Is Casey James About to Announce a Record Deal?

Oh, happy day! Hans has been spot on about a lot of stuff (in particular about Kara DioGuardi), and I don’t think he’d divulge this if he didn’t have confirmation that it’s true. He goes WAY back with Simon Fuller.

Hans’s blog is back up, too, MJ. I think his issues may have been with YouTube.

THE BUSINESS [AND VALUE] OF MUSIC TODAY

Yes indeed it sure would. But, I don’t think Hans would have any real inside scoop to be honest with you. I assume a official press release from Sony is in the works and they would be the ones to announce this. Hans said yesterday his blog was taken down for a violation of the terms of service, whatever that means. Reading a few of the articles he wrote, he also didn’t seem to have a clue how American radio works when it comes to requesting music, and enjoys knocking others down, way too much for my liking.

Is Casey signed? — I’d be willing to bet the farm he is. But Casey isn’t going to be the guy to leak anything to anyone, especially to Hans. He’s (Casey) always plays by the rules.

I’d love for it to happen while home with his family. We’ll see, hope & pray.

That blog was worth clicking on, just for that beautiful picture of the fair-haired one. Soooo excited for Casey — he’s the only thing of interest to me from Season 9. Can’t wait for him to do his thing his way, creating the music he wants. (does that ever really happen?)

Girl4Reba:

ITA with your post about Hans (not my fave).

I’m also a little irritated if it’s true that he put out the leak and stole the thunder from whoever was supposed to “officially” leak it, or even the press release. I wonder if it would have been Brian Mansfield again; he was the one to publicize Danny’s signing before the official press release.

I hope he does have it right and we will get a great blues/rock album from Casey. Also think it is a good move not to have 19 manage him.

Good for Casey if it’s true! If anyone, besides the top 2, deserve a record deal, it’s definitely him.

Perhaps more interesting is that one understands Bill Leopold- he manages, amongst others, Melissa Ethridge, Dave Koz and Eric Hutchinson- and management company called The Collective- have “shown interest” in managing him.

This is from the link BootStar posted. That’s not necessarily an all encompassing list of who Casey might sign with for management. I thought Vector Management out of Nashville could be a good fit for Casey but I don’t know if they’re an option. Vector manages a diverse roster ranging from Kid Rock to Patty Griffin to Jonny Lang to Dierks Bentley to Kings Of Leon. Then again Casey might be a little lost in the shuffle there.

19M definitely wouldn’t be a good fit for him though so it’s good they’re opting out.

Excited!! I really hope this works out for Casey because I think he’s got some great music in him.

t2, you took the words right out of my mouth:

“Soooo excited for Casey — he’s the only thing of interest to me from Season 9. Can’t wait for him to do his thing his way, creating the music he wants (does that ever really happen?)”

Annnnnndddd: ^ YES!!!!!!!
Can’t wait to see whats just around the bend!

Girl4Reba, I’m going to respectfully disagree with you about Hans and whether or not he has real “inside” knowledge. He may not think highly of a lot of former Idols (I personally cringed at his assessment of David Cook, whom I love, and I’m sure others are equally unhappy with his appraisal of Danny Gokey and any number of former contestants), but Hans most definitely is an “insider.” He used to work for EMI and alongside Simon Fuller.

I’m not saying Hans saw the official press release or anything (why would he?), but he blogs about the music industry and I doubt he would have mentioned Casey’s deal if he hadn’t been given tacit approval by somebody in very high places.

I posted this 2003 “Billboard Bulletin” a couple of months ago here when people were asking “Who is this guy?” and “Who does he think he is?” so that people can see he is a legitimate music executive and not just some rube blogging from his loo in Hong Kong:

EMI Southeast Asia Promotes Hans Ebert

Hans Ebert, advisor to Norman Cheng, chairman/CEO of EMI Recorded Music Southeast Asia, has been upped to the newly created role of executive director. Based in Hong Kong, Ebert will oversee all aspects of marketing, with the VPs of marketing reporting to him. He continues to report to Cheng and retains responsibilities for non-Chinese regional A&R and corporate communications. A former Billboard correspondent, Ebert joined EMI in mid-September from Universal Music Asia Pacific, where he had worked under Cheng, its former chairman (Bulletin, Sept. 20, 2002).

Publication: Billboard Bulletin
Date: Tuesday, January 7 2003

And of course Casey didn’t disclose anything to Hans. I doubt they’ve ever spoken to each other!

As for stealing anybody’s thunder, I just don’t think it’s a big deal. Bloggers say stuff, some fan links it to a site like MJs, and the story is still not usually picked up by the major news sites until the official press release goes out. This is life in the 21st century.

Can’t wait for him to do his thing his way, creating the music he wants. (does that ever really happen?)

Man, I really hope so! If anyone can do that, it’s this current Top 3. I pray that Idol gives them some leverage in the artistic respect; they’ll all shine if they’re allowed.

As for Casey, I’m obvious thrilled about this news, and am hoping the announcement comes to fruition soon. To be able to tell his hometown crowd about his incredible future plans, with his mother and brother looking on, that would be a beautiful thing.

