acts in country music that are big on rock, the most currently popular being Jason Aldean who’s very southern rock with twang. There’s also Gary Allan who’s more country than rock but definitely has that gravelly quality to his voice.

IMO Casey should NOT primarily do pop country but he might have some slicker songs on his album if he gets signed. They should keep the production as raw as possible though but I don’t know if they will. I can see Casey being put with Dann Huff because he’s a great guitar man but he’s notorious for very slick productions. He wouldn’t be my top pick for producer but seeing as Dann Huff works on Keith Urban’s albums he’s probably somebody they’d look at.

Casey’s got the country cred based on his musical background and his guitar playing skills. Brian Mansfield said Casey’d be an easier sell in country than Danny Gokey and ITA with that. I don’t think he’d sell like Danny out of the gate because Casey’s coming off AI with a smaller fanbase but I can see Casey expanding outside his AI fanbase into country with more ease.

If it’s a Sony label as I’d think it would be if Casey’s meeting them now then I think Casey’s meeting with BNA. That’s where Kellie Pickler and Kenny Chesney are signed. They might not seem like Casey musically. But there’s another new guy on BNA named Chris Janson and he’s a guitar playing country rock guy. They’re also the only Sony Nashville label with room on their roster than I can see.

Good luck to Casey, I hope he impresses the people he’s meeting with!

I said this on TWop but it’s relevant here as well…

Country? Blues? Rock? Country? Blues? Rock? I’m not a country music fan but IMO he could definitely have an amazing career if he decides to go country, but at this point I just want him to be signed to a major label. I’m a huge Matt Giraud fan and it kills me that he is relegated to Michigan because he is not signed. I want Casey to have radio hits, tour the country, and sell a butt load of CD’s. So while I’d rather him stick to his bluesy rock style I think he would become more successful as a country artist. And really in the end he can perform his music anyway he wants at his shows. He needs radio play and I fear the bluesy rock genre won’t get him that.

That’s great news for Casey. He’s a really nice guy – I met him when him, Andrew and Didi dropped by Archie’s book signing in NY. I asked to shake his hand and told him that I voted for him (which, I did lol) and he said “well, in that case, how ’bout a hug? haha of course, I obliged :-)

I think that Casey could do well if he signs with a major label and makes a southern rock/country music infused with blues type of album. I think that type of music would really suit him and I will support him and his music, if he puts something out.

I think Sony Nashville will be a good fit for him. I see him as Southern Rock, Bluegrass, and Blues. I think he can make it as a crossover artist and will be well received.

They might not seem like Casey musically. But there’s another new guy on BNA named Chris Janson and he’s a guitar playing country rock guy.

Chris has opened for Danny a couple of times at least now, most recently last Friday in Raleigh. He’s fun to see, but you need a reeeeaaally high tolerance for harmonica playing ;)

I’m very excited and happy for him! I also have a good feeling that this trip is to finalize everything :) I don’t listen to country much anymore but if Casey is on a country label I will sure start! And he has repeatedly said blues will be on his album no matter what.. said it will be something new, different, blusy, rocky, country.. lol sounds pretty perfect to me! (not to mention over half the songs he did on idol would fit on an album w/ that description).

Go Casey!

He is so, so very talented – watching the videos that weren’t shown from his hometown visit he absolutely oozed electricity and a powerful stage presence. Not sure what happened on the Idol stage, but I think we’ve only seen a very small part of what he has to offer. If I was a betting person on who from Season 9 was going to the most successful 5 years down the line…

Whatever the label, Casey is going to record great music!

Oh that sounds great for Casey , I hope he is able to share good news after today. Just want him to get going on an album as I believe it will be terrific!!

I am sooooo excited for him! I can not wait to blast his CD in my car with the windows rolled down and my dog in the passenger seat!! I love Southern Country/Blues/Rock! I think he will do an absolutely, positively bang-up job and am waiting for the CD party – because I will be there! :) I hope we will have news tomorrow!!

Good luck Casey!

I’m thrilled for Casey! I do think Nashville labels would be more likely to “get” they kind of musical fusion that Casey wants to make eventually, although I would guess his first album will probably be more country with some blues and rock. I hope everything goes well in the meetings. *fingers crossed*

Yay, great news for Casey! Thanks for the post, MJ.

Casey sang an original song when he did his homecoming visit. Not sure of its name, but you can listen to it here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?zgkddyndywg

(I’ve dubbed it “Wash Your Windows.” Not country, per se, but I could see how they could market him that way if they wanted to.)

