Be sure you remember the new deadlines to be eligible to nominate and/or vote this year for your favorites within the Beach Music industry. Below you will find the dates along with the membership guidelines to help you determine which level you should join. You can print a paper application but you can also join electronically by visiting the Carolina Beach Music Academy Official Website and click "Join CBMA Today". Please note: "No one person may hold multiple memberships levels in the sameyear"
June 1, 2022 - Deadline to be eligible to nominate - DON'T DELAY!
June 1, 2022 - Nomination ballots will be sent on/around this date
August 1, 2022 Deadline to be eligible to vote
August 1, 2022 - Voting ballots will be sent on/aorund this date
November 10th - 13th 2022 - Cammy Weekend in N. Myrtle Beach, SC
The following information was taken from the CBMA website and is subject to change at any time without prior notice.
- INDUSTRY MEMBER To be an Industry Member you must be an Industry Professional with legitimate ties to Carolina Beach Music (Artist, Band,DJ, Record Company, Booking Agency, Sound & Lighting Technician, Promoter...etc. See membership benefits and perks for this level
- ACADEMY MEMBER - LEVEL 1 This level is primarily for the "Hard Core" beach music fan that wants to participate in the“Nominating & Voting”processesof the awards. Requirements for becoming an Academy Member is the payment of the $70annual dues or $120 for couples and you must be at least 16 yearsof age. See membership benefits and perks for this level
- ACADEMY MEMBER - LEVEL 2 This level is primarily for the "Hard Core" beach music fan that wants to participatein theVotingOnlyprocess of the awards. The only requirements for becoming an Academy Member is the payment of the $60annual dues or $100 for couples and you must be at least 16 years of age. See membership benefits and perks for this level
- ASSOCIATE MEMBER - LEVEL 1 This level is primarily for the "Hard Core" beach music fan that wants to participate in the“Nominating & Voting”processesof the awards.The only requirements for becoming anAssociate member are payment of the $35 or $60 for couples annual dues and you must be at least 16years of age. See membership benefits and perks for this level
- ASSOCIATE MEMBER - LEVEL 2 This level is primarily for beach music fans that want to participate in theVoting process of the awards. The only requirements for becoming an Associate member are payment of the $25annual dues or $40 for couples and you must be at least 16years of age. See membership benefits and perks for this level
On April 28, 2022 at 11:0AM on WVCO 94.9FM The Surf the Carolina Beach Music Academy announced the 2022 Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame Inductees. The awards ceremony for the inductees listed below will be held November 11th during Cammy weekend in N. Myrlte Beach, South Carolina. We'd like to say congratulations to each of the inductees! CBMA logo is property of the Carolina Beach Music Academy!
Have you joined or renewed your membership with the Carolina Beach Music Academy? Everyone within the industry contributes and supports the music and lifestyle that we love and they do so in many different ways. By joining the CBMA, it enables you to help recognize the groups, individuals and professionals during the annual awards weekend in N. Myrtle Beach while also providing you with discount Cammy weekend passes, discounts at select vendors, discount awards show tickets and more.
You can view the new membership levels by visiting the CBMA Official Website which includes: Industry Members, Academy Members and Associate Members. Please note that "All Industry professionals or organizations must be a member of the academy to be nominated for an award or to participate in the Awards
Weekend".
Let's make 2022 the biggest year yet by inviting a few friends and/or family members to join the Beach Music family and show them why we love it the way we do. Sign up on the CBMA website today and if you have any questions, the academy can be reached by calling: (910) 281-4400 Be sure to download the Flip Flop Live mobile app to receive deadline updates etc for nominations and voting and once you join watch for your membership card and newsletters.
CBMA Logo Property of the Carolina Beach Music Academy.
On January 26, 2022, Cat5 announced their new partnership with Brio Live Entertainment. The band said: "Cat5 is excited to announce our partnership with Brio LIVE Entertainment.The future has never looked brighter."
On Brio Live's Facebook page they shared the following: "Brio LIVE Entertainment is proud to announce the exclusive signing of Cat5live! We are eager to take over the booking and scheduling for a band that has taken the Carolina music scene by storm! Cat5 took home five Carolina Beach Music Awards in 2021: Group of the Year, Song of the Year, Smoothie of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and Instrumentalist of the Year. With Camron's "Slow Steady Groove," Glen's ability to play multiple instruments, Tim's keyboard skills, Jerry's unique voice, and Allan's smooth bass rhythm, this band is the perfect blend for any event! Whether it's yacht rock or beach, soul or party, Cat5 can do it well and bring the party! To book Cat5 for your festival, private party, corporate party, wedding, or other event, please email us at cat5@brioLIVE.com or give us a call: 704-467-5397."