This is wonderful news. I’ve kinda been expecting it. Casey gave enough hints :) I don’t think the leak takes anything away from Casey’s own announcement (or Sony’s), it just adds to the fun and speculation. Whooo! Been waiting for some exciting Casey news. I can’t wait to hear his music and see him on tv promoting it.

A signing announcement on the day of his hometown show sure would be nice, wouldn’t it?

Oh Happy Day is right if this is true and YES it would be nice…way greater than nice! I would be beside myself and the folks in Dallas would too! I would bet it is spot on for I don’t see Hans making such a statement if not something to back it up. I so HOPE Sweet Boy is allowed to make this announcement to his home crowd. I expect Casey to really be fired up when he faces his hometown supporters! I so wish I could be there.

Casey gave enough hints :) I don’t think the leak takes anything away from Casey’s own

Yes, Casey has said to be patient and that one can’t believe everything they read about him, apparently. :) This answer was in response to one who said it has been printed that Casey had not been signed. He has been especially playful lately and I believe he is bustin’ with joy and knows so much he cannot share at this time. He loses himself and is so involved with his music and I am so happy that folks are seeing this when they see him live and away from the constraints of AI judges. I wonder if he will ever want to sing HYELAW again? I bet it will be at the bottom of his list. :)

I can’t wait to hear his music and see him on tv promoting it.

Gah, Casey on TV. Yes, we need more of this, please!

Gah, Casey on TV. Yes, we need more of this, please!

Happy Days are coming! Happy Dance across the floor! Woohoo. My buttons are bustin’ for him and Mama James.

Good for Casey if it’s true! If anyone, besides the top 2, deserve a record deal, it’s definitely him.

I think it might even be argued that Casey deserves a record deal more than one of the top 2, at least from a pure talent standpoint.

deserve a record deal, it’s definitely him.

I think it might even be argued that Casey deserves a record deal more than one of the top 2, at least from a pure talent standpoint.

I so totally agree with you. I have said all along Casey is the total package and not from just a pure talent standpoint. IMO, he has the look, sound, poise, and pure talent! :)

I wonder what tv shows he’ll be on. Ellen, GMA, Letterman, SNL, what? :) A girl can dream.

I have said all along Casey is the total package and not from just a pure talent standpoint. IMO, he has the look, sound, poise, and pure talent! :)

So true and I think the only reason he hasn’t been discovered before this is because fate knew how much sweeter success would be at this point in his life. I get such a kick at seeing the joy on his face when he performs. I’ve had some favorites in past seasons but I think Casey’s career is going to be the most fun to follow.

The Idol tour will be in Houston tomorrow night, but we will probably be more likely to hear something when they are in Dallas Monday. That’s next to Casey’s hometown of Fort Worth. I hope he makes the announcement during his set.

Casey will do very, very well if he stays true and pumps out hard-edged, Southern-fried, blues-rock albums. The “gun-slinging, man’s man, guitar God with rugged good looks” persona is a perfect fit for who he is as a person and an artist.

If he instead goes with the sensitive, “Have You Ever Loved a Woman”, Brian Adams/Michael Bolton style bullshit, and is made up all air-brushed/ metro-pretty, he’ll bomb out like Bo Bice did when they had him sell out on his first album.

After reading Han’s blog for awhile, I’m certain the guy has a crush on Casey. He’s absolutely besotted, and I don’t know if it’s in a musical way. *Shrug*

Casey is a good to great guitarist, but I’ve seen close to no stage presence – he’s a front man kind of guy. That said, I wish him luck, and I hope he IS signed.

If he gets to go bluesy, he’d be a big hit on SNL.

songsungblue Have you seen him live yet?

Casey is a good to great guitarist, but I’ve seen close to no stage presence – he’s a front man kind of guy.

I think that’s a YMMV thing. While Casey didn’t, for the most part, have great stage presence on American Idol, he was awesome when I saw him live. I thought he was great on Ellen too. But, “stage presence” and what appeals to someone is a very personal thing. Some people think Danny Gokey has great stage presence, for instance; I think he’s a total cheesefest. To each his own.

I do, however, think that Casey’s preference would be to be performing with his own band; he does seem to thrive when he’s interacting with other musicians. But that’s hardly unusual.

I think it might even be argued that Casey deserves a record deal more than one of the top 2, at least from a pure talent standpoint.

I’m glad you said it so I didn’t have to. Preach on!

Casey will do very, very well if he stays true and pumps out hard-edged, Southern-fried, blues-rock albums. The “gun-slinging, man’s man, guitar God with rugged good looks” persona is a perfect fit for who he is as a person and an artist.

If he instead goes with the sensitive, “Have You Ever Loved a Woman”, Brian Adams/Michael Bolton style bullshit, and is made up all air-brushed/ metro-pretty, he’ll bomb out like Bo Bice did when they had him sell out on his first album.

