Aldean and Broken Bow's Benny Brown
Dressed to celebrate Jason Aldean’s third album, Wide Open going platinum, we walked up the sultry Gulch sidewalk toward Sambuca where a boisterous and cosmopolitan crowd streamed into the red and black glow. Inside, Aldean was humbly shaking hands and sharing his quiet smile as video and flash cameras kept him in the spotlight.
Stilettos, designer jeans and gelled hair roamed the packed restaurant as the 80 or so industry folks who came to mingle sampled Sushi, cocktails, beer and wine. The scene seemed like a blend between a New York City soiree with the beautiful faces and attention to style, and a good ole country bon fire!
Aldean with Isabel Ross
Michael Knox, Jason’s producer introduced Tully Kennedy and Kurt Allison, members of Jason’s band. In high spirits, Knox jokingly, and with a charismatic smile, took credit for all the good things on the platinum album! Kennedy, who played bass on the album, begged to differ!
It was a pleasure to meet Aldean’s proud parents Barry and Debbie. Easy to see Jason got his handsome southern boy smile from his Mom and his rougher cowboy spirit from his Dad. In the corner of the room I spotted Aldean’s beautiful wife and new baby!
Jim Yerger, Broken Bow Records GM, called the cameras to attention on the stage and presented platinum album plaques to various people and businesses that played fundamental roles in the success of the album while Jason stood behind him nodding in agreement. Benny Brown, owner of Broken Bow Records, spoke highly of Aldean and his success.
Before ending the presentation, Aldean again gave thanks and slid off stage to give his baby and wife a hug and kiss! After snapping a quick photo with Jason, and bidding some friends goodbye, we walked to the car with none other than Craig Wiseman, Grammy award winning songwriter and one of our industry’s most prized talents.
Congratulations Jason!