Brio Live Entertainment represents numerous entertainers and/or bands including several that you'd be familiar with in the Beach Music industry. We'd like to congratulate the team over at Brio along with the guys with Cat5 nothing but success going forward and we appreciate what both groups do for our industry.
Are you still on the hunt for that special gift for the person that has everything? We may be able to help with some ideas from the Beach Music community and they're sure to love it.
Carolina Beach Music Academy Membership
Whether they're a lifelong fan or brand new to industry you would be giving them a membership in the greatest music family in the world along with having the ability to nominate and/or vote and make your voice heard. You're able to purchase your membership for next year right now on the CBMA website. Be sure to visit the information page to find out about the perks of being a member and cardholder.
CBMA Awards Show Tickets
What a great stocking stuffer to give tickets to the Carolina Beach Music Awards show at the Alabama Theatre in N. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at 3:00PM on Sunday, November 13, 2021. Tickets are available now on the Alabama Theatre website. Celebrate the southern tradition that we all love, Beach Music!
Shag Club and/or SOS Membership
Do you have friends already associated with a shag club, someone that attends the SOS events or would you like to introduce someone new? This would make a great gift or stocking stuffer to have their membership for 2022 paid in full.
Artist / Band / Industry Merchandise
Know someone that loves a particular artist or group or maybe you love a certain radio station or DJ? Many of them have merchandise available on their websites and of course at the live events. Pickup a t-shirt, flag, hat or CD among all of the other items available from the various groups and organizations. Visit the band and radio pages here on Flip Flop Live for links to all of the websites.
Shag Lessons
Online or in person there's a variety of places to take shag lessons and classes to fit any experience level. Maybe you know someone looking to learn or they want to freshen up their steps, either way you can find someone in your area or online ready to help.
Thank you for supporting the Beach Music industry in 2021. No matter if you just love to listen, you keep the dance floor hot or you're an industry professional, it takes all of us to keep it going and anything you can do to encourage growth in the industry is a wonderful thing. We're honored to be in an industry with so many friends and we look forward to its growth in the years to come.
We'd like to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year!
Andy Lucy and Jonathan "JJ" Sharpe Flip Flop Live / Flip Flop Live Radio Owners
On September 29, 2021, Shaun Lamm announced on the Beach Shag Rhythm & Blues Radio Facebook page that he would officially be taking the station off the air after several successful years on the air. Nominated for CBMA Internet Station of the Year in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. We've certainly enjoyed the music and content here at Flip Flop Live and we wish Shaun continued success throughout radio, with his band and his future endeavors. Many listeners, friends and fellow industry professionals left their well wishes and comments on the post.
On October 18, 2021 the station stopped streaming and the website updated. We've included the original posts below if you'd like to read and/or comment.
Did you receive your ballot email from the Carolina Beach Music Academy? If you didn't receive it, be sure to contact Bo Gilbert by email or by calling: 843-280-9000 and let him know. The deadline to submit your nominations is August 13, 2021.
**Please note at the bottom of this page the venues, people and/or entities listed below that are not longer eligible to be nominated"
Below you will find the categories available for the 2021 Carolina Beach Music Awards along with their descriptions!
- Engineer of the Year
This award goes to a person who is responsible for engineering recording sessions that yield a specific single or album. This award is also based on final sound quality. You MUST list song title/ project, artist and engineer:
- Producer of the Year
This award goes to the person who is responsible for the style and/or arrangement of a specific recording, either single recording or album.
You MUST list song title/ project, artist and producer:
- Michael Branch Award
This award is presented to a company or individual who has made a significant contribution to the promotion and advancement of Carolina Beach Music. Recipient can be a booking agency, agent, personal manager, paid-promoter, record label, label promotions person, or music distributor
- Song Writer of the Year
This award goes to the person or persons who write songs targeted at the beach music industry. You MUST List writer and song title:
- Female Vocalist of the Year
This award goes to the individual female artist based on her recording or in-person performance.
