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With almost 40 years in radio, Karen West lives and breathes the Country Radio lifestyle! As 97.3 The Eagle’s Assistant Brand Manager, Music Director and on-air morning personality, Karen’s love and passion for the format are unparalleled.

Obsessed with the new country artists Jackson Dean, Nate Smith, Bailey Zimmerman, Lainey Wilson, Chapel Hart, Priscilla Block, Jelly Roll…as well as those artists that blew the doors open for them…Waylon, Loretta, Garth, Strait.

Outside of radio Karen’s is extremely passionate about the many charitable causes that she gives her time to. The American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” campaign in memory of her sister Ginni, who passed away peacefully of breast cancer in 2005, and St. Jude Children’s Hospital’s endeavors to end childhood cancer are two charities that hold a very special place in her heart.

Karen is an author who has written two books to benefit various charities. Amazing Trace, A Sister’s Journal follows the story of her sister’s battle with breast cancer. Karen’s works are available at most online book retailers.

Her favorite quote of all time is from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said; people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Karen is a Hampton Roads native, born and raised in Newport News and now lives in Norfolk. She has four daughters who are her best friends.

Cooper Alan’s “Home For Christmas” Is the Holiday Song Animal Lovers Can’t Miss

North Carolina country singer Cooper Alan has delivered the most heartwarming Christmas song of the year with “Home For Christmas.” This touching tune is a must-listen for animal lovers, as it tells the story of a shelter dog longing for a forever family during the holidays.

The Country Albums to Look Forward to in 2025

As we gear up for 2025, country music fans have plenty to be excited about. Some of the biggest names in the genre are releasing new albums, with several highly anticipated projects already confirmed for early in the year. Here’s a look at the confirmed country album releases so far: January 10th: Look Up by…

The Biggest Country Tours Confirmed for 2025

If you’re still searching for the perfect holiday gift, why not give the gift of LIVE MUSIC? 🎶 Country fans have plenty to look forward to next year, with some of the genre’s biggest names hitting the road in 2025. Here are the 10 biggest confirmed country tours for 2025: Randy Travis’ More Life Tour…

Lainey Wilson Returns for Yellowstone Finale Appearance

Lainey Wilson made her much-anticipated return as Abby during the Yellowstone finale on Sunday night, and fans are buzzing about it. Without giving away any spoilers (in case you haven’t caught up yet), let’s just say her return was a welcomed surprise, and viewers seem thrilled with how the show brought her character back. Adding…

Post Malone, Lainey Wilson, and Shaboozey Have Joined Nashville’s New Year’s Lineup

If you don’t have plans for New Year’s, how about hanging with Shaboozey? Shaboozey, Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and Post Malone are the latest additions to the lineup for New Year’s Eve: Nashville’s Big Bash on CBS. Other performers include Tyler Hubbard, Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs, Eric Church, Brittney Spencer, Chris Stapleton, and Zach Top.…

Ella Langley Becomes First Woman of the Year to Top Billboard Country Airplay Chart

Ella Langley has made country music history with her duet alongside Riley Green, “You Look Like You Love Me,” hitting #1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. This milestone marks the first time in nearly a year that a female artist has claimed the top spot. The last time a woman reached #1 on the…

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve to Feature Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Cody Johnson and More

If you’re staying home to watch the ball drop on TV New Year’s Eve, you’ll be able to ring  in 2025 with Blake, Carrie, Cody and more of your favorite country stars. This year, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” will have a bit more of a country vibe. They’ve announced that Blake Shelton, Dasha, Ernest and Hardy are onboard, along with previously announced…

Keith Urban Announces 2025 World Tour with Chase Matthew and Va Beach’s Own Alana Springsteen

Keith Urban Announces High and Alive World Tour for 2025! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Keith Urban (@keithurban) Country music superstar Keith Urban is hitting the road for his High and Alive World Tour in 2025, and he’s bringing an incredible lineup of special guests along for the ride! Joining Keith…

Morgan Wallen Thanks Fans with Surprise Message After Tour Wraps [WATCH]

Morgan Wallen is a man of mystery.  For starters, he won CMA Entertainer of the Year and still hasn’t even said anything about it. And, in general, he doesn’t post or share much, so it’s tough to get updates on him . . . especially since his One Night at a Time Tour wrapped back in October. However, fans who attended…