This sounds great. I can’t wait to hear official word that he’s gotta deal. :D I cannot wait to get a hold of his CD. A bluesy/southern rock/county album!! All my favorite music types fused into one. Can’t go wrong.

What’s that answer that pops up on the magic 8-ball? “Signs point to yes”? I feel like all the information we have about Casey points to him signing with Sony Nashville. Which, even though I’m not really a country music fan, is fine by me. I think that genre will help him gain the widest new fanbase, and will be very appreciative of his guitar talents and musical influences.

If I was a betting person on who from Season 9 was going to the most successful 5 years down the line…

My sentiments exactly. Except I think it will be determined long before 5 years. I hope whoever makes the decisions about song choices, etc. for the tour realizes how much Casey has to offer in the way of bringing excitement to the crowd; his duet on the finale was great. I worry that the tour may not get much coverage this year from critics but I know we can always depend on the posters on mj’s to keep us supplied with first hand reports, pictures and videos.

I think it is a good fit. I can see Casey doing a Texas bluesy/ country rock type album. I hope he is about to be signed!!!! Casey James is my American Idol. he is the only reason I am going to the tour.

terrin4802:
06/09/2010 at 7:14 pm

I think it is a good fit. I can see Casey doing a Texas bluesy/ country rock type album. I hope he is about to be signed!!!! Casey James is my American Idol. he is the only reason I am going to the tour.

And I think you are right with the Texas bluesy, country rock type album. Casey said previously it will def. be crossover and bluesy. And I agree with this: “If I was a betting person on who from Season 9 was going to the most successful 5 years down the line…

My sentiments exactly. Except I think it will be determined long before 5 years.”

I believe Casey has been underestimated and it will not surprise me to see him being one of the most successful idols ever.

OvenMitt:
06/09/2010 at 7:11 pm

What’s that answer that pops up on the magic 8-ball? “Signs point to yes”? I feel like all the information we have about Casey points to him signing with Sony Nashville. Which, even though I’m not really a country music fan, is fine by me. I think that genre will help him gain the widest new fanbase, and will be very appreciative of his guitar talents and musical influences.

Well, remember his answer to LK when asked who he would want to be on a deserted island with…Merle Haggard and two acoustic guitars. :)

Frankly, Casey can do whatever he wants and I will listen. I have heard nothing yet not pleasing to the ear. Blue Skies was not his “thing” but I didn’t think he was as bad as the judges let on. And Ms. Robinson, he actually did quite well. I have gone back and listened to all now that the raw emotion of AI is gone and I am convinced even more that Casey has it going on all over the place and that he is going to do very well.

Well, remember his answer to LK when asked who he would want to be on a deserted island with…Merle Haggard and two acoustic guitars.

Oh yeah! I actually thought that was a dead cool answer. Casey really seems like he was over the Idol BS before it even started. It was like, how soon can I finish the show part and get on with the career part? The fact that he did as well as he did on the show without knowing the protocol or playing the “game” really says tons about his appeal and raw talent, IMO. I’m hoping for great success for Casey!

It will be a great fit for Casey. There’s plenty of room in the Nashville scene for exactly the kind of bluesy stuff he excels at. I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if Casey turns out to be the biggest deal from Season 9. He could well be a household name long after it’s Lee Who???

Happy for Casey :)

I think it will be a great fit for Casey. Look how it is turning out for Danny. Casey is in a different League than Danny, Casey rocks it out! I can’t wait to see Casey in his own band, the lead singer and guitar player rocking it out bluesy and pop rock country. Don’t know if there is such a thing but HE could make it work if there is!

So glad to hear this. I am not a country fan per se, but no matter what kind of cd his makes, I am buying. He went from being a joke to me, to being my favorite after Crystal. I just love his whole vibe. He really is the real deal, so let’s get him signed!

I really like the original song. I don’t usually like country, but do like country rock, and I think Casey would be terrific at that. Hope he does get a good deal.

Not a country fan, but listening to country and attending country concerts (found out I love Sugarland) because of Danny Gokey.

I wanted Casey to do pure Southern Rock, but I guess you can’t get that on the radio anymore, so I’m good with another Idol I love going Country :)

Plan on buying his first album no matter what (unless it’s standards, lol!)

This should be good, if done well. Rootsy is the way he needs to go, and I see this working out for him.

he said “well, in that case, how ’bout a hug? haha of course, I obliged :-)

. . . and he felt . . . what? No details?

I wanted Casey to do pure Southern Rock

Bo Bice has not been doing very well with that.

That all sounds promising for Casey! Good for him.

