The CMA Songwriters Series is a win-win situation for songwriters and country music fans alike. For the songwriter the evening brings a chance to share the stories and inspiration that lie behind the song and for the fans, an opportunity to get up-close and personal with some of Nashville’s finest writing talents.

On Tuesday, February 15th, CMA Songwriters Series visits Club Nokia. This marks the second visit to Los Angeles since the series began seven years ago. 2010 New Artist nominee Chris Young and two-time CMA winner Gretchen Wilson are among the featured writers for 2011.

Wilson had this to say about being a songwriter:

To be called a songwriter is every bit as important to me as being called an artist. Country Music has always been about the song – about the story – and I’m excited to be a part of telling that story in LA with this incredible group of songwriters, though with this cast of characters, I think we can guarantee as much laughter as music!

Brett James, Victoria Shaw and Bob DiPiero will also join in on the festivities with DiPiero serving as host for the evening.

Calling all “BSer’s” Blake Shelton wants you to get ready for some fun and, you guessed it…a lot more BS in 2011. Why? Because he certainly is…

2010 was a great year for Shelton and the reigning CMA Male Vocalist of the Year can’t think of a better way to kick-off 2011 than with his fans. The “All About Tonight” tour began last October and was the first headlining experience for Blake.

“I’m excited to get back out there and perform for my fans. They made last year the best year of my life and I hope to make each night of this tour one of the most memorable nights of their lives. I’m hoping this tour will prepare me for co-hosting the ACM Awards with the queen of country music, Reba. There’s no better practice as my fans are always great at keeping me on my toes.”

Joining Shelton out on the road are Easton Corbin, Steel Magnolia, The Band Perry and Chris Young. The tour will visit 20 cities from now until early May.

2011 “All About Tonight” Tour Dates:
1/28/11 LaCrosse, WI
1/29/11 Bemidji, MN
2/3/11 Jonesboro, AR
2/5/11 Cape Girardeau, MO
2/8/11 Tulare, CA
2/17/11 San Antonio, TX
2/18/11 Winnie, TX
2/19/11 Waco, TX

Lady Antebellum comes up huge with six Grammy Award nominations. Lady A is up for:

Album of the Year for "Need You Now"
Record of the Year for "Need You Now"
Song of the Year for "Need You Now"
Best Country Album for "Need You Now"
Best Country Song for "Need You Now"
Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for "Need You Now."

Here's the full list of nominations for country artists:

Best Female Country Vocal Performance
Satisfied - Jewel
The House That Built Me - Miranda Lambert
Swingin' - LeAnn Rimes
Temporary Home - Carrie Underwood
I'd Love To Be Your Last - Gretchen Wilson

Be sure to check out GAC's 12 Days of Country Cookies to find out your favorite stars' favorite holiday cookie recipes! What a great combination, country music and cookies!

Currently features are Billy Currington's Peanut Butter Cookies, Joey + Rory's Raisin Tart & Pumpkin Roll, Little Big Town's Georgia Crackers & Lemon Bars, The Band Perry's Traditional Pumpkin Pie and Chris Young's Frosted Christmas Cookies.

Still to be featured artists are The Secret Sisters, Steve Azar, James Otto, Laura Bell Bundy, Trailer Choir, Taylor Swift, Rodney Atkins, Craig Morgan Joe Diffie, Katie Armiger and LeAnn Rimes.

Are you ready for the holidays?