Dredging up old wounds for me with the Bo Bice reference! That was the biggest shame ever, what they did to him. I am praying that the Bice debacle is fresh enough in peoples’ minds that they won’t repeat that same mistake with Casey (I think they have pretty similar musical styles). Just because Kara *shudder* thinks he should be a sensitive crooner, doesn’t mean it will happen. Look where her “expert opinions” got her! Sure, Casey can deliver a ballad convincingly, but the southern rock with blues edge is where he’s gonna butter his bread. I have faith that he won’t be musically castrated, especially since it appears 19 won’t be managing him.

I’ve seen close to no stage presence – he’s a front man kind of guy.

uh? Did you mean he’s more a lead guitarist kinda guy, cuz a front man is usually the lead singer of a band. Plus a front man w/o stage presence would be a disaster for any band.

for the most part, have great stage presence on American Idol, he was awesome when I saw him live.

Casey was very sick for most of AI, and since the performances were so short, he just was warming up and it was time to end. Watch Casey’s homecoming videos, and you’ll see plenty of stage presence.

SNL, what?

SNL would be fun!

southern rock with blues edge is where he’s gonna butter his bread.

Yep!

gun-slinging, man’s man, guitar God with rugged good looks” persona is a perfect fit for who he is as a person and an artist.

Yep!

Stage presence is in the eye of the beholder and for me, Casey has it going on in an awesome way.

Watch Casey’s homecoming videos, and you’ll see plenty of stage presence.

Absolutely! Talk about stage presence! Woohoo.

When Casey sang Mrs. Robinson, a friend of his had in a bad auto accident and I believe his child was severely injured. When Casey sang “Jesus loves you more than you can know”, that line was for his friend. It is sad for me that the judges didn’t note the song, but instead focused on Kara. I thought Casey had incredible stage presence with that tune.

Just because Kara *shudder* thinks he should be a sensitive crooner, doesn’t mean it will happen. Look where her “expert opinions” got her!

Kara wasn’t the only judge that stated that opinion, both Simon and Ellen echoed what Kara suggested was Casey’s “wheelhouse”. IIRC, Randy was the only judge to correctly point out that Casey was giving off a strong Kenny Wayne Shepherd/Johnny Lang vibe at the beginning.

negativo: I am with you on the so called “sensitive” music. Casey rocks the blues.

opinions” got her!

Kara wasn’t the only judge that stated that opinion, both Simon and Ellen echoed what Kara suggested was Casey’s “wheelhouse”. IIRC, Randy was the only judge to correctly point out that Casey was giving off a strong Kenny Wayne Shepherd/Johnny Lang vibe at the beginning.

If the rumors we hear are true that Kara was fired and Randy may get to hang around, then it sounds like from your above comments, that the right decision was made! Casey is blues, rock and country with some bluegrass in the equation IMO. I would be very surprised to see him do many of the “sensitive” side songs.

Stage presence is in the eye of the beholder and for me, Casey has it going on in an awesome way.

Some people spark onstage, some sizzle. I say, Casey smolders.

Casey smolders.

Yow he does! :)

On another note, do you really think TPTB would let Casey announce his record signing on tour? I have not noted any favors for Casey to date and I so hope if he is signed, that indeed he can announce the good news for the hometown crowd in Dallas at American Airlines Center! Yow, he has lived in Ft. Worth but no doubt, his crowd will be in Dallas next Monday night. :)

Kara wasn’t the only judge that stated that opinion, both Simon and Ellen echoed what Kara suggested was Casey’s “wheelhouse”. IIRC, Randy was the only judge to correctly point out that Casey was giving off a strong Kenny Wayne Shepherd/Johnny Lang vibe at the beginning.

That could be because Randy is the only person who can correctly identify a blues musician out of that entire bunch. There’s a world outside of pop music that Simon, Ellen and Kara don’t really seemed tapped into.

On the Idols tour I much preferred the numbers where Casey rocked out to the other two acoustic numbers, but I *love* acoustic Casey. It just needs to be the right venue and the right material. I thought his take on “Jealous Guy” was brilliant. And I love his original song too.

And I was ecstatic to get a glimpse of him playing the mandolin on Idol, which he plays a lot of on his mom’s album. He plays classical guitar on one song that is just gorgeous, as well.

He’s an incredibly versatile musician and that’s what makes him so special in the Idol setting. I hope we get to hear anything and everything he can do — from the blues, to rock, to bluegrass — as long as it’s music *he* thinks is worthwhile.

So happy about this, hope like hell it’s true and we get an announcement in the next few days. Casey was always my favorite this season (by a mile), so this is such awesome news!

Yow he does!

On another note, do you really think TPTB would let Casey announce his record signing on tour? I have not noted any favors for Casey to date and I so hope if he is signed, that indeed he can announce the good news for the hometown crowd in Dallas at American Airlines Center! Yow, he has lived in Ft. Worth but no doubt, his crowd will be in Dallas next Monday night.

It’s possible. I think Danny’s announcement came out when he was at his hometown concert last year. But again, Danny was the apple of TPTB’s eye. Casey didn’t have it quite that easy!

My guess is that, if the announcement DOES come out on Monday, there will be a press release earlier in the day, and Casey will be able to mention it if he wants to that evening. I hope someone at that concert uploads a video of that moment!

world outside of pop music that Simon, Ellen and Kara don’t really seemed tapped into.