Now if only they would sign Matt Giraud. Come on now.

Yayy!! Casey does belong on a country label. Here’s hoping all goes well at these meetings and we hear something definite soon.

It is looking good for Casey! He deserves it too. A talented and nice guy that had to put up with Idol’s jokes at his expense. casey wasn’t like bikini girl – she asked for it wearing what she did plus she couldn’t sing. Casey James is the whole package and Idol made fools of themselves during the season. The show’s only redeeming factor was setting up Bret Michaels to join Case on Every Rose Has Its Thorn, the highlight of the finale.

I’m usually allergic to country, but I believe this is a much more natural fit for Casey than would be a pop label. I do hope that these rumors come to fruition and that we have some definite news soon.

This has been a good day to be a Casey fan. As others have said upthread, I believe he could be the breakout artist of season 9. Cannot wait to buy his first CD.

This is great news! Like some others have said, I’m not a huge country fan but do like some of it. If Casey is allowed to bring his own flavor to the music then it should turn out pretty killer. I want a LOT of guitar, thanks. I agree with whoever said they should keep his music sounding more raw and not overly slicked up.

Whatever he produces I’ll be in line to buy. I think we only got to see a tiny bit of the talent he has while he was on Idol and I’m really looking forward to what he does next. I also agree with those who’ve said he’s going to be the surprise breakout of Season 9.

Good luck, Casey!

YES!!! Let’s hope that it’s good news all around tomorrow. *fingers crossed* He is a very talented guy with a wonderful attitude. I’d buy his CD in a heart beat and if I’d live in the States, I’d go on the tour just to see him. He was my fav this year along with Crystal.

Thank God for this blog which covers the tour. Thank You MJ!

AI has ruined my summers. I just pace all through those short, gorgeous sunny months, waiting for fall so I can get new Idol music. It’s not fair.

I’m an old-time country and hard-core bluegrass fan who isn’t real wild about what passes for country these days, but for Casey, I’ll get over it. I’m pretty sure he’ll make it worth my while. Just one small request: the bluesier, the better.

YAY CASEY!!!

Just one small request: the bluesier, the better.

Very well put. For me too. The bluesier, the better.

He tweeted that the’s in Nashville. Unlikely he would do that if this weren’t pretty much a done deal. Hooray for Casey!

I’m an old-time country and hard-core bluegrass fan who isn’t real wild about what passes for country these days, but for Casey, I’ll get over it. I’m pretty sure he’ll make it worth my while. Just one small request: the bluesier, the better.

YAY CASEY!!!

I like old school, bluegrass and alt country best myself. I think if he keeps it rootsy and rocking, he’ll be golden.

Not a big country person, but I love bluegrass and blues and Southern rock. And Casey James :) So I hope it works out, and I hope he kicks Idol Butt.

Fingers crossed for Casey. I like everything about him and I’ll buy anything he records.

Yipeee! A piece on Casey. I’ve been waiting to hear something, anything about him. More, please!

this is so exciting for Casey and his fans! The possibilities with this guy are endless; rock,country,blues etc. looks like he’s gonna have one hell of an album. Thanks to Casey, we might get real music back on the radios and tee-vee.

Brian Mansfield said Casey’d be an easier sell in country than Danny Gokey and ITA with that.

Well, I guess Brian Mansfield and I agree on some things, because I was thinking this very same thing! I am pretty sure I will be buying whatever Casey puts out! I’m so happy for him! I think it’s a good fit.

ETA: Bootstar: “”"”"Casey sang an original song when he did his homecoming visit. Not sure of its name, but you can listen to it here:”"”"”"

Did Casey sing anything from the show when he went home for his homecoming? Because it struck me the other day that if he didn’t, that’s why they show him singing.

I was hoping for more rock then country, but it doesn’t matter what it is labelled as, as long as Casey gets to do his thing, and we can buy his music. It seems like Casey has really been gaining momentum since idols have ended. He is very talented and definitely deserves his shot in the lime light.

A country label doesn’t mean he’s not going to rock out with the guitar. Even Carrie Underwood has some rock/country songs. I would hope his efforts will be more rootsy and raw, and maybe they’ll get him a band. I think they learned their lesson with Bo when they tried to Nickelback him. I’d much rather Casey go in this direction.

Did Casey sing anything from the show when he went home for his homecoming? Because it struck me the other day that if he didn’t, that’s why they show him singing.

He sang “Heaven” and I think that’s about it. He sang his orginal song, Gravity, Wayfaring Stranger, Ain’t Looking Back, Statisfied, Drowning on Dry Land, Blue Sky….

