CMT Insider

Episode 1

CMT Insider's premiere episode includes a chat with the incomparable Dolly Parton about her hosting duties for the CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards; a front row seat to the pandemonium generated from Kenny Chesney's ""Guitars, Tiki Bars and a Whole Lotta Love Tour;"" a conversation with The Alamo stars Dennis Quaid, Billy Bob Thornton and Jason Patric; special correspondent Terri Clark reports from Playboy's 50th Anniversary Club Tour stop; and much more.

Episode 2

Get ready for another star-studded, fun-filled episode of CMT Insider. In this episode host Katie Cook will take fans inside Tim McGraw's recent concert in Houston, Texas, and on the set of his upcoming movie Friday Night Lights with Billy Bob Thornton. Cook will also preview nominees for the upcoming CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards hosted by the legendary Dolly Parton Other stories on hand include a look at newcomer Josh Turner's recent success; Martina McBride on Sesame Street; John Michael Montgomery's return to the charts; Jimmy Wayne's appearance in Playgirl; Disney's latest animated hit Home on the Range and its soundtrack featuring McGraw and others; and a tribute concert to the late Waylon Jennings. CMT's Lance Smith will be on hand to run down this week's Hit List.

Episode 3

It's award time in Nashville, and we have your front row seat and backstage pass to the CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards. On this special episode of CMT Insider, host Katie Cook will be backstage at the Gaylord Entertainment Center capturing all the night's excitement and chatting with the big winners, including Johnny Cash Visionary Award receipient Reba McEntire. The fun doesn't stop there, though. We'll bring you highlights of some of the show's hot performances; all your favorite artists on the red carpet, including a fashion report on what everyone was wearing; a look at what it takes to create the Flame Worthy awards; and we'll follow nominee Jake the Dog as he prepares for his award show debut. Don't miss a minute of the fun. And remember, this special episode premieres a day early (Thursday, April 22) so you don't have to wait to get the scoop.

Episode 4

The Flame Worthy awards might be over, but the partying continues. In this episode of CMT Insider host Katie Cook will take viewers inside some recent music row celebrations including Toby Keith's triple platinum party for sales of 3 million for Shock 'N Y'all; Merle Haggard's exciting reception honoring his career and new compilation CD of some of his greatest hits; and Loretta Lynn's album release party for Van Lear Rose, her first release in four years. We'll also bring you highlights from a memorable welcome home party for troops at Fort Hood that included performances by Randy Travis, John Michael Montgomery and many more. The fun doesn't stop there, though. We'll feature new releases from country star Lee Ann Womack, new duo Big & Rich and Canadian singer Carolyn Dawn Johnson; take you to the movies for previews of 13 Going on 30, Envy and Van Helsing; and talk to the stars about the upcoming end to the hit television series Friends.

Episode 5

Country music can be glitz, glamour and a whole lot of fun. Sometimes, however, there are high prices to pay for fame and fortune. This week, host Katie Cook will sit down with singer Jo Dee Messina to discuss her battle with alcohol and what led her to seek help at a Utah rehabilitation center. Messina opens up about how her problem began and what led her to take the steps to find her way back to sobriety. Also on tap for this episode, we'll go on tour with Brooks & Dunn; celebrate Mother's Day with new family group The Jenkins; catch up with new films released at the Nashville Film Festival, including Tim McGraw's big screen debut in Black Cloud; check out a new documentary on Billy Joe Shaver; and visit rehearsals for the upcoming Great Mountain High tour featuring Alison Krauss, Ralph Stanley and many others. Oh, and don't forget ... we'll have the results to our Shania Twain ""When You Kiss Me"" poll. You watched. You voted. Now tune in to see which video fans voted their favorite.

Episode 6

Superstar Reba McEntire is at the top of her game. With a hit television sitcom, a new album and her first tour since 2001, fiery red head doesn't seem to be slowing down. CMT Insider recently caught up with the Oklahoma native in Arizona to talk about her life and career, including recent reports regarding negotiations for a new contract for Reba. We'll also give fans a front row seat to her return to the stage. Also on tap for this episode, host Katie Cook will spotlight some new CDs from one of country music's hottest duos, Montgomery Gentry, and country's latest crop of hitmakers -- Gretchen Wilson, Julie Roberts and Big & Rich; take you inside the Country Thunder Festival featuring Trace Adkins, Gary Allan and Cledus T. Judd; give you a sneak peek at Brad Pitt's new movie Troy; and check with CMT's Lance Smith to see what made it on the Hit List.

Episode 7

The Academy of Country Music awards will hit Las Vegas on Wednesday, May 26, and CMT Insider will make sure fans are ready for an exciting night in country music. This week's episode will be focused on all the nominees for the upcoming awards. We'll break down each category and show you how the nominees stack up to the competition. Host Katie Cook will spotlight this year's host Reba McEntire, top nominee Alan Jackson, and nominees in each individual categories, including entertainer of the year. We'll also take a look at the three artists nominated for the Home Depot Humanitarian Award, the ACM's only fan-voted award. Fans will have to decide between Charlie Daniels, Martina McBride and Brad Paisley -- tough decision.

