One event that has been a major part of the CMA Music Festival is the CMA Celebrity Close Up series that is hosted by Lorianne Crook, who is best known for her work on the hit show "Crook and Chase." This year it took place on Thursday, June 5th. This event is a perfect opportunity for the fans to come in out of the heat and sit down in the cool air conditioned Ryman Auditorium and get to see a unique show. When it's 98 degrees outside, we all need a place to cool down, so this was a sold out event, but the list of stars probably helped sell out the venue more than the air conditioning.
When everyone was standing in line, people walk around and passed out cards that fans could ask their favorite stars a question that's been weighing on their mind. First up was Gretchen Wilson. When she came out, everyone seemed pretty excited to hear her story. She was asked about her habits and how being famous has changed her life. It's good to know that she has quit smoking and is now trying to quit her other tobacco habit.
When Randy Travis walks out on any stage, the reception is going to be great, but when it involves the "Mother Church of Country Music" and Randy Travis, you're in for a treat. He came out beaming from ear to ear. Randy told a few jokes and stories of his past and then answered a question about how he stays in such good shape. He has kept on the same work out program for thirty years now and it consists of cardiovascular exercises and weights.
The final guest was none other than Taylor Swift. When she came out the fans jumped up and the screams continued for quite sometime. Now, since this was being taped for an upcoming GAC special, it wouldn't be right unless there was some kind of mistake or malfunction. Well, Lorianne's microphone quit working and Taylor tried to help her out and give her pointers and even explained if she would sit a little different the microphone may work. Well after some delay, the sound guys started bringing out new microphones and someone in the audience yelled out to Taylor and asked if she would sing. Well, all it took was someone to ask and the whole crowd got to hear a small portion "Our Song." Taylor even got a small girl on stage and took a picture with her while Lorianne was getting a new microphone. Overall this is a neat little show that helps fans find out a little bit more about their favorite artist.