Thanks to Casey, we might get real music back on the radios and tee-vee.

LOL siyamnuwebenine, you mean our TEE vee! I love when he says that. :)

ETA: Thanks for the info. for when Casey went home, I think that’s what happened…

Ah, I’m very happy for Casey. He’s been my S9 fav since he told the judges that “with all due respect, not all of your comments were usuable.”

I am wonder if they want to get Casey’s album out earlier than Danny’s to take advantage of the XMAS sales? I think that would be good. I’m sure Casey has a lot of music ready to record. Plus they really need to feature his guitar playing. Sort of an Eric Clapton kind of thing, stronger guitar player than singer but unique enough to be a solo artist.

Good luck to Casey, looking forward to listening to his album.

Wonderful news Casey. You record it and I will buy it. I see a superstar in the making.

Good luck Casey! You deserve the best – can’t wait to buy your album. Casey James is the real deal. southern Rock, country, Texas blues all rolled into one – CASEY

Definitely think signing with a Nashville label would be best fit for Casey. If he goes the country meets blues rock route, he could have some success. He seems like a nice guy so I’m rooting for him

I’m not crazy about country music. From where I live, John Butler Trio does country and he is a genius in his own right. But I didn’t went as far as buying his CD. At this point, I don’t care what label Casey signs with… so long as he puts his music out. I have deep faith in his talent. I can only hope he sticks to his promise that he’ll make crossover records.

I hope things work out for Casey. He’s definitely got a voice I enjoy listening to.

Slightly OT-ish… While Casey’s in Nashville for meetings his dogs, Buster Douglas James and Daisy Mae James, have set up Twitter accounts: @BusterDJames and @DaisyMJames. Buster is especially talkative (and obsessed with food) – LOL!

I’m not a country fan either but can see Casey fitting into a segment of country and will be following him in any case. Will keep my fingers crossed for a deal. I noticed he tweeted with Jason Castro and they’re planning to get together in Nashville.

A country label doesn’t mean he’s not going to rock out with the guitar. Even Carrie Underwood has some rock/country songs. I would hope his efforts will be more rootsy and raw, and maybe they’ll get him a band

.

He’s already said that his brother Billy will be playing bass in his b and.

Casey has said he has a CD worth of songs ready to record (or maybe he already recorded them in Texas before leaving for Hollywood?). He sang a couple of Ian Moore songs at his homecoming. Moore is not well-known outside of the South, I don’t think, so I would love to see Casey include those two covers on his album. They’re freaking fantastic:

Satisfied
Blue Sky (not to be confused with the disastrous “Blue Skies”!)

MaryS-NJ:
06/10/2010 at 7:20 am

Slightly OT-ish… While Casey’s in Nashville for meetings his dogs, Buster Douglas James and Daisy Mae James, have set up Twitter accounts: @BusterDJames and @DaisyMJames. Buster is especially talkative (and obsessed with food) – LOL!

Too cute. Thanks for posting. Can hardly wait to hear Casey’s news. Rootsy, raw and bluesy works for Casey.

OvenMitt:
06/09/2010 at 7:32 pm

Well, remember his answer to LK when asked who he would want to be on a deserted island with…Merle Haggard and two acoustic guitars.

Oh yeah! I actually thought that was a dead cool answer. Casey really seems like he was over the Idol BS before it even started. It was like, how soon can I finish the show part and get on with the career part? The fact that he did as well as he did on the show without knowing the protocol or playing the “game” really says tons about his appeal and raw talent, IMO. I’m hoping for great success for Casey!

I think you are right and probably a lot of it seemed too cheesy for him, but he did what he needed to do to get his name out there. He is polished in interviews and impressive with his answers. Sounds like an all around good guy and add that to the other qualities of being an amazing guitar picker, awesome singer and eye appeal…he is a star in the making. Bluesy, rock, country, pop…whateva! He has it going on.

Gravity, Drowning on Dry Land….I still am in awe when I hear these two from Casey’s homecoming. I am telling you…Casey Unleashed should be the title of his first album and the pix of him with the guitar on his shoulder should be on the cover. Amazing.

Here’s a better quality video of another performance of Blue Sky.

Been waiting for a star like Casey since I started watching in Season 4! Casey has it all. I love his music. I really think he could make a big impact on the music industry and do much to promote Texas music! GO, CASEY!

Casey would be a great addition to the country music stage…waiting for the 1st CD…can’t wait to hear the signing news!!!