Episode 8

One of country music's biggest nights will hit Las Vegas in a big way on Wednesday, May 26, and CMT Insider will be there for all the big moments. In this episode, host Katie Cook will bring you a complete list of winners and all the highlights from the big night, including the lowdown on what all the stars were wearing. We'll also keep an eye on Carolyn Dawn Johnson as she prepares for the big night to find out what the stars go through to get ready for the annual awards presentation. When the ACM awards hit Vegas, however, it's not for just one night. The entire week is packed full of celebrity events. We'll catch up with Keith Urban and the boys from Montgomery Gentry who will be participating in a motorcycle-ride fundraiser and have highlights from the Sizzlin' Country charity concert. It's not all ACMs, though. Our L.A. correspondent Lisa Lee will feature Kate Hudson's upcoming film release Raising Helen, and we'll have a sneak peek at CMT's upcoming special In the Moment: Julie R

Episode 9

The hottest ticket in country music over Memorial Day Weekend is the super concert in Dallas, Texas, featuring legendary performers Jimmy Buffett, Alan Jackson and native Texan George Strait. Not only will we be there, we'll give fans a front row seat and backstage pass to all the music and excitement. We'll also catch up with the world's most famous beach bum, Buffett, to talk about the show and all his recent award-winning success. Other stories on tap this week include a special tour of newcomer Dierks Bentley's first tour bus, as well as a sneak peek at his upcoming CMT special CMT Got Me In With the Band; a look at the ""Redneck Woman"" explosion as Gretchen Wilson topples the country charts; an introduction to one of country's most outrageous new duos Big & Rich; a spotlight on Nashville Star winner Brad Cotter and a chat with Chris Cagle about his recent vocal rest. But that's not all. Host Katie Cook will feature new CDs hitting stores, including reissues from Johnny Cash and Han

Episode 10

Wow! Is it that time of year again? Yep. It's CMA Festival time in Nashville, and CMT Insider will be on the festival grounds to bring you all the fun and excitement. Host Katie Cook will spotlight the festival, formerly known as Fan Fair, including a visit to Keith Urban's fan club party, visiting with Montgomery Gentry on their bus as they head to the festival, a trip to the exhibit hall autograph booths, and a front row seat to some of the hottest concerts. If you can't be here in person, here's your chance to see what's going on. That's just the tip of the iceberg, though. We recently sat down with country superstar Toby Keith in his home state of Oklahoma. He'll help kick off the show by talking about his upcoming tour, a new album and much more. We'll also be on hand for Eric Clapton's once-in-a-lifetime guitar festival in Dallas. The show features many of today's greatest guitar players, including country's own Vince Gill. Also on tap, we'll have a sneak peek at CMT's upcoming s

Episode 11

It's been a wild ride so far for Gretchen Wilson, and her schedule is just getting busier every day. In this episode of CMT Insider, we'll look back at Nashville's biggest week as CMA Music Festival comes to an end, and catch up with the young new hitmaker for her first appearance at the event. From the main stage to signing autographs in the exhibit hall, country's hottest newcomer finally finds out what it's like to be a star. While we're on the subject of the CMA Music Festival, we'll also spotlight Martina McBride's celebrity auction held annually during the week's festivities, and give you a rundown on who was there and what items fans were eager to buy. Can't get enough of great performances? We'll head to Dallas for Eric Clapton's recent once-in-a-lifetime guitar festival. The concert included many of today's greatest guitar players, including country's own Vince Gill. Union Station members Dan Tyminski and Ron Block will also give us a tour of the ""Crossroads Guitar Auction"" pr

Episode 12

Honoring American troops is a tradition in country music, especially during times of war. Country superstar George Strait recently helped honor the troops at Fort Campbell in Kentucky with a special free concert for members of the 101st Airborne and their families to say thank you for their service. Host Katie Cook will give you a front row seat to the special show -- also featuring Vince Gill, Richard Marx, Collin Raye, Dobie Gray and Lane Brody -- and the fun had by all who attended. On a sadder note, the music world lost an icon last week with the passing of the legendary Ray Charles. Many celebrities were on hand to pay homage to the star during his funeral services held in Los Angeles. We'll bring you coverage of the ceremony remembering Charles' life and career. Also on tap in this episode, we'll catch up with singing star Sara Evans and her brother who happens to be her band director on the road; take a special look inside Joe Nichols' tour bus; go behind the scenes at Trace Adk