ITA. Simon did not want to put either Taylor or Casey through. Glad Randy and Paula sent Taylor through. Guess he has been wrong at least two times! :)

My guess is that, if the announcement DOES come out on Monday, there will be a press release earlier in the day, and Casey will be able to mention it if he wants to that evening. I hope someone at that concert uploads a video of that moment!

My sister in Dallas is going Monday night and I hope to persuade her to write a recap. This was her first year to watch AI and Casey was the draw. She voted nonstop as well! :) My bet is there will be lots of video. She is a musician and knows the industry so it would be awesome if she would write but we shall see.

“Jealous Guy” was brilliant.

Yow it was! When he sang “I was shivering inside”, I have to say I WAS shivering inside. He is versatile and I agree that he will in the end, do what he feels is appropriate. Notice, I didn’t say in the beginning, cuz we know how that can go with TPTB.

OvenMitt:

That could be because Randy is the only person who can correctly identify a blues musician out of that entire bunch. There’s a world outside of pop music that Simon, Ellen and Kara don’t really seemed tapped into.

LOL and amen!

(by a mile), so this is such awesome news!

By a Texas mile? :)

ITA. Simon did not want to put either Taylor or Casey through. Glad Randy and Paula sent Taylor through. Guess he has been wrong at least two times!

He was also wrong about Archie and Danny winning the whole enchilada. Simon is more often than not, dead wrong. Carrie Underwood was his lone stroke of genius.

BTW. Dallas and Ft Worth are close in proximity. Hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Haven’t check ticket sales but hope there is a big crowd.

He was also wrong about Archie and Danny winning the whole enchilada. Simon is more often than not, dead wrong. Carrie Underwood was his lone stroke of genius.

Interesting. Thanks.

I *love* acoustic Casey. It just needs to be the right venue and the right material.

Mixing in some acoustic is just fine, so long as Casey stays true to his southern blues roots. Pathetic romance and whiny fluff? God, no.

do you really think TPTB would let Casey announce his record signing on tour? I have not noted any favors for Casey to date…

LoL. Yeah, I highly doubt TPTB will let Casey announce anything about his deal on stage come Monday night in Dallas. It would be a little bit awkward for the other 7 non-signed idols, and as far as we know he is not going to be managed by 19e, so why would they let him use the AI tour stage to publicize something they are not going to make any money off of.

Speaking of Casey, take a look at this video interview. He is so grounded and humble, and totally without those typical AI slogan mantras. Similar to Crystal in that way. Good for him for keeping his band. Check it out if you haven´t already

http://blogs.ajc.com/american-idol-blog/2010/08/06/fantasia-for-real-back-sept-19-on-vh1-and-get-a-free-bo-bice-song-casey-james-interview/

Mixing in some acoustic is just fine, so long as Casey stays true to his southern blues roots. Pathetic romance and whiny fluff? God, no.

Casey is a smart guy. IMO he knows what’s up and what works.

YAY!! Looking forward to hearing an official announcement. It would be a smart move not to have 19 manage him. It would be great and sentimental for Casey if an announcement was put out the day he plays on his home turf. Just hearing the electrifying cheers from the crowd would be a huge moral booster for him. :)

Pathetic romance and whiny fluff? God, no.

LOL, no arguments from me there!

Casey is a good to great guitarist, but I’ve seen close to no stage presence – he’s a front man kind of guy. That said, I wish him luck, and I hope he IS signed.

I personally dont think there is anything wrong with Casey’s stage presence, but I understand that such things are about personal appeal what works for one person might not work for another person.

But when you actually think about it how much does stage presence count these days in any case? It is all about radio play and music videos, very few people will actually get to see Casey perform live on stage.

And I was ecstatic to get a glimpse of him playing the mandolin on Idol, which he plays a lot of his mom’s album. He plays classical guitar on one song that is just gorgeous.

On which song does he play classic guitar?

This is fantastic news, I hope Casey can celebrate this news in front of his home crowd and family. I think Casey has loads of potential, and the country folk will properly love him!Although I do hope we hear more of his blues/ rock side. :)

Eriko:
08/06/2010 at 1:06 pm

Speaking of Casey, take a look at this video interview. He is so grounded and humble,

Thanks for posting the link. Had not seen that particular interview! He tells us what he will do on tour…a bit of everything with a slow ballad mixed in. :)

Stage presence. I have been to several Willie concerts and there is no big fan fare. Suddenly, he just walks out on stage and stands there and plays and sings. This has served him very well. At the end of his show, a huge Texas flag drops in the background and he walks off. Can’t argue with his success and what some would argue is lack of stage presence.

so why would they let him use the AI tour stage to publicize something they are not going to make any money off of.

Because they are decent people? ;)

Because they are decent people? ;)

BOL! Of course! That makes perfect sense. :)

littlefishes: LoL. Yeah, I highly doubt TPTB will let Casey announce anything about his deal on stage come Monday night in Dallas. It would be a little bit awkward for the other 7 non-signed idols, and as far as we know he is not going to be managed by 19e, so why would they let him use the AI tour stage to publicize something they are not going to make any money off of.