It’s exciting waiting for the official announcement of Casey’s signing. I can’t wait to hear it. I forsee only great things ahead for his career. Country is a perfect fit but I’m sure he’ll do crossover songs too. I was never a country fan but the past few years I have liked it better, especially with people like Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, and Kellie Pickler. More and more country singers are doing crossover music, i.e. Lady Antebellum’s hugely successful song, I Need You Now. As rock and pop get increasingly r&b/hiphop/rap, I find myself more attracted to country especially country/pop and country/rock.

Casey is so awesome, he showed incredible poise during the show, he really has his head on straight and has amazing charisma and talent, he’s going to be a big star. I also think he will be one of the strongest talents to come from this season, and for me, he was definitely more interesting than the top 2. Go Casey!!

ETA: His mom is really cool and his whole family it seems. Can’t wait to see him succeed.

do much to promote Texas music!

YES!

Casey is so awesome, he showed incredible poise during the show, he really has his head on straight and has amazing charisma and talent, he’s going to be a big star. I also think he will be one of the strongest talents to come from this season, and for me, he was definitely more interesting than the top 2. Go Casey!!

He seems to show incredible poise with everything he does. I agree with all you said. His performance with Bret was the best eva. What a highlight to the season and a great note to end with! Casey looked so comfortable with Bret and in his preferred environment. Look out! Casey is on his way and I can hardly wait to hear the details of the happenings of today.

Good for Casey – I’m looking forward to seeing him on tour and to his first album.

Casey Unleashed should be the title of his first album

lol how appropriate.

I’d go for anything wild like what he did with “Ain’t Looking Bad”.I know it’s too soon, but I’m starting to wonder what his Music videos would look like..

I

’m starting to wonder what his Music videos would look like..

Oh My. As photogenic as he is, can you imagine? He looks good like he does! :) Can hardly wait…something else to look forward to.

Sorry. My quotes aren’t right this morning. Not an early morning person is my excuse. :)

It’s interesting to peruse through these responses. I’m seeing alot of, “I’m not a country fan, BUT I’d buy Casey’s album” in here. That’s a very good sign for him, indeed. I think he’s got that crossover appeal which is key to gaining new fans, and possibly transcending his Idol beginnings. We shall see….

OvenMitt:
06/10/2010 at 11:42 am

It’s interesting to peruse through these responses. I’m seeing alot of, “I’m not a country fan, BUT I’d buy Casey’s album” in here.

Good point. I don’t think one will see from Casey what one typically thinks as country.

I’m burnt out on Idols going “country” but good luck anyway, Casey.

Updates from Casey’s Twitter today:

And thanks to those who voted regardless of who it was. You changed peoples lives and made dreams come true. We owe you. :)
about 1 hour ago via Echofon
Speaking of thanks! I just realized that I haven’t thanked you yet. Thanks a zillion everyone that voted for me! I love you!!
about 1 hour ago via Echofon
I want to thank everyone for the kind words and prayers today. My meeting went well. I can’t say anything yet, but I feel really great. :)
about 1 hour ago via Echofon

Reading between the lines… at the very least Casey is feeling optimistic about his future. But this sounds very promising! :D

# Sorry yall. I’m not sure what time I will be back. Probably about 5 or 6 hours from now. See ya then! 14 minutes ago via Echofon

# Twitter party when I get back to L.A. :)
34 minutes ago via Echofon

# And thanks to those who voted regardless of who it was. You changed peoples lives and made dreams come true. We owe you. :)
about 2 hours ago via Echofon

# Speaking of thanks! I just realized that I haven’t thanked you yet. Thanks a zillion everyone that voted for me! I love you!!
about 2 hours ago via Echofon

But this sounds very promising

Oh, I think it is more than promising but he just can’t tell us yet. What a class act to thank those who voted for others. I am more impressed with Casey James every day.

Oh, I think it is more than promising but he just can’t tell us yet. What a class act to thank those who voted for others. I am more impressed with Casey James every day.

Sorry I keep getting the quotes backwards. This has not been my day.

Casey sounds so excited in the tweet messages. I wonder if he needs the plane to fly back to LA. :)

Anybody see this article about Casey readying himself for the Idol tour with his doggie photos?

http://www.peoplepets.com/news/celebrities/casey-james-embarks-on-idol-tour-armed-with-dog-photos/1

It sure sounds like caseys trip to Nashville was to sign his deal. I am so excited for him.

I

was never a country fan but the past few years I have liked it better, especially with people like Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, and Kellie Pickler.

Oceana…don’t forget cross-over, Kid Rock’s ‘All Summer Long’ country song!!!
Casey will definitely be a successful cross-over!