Episode 13

With all his recent success and super-stardom, it seems like Kenny Chesney's been at the top of the country charts since he released his first single. Not so. Host Katie Cook will look back at some early interviews with the Tennessee native from his first days as a recording artist. He looks and sounds a bit different than the star he has turned into, but there's a glimmer in his eyes that proves he was destined to sit at the top of the charts for a long time. Talk about reminiscing, with the July 4 holiday upon us, we thought it would be fun to visit with stars about how it feels to perform ""The Star Spangled Banner"" in front of large audiences at some of the country's biggest events. Singers Martina McBride, Terri Clark, Chesney, Sara Evans and others share fun stories about experiences they have encountered when asked to sing one of the most difficult songs ever written. In this week's episode, we'll also take a look at a new Johnny Cash book released by CMT. Cash: An American Man,

Episode 14

He's had a long, successful career singing about beaches and margaritas, but after a hit duet with Alan Jackson last year, Jimmy Buffett is finding a welcome home in country music. Tuesday, July 13 marks the release of his first country album featuring several collaborations with some of country's biggest names. We recently caught up with the tropical superstar and we'll get the inside scoop on the entire album. New success isn't just for the big stars, though. It's also finding the young artists in country music. Hot new duo Big & Rich will talk about their debut CD, getting started in Nashville with the Musik Mafia and their upcoming tour with country star Tim McGraw this summer. Legendary singer-songwriters Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard landed in Roswell, N.M., over the Fourth of July holiday weekend for the annual Roswell UFO Festival. We were there and we'll have all the highlights from the annual festival that celebrates the little town known for UFO landings. Also on tap for t

Episode 15

Superstar Alan Jackson has been traveling up and down America's highways for over a decade making some of country's greatest music. Now he has a highway of his own in his home state of Georgia. Jackson and his family were on hand when Coweta County officials named a portion of I-85 outside his hometown of Newnan, Ga., to Alan Jackson Highway. We'll have an exclusive interview with the star to get his reaction and to chat about his new video for ""Too Much of a Good Thing Is a Good Thing."" The Musik Mafia has spawned some great new talent in Gretchen Wilson and Big & Rich. We'll be there as Wilson celebrates her No. 1 success of ""Redneck Woman"" and solve the mystery behind Big & Rich's debut video. Sibling ties carry over to the road for Sara Evans and her brother, who happens to be her band leader. We'll catch up with the country singer and her brother to talk about what it's like to travel with your sister, especially when she's the boss. Also on tap for this episode, we'll find out ab

Episode 16

It's been over 13 hitmaking years for country music's top vocal duo Brooks & Dunn, and their record label sure knows how to throw a party in their honor. Host Katie Cook was on hand this week when the boys celebrated sales of 25 million records since their first release in 1993. Find out what special gift Arista Records presented Kix and Ronnie. Superstar Toby Keith keeps making hits, and his concerts are unbeatable. He's about to kick off his brand new Big Throwdown tour on Saturday (July 24), and we'll find out what fans can expect. Keith sits down with CMT Insider to talk about what he has planned for his late summer tour and what concertgoers can expect. Members of the Muzik Mafia have been making music around Nashville for several years, and it has not gone unnoticed. Crowds followed the singer-songwriters from venue to venue, and Music Row finally took notice. With the breakout success of Gretchen Wilson and Big & Rich from the bunch, the Mafia phenomenon has taken center stage i

Episode 17

From Louisiana to the top of the charts, superstar Tim McGraw's success commands a lot of respect and attention from fans, and he keeps them dancing in the aisles at each tour stop. The hot performer is currently in the middle of his Out Loud tour with Big & Rich and The Warren Brothers, and CMT Insider catches up with McGraw to talk about his new show, his latest No. 1 hit and his fans. After celebrating selling 25 million records, supergroup Brooks & Dunn take a little time with host Katie to reflect on the past 13 years. Cook was on hand at the recent bash and sat down with they dynamic duo to find out what such a milestone means to them personally and what we can look forward to from them in the near future. As Muzik Mafia members Big & Rich and Gretchen Wilson continue to gain fame on the country charts, we wanted to get to know the other members. Fans may be familiar with James Otto and Shannon Lawson, but what about Cowboy Troy? In the second of a three part series, we'll introd

Episode 18

Superstar Toby Keith kicked off his new Big Throwdown last week and CMT Insider gives viewers a front row seat to all the action at his Chicago show. Country star Terri Clark helped get the party started and host Katie Cook was on hand to join in the excitement. Country duo Montgomery Gentry recently earned their first No. 1 hit for ""If You Ever Stop Loving Me,"" and with a No. 1 hit, there's always a party. CMT Insider was on hand we'll take fans inside the celebration. America's best athletes are gearing up for their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of representing their country at the 2004 Olympic games in Athens, Greece. When we found out two track and field athletes were big country music fans, we knew we had to wish them well. Correspondent Lisa Lee made a special visit to the Olympic training facility in Southern California to catch up with the hurdler Brenda Taylor and discus thrower Ian Waltz before they headed out and give them each a special gift from their favorite artists. As