19 probably still gets a finder’s fee for Casey and if Casey’s signed to Sony Nashville it’s through 19R so technically they can still make $$ off him. That having been said I agree the announcement won’t be on stage. If there is one Monday I can see them sending out a press release like OvenMitt said and then having him do some extra press that day to talk about it.

negativo: Casey will do very, very well if he stays true and pumps out hard-edged, Southern-fried, blues-rock albums. The “gun-slinging, man’s man, guitar God with rugged good looks” persona is a perfect fit for who he is as a person and an artist.

If he instead goes with the sensitive, “Have You Ever Loved a Woman”, Brian Adams/Michael Bolton style bullshit, and is made up all air-brushed/ metro-pretty, he’ll bomb out like Bo Bice did when they had him sell out on his first album.

I couldn’t agree more. There’s room for a little Keith Urbanish acoustic country pop to mix it up but let’s keep that to a little.

There isn’t a Clive Davis in this picture so I don’t think Casey’ll be Biced. IMO Sony Nashville would have a better idea what he’s good for. But you never know until you hear the album.

Eriko, thanks for the link to the Rodney Ho interview. That’s new!

Rodney always does such a nice job interviewing the Idols, even when the performer isn’t his personal cup of tea.

so why would they let him use the AI tour stage to publicize something they are not going to make any money off of.

Why would he need their permission? Nothing permits him to chat and interact with the audience, right?

But when you actually think about it how much does stage presence count these days in any case? It is all about radio play and music videos, very few people will actually get to see Casey perform live on stage.

I agree, except, I hope more than “very few” people will get to see Casey perform, hehe! He’s got lots of potential fans out there left to impress. But, it’s true, the hook is the radio singles and a hot, hot, hot music video. I think Casey may just be able to pull that off, though!;)

Speaking of Casey, take a look at this video interview. He is so grounded and humble, and totally without those typical AI slogan mantras. Similar to Crystal in that way. Good for him for keeping his band. Check it out if you haven´t already

http://blogs.ajc.com/american-idol-blog/2010/08/06/fantasia-for-real-back-sept-19-on-vh1-and-get-a-free-bo-bice-song-casey-james-interview/

Thanks for the interview I haven’t seen it yet. :)

Because they are decent people?

I highly doubt it, but it would actually be a bit of positive press for the tour and for idols themselves. ;)

On which song does he play classic guitar?

“I Found You”

He sings harmony on the song, as well. I think I completely flipped for Casey after hearing his mother’s music. I knew he’d been raised listening to — and playing — good music. I don’t think you can hear the song on her MySpace page, but you can preview it on iTunes.

Nothing permits him to chat and interact with the audience, right?

Only if he wants to keep his day job. :)

I agree, except, I hope more than “very few” people will get to see Casey perform, hehe! He’s got lots of potential fans out there left to impress. But, it’s true, the hook is the radio singles and a hot, hot, hot music video. I think Casey may just be able to pull that off, though!;)

Yes I also hope Casey gets to perform to loads of people live, what I meant was compared to the amount of people who will hear him on the radio and see those hot, hot, hot music videos! :)

I cant wait for Casey’s music videos. ;)

, hot, hot music videos

Whoa! Now you’re talkin’. I like Bucky’s videos too.

Yes I also hope Casey gets to perform to loads of people live, what I meant was compared to the amount of people who will hear him on the radio and see those hot, hot, hot music videos!

I cant wait for Casey’s music videos.

God, the hair thrashing and chest exposure in a Casey video would be so delicious. People will need to sit a spell after watching. Or maybe that’s just me. *runs off to shallow corner*

BootStar:
08/06/2010 at 1:32 pm

On which song does he play classic guitar?

“I Found You”

BootStar, I can’t locate this on itunes. Have you seen it elsewhere? Thx.

“I Found You”

He sings harmony on the song, as well. I think I completely flipped for Casey after hearing his mother’s music. I knew he’d been raised listening to — and playing — good music. I don’t think you can hear the song on her MySpace page, but you can preview it on iTunes.

Okay, thanks I will definitely listen to it! :)

God, the hair thrashing and chest exposure in a Casey video would be so delicious. People will need to sit a spell after watching. Or maybe that’s just me. *runs off to shallow corner*

Ha, ha I think I would have to join you in that corner after imagining that! ;)

God, the hair thrashing and chest exposure in a Casey video would be so delicious. People will need to sit a spell after watching. Or maybe that’s just me. *runs off to shallow corner*

Whoa! Awesome visual. :)

It’s possible. I think Danny’s announcement came out when he was at his hometown concert last year. But again, Danny was the apple of TPTB’s eye.

Danny’s didn’t come out during his hometown concert. Fans were hoping so, but it didn’t happen. It wasn’t announced until after they left Milwaukee. A Milwaukee radio station then leaked it, so dedicated fans knew. But Brian Mansfield was the one to make the announcement.

I don’t think they would announce Casey’s deal during the concert either, for those reasons. It would take the focus off the Idol tour and highlight Casey (not that I would personally mind that one bit ;) )

. It would take the focus off the Idol tour and highlight Casey (not that I would personally mind that one bit ;) )

I agree and we know they don’t want to highlight Casey. I hope a press release is forthcoming prior to Monday night. Casey and the fans would be psyched! :)

Only if he wants to keep his day job.