- Male Vocalist of the Year
This award goes to the individual male artist based on his recording or in-person performance.
- Entertainer of the Year
This award goes to the individual that goes above and beyond to promote and entertain the public as best he/she can during live performances.
You MUST list artist name and group affiliation if any:
- Song of the Year
This award goes to a group or individual based on vocal performance, instrumentation, song selection, production and engineering.
You MUST list song and artist:
- Group of the Year
This award goes to a group that exudes excellence and pure love for Carolina Beach Music during performances. The group must consist of three or more persons that normally perform live or record together.
- Rising Star Award
This award goes to an individual or group, involved in Beach Music for “5” years or less, that has recorded a song that has been verifiably played in regular rotation “AND” charted on our Beach Music Air Force and/or individual Beach Music charts or compiled charts like Beach Music 45.com.
- Smoothie - Ballad
This award goes to a group or individual based on vocal performance, instrumentation, song selection, production and engineering. A smoothie is classified as a "shag" song that has a "soft" edge to it and ranges from 90-110 beats per minute (bpm), but not limited to such. A ballad is classified as a slow dance song.
You Must list Song Title & Artist:
- Collaboration of the Year
This award goes to the artists (male, female or group) who have collectively recorded an album or single release, featuring at least two artists that normally do not record together. This award is based on vocal performance, instrumentation, song selection, production, and engineering.
You MUST list song title and artists:
- Group Album of the Year
This award goes to a group of performers based on vocal and/or instrumentation, performance, song selection, production, artwork, liner notes, and engineering for a Compact Disc / DVD release of five songs or more. You MUST list title and artist:
- Solo Album of the Year
This award goes to an individual based on vocal and/or instrumentation, performance, song selection, production, artwork, liner notes, and engineering for a Compact Disc / DVD release of five songs or more. The primary artist must be featured individually on 60% or more of the tracks. You MUST list title and artist:
- Compilation Album of the Year
This award goes to the company for the release of a specific Beach Music compilation containing songs from at least three different artists or groups. You must list CD title and Production Company:
- National Dance Song
This award goes to the group or individual based on vocal performance, instrumentation, song selection, production and engineering. The award goes to a song that has been released nationally and received national airplay. You MUST list title and artist:
- Live Production Award
This award goes to the individual that shows outstanding service in the Live Performance area. This award can go to a Sound Tech, Light Tech, Road Manager or any other live support staff. You Must List Name & Band Affiliation
- Instrumentalist of the Year
This award goes to the individual that has perfected his or her ability to play an instrument above and beyond others in their chosen field
Please list name, instrument played and band
- Music Video of the Year
This award goes to a group or individual based on vocal performance, instrumentation, song selection, video production and engineering.
You MUST List Song and Artist
- Event of the Year
This award goes to the promoter of a single show or concert that includes three or more acts performing live with a band or music tracks.
You must list event name & City:
- Shag Club Event of the Year
This award goes to the "Shag Club" or promoter of a single event dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the dance, “The Shag". Please List Event, Club & City:
- Concert Series of the Year
This award goes to an organization or event that presents a series of live beach music concerts. The series must consist of at least 4 concerts in a calendar year. Must List Name, Location & City of Series
- Club/Mobile DJ of the Year (Richard Nixon Award)
This award goes to a DJ who is known primarily for playing or supporting Carolina Beach Music in a club setting or during mobile performances.
- Club of the Year (Bill Griffin Award)
This award goes to the club that primarily uses and promotes Recorded Music and DJ’s throughout the year
Must list Entire Club Name and City located
- LIVE Music Venue of the Year (Cecil Corbett Award)
Formerly Show Club of the Year
This Award goes to the club that primarily promotes live artists and bands throughout the entire year. Must list Entire Club Name and City located:
- Radio Station
This award goes to the FM or AM radio station that has or is providing airplay of Carolina Beach Music in a regular rotation or with specialty programming.
You must list station frequency and City:
- Radio DJ (Ted Bell Award)
This award goes to the radio DJ that best promotes Carolina Beach Music and the industry in general on a daily or weekly broadcast.