Episode 19

After several years of making music in his home country of Austrailia, singer-songwriter Keith Urban moved to the United States joined a group called The Ranch and got his first record deal. The Ranch is no longer together, but Urban has continued to soar to the brink of superstardom as a solo act. This week on CMT Insider, we'll head into our vault and check out some early interviews with a younger Urban to find out what he was feeling about his art and where he thought he was headed in the music industry. With the country still fighting the war on terror, country artists are continuing to support American troops with special performances to say thank you. Super duo Brooks & Dunn and hot trio Rascal Flatts took time out of their busy schedules to perform for the troops at Camp Pendelton, Calif., and correspondent Lisa Lee was on hand for all the festivities. Lee will give viewers a front row seat to a great show of appreciation by two of country's biggest groups. He's been out of the

Episode 20

Superstar Tim McGraw continues to soar with his latest single and the flight doesn't seem to have an end in sight. His new album Live Like You Were Dying hits stores Aug. 24 and we'll visit with the singer to find out what fans can expect. CMT Insider will also talk to McGraw about how he is keeping his father Tug McGraw's memory alive. Speaking of McGraw, Mrs. McGraw -- a.k.a. singing sensation Faith Hill -- made her return to the concert stage with several shows in Las Vegas. Correspondent Lisa Lee was on the scene and will have a complete report on Hill's performance and her upcoming album. Last week we talked with Travis Tritt about his brand new CD My Honky Tonk History. This week, we'll get upclose and personal with the Georgia native as he prepares for a show in Oklahoma City. From his arrival on a private plane to a meet and greet with his fans, we'll get an inside look at what happens the day of a big show. Also on tap for this episode: we'll tag along with newcomers Julie Rob

Episode 21

It's been a big year for newcomers in country music, and it's not just country fans taking notice. Gretchen Wilson is leading the wave of new stars to the top and finding herself infront of cameras for a special Rolling Stone photo shoot. The famed magazine is putting together a calendar for a future issue, and we tagged along as the young star shows off her ""redneck"" side at the site of her first music video. Life on the road can be fun, but it's not as glamorous as it looks. It's important for artists to take as many comforts from home as possible as they head out on tour to help make a bit more comfortable. Country star Terri Clark gives us an ""insider's"" view of her tour bus to show what life is like in her ""home away from home"" as she travels the country performing for thousands of fans every night. With summer almost over, kids are heading back to class across the nation. In celebration of the Back to School season, we thought it would be fun to find out what country stars were l

Episode 22

For the first time in the history of the CMA awards, the announcement of the final nominees for the 38th annual CMA awards will be carried live Monday, Aug. 30. Catch the news on network and cable television from New York during The Early Show on the CBS-TV and on CMT Insider: CMA Special Edition on CMT from Nashville. The 38th Annual CMA Awards will be broadcast live from the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tuesday, Nov. 9 (8 p.m. ET/PT) on CBS. ""Having both The Early Show and CMT broadcast our CMA awards final nominees live is both an exciting addition to our traditional press conference and a further development of our on-going relationship with CBS and Viacom -- a partnership that we appreciate and value,"" said CMA executive director Ed Benson. ""These broadcasts will allow fans across the nation to experience the same excitement our artists and industry feel as the names are announced. It also demonstrates the support that CBS and the whole Viacom family continues to give to CMA

Episode 23

It's a big week for country music, and CMT Insider is on the scene. From Chicago to New York, our cameras catch up with country's biggest stars. Superstar Tim McGraw broke sales records with the release of his new CD Live Like You Were Dying. We'll find out exactly albums he sold his first week out and where he'll land on this week's album charts. Martina McBride made a surprise visit to Jimmy Buffet's Chicago concert over the weekend to perform ""Trip Around the Sun"" from his latest CD License to Chill. We'll give fans a front row seat for the performance and talk with Buffett about being an overnight-success country star. Hot newcomers Gretchen Wilson and Big & Rich helped announce this year's CMA award nominations live on CMT and were pleasantly surprised to hear their names read several times. We'll have a complete rundown of nominees and get reactions from the stars. In a rare interview, superstar Alan Jackson chats with CMT Insider about his upcoming CD What I Do. He'll also talk

Episode 24

We've got another jampacked episode of CMT Insider, so buckle up and hold on tight. Country singer Martina McBride is at a great place in her career, and she talks with CMT Insider about being a mom, why she loves new duo Big & Rich and about her place in country music. CMT threw a heck of a party this week with a special concert event CMT Outlaws featuring Hank Williams Jr., Gretchen Wilson, Big & Rich, Montgomery Gentry and many more amazing artists. We'll be upfront and backstage to give fans a sneak peek at a great special hitting CMT in late October. You've loved her on stage and on the radio for years, now she's feeling the love heading into the fourth season of her television series Reba. We'll visit the set of superstar Reba McEntire's hit T.V. show and chat with the entire cast. Also on tap for this episode: we'll preview CMT's upcoming special Inside Fame: Tim McGraw; share more high school yearbook photos of some of your favorite country stars; talk with John Carter Cash abo