Post Malone to Perform a Free Show Before the Super Bowl

Post Malone is adding some excitement to Super Bowl weekend with a special free performance! On Friday, February 7th, just two days before the Super Bowl, Post Malone will take the stage at The Fillmore in New Orleans for a free show titled Bud Light Backyard Presents Post Malone. Here’s how to snag tickets: Fans aged…

See Dasha’s Makeup Mishap During Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade [VIDEO]

If you tuned into the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this year, you may have caught Dasha’s performance of her hit song, “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’).” But it wasn’t just her vocals that had people talking—it was her unexpected makeup moment. Dasha hit the stage in the rain, rocking a bold red lipstick. But as she…

Cody Johnson Gave a “Tour” of the Tattoos on His Body [WATCH]

Cody Johnson recently shared the story of one of his most unique tattoos, which he had placed in an area most tattoo artists rarely touch—the bottom of his foot. During a video tour of his tattoos, Cody revealed that he asked a tattoo artist to ink a simple line on the sole of his foot.…

Jelly Roll Celebrated the End of His Tour by Throwing His Phone Into a River

Jelly Roll just wrapped up his incredible Beautifully Broken Tour—an unforgettable run of 58 sold-out arenas in just 13 weeks. But it wasn’t just his music that had fans talking after his final show on Tuesday night; it was his bold farewell to social media and phones altogether. Before taking the stage for the last…

Luke Combs Sets the Record Straight on Hurricane Relief Funds

Country superstar Luke Combs recently addressed concerns from a fan about the allocation of funds raised during the Concert for Carolina. The event, held in October, featured Luke and Eric Church raising over $24 million to support those impacted by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. Despite the success of the event, a fan on…

Blake Shelton Launches Hilarious New Merch Line

Blake Shelton is taking a fresh approach to fan merch, and it’s delightfully simple — and maybe a little silly. The country star dropped his new single “Texas” earlier this month and is gearing up for his Friends & Heroes Tour in February. To celebrate, he launched some merchandise that fans are loving for its…

Paramedics Rush the Stage Because They Were Fooled by the Zach Bryan “Revival” Stunt

If you’ve ever been to a Zach Bryan concert, you know the performances are packed with energy and surprises. One recurring moment during the band introductions is when the banjo player hilariously “fakes” a medical emergency. The act usually involves him slumping over, clutching his chest, and being “revived” by his bandmates—before springing back to…

Highlights from the 58th Annual CMA Awards: A Night of Surprises and Tributes

The 58th Annual Country Music Association Awards took place Wednesday night with Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson co-hosting Country Music’s Biggest Night. The night’s biggest award, Entertainer of the Year, went to Morgan Wallen.  Lainey Wilson was named Female Vocalist of the Year and Chris Stapleton won Male Vocalist of the Year, Best Song and…

Sam Hunt and Wife Hannah Lee Fowler Expecting Baby #3

One year after welcoming their son Lowry, country star Sam Hunt and his wife Hannah Lee Fowler revealed that they are expecting their third baby. The expecting couple is already parents to their 2½-year-old daughter Lucy Louise, and 12-month-old son Lowry Lee. The 39-year-old  country singer shared the news saying, “It’s about to get real.” Hunt disclosed…

Your Guide to the Best Neighborhood Holiday Lights in Hampton Roads

Hampton Roads is lighting up for the holidays! Get a list of popular holiday light displays below and click on the map below for more neighborhood listings. Adams Family Christmas Light: Dec 7- Jan. 1 Nightly from 5:30-10 pm. 100K lights set to music! 300 Block of Babbtown Road in Suffolk. Burns Family Christmas Lights…

2024 Hampton Roads Holidays: Get a List of Events, Light Displays, and More!

It’s beginning to look a lot like the holiday season in Hampton Roads! Get a list of holiday events and light displays below.  Plus, check out our guide to the best neighborhood light displays here. Chesapeake Chesapeake’s Christmas Bird Count Dec. 14th- Jan. 5th- Held annually by the National Audubon Society, this is the ideal way…

Jelly Roll Promotes Invictus Games Performance with a Hilarious Prince Harry Tattoo Video