As a construction worker? LoL!

As a construction worker? LoL!

Hey, he can build my house any day! :) Those days are gone though. Thankfully for him.

As a construction worker? LoL!

The construction worker thing was really a stretch, even by idols standards. ;)

Casey just twitted and he is in Texas Baby. Just crossed State line a few minutes ago. He took pix and posted of Welcome to Texas sign. Home Sweet Home. Now, for the other news! Soon please.

Go Casey! Now we just need Katie and Aaron and Siobhan to get signed and I will be happy.

Casey at the Welcome Texas sign: http://tweetphoto.com/37225720

Re: stage presence. Hey, it’s just my opinion :) I know he has rabid fans. Seen all his hometown videos, think he’s a nice guy, would like him to do well – but how can I put this? He doesn’t hold my attention, but it has nothing to do with how much he moves or doesn’t move. There are performers who are riveting and simply stand there. I guess I would say he doesn’t have “presence” IMO, or the presence of a star in the making. He’s an attractive guy though, I’m sure he’ll do well. Yeah, I meant lead guitarist, not front man – he’s more of a work with a band dude, IMO.

I must add that I thought his Mrs. Robinson was just awful. That’s not an earnest song, and to sing it earnestly is…well….I don’t know. Didn’t work for me.

googletot, that was too sweet, that Casey got a picture of the Welcome sign at the first rest stop over the line – I can tell he’s pumped for the Home State shows!

I’m prepared to be a Casey fan – just not of anything on Idol. The Homecoming videos were so superior to anything that Idol was able to provide by way of time, music, staging and atmosphere (not to mention clueless judges) that they sold me immediately on seeing what becomes of this man’s career, after the Tour is finally finished.

Waiting beyond the rumors for the facts to finally arrive, and see where it goes from there. I’m prepared to buy anything that matches up with what I saw/heard in his home visit. That was good stuff. IMO, of course.

~

BootStar, I can’t locate this on itunes. Have you seen it elsewhere? Thx.

It’s definitely on iTunes. I don’t want to post the link because MJ likes us to go through hers, but if you search on “Bybee D. James” or “Cross That Line” (the name of the album) you should find it. (I’m assuming you’re in the US; I doubt it’s available overseas.)

songsungblue, I don’t know if I’m a “rabid fan” but I certainly love what he does on the stage. As I said, it’s a “mileage varies” kind of thing. One man’s “lack of stage presence” is another’s “understated, honest performance.” In any event, I’d be very disappointed if he ended up some band’s lead guitarist and not the frontman. It sounds like it’s a moot point, however, because he told Rodney Ho in that interview Eriko linked to that he’s keeping his old band, where he was the lead singer.

ETA: It looks like you can get Bybee’s album at CD Baby as well.

Re: stage presence. Hey, it’s just my opinion :) I know he has rabid fans. Seen all his hometown videos, think he’s a nice guy, would like him to do well – but how can I put this? He doesn’t hold my attention, but it has nothing to do with how much he moves or doesn’t move. There are performers who are riveting and simply stand there. I guess I would say he doesn’t have “presence” IMO, or the presence of a star in the making. He’s an attractive guy though, I’m sure he’ll do well. Yeah, I meant lead guitarist, not front man – he’s more of a work with a band dude, IMO.

I must add that I thought his Mrs. Robinson was just awful. That’s not an earnest song, and to sing it earnestly is…well….I don’t know. Didn’t work for me.

It’s only natural that not anyone would like Casey, people have different taste. However as I have said I dont think stage presence is so important when you are trying to sell albums, it is more about getting airtime on the radio and music videos.

But I have to agree with Bootstar I think Casey is more then just a guitar player, and it seems like Sony Nashville atleast agrees. However each to their own. :)

After watching the interview with Rodney Ho, there’s no doubt in my mind that an announcement is forthcoming. I’m very happy for him.

Aww, that picture is so cute. He must be wound up tighter than a new spring right now. Welcome home, Casey!

But I have to agree with Bootstar I think Casey is more then just a guitar player, and it seems like Sony Nashville at least agrees. However each to their own. :)

ITA. I see devoted fans but I don’t know about the “rabid” fans. I am most definitely a devoted fan because of his presentation of the music and the versatility. I see him so involved with the music and it reaches me for sure…as I know it does others. One has described his live performances as mesmerizing and I get that. I can’t think of a more apt description of stage presence for me than the aforementioned. But yes, to each their own. :)

I dont think stage presence is so important when you are trying to sell albums, it is more about getting airtime on the radio and music videos.

Yep! And I eagerly await music vids from Casey.

As far as Mrs. Robinson, I believe that can be interpreted in different ways and I got what Casey was doing and loved it. He has gotten some good reviews for it as well.

Bootstar: Thanks very kindly for the information. I am actually in Florida and am off to find.

He must be wound up tighter than a new spring right now. Welcome home, Casey!