Episode 25

Superstar Kenny Chesney has been busier than ever touring the country singing to thousands of fans. This week he wraps up his latest tour with rocker Uncle Kracker at Nashville's Gaylord Entertainment Center. CMT Insider will be there to give fans an all access pass for all the music and fun as the tour comes to a close. It's hard to believe it's been a year since the passing of Hall of Fame member Johnny Cash. Over the past week, the estate of Cash and his loving wife, the late June Carter Cash, was auctioned at Sotheby's New York. We'll look at some of the items sold and remember the two country legends. Also on tap for this episode: host Katie Cook sits down with Aussie Keith Urban to talk about his new video, album and CMT sponsored tour; we'll shine the spotlight on newcomer Waylon Payne; and CMT's Lance Smith will have the week's Hit List. L.A. correspondent Lisa Lee will have a sneak preview of the upcoming movie Sky Captain starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Jude Law.

Episode 26

Host Katie Cook is back from her visit with supertstar Shania Twain in beautiful Switzerland, and she'll give a sneak peek at what the star's been up to and get the scoop on her new duet ""Party for Two"" with country singer Billy Currington and Sugar Ray frontman Mark McGrath. Bluegrass legend Earl Scruggs was joined by Kris Kristofferson and other celebrity musicians as he continues his series at the Country Music Hall of Fame. CMT Insider was at the show and we'll give fans an front row seat to an amazing amount of talent. One of country's hottest groups has a new CD ready for fans and we'll catch up with members of Rascal Flatts to find out what they can expect on Feels Like Today. Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp and Neil Young continue to support America's farmers with their annual benefit concert Farm Aid. This year the show took over Seattle, Wash., and CMT Insider was front and center for a fantastic show featuring Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Trick Pony and many more. Also on t

Episode 27

Tim McGraw is making history of his own with two movies hitting theaters and a new music video. Black Cloud and Friday Night Lights will both hit theaters in the next two weeks and the superstar performed his new single ""How Bad Do You Want It"" during the halftime of the Cowboys and Redskins matchup, marking the first time a Monday Night Football game had a performance during halftime. CMT Insider was on hand for the video shoot and we'll give fans a sneak peek at what to expect from the country star. Superstar George Strait's latest CD 50 Number Ones, featuring his latest hit single ""I Hate Everything,"" is about to hit stores. We'll have more of our rare, exclusive interview with the Texan talking about his life and career. Brad Paisley reached another milestone recently selling over 5 million records. CMT Insider was on hand for the special celebration at Nashville's famous Ryman Auditorium, and we'll give fans a ticket into the party for all the fun. L.A. correspondent Lisa Lee will

Episode 28

It's opening weekend for the new feature film Friday Night Lights starring country star Tim McGraw, and CMT Insider will be at the premieres in both Franklin, Tenn. and Los Angeles as the stars walk the red carpet. L.A. correspondent Lisa Lee will give fans an up-close-and-personal look at the movie, the actors and all the excitement. Politics and celebrities always find a way to mix, and this election year is no exception. The Dixie Chicks returned to the concert stage to continue the Vote for Change concert tour with James Taylor. We followed the show to Cleveland, Ohio, and we'll give fans a front row seat to the event. In memory of one of music's biggest legends, musical stars from all genres took center stage at Morehouse College to pay tribute to the late Ray Charles. Travis Tritt and Ronnie Milsap were on hand representing country, and CMT Insider will share the fun and touching moments with viewers. Hello, Dolly! Superstar Dolly Parton is about to hit the road for a fall tour,

Episode 29

In a rare interview, country superstar George Strait talks about a career that has spanned an incredible 23 years, charting a record-breaking 50 number one hits. With a new double-CD 50 Number Ones as a launching pad, a special edition of CMT Insider looks at the music that has made Strait a legend while he still continues his streak of hits. Friends and fans like Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire, Jimmy Buffett, Martina McBride and many more talk about his music and the legacy he's created.

Episode 30

Keith Urban, one of country's hottest young superstars, has teamed up with CMT for his first headlining tour, and we were on hand for one of the first shows in Peoria, Ill. CMT Insider will give fans a front row seat to all the excitement as Urban takes the stage, and we'll chat with the young Aussie about his new album and tour. One of country's most famous radio stations, L.A.'s KZLA, held its annual star-studded KZLA Bash. Hosted by superstar Reba McEntire, many of country's biggest names stopped by to perform including Rascal Flatts and SHeDAISY. We'll give fans a free pass into the event for all the fun. Speaking of McEntire, the red-headed singer joined Kenny Chesney and many of music's top names to honor legendary singer Ray Charles at a special tribute concert. Taped for an upcoming television special, we'll give viewers a sneak peek at the touching event. The music industry has seen a positive increase in record sales this year, and with the many big albums hitting this fall,

