Aretha Has Left The Building!

Faith Hill loved her ... Kelly Clarkson, too. We all loved her! "Chain, chain, chain ... chain of fools" ... who hasn't sung along with her on that one? Nashville/Memphis guitar God Steve Cropper backed her up as a Blues Brother in their movie for her song, "Think."

She could sing opera or about Jesus. She wanted to be paid in cash and was picky about the temperature of the room or studio she sang in.

What a great movie it will be when that happens ... Jennifer Hudson might be able to handle that one?

She died on the same day Elvis and Babe Ruth! August 16th was already a memorable day.

Fifty-two weeks in a year and really, every one has its memorable moments. This week was the Aretha death ... 10,000 folks showing up for a Music Row Dan & Shay street party. Sara Evans moving her oldest son from new home in Alabama to Nashville. Second-generation musician.

Sara really had a poignant social media post this week ... It really hit home with me ... and probably a lot of you moms and dads, brothers and sisters ... This weekend my oldest grandaughter packs up and goes off to University of Tennessee ... It will be a huge sad/happy moment for our family ... Sara's words really touched home: So I just got home from moving Avery to Nashville and I walked upstairs and saw his empty bedroom. For all you moms out there with your eldest child just leaving home, let's all say a prayer for each other tonight. This is REALLY, REALLY difficult. More than I thought it would be. I knew this day was coming but wow, it hits you like a ton of bricks! My girls and I have been crying for several days. However, I do know that we are so blessed and I know that this is all a part of life. I am so happy for my son and excited for him to begin his journey into his adult life. Anyway, cheers to all the parents and siblings out in the world tonight, going "someone is missing.".7

In the week ahead, the Pop music world's reigning star is coming him ... August 25th, Nissan Stadium, Taylor Swift. THE REPUTATION TOUR.

As she has done in the past, she will play it up big for the adopted home town. This weekend she's in Miami as Kenny Chesney takes on The Big Apple in the big Giants stadium across the Hudson in NJ.

All of Kenny's albums are now Gold, Platinum or multi-Platinum ... and he has a lot of albums.

Luke Bryan the highest-paid Country artist. Over $50 million. What a rising star story. Long way from his SW Georgia roots.

Many young stars on the launchpad every day around Music City. Just open your e-mail! Fun watching them grow but awe inspiring, when a bright light like Aretha's goes out. Again, what a great movie that will be ... screenwriters, get it done!