Jelly Roll is set to headline the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games in Vancouver in February. For those unfamiliar, the Invictus Games are like the Olympics, but specifically for veterans and active-duty military personnel—a powerful event celebrating resilience and determination.  They were founded by Prince Harry in 2014. To promote his appearance, Jelly Roll…

Luke Combs Named People Magazine’s Sexiest 34-Year-Old Man Alive

Country superstar Luke Combs has been crowned People Magazine’s “Sexiest 34-Year-Old Man on the Planet.” While John Krasinski earned the overall title of Sexiest Man Alive this year, People broke down the honors by age, and Luke claimed the top spot for his category. He’s in good company. Other age-specific honorees include rising country star…

Jelly Roll, Luke Combs, Megan Moroney, and More Added to CMA Awards Performers List

The excitement for the 58th Annual CMA Awards continues to build as another wave of incredible artists has been announced for the star-studded performance lineup, including Jelly Roll, Luke Combs and Kelsea Ballerini. Here’s a look at the latest additions to the performer list: 1.  Jelly Roll will take the stage with Brooks & Dunn to sing their song “Believe”,…

Kane and Katelyn Brown Tease New Duet, “Body Talk”

Kane Brown and his wife, Katelyn, are back with a brand-new duet titled “Body Talk”. Their last duet, “Thank God,” took the country music world by storm in 2022. Earlier this week, Katelyn gave fans a sneak peek of “Body Talk” on Instagram, sharing a short clip in a GRWM video. “Body Talk” drops on…

Blake Shelton Teams Up with “Yellowstone” Creater Taylor Sheridan for New Singing Competition Series

Fans of Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan and country music superstar Blake Shelton have something new to look forward to! Sheridan has tapped Shelton to help produce a new singing competition series called The Road. This fresh twist on music competitions will take viewers behind the scenes and on tour, following a headlining superstar as they…

New Music Monday: Zach Bryan Drops Two New Songs, Gabby Barrett Brings Holiday Cheer

It’s Monday, and you know what that means—time to kick off the week with some incredible new music! From country icons to rising stars, here are the latest songs to add to your playlist: 1.  “High Road” by Zach Bryan  (WARNING:  There’s profanity in the video.) 2.  “This World’s a Giant“ by Zach Bryan 3.  “I’ll Pay the Price“ by Dwight Yoakam 4.  “Midnight Gasoline“ by Jamey Johnson 5.  “Chasing a Feeling“ by Flatland…

Luke Combs “Wanted to Crawl in a Hole” After Tracy Chapman Noticed His Lyric Mistake

Luke Combs’ cover of *“Fast Car”* has been a massive success in country music, and it’s no secret that he’s always admired Tracy Chapman and her work. In fact, his goal in recording the song was simply to do it justice and make Tracy proud. But as it turns out, there was one small hiccup…

Carly Pearce Faces Her Biggest Fear- The Tower of Terror [WATCH]

Carly Pearce recently took a trip to Disney World and decided it was finally time to face one of her biggest childhood fears: The Tower of Terror. In a video shared online, Carly explained that the last time she was at Disney World, she was 11 years old and too scared to go on the…

Cody Johnson Shares Powerful Message on Unity: “Three Things We Can Agree On: Red, White, and Blue”

Country star Cody Johnson had a powerful message for fans at a recent show, encouraging them to stay unified as the presidential election approaches.  He was at a recent show and asked the crowd, “How many of y’all watch the news?” But before they had a chance to answer, he emphatically said, “Stop watching the…

Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims Reunite for a Remake of “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman”

Thomas Rhett recently teased fans with a “dope” collaboration on the way, and now we know who’s joining him—Teddy Swims! The two Georgia natives are teaming up to reimagine Rhett’s hit “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman,” which originally appeared on his latest album, About a Woman. Swims shared the news on Monday (Nov. 4) with a…

Top 10 New Country Christmas Songs Perfect for the Holiday Season

Here’s a great tip if you’re trying to distract yourself today, rather than watching the news.  Put on some country Christmas music.  Sure, it’s a little early for Christmas . . . But it’s kinda hard to be stressed out or anxious when there are some cheerful Christmas-y songs in the air. Here are the…