Episode 31

Duets have always been a part of country music and superstars Tim McGraw and Toby Keith continue the tradition. R artist Nelly recently had McGraw join him in the studio for his single ""Over and Over"" and Keith's daughter will sing with daddy on his upcoming CD. We'll catch up with both singers to find out what to expect. After exploding onto the country scene in 2004, Big & Rich will soon follow up their successful ""Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)"" with ""Holy Water."" CMT Insider was on the set of the video and we'll have the lowdown on how the song was inspired. It's been 20 years of tours and hits for Wynonna, and the country star is setting out on a special anniversary tour to celebrate the milestone. We'll catch up with her at one of her shows and give fans a front row seat to all the excitement. Newcomer Katrina Elam isn't taking time to get her feet wet on a major concert tour. She's opening for fellow Aussie Keith Urban as he sets out on his first headlining tour sponsored by CMT

Episode 32

Host Katie Cook is taking a little time off this week, so singing sensation LeAnn Rimes is stepping in as our first-ever celebrity guest host. With a hot new single flying up the country charts, Rimes will take time out of her busy schedule to deliver the latest in country news and entertainment. With the Presidential election upon us, we wondered what country artists look for in a candidate. We'll catch up with some of country music's hottest stars including Gretchen Wilson, Alan Jackson, Montgomery Gentry and Willie Nelson about issues that are important to their lives and what they feel is important to the American people. Supergroup Diamond Rio were surprised recently with a special honor. Members were presented with the Minnie Pearl Award for their humanitarian efforts. We'll be on hand as the band is surprised during a recent performance at the Grand Ole Opry. It's autumn and time for more new albums hitting store shelves. We'll chat with hitmakers Phil Vassar and Darryl Worley a

Episode 33

Katie Cook goes to Switzerland near Shania's home to interview her. They talk about the upcoming Greatest Hits, previous albums and songs, and the new video ""Party For Two"".

Episode 34

The 38th annual CMA Awards will take over Music City USA on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2004, and CMT Insider will make sure fans are ready for an exciting night in country music. Our special CMA Nominee Report episode will be focused on all the nominees for the upcoming awards. We'll break down each category and show you how the nominees stack up to the competition. Host Katie Cook will spotlight this year's new hosts Brooks & Dunn, top nominee Alan Jackson and nominees in each individual categories, including entertainer of the year.

Episode 35

Country music's most prestigious award show hits Nashville Tuesday, Nov. 9, and CMT Insider will be there to bring fans a front row seat, a backstage pass and a chance to see country's biggest stars walk the red carpet. Host Katie Cook will have a complete rundown of the night's big winners and will give fans a glimpse of the stylish side of the stars as they arrive for the main event. From interviews with the winners to highlights from the press room, we'll relive all the excitement. We'll even take fans inside some exclusive after-parties around Music City. The CMA awards aren't the only honors being handed out this week, however. Songwriters will hit the spotlight at special ceremonies held by ASCAP and BMI to pay tribute to those who have written country's biggest and best songs over the past year. We'll have complete coverage of all the awards. Also on tap for this episode: we'll catch up with superstar Toby Keith to chat about his new Greatest Hits 2 CD; head to Louisiana for Tim

Episode 36

Well the CMA awards are complete, but the awards keep on coming for country's biggest stars. This week we'll rundown the list of big winners at the American Music Awards. We'll also look at what a huge impact the CMAs had on last week's country album sales -- especially the two new CDs from superstars Toby Keith and Shania Twain. We'll also catch up with Keith to find out what he does to keep himself in such great shape. Speaking of the CMA awards, the fans and the music industry were abuzz after Kenny Chesney's acceptance speech for the evening's top honor was cut short. We'll share what the superstar wanted to say and reveal the results to our poll on who should apologize to the Tennessee native. The country music industry has released a tremendous amount of new CDs over the past few months, and the music keeps on hitting store shelves. Bluegrass greats Alison Krauss & Union Station's brand new CD Lonely Goes Both Ways will hit stores Tuesday, Nov. 23, just in time for the holiday ru

Episode 37

In the first of a three-part series, superstar Alan Jackson welcomes host Katie Cook to his home for a rare look into his life away from the stage. The Georgia native talks about how his success hasn't changed who he is on the inside. He's still just a regular guy. In our ""Award-Winning Look"" segment, we feature some of the hottest trends in the world of fashion and country music. In this episode, we'll look at the popular trend of male artists wearing cross necklaces. The religious symbol is making a bold statement for artists like Tim McGraw, Montgomery Gentry and newcomer Jimmy Wayne. After hitting the big time on the comedy circuit, comedian Rodney Carrington did what many do ... he got himself a TV show. L.A. correspondent Lisa Lee visits the set of Rodney to talk with the star and give fans a firsthand look at what goes on behind the scenes. Also on tap this week: we'll chat with country singer Darryl Worley about his new self-titled CD; catch up with hot new group Los Lonely Boy

Episode 38

This time on Insider, the show will deal with the lost on the Country Icon, Buck Owens. All about his life, and his becoming to an industry star progress; Kenny Chesney will tell about his current tour, and his birthday and the celebrations; Tim McGraw will revelations from his new CD, and the television scecial that will cover this event.