**This award is for DJ’s that originates from a terrestrial broadcast, streaming of the DJ and/or Show is not a factor in consideration for this award You must list DJ name, station frequency & City
- Syndicated Radio Show of the Year
This award goes to the DJ that is featured weekly on more than one radio station with a single or multiple recorded or live produced program(s). Simulcasts are not eligible. You must list Name of Show and Host:
- Radio Show of the Year (Steve Hardy Award)
This award goes to the DJ & Radio Station for the best produced weekly terrestrial Radio Show. This show can be simulcast and streamed but must be done simultaneously on all stations. You must list show title, station and host:
- Internet Radio "Show"
This award goes to the “Internet Only” Individual Radio Show that runs on a schedule and best promotes Carolina Beach Music and the industry in general. This award does not apply to shows that are also broadcast terrestrially. You must list show title, host:
- Internet Radio "Station"
This award goes to the "Internet Only" Radio Station that streams 24/7 - 365 days a year and best promotes Carolina Beach Music and the industry in general. This award does not apply to shows that are also broadcast terrestrially. You must list full station website address:
- Internet Radio DJ
This award goes to the “Internet Only” DJ that best promotes Carolina Beach Music and the industry in general. This award does not apply to persons that also broadcast “terrestrially”. You must list DJ Name & Show or Station Name:
**The following people venues or entities are NOT ELIGIBLE for nomination due to withdrawing their names or because of a Hall of Fame induction.**
Club
Fat Harold's - Withdrew
Show Club
Fat Harold's - Withdrew
Club/Mobile DJ
Gary Bass - Hall of Fame
Chad Sain - Withdrew / HOF
Ray Scott - Withdrew / HOF
AM Radio DJ
Charlie Brown - Withdrew
FM Radio DJ
Ray Scott - Withdrew
Charlie Brown - Withdrew
Ted Bell - Withdrew
FM Radio Station
WRDX 106.5 FM - Hall of Fame
WVCO 94.9 FM The Surf - Hall of Fame
WNCT 107.9 FM - Hall of Fame
AM Radio Station
WLWL 700AM Big Waves - Hall of Fame
Event of the Year
Carolina Beach Music Awards - Withdrew 1996
Male Vocalist
Craig Woolard - Withdrew 2019
Internet Radio DJ
Ray Scott - Withdrew 2019
Internet Radio Show
Ray Scott Live - Withdrew 2019
Syndicated Radio Show
Carolina Sounds Beach Show, Butch Halpin - Withdrew 2019
if you were planning to join the Carolina Beach Music Academy and you'd like the opportunity to nominate your favorites in the various categories, time is running out. Thursday, July 15, 2021 is the final day to join in order to be eligible to nominate for the 2021 Carolina Beach Music Awards. You can join online by visiting the CBMA website and we also have links setup on the CBMA page here on our website.
Let's make 2021 one to remember and invite your friends to join. Introduce them to the various events throughout the industry and of course the one and only Cammy Weekend in November. Last year was tough for so many within our industry so let's bring everything together for 2021 and have the largest membership to date. We look forward to seeing everyone soon and we thank you for supporting Beach Music and the Carolina Beach Music Academy.
Mike Worley and Peter Carpenter announced the Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame Inductees today on 94.9FM The Surf in N. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. These individuals will be inducted Friday November 12, 2021 at 6pm in the Ocean Drive Beach & Golf Resort Ballroom. We'd like to say congratulations from your friends at Flip Flop Live to these three deserving individuals.
- Doug Winstead
- Rick Lee
- Curtiss Carpenter
Take part in the celebration in N. Myrtle Beach and support your favorite bands, artists, DJ's, shag clubs, venues and the entire industry by joining the academy today! The biggest Beach Music party of the year is coming November 11th - 14th in N. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the 27th Annual Carolina Beach Music Awards. For more details stop by the Carolina Beach Music Academy website.
We'll be streaming the show LIVE right here on Flip Flop Live!
Today (Friday, April 23, 2021) join DJ Mike Worley and Peter Carpenter at 12:00 Noon as they announce the 2021 Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame Inductees LIVE on 94.9 The Surf. Tune in and be the first to hear! These individuals will be inducted Friday November 12th at 6pm in the Ocean Drive Beach & Golf Resort Ballroom. Also support your favorite bands, artists, DJ's, shag clubs, venues and the entire industry by joining the academy today! The biggest Beach Music party of the year is coming November 11th - 14th in N. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the 27th Annual Carolina Beach Music Awards.
You can listen to the broadcast live on the Surf's website and we'll also have it available for you here on our homepage. If you're unable to listen live, we'll be sure to post the inductees afterwards here and on our mobile app.