You know he is! :) Home Sweet Home. I ‘spect Casey will be totally unleashed which will be so cool. :)

I dont think stage presence is so important when you are trying to sell albums, it is more about getting airtime on the radio and music videos.

This doesn’t make sense, when you are trying to sell something how you come across as a visual is the most important thing. Look at music videos, you will rarely see a performer just standing there they are “performers” and the men rarely take their shirts off. Also the life a country singer is basically one concert after another so you better be captivating.

Enthusiasum is great but tempered with a little realism is a good thing also. It’s nice that Casey wants to bring his band along, but looking as Dughtry as an example it more than likely is not going to happen.

BootStar: Found it! Thanks.

It’s nice that Casey wants to bring his band along, but looking as Dughtry as an example it more than likely is not going to happen.

Time will tell. I will be surprised if Billy Cole is excluded.

Also the life a country singer is basically one concert after another so you better be captivating.

Casey is surely captivating for me! :) Country, rock, blues and in between, he rocks.

Actually Casey will probably be able to bring his band as long as they are good. I can name tons of artist in the country genre whos family and friends are in their bands. Kenny chesney has his friends from high school in his band. Sara Evans brother is in her band, Bucky Covingtons brother is his drummer. That is one thing a record label will let the artist have quite a bit of say in like I said as long as they are good. Josh Turner’s wife is his backup singer and keyboard player. They have two kids and one on the way and it is a way to keep the family unit together while he is on the road. And I know I can name a bunch more. So it isnt that far fetched if they are good enough.

aidancash:
08/06/2010 at 8:30 pm

Actually Casey will probably be able to bring his band as long as they are good. I can name tons of artist in the country genre whos family and friends are in their bands. Kenny chesney has his friends from high school in his band. Sara Evans brother is in her band, Bucky Covingtons brother is his drummer. That is one thing a record label will let the artist have quite a bit of say in like I said as long as they are good. Josh Turner’s wife is his backup singer and keyboard player. They have two kids and one on the way and it is a way to keep the family unit together while he is on the road. And I know I can name a bunch more. So it isnt that far fetched if they are good enough.

Well, cool! Didn’t know any of the above mentioned. Mama James said it is rough out there and she wanted to see her boys together to cover the back. I hope she gets her wish…and the drummer Casey mentioned might be there as well.

Country is a little different then other genres when it comes to letting artists have the bands they want. As far as I know Casey only has Billy and a drummer so he will have to find probably another guitar player and maybe a keyboard player. I dont see Casey needing a fiddle player becuase his music is going to be more guitar driven. But maybe some banjo like kieth urban. Who knows.

This doesn’t make sense, when you are trying to sell something how you come across as a visual is the most important thing. Look at music videos, you will rarely see a performer just standing there they are “performers” and the men rarely take their shirts off. Also the life a country singer is basically one concert after another so you better be captivating.

Enthusiasum is great but tempered with a little realism is a good thing also. It’s nice that Casey wants to bring his band along, but looking as Dughtry as an example it more than likely is not going to happen.

To me it does make a certain amount of sense, music videos isn’t about stage presence, it is acting, they shoot scenes and do a lot of editing. I think the most important medium is still properly radio, and I think the most important thing is still the actual music, people have to first like what they hear.
However, Casey has been a musician for a long time I am sure he would be fine in the concerts, I haven’t seen him live yet, but I was impressed with his tour videos, although that is subjective, but from what I am reading he seems to be getting a lot of good tour reviews even from people who didn’t support him during the show.
It is also true that Casey is a good looking guy, and that is always an advantage in the music industry, and properly even moreso in country.

I didn’t see anyone even mentioning Daughtry.

It is great news that Casey will be signed. I really think he has the potential to produce an interesting and distinctive album. Obviously he is not going to have that much freedom on his first album, but I still believe his rock and blues influences will shine through, and the end prodct would be interesting. I am definitely looking forward to his album.

aidancash: I dont see Casey needing a fiddle player becuase his music is going to be more guitar driven.

Brad Paisley and Keith Urban both have very guitar driven music. Brad has a fiddler and Keith did until the last tour. Whether or not Casey needs one will depend on the music he makes. If he does any bluegrass he might.

Casey’s got lots he can improve and he’s going to get plenty of pointers from pros if he’s signed. At least some of those pointers will be constructive and if he’s as smart about music as I think he is, he’ll figure out which of the tips are constructive and work on them. It sure wouldn’t hurt for Casey to improve his stage presence so why not try? It doesn’t mean he had none to begin with. Everybody can always get better and they should always be trying.

Danny’s didn’t come out during his hometown concert. Fans were hoping so, but it didn’t happen. It wasn’t announced until after they left Milwaukee. A Milwaukee radio station then leaked it, so dedicated fans knew. But Brian Mansfield was the one to make the announcement.

Right. Not to say Casey’s situation couldn’t work a different way. But the first interviews where Danny unofficially acknowledged his imminent “good news” of an official deal announcement took place at the Albany NY tour stop. Not remotely related to Danny’s homebase, or to Nashville/country music for that matter. (Plus ~imminent turned out to be like two weeks later, lol, when the formal press release hit.)