Episode 39

This time, Insider will review all the nominees for the 2006 CMT Music Awards, the fan-voted ceremony awards; We will join Rascal Flatts on tour in Orlando, Fla, and Little Big Town touring with rocker John Mellencamp. Behind-the-scenes on Toby Keith: Insider Special Edition, where he tells about his career and his future; Lisa Lee about Buck Owens RIP memorial ceremony in Bakersfield; And wekly NASCAR report.

Episode 40

<b>Taking you just like a VIP to the CMA 2006!</b> The big night of the CMT music awards, the only Country music awards that are fan-voted, as all the stars come to Nashville . Who wore what, who won, who lost, who was the biggest star, and who gave the greatest live performance of the evening? All the answers in this one-time special. More: Lisa Lee about Robin Williams new movie RV.

Episode 41

As it is the 100th episode of Insider, this week there is a celebration. Katie Cook will review all the interesting interviews, tours and moments that made Isider what it is today. More: Dolly Parton's closet, and Lisa Lee with Robin Williams about his new movie.

Episode 42

After the 100th episode celebration, and with a new and improved logo, CMT Insider is back on track. First, into the TV hit show Las Vegas with Sugarland; Little Big Town with their first Gold album; Carrie Underwood parties her first No. 1 single "Jesus Take The Wheel"; And Craig Morgan with his day job - A bar in Nashville. More: Elliott Sadler from NASCAR, and Lisa Lee with new movies Mission Impossible: II, and Hoot.

Episode 43

Since Mother's Day is approaching, Lee Ann Womack and her daughters are going to make the families in the Nashville's Ronald McDonald House feel better; Inside the Country Hall of Fame ceremony with new awarded winners Alabama, Glen Campbell and DeFord Bailey; Barry Gibb performance for Tornado victims. More: Billy Currington about fitness magazine, Mark Wills in the studio, Brooks & Dunn's new tour, and newcomer Rockie Lynne. Lisa Lee about Da Vinci Code.

Episode 44

Brand new week on Insider: ACM nominee Brad Paisley about his 6 nominations and the upcoming ceremony; John Carter Cash about his father's, Johnny Cash, lost recordings; Jewel finds the Country with her new album <i>Goodbye Alice in Wonderland</i>; And the weekly NASCAR racer, this time Clint Bowyer.

Episode 45

This is the big week of the 41st Academy of Coutry Music Awards in Las Vegas. Lisa Lee will bring all the winners, performers and looks, straight from the red carpet; Brooks & Dunn announce their run; Keith Anderson about keeping his shape; and NASCAR's David Stremme.

Episode 46

The big story of this week belongs to the Dixie chicks, a band that used to love the Country genre, and now they are no longer part of it. A trip down the road of Dixie Chicks' good memories; Hank Williams Jr.'s new video behind the scenes; Phil Vassar's gym trainings; The new movie Cars; And NASCAR's Brian Vickers.

Episode 47

This week Insider goes deep into the world of festivals, with the CMA Music Fesitval, where every performance will be documented in the magazine; The old boys from the Hazzard country with their DukesFest, along with the General Lee performance; And Lisa Lee with Robert Altman's new movie, A Prarie Home Companion.

Episode 48

Insider gives you a once-in-a-lifetime glance to the 2006 CMA Music Festival, with parties of Dierks Bentley, Sara Evans, and Montogmery Gentry, and Martina McBride's charity act. Also, who's the secret big star and his/her special appearance?; Two festival rookies and Fan Fair; And Lisa Lee with new movie The Lakehouse.

Episode 49

First off, the entertainment world is news about an upcoming wedding of Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, and Insider is here to inform you with the latest rumors; Reba McEntire in Vegas - What does she think?; Lisa Lee about Billy Ray Cyrus' new TV show; Julie Roberts with her new promotional photoshoot for her CD Man and Mascara; And Phil Vassar's promotion across Texas.

Episode 50

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban have married this week, and Insider has the latest news about the new couple from Australia; Ron White's new book, with the interesting name: I Had the Right to Remain Silent... But I Didn't Have the Ability; John Mellencamp, the Rocker, has some thoughts about the Dixie Chicks controversy, and shares his new music; Big & Rich's new song about the tribute to veterans; K.D. Lang's new CD; And Lisa Lee about 2 hot new movies from Hollywood.

Episode 51

Katie Cook meets with Kenny Chesney in his tour in Nashville to hear about his success and his anger for bigger and better shows from year to year. Other artists on the way will be Dierks Bentley, Little Big Town and Big & Rich; The original cast of the Dukes of Hazzard tours the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum; Jo Dee Messina helped the Special Olympics USA National Games in Iowa; And Lisa Lee with Matthew McConaughey's new film, an autobiography about his University's football team that overcame a tragedy.

Episode 52

Toby Keith introduces the new talent that he has discovered: Lindsey Haun. She co-stars on his upcoming film, Building Bridges, and even signed on his record company; Jake Owen, knows as Yee-Haw, is the opening act of Kenny Chesney, and takes Insider behind the scenes of their tour; Jason Aldean's set of his new video, the most beautiful one around; And the latest news on your Country stars.

