Country Music Producer James Stroud Brings Twang to China

In an increasingly more global society, Country Music has no plans to take a backstage role.  Announcements were made on Friday that new concerts and events, including the well-known BamaJam Music & Arts Festival, will take place in China and the U.S. as part of an initiative to exchange music and cultural values.In a signing ceremony held at the Country Music Association offices in Nashville, long time record producer James Stroud, who is also President of Ronnie Gilley Entertainment and Stroudavarious Records, joined Investors Equity of Nashville in an arrangement with the People's Republic of China to officiate a cross-cultural movement.  "I am honored and excited to be involved in this first-ever initiative to share country music and our BamaJam concert internationally," Stroud said. "This is a celebration of music and entertainment -- a common thread for people all over the world."Stroud and Ronnie Gilley Entertainment, in partnership with Investors Equity, will conduct a series of events and concerts to be held in both China and the U.S., and present BamaJam Music & Arts Festival in the Province of Hunan on May 21, 2009.  As part of the arrangement, Stroud/Ronnie Gilley Entertainment will oversee all artist relations and production."James Stroud is a longtime and respected member of CMA," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Executive Officer.  "...and I have been a longtime admirer of his creative vision and passion for Country Music. We are both dedicated to the cause of advancing this format, and I applaud his efforts to reach an untapped market of potential Country consumers in China."In addition to BamaJam-China, BamaJam Music & Arts Festival-2009 in Enterprise, Ala. is scheduled to take place June 4-6, 2009. The line-up already features award-winning, multi-platinum-selling Country Music stars, including Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Taylor Swift, Montgomery Gentry, Charlie Daniels and 38 Special.  There will also be an international stage featuring performances by artists from all over the world to promote music from other cultures.