New Music Monday: Cody Johnson, Megan Moroney, Ella Langley, and More

Happy Monday! Some great new music just got released from Cody Johnson, Megan Moroney, Ella Langley, and more. 1.  “Overdue“ by Cody Johnson. 2.  “C’mon Cowgirl“ by Cody Johnson. 3.  “All I Want for Christmas Is a Cowboy“ by Megan Moroney. 4.  “Girl You’re Taking Home“ by Ella Langley. 5.  “20-20“ by Ella Langley. 6.  “Bad Luck“ by Zach Top featuring Billy Strings. 7.  “Restless Mind“ by Sam Barber featuring Avery Anna. 8.  “Lubbock” by Flatland Cavalry. 9.  “Liberty“ by Sam Hunt. 10.  “Cheap“ by Chris Janson. 11.  “The Grand…

Bailey Zimmerman Surprises His Grandma with a Brand New Cadillac! [WATCH]

Bailey Zimmerman recently pulled off the ultimate birthday surprise for his grandma—a brand-new Cadillac!  Bailey shared a heartwarming photo of the two of them standing next to her new ride on Instagram, with the caption, “Happy Birthday to the sweetest soul I know.” In true Bailey fashion, he even added a little humor to the…

Trade Halloween Candy for Books: Hampton Roads Book Exchange Launches Candy Exchange Program!

Got leftover Halloween candy? Hampton Roads Book Exchange is kicking off a Candy Exchange from November 1st through November 10th, 2024, giving kids a chance to trade in their extra sweets for books! Here’s how it works: kids can bring in their unwanted Halloween candy to any participating Book Exchange location and receive $0.10 store…

Country Stars Go All Out for Halloween: From Iconic Movie Duos to a Twerking Extra Terrestrial [PICS]

Country music stars didn’t hold back this Halloween, showing up in some seriously creative costumes that had fans talking. From movie throwbacks to adorable family ensembles, here’s a look at how your favorite country artists celebrated spooky season this year. Thomas Rhett as Fear and wife Lauren as Joy, along with the littlest Akins girls hit us in the feels…

Carrie Underwood Shared Her Leg Day Workout Routine and it’s Intense [WATCH]

It’s no secret that Carrie Underwood is known for her powerhouse voice—and her killer legs. Fans frequently ask her about her leg workouts all the time (can you blame them?), so she finally decided to spill her go-to leg day routine. Carrie warns upfront: it’s not for the faint of heart. Her routine includes moves…

New Music Monday: Kelsea Ballerini, Jordan Davis, Jamey Johnson and More Release New Tracks

It’s a great day for new music! Some fantastic new songs have just been released, and if you haven’t checked them out yet, now’s the time. 1.  “Lost Cause“ by Willie Nelson.  This is a Beck cover. 2.  “Baggage“ by Kelsea Ballerini. 3.  “Know You Like That” by Jordan Davis. 4.  “Fixin’ Me“ by Ian Munsick. 5.  “He’s My Man“ by Priscilla Block. 6.  “Saturday Night in New Orleans“ by Jamey Johnson. 7.  “This Party Sucks” by Ryan…

“Concert for Carolina” Raises $24.5 Million for Hurricane Helene Relief

This is how celebrities can use their platform for GOOD! On Saturday, the Concert for Carolina benefit—headlined by Luke Combs and Eric Church—raised an incredible $24.5 million for Hurricane Helene relief efforts. The star-studded event brought together some of the biggest names in music for an unforgettable night. Alongside Luke and Eric, the concert featured…

Brooks and Dunn Tease “Neon Moon” Duet with Morgan Wallen

It’s hard to believe, but it’s been 33 years since Brooks & Dunn released their iconic hit *”Neon Moon.”* Here’s a fun fact: when that song first hit the airwaves, Morgan Wallen wasn’t even born yet! Why does this matter? Because Brooks & Dunn just announced some exciting news—they’re dropping a new version of *”Neon…

Lainey Wilson Visited North Carolina to Help with Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation, country music superstar Lainey Wilson made a surprise visit to Chimney Rock Village, bringing hope and gratitude to those working tirelessly to rebuild. The singer, who performed in Raleigh and Wilmington last week, took time out of her busy schedule to personally thank the Sheriff’s Department and the…