I don’t remember where Danny was on the AI tour when Brian Mansfield’s article came out followed shortly by the press release, but again no place that was particularly meaningful.

Actually Casey will probably be able to bring his band as long as they are good.

He might, depending. I know Danny Gokey was able to bring his brother in law Ivan as bass player, but Sony said no to his guitar player Def (much to Danny’s dismay and fans) after his radio tour was over.

Enthusiasum is great but tempered with a little realism is a good thing also. It’s nice that Casey wants to bring his band along, but looking as Dughtry as an example it more than likely is not going to happen.

This Casey fan knows what you mean :)

This is interesting. You know he might not. But like the band situation if he writes good music who knows. Country is known for letting people have alot of freedom even on first albums. Miranda Lambert at the age of 20 wrote I believe all the songs on her debut album. There are lots of instances where newcomers in country have a ton of freedom if they want it and it is good materiak. In saying that Casey did say he doesnt have to write on his album if it isnt the right stuff. He said he would be fine with putting some spin on someones elses song.

To me Casey sounds alot like Travis Tritt. If you listen to Lawdy Miss Clawdy it really comes out. That bluesy rock side of tritt is right of Caseys alley. I hope he comes up with a balls to the wall first single that just rocks peoples socks off. No ballad.

telemetry:
08/06/2010 at 9:27 pm
It is great news that Casey will be signed. I really think he has the potential to produce an interesting and distinctive album. Obviously he is not going to have that much freedom on his first album, but I still believe his rock and blues influences will shine through, and the end prodct would be interesting. I am definitely looking forward to his album.

It sure wouldn’t hurt for Casey to improve his stage presence so why not try? It doesn’t mean he had none to begin with.

I agree. Casey was very wooden and barely moved his body while he was on Idol. I found it, at times, off putting to watch him perform. Oh, and lets not forget that crazy grinning thing he would do sometimes! :))) But I did always love his voice no matter what he was doing or not doing with his body. From the tour videos I have watched, Casey’s stage presence has massively improved.

I’ve been away for a few days and offline, so this is good news to come home to. I wish Casey the best. I was blown away seeing him play guitar live at the Idol concert in Philly.

telemetry:

It is also true that Casey is a good looking guy, and that is always an advantage in the music industry, and properly even moreso in country.

Is he? *blink blink* I hadn’t noticed.

littlefishes:

I agree. Casey was very wooden and barely moved his body while he was on Idol. I found it, at times, off putting to watch him perform. Oh, and lets not forget that crazy grinning thing he would do sometimes! )) But I did always love his voice no matter what he was doing or not doing with his body. From the tour videos I have watched, Casey’s stage presence has massively improved.

He must have felt very constrained by the TV cameras, because I saw only their 2nd concert performance, and he looked great to me. He already had it figured out.

Casey’s got lots he can improve and he’s going to get plenty of pointers from pros if he’s signed. At least some of those pointers will be constructive and if he’s as smart about music as I think he is, he’ll figure out which of the tips are constructive and work on them. It sure wouldn’t hurt for Casey to improve his stage presence so why not try? It doesn’t mean he had none to begin with. Everybody can always get better and they should always be trying.

Well there is always room for improvement, and I think Casey himself has also mentioned this a few times. I think he will try to learn and improve.

I hope he comes up with a balls to the wall first single that just rocks peoples socks off. No ballad.

I have to agree with that, of course Casey can pull off a ballad but an up beat song for a first single would be much better.

He must have felt very constrained by the TV cameras, because I saw only their 2nd concert performance, and he looked great to me. He already had it figured out.

I think judging Casey’s stage presence from his performances on idols, would be the wrong thing to do. The short songs just really didn’t work for him, therefore people are seeing a totally different Casey on tour. In the future he would also have his band right next to him when he is performing, and that will also present a different dynamic.

I agree. Casey was very wooden and barely moved his body while he was on Idol. I found it, at times, off putting to watch him perform. Oh, and lets not forget that crazy grinning thing he would do sometimes! :) )) But I did always love his voice no matter what he was doing or not doing with his body. From the tour videos I have watched, Casey’s stage presence has massively improved.

Yow, Casey was a bit wooden on the show but I personally loved the smiles and grins. :) I agree with respect to loving his voice and his performances of Jealous Guy and Don’t was incredible for me. I think that it was challenging for him to cut the song down and keep all balls bouncing. What a difference when he was back home on stage at the Keys! Nothing stiff or wooden there! I bet Casey would be the first to say that there is always room for growth and improvement. He said while on tour that he recorded and watched his performances and learned quickly that with a huge stage that small gestures meant nothing. It is apparent to me just from that expression that he is looking for ways to improve and has the desire to do whatever he needs and he appears humble enough to take constructive criticism well IMO. This is a learning experience for all 10 of them and I ‘spect they have all grown with stage presentation during the tour. Looking back to the auditions,the growth is readily apparent for me. I frankly wish the best for all of them as they have worked hard to get where they are. But, Casey is the only one as far as music, with whom I have an interest and would actually purchase an album or attend a concert. He just relates and rocks!