Our community received more news that Jon Lee, keyboardist of Shag Attack had passed away. We extend our deepest condolences to Jon's family and friends. One memory that we read was from his band mate, Darryl Mcdaniel that reads: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend and band mate, keyboardist Jon Lee of SHAG ATTACK. It has been a pleasure and honor to have you over my left shoulder all these years. Rest in peace, brother."
Once we learn of any planned services we will be sure to update this page.
We read the sad news of the passing of Bobby Garland Simmons and we send our condolences to his family and friends during this time. We've read several posts about Bobby including the Carolina Beach Music Academy which posted; "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Bobby Simmons. A wonderful and talented musician and friend left us last night to be in the beach paradise in heaven. He donated the instruments that we got signed and auctioned off each year at the CBMA's. Fly High Bobby Simmons."
Funeral Services:
Wednesday January 27, 2021 at 3:00 PM
Visitation beginning at 1:00 PM to 2:45 PM
Dillard Funeral Home
2402 Gentry Memorial Highway
Pickens, South Carolina.
Obituary:
Easley, SC – Mr. Bobby Garland Simmons, age 62, went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 24, 2021. Mr. Simmons was born in Pickens County, South Carolina and was the son of the late Garland Hudson Simmons and Lucille Parsons Simmons. Survivors include his wife of fourteen years Lynn Garrett Simmons of Easley, South Carolina and daughters Amy Britz (Luke) of Fort Mill, South Carolina and Jennifer Ables (Ross) of Anderson, South Carolina. Surviving are three grandchildren Clayton, Carsyn and Connor. Also surviving are Aunts Doris Childs and Gertrude Hughes of Pickens, South Carolina.
Mr. Simmons was of the Baptist faith. He was the owner and operator of the Music Maker in Easley, South Carolina having operated that business since 2009. He was a keyboard player, having played with several local bands throughout the Southeast. Mr. Simmons was an avid outdoorsman and had turned his home with Lynn into a hunting lodge. He was a member of the Anderson Electric City Shag Club and was known for his steps and his warm hugs. Bobby never met a stranger. He enjoyed camping and travel.
A chapel service will be held at Dillard Funeral Home on Wednesday January 27, 2021 at 3:00 PM with a visitation beginning at 1:00 PM to 2:45 PM located at 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway, Pickens, South Carolina.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made on behalf of the family to the Alzheimers Association located at 4124 Clemson Blvd, Suite L Anderson, SC 29621. Phone 1-864-224-3045 or Meals on Wheels of Greenville located at 15 Oregon Street Greenville, SC 29605.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Simmons family.
Did you catch DJ Andy Lucy's interview during Cammy weekend with Karen Clayton from the Castaways? If you did, we're sure you caught the comment she made about a new upcoming full album from the band. According to Karen they originally planned to release it by the end of 2020 but with everything happening the world with COVID, illnesses and more they decided they will wait until Spring 2021 with talks about releasing it in time for Spring SOS. If you'd like to listen to the entire interview we've included that for you below and as soon as we know anything more on the new music, we'll be sure to update you.
2021 is already looking good! Chairmen of the Board announced on their Facebook page that we can expect new music coming in the new year. In their post (shown below) it stated "New Music from Chairmen Of The Board “Baby You’re the Melody” Written and Produced by UKs Melody Maker Nigel Lowis!!!". We can't wait to hear the new material and we included a copy of their post below.
Coming in 2021 New Music from Chairmen Of The Board “Baby You’re the Melody” Written and Produced by UKs Melody Maker...
UPDATE: June 1, 2021
We came across a great tribute to Jimmy that we wanted to share with everyone. This was put together by former band members of Jimmy's with "Too Much Fun" in which he was a member for seven years. The video goes on to say: "He sure made us a better band. Jimmy was a fun guy to be around, a great musician and a very fine human being. We will all miss him. We put together a small memorial to him from his years with TMF. The song, "New Toy" was a Jimmy original, and on our first record." View the video below:
ORIGINAL POST: October 11, 2020
We read the shocking news yesterday afternoon that we lost another Beach Music great, Mr. Jimmy Weaver from Steve Owens and Summertime. So much talent rolled up in one package, it was always great to watch him perform and he was a great friend to so many. According to his website, Jimmy was previously a member of; The Embers, The Main Event Band, The Castaways, Slowhand, Back N' Time and most recently, Steve Owens and Summertime along with the Jimmy Weaver Trio. He also recorded with many other artists and bands across a wide variety of genres.