Parker McCollum Announces 2025 “What Kinda Man Tour”

Parker McCollum announced the tour stops for the first half of his What Kinda Man Tour with Kameron Marlowe.  At the end of the video, he said, “Let us know where else y’all think we should come in 2025.” He’ll make a stop in Portsmouth at the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion on Thursday, April 24, 2025. Tickets for the previously scheduled…

New Music Monday: Riley Green, Morgan Wallen, Kelsea Ballerini, and More Release New Tracks

Some exciting new music just dropped, and you’ll definitely want to give it a listen! Riley Green’s new album “Don’t Mind If I Do” is out now, along with new releases from Morgan Wallen, Kelsea Ballerini, and more. 1.  “Reel Problems“,  Riley Green featuring Luke Bryan 2.  “Love Somebody“,  Morgan Wallen 3.  “You for a Reason“,  Warren Zeiders 4.  “First Rodeo“,  Kelsea Ballerini 5.  “Holding On“,  Bailey…

Jelly Roll Honors Ozzy Ozborne with Cover of “Mama I’m Coming Home” at Rock Hall of Fame Induction

The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony took place Saturday night, with a star-studded lineup of performances. One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when Jelly Roll took the stage to honor inductee Ozzy Osbourne with a soulful rendition of “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” Before hitting the stage, Jelly Roll shared…

Kenny Chesney Pays Tribute to Jimmy Buffet at Rock Hall of Fame Induction

After decades of legendary contributions to music, Jimmy Buffett was finally inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, receiving the prestigious Musical Excellence Award on Saturday. Though this award is given to artists, songwriters, or producers whose influence on music is undeniable, Buffett’s fans have long considered his induction overdue. To celebrate his…

Riley Green and Post Malone Surprise Fans by Bartending in Nashville

Sometimes even “losers” end up surprising everyone! Riley Green and Post Malone made an unexpected appearance at Loser’s Bar & Grill in downtown Nashville recently, but they weren’t there for a concert or an autograph session—they were behind the bar, slinging drinks! Fans were shocked to see the duo casually bartending. One fan shared that…

Luke Combs and Eric Church’s ‘Concert for Carolina’ Adds New Artists and a Livestream Option

Big names keep rolling in for the upcoming benefit concert supporting communities affected by Hurricane Helene. On Tuesday, organizers announced that Keith Urban has joined the lineup, alongside North Carolina natives The Avett Brothers, Scotty McCreery, Chase Rice, and Parmalee. Scheduled for October 26th, the show, headlined by Luke Combs and Eric Church, will benefit…

Carrie Underwood Announces End of Her Vegas Residency in 2024

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas . . . but not forever! After three unforgettable years, Carrie Underwood has announced that her Las Vegas residency, Reflection, is coming to an end next year. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Carrie reflected on her time in Sin City, saying, “These past three years have gone by…

Dallas Cowboys Fans React to Lainey Wilson Performing Thanksgiving Halftime Show: “Can She Run the Ball?”

During Sunday’s blowout loss to the Detroit Lions, where the Dallas Cowboys were defeated 47 to 9, the team chose an interesting moment to announce that Lainey Wilson will be performing at their Thanksgiving Halftime Show. Needless to say, fans weren’t too thrilled with the timing. One user commented, “Can she run the ball, or…

New Music Monday: Tim McGraw, Kane Brown, Jelly Roll and More Release New Tracks

Some great new music just dropped, and it’s definitely worth checking out. Jelly Roll has released his latest album, Beautifully Broken, featuring 22 tracks filled with his signature blend of country and rock. Tim McGraw surprised fans with a new release.  Plus, new music from Kane Brown, Cody Johnson and more! 1.  “Winning Streak” by Jelly Roll.  (WARNING:  There’s profanity in…

Jelly Roll Releases the Full 22-Song Track List for His New Album “Beautifully Broken”

Jelly Roll’s highly anticipated new album, Beautifully Broken, drops this Friday! Recently, he revealed that he wrote over 150 songs before narrowing it down to the final 22 for this album. The album features only three collaborations, while the other 19 tracks are all Jelly. Here’s the full tracklist: 1.  “Winning Streak” 2.  “Burning” 3.  “Heart of Stone”…