Episode 53

Insider celebrates with LeAnn Rimes on her successful hit Something's Gotta Give, her latest release; The secret wedding of half of the duo Little Big Town; All about the new duo The Wreckers and their new fame; Lisa Lee with new movies from Hollywood, including Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, starring Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly; And as always, Insider brings the latest news about the Country world.

Episode 54

After a few cancellations due to injury, country superstar Kenny Chesney has kicked off his long-awaited tour of 2005. L.A. correspondent Lisa Lee was on hand for opening night. She'll give fans a front row seat to all the excitement and talk with the star himself about finally getting his tour underway. Country singer Clint Black owns his own record label and is back in the studio recording a new album. Black welcomed CMT Insider to his personal studio for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour and to chat about his new project. Hollywood hottie Matthew McConaughey made a stop in Nashville recently to promote his new movie Sahara. Traveling the country in his Airstream RV, he sat down with host Katie Cook at a Nashville campground to talk about the movie and his country music connections. What a difference a year makes. Gretchen Wilson exploded on the country scene last year and is now the hottest thing on the country charts. We'll look back at her first year as a country star and find o

Episode 55

Nashville will be in the spotlight Monday, April 11 as the 2005 CMT Music Awards take center stage. Country music's only fan-voted awards show, and the only country awards being held in Nashville this year, will honor the biggest videos of 2005. We'll take an upclose look at some of the night's biggest nominees, including Toby Keith and Kenny Chesney, as we prepare for the big night. The 2005 CMT Music Awards will be hosted by comedian Jeff Foxworthy, who is the subject of CMT's most recent CMT Insider Special Edition. The special, hosted by our own Katie Cook, will feature a personal interview with the comic talking about his life and career. We'll take a sneak peek at the interview and look ahead to his hosting duties. In tribute of Johnny Cash's important impact on the music world, CMT presents a special Visionary Award in his honor each year to an artist who exemplifies what Cash perfected -- a vision. This year's recipient will be Country Music Hall of Fame member Loretta Lynn. We

Episode 56

Comedian Jeff Foxworthy is currently hotter than ever with a popular new T.V. show, cable specials, and two Blue Collar Comedy Tour movies. Soon Jeff will be the host of the 2005 CMT Music Awards. In this episode of CMT Insider Special Edition host Katie Cook catches up with funnyman in his homestate of Georgia. He'll talk about his life, successful career, and how he helped America realize it's okay to be a redneck.

Episode 57

CMT will take over downtown Nashville for the 2005 CMT Music Awards, and CMT Insider will be everywhere to bring fans complete coverage of the big night. From the red carpet styles to exclusive backstage interviews, host Katie Cook will have every fan's dream ticket to the stars for one of country music's biggest nights. We'll complete the list of the night's big winners, we'll have complete highlights of the show's performances and stars on the red carpet. We'll head into the press room for backstage interviews and get access to the private room of goodies the nominees will take home. In addition to all of our awards coverage, we'll give fans a sneak peek of Dolly Parton's appearance on Reba McEntire's TV series Reba.

Episode 58

It has been 10 years since the bombing in Oklahoma City and country stars performed for a special concert memorial Superstars Toby Keith, Vince Gill and others join together for a special show in honor of those who lost their lives, and we'll be on hand for an upclose look at the tribute performance. It's tour season and many of the biggest names in country music are teaming up for some great shows. We'll be in the front row and backstage for the kick off of the Two Hats & a Redhead tour. Featuring Brad Paisley, Terri Clark and Reba McEntire, it's sure to be a big time you won't want to miss. L.A. correspondent Lisa Lee has been busy this week. She'll visit with Tim McGraw on the set of his new movie Flicka, give a sneak peek of the new Adam Sandler film, The Longest Yard and share the scoop on the new Dallas movie. Also on tap for this episode: we'll celebrate No. 1 success with Josh Gracin and Craig Morgan; reveal which singer's wife is expecting their first child; chat with Alan Jac

Episode 59

Superstar Alan Jackson is back on the road and keeping his fans very happy. We were on hand for his recent stop in Southern California and we'll give fans a front row seat and backstage pass for all the excitement. We'll also catch up with new husband and wife duo the Wrights who are currently opening for Jackson's tour. During a recent tour stop in Florida, country star Reba McEntire held a special fashion show at a local Dillard's for her new clothing line. CMT Insider was on hand to catch a glimpse of the new line and to get fan reaction to the singer's new business venture. The Dukes of Hazzard has made a strong return to the small screen with a new home on CMT. Movie-goers will soon have their chance to see a new version on the big screen starring Jessica Simpson and Johnny Knoxville. We'll have a sneak peek at the new trailer promoting the film. Also on tap for this episode: we'll take talk with Dierks Bentley and new duo Van Zant about their respective new CDs; get a preview of

Episode 60

Episode 61