Immediately upon publication in 1998, the Encyclopedia of Country Music became a much-loved reference source, prized for the wealth of information it contained on that most American of musical genres. Countless fans have used it as the source for answers to questions about everything from country's first commercially successful recording, to the genre's pioneering music videos, to what conjunto music is. This thoroughly revised new edition includes more than 1,200 A-Z entries covering nine decades of history and artistry, from the Carter Family recordings of the 1920s to the reign of Taylor Swift in the first decade of the twenty-first century. Compiled by a team of experts at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the encyclopedia has been brought completely up-to-date, with new entries on the artists who have profoundly influenced country music in recent years, such as the Dixie Chicks and Keith Urban. The new edition also explores the latest and most critical trends within the industry, shedding light on such topics as the digital revolution, the shifting politics of country music, and the impact of American Idol (reflected in the stardom of Carrie Underwood). Other essays cover the literature of country music, the importance of Nashville as a music center, and the colorful outfits that have long been a staple of the genre. The volume features hundreds of images, including a photo essay of album covers; a foreword by country music superstar Vince Gill (the winner of twenty Grammy Awards); and twelve fascinating appendices, ranging from lists of awards to the best-selling country albums of all time. Winner of the Best Reference Award from the Popular Culture Association "Any serious country music fan will treasure this authoritative book." --The Seattle Times "A long-awaited, major accomplishment, which educators, historians and students, broadcasters and music writers, artists and fans alike, will welcome and enjoy." --The Nashville Musician "Should prove a valuable resource to those who work in the country music business. But it's also an entertaining read for the music's true fans." --Houston Chronicle "This big, handsome volume spans the history of country music, listing not only artists and groups but also important individuals and institutions." --San Francisco Examiner "Promises to be the definitive historical and biographical work on the past eight decades of country music. Well written and heavily illustratedan unparalleled work, worth its price and highly recommended." --Library Journal

Six months after her husband dies at sea, Brandy Rogers unexpectedly requests to join the crew of the Sea Quest ~ the same vessel that led her husband to his watery grave... With NO body nor any trace of him, Brandy seeks some sort of closure and relief from the pain of losing the love of her life. Mysteriously drawn to the docks, she convinces Captain Bill to let her join the crew as galley cook. But, what Brandy does not know is that this decision just sealed her fate. Captain Bill is betting it all on this one trip to save his boat and livelihood. But, when he decides to change course for the shrimping trip, the Sea Quest comes face to face with Hurricane Faye... A decade later, aging old salt Cappy Dupree has lots of stories to tell about the past that include Dave Rogers' demise and the fateful journey of the Sea Quest just six months later. ~ Whilst Cappy reveals his tales to Pastor Jackson Montgomery, shocking truths are unveiled about the lives of several men and one woman as they learn to trust God and embrace His blessings. In this captivating novel, a group of characters, both on water and land, search for answers within a sea that holds her secrets deep within her soul.

A complete holistic fitness plan for women from a noted celebrity trainer From one of the country's leading fitness professionals and personal trainer to many celebrities comes a fresh, new, holistic fitness program based on seven guiding principles, featuring a 21-day plan to achieve wellness and weight loss. Beginning with a series of simple yet comprehensive self-tests, readers assess their current physical and emotional state. Armed with this key information, readers then access essential nutrition information, exercises, recipes and menus, plus motivational strategies. Perfect for people at any fitness level, this weight-loss plan offers a strong inspirational component that gets readers revved up and keeps them on track towards health. This empowering book is illustrated with detailed black-and-white exercise photos along with before-and- after pictures and testimonials of many people who have successfully followed this program.