We've included the original post from the band as well as several videos we've taken the past couple of years below along with his latest single, Runnin' Blue. At the bottom there's also an interview from Johnny's Jukebox on Riptide Radio that John Hall and Jimmy asked us to post for them. Our continued prayers are with Jimmy's family, his Steve Owens and Summertime brothers and all of his friends. He will certainly be missed by so many!
It's hard to believe but it's time for the 2020 Carolina Beach Music Academy Nomination Show. 2020 has certainly been interesting and we've missed seeing all of our friends this Summer and we can't wait to get together with everyone. Today let's celebrate what we love, Beach Music! So many work behind the scenes daily keeping our tradition alive and this is our turn to show them how much we appreciate what they do. Once you receive your ballots to vote for the nominees announced today be sure to watch for the notification email or notice in the mail advising how to complete your ballots and the deadline for submission. Good luck to everyone!
Start time - 12:00PM - Click the button below to access the stream is live now!
Join Mike Worley, Chad Sain and Peter Carpenter as they announce the 2020 CBMA Nominations LIVE tomorrow on 94.9 FM The Surf. The party will begin at 12:00 (Noon) on Friday, September 18, 2020. Not in the N. Myrtle Beach area? Don't worry we will have The Surf's live stream on our website and on our NEW MOBILE APP so you can listen from anywhere in the world.
Join Mike Worley, Chad Sain and Peter Carpenter as they announce the 2020 CBMA Nominations LIVE on 94.9FM The Surf on Friday, September 18, 2020 beginning at 12:00 (Noon). If you're within range you can listen at 94.9FM and we'll also carry the live stream on our website for those who would like to listen online. Bo the Web Guy will be announcing the nominees on Facebook as they happen and we'll be sure to share those results with you as well.
**Please note** On July 8, 2020 we posted an email from the CBMA that announced the 2020 Nomination Show would air on Friday, September 25, 2020 however today (September 8, 2020) the academy posted the September 18, 2020 date to their page.
We love watching the younger generations carry on the tradition of Beach Music and of course that includes shaggin'. Since July, new episodes of the #ShagKids "docu-series" were made available every Friday on the ShagKids website.According to the site, "This documentary was produced and privately funded by TJ and Wendy Zito with WJTZ Media of Birmingham, Al. TJ and Wendy are PHD Communications students at Liberty University and have been involved in the couples dance scene together for 20 years in swing, ballroom, and hustle. WJTZ Media produces unique video projects for education, charity, and other business purposes. They have attended Jr SOS for the past 9 years with their son, Jay, and have enjoyed all the positives that Carolina Shag brings to a family. TJ and Wendy have been married since 2004 and are regulars on and off the floor at USA Grand Nationals in Atlanta, Ga every Memorial Day weekend."
Check out their videos below and be sure to visit their website at: www.ShagKids.com and show them your support along with the creators at WJTZ Media Productions. They have two additional webisodes to come so be sure to bookmark their website for the remaining videos.
Saturday, August 15, 2020 - Photo property of the Band of Oz
Daniel Morris from the Band of Oz announced his departure from the band in a Facebook post on, Saturday, August 15, 2020. We'd like to personally wish Daniel all of the best in his future endeavors. We're proud to call you a friend and we'll especially miss hearing you perform "What does it take". We hope to see you around the Beach Music community in the future.
Read a message below from his bandmate, Keith Houston
Read a message below from his bandmate, Dustin Ahkuoi
In three emails shared earlier today, they've released information on Cammy weekend in November along with an extended nomination window due to COVID-19. We have information from all of the messages below. **Please note** as of right now (Wednesday, July 8, 2020), Cammy weekendHAS NOTbeen canceled. They're not making the determination at this time but they do plan on announcing the plans during the nomination announcement show that will broadcast live on 94.9 FM The Surf on Friday, September 25, 2020. Stay tuned for more updates! Also if you haven't joined the academy yet, you can visit this link for more information.
EMAIL #1
Covid-19 / The 2020 CBMA's
Due to the Covid19 pandemic, it does not look like the 2020 CBMA Weekend will be taking place due to the rising surge in the virus and the age demographic of many of our supporters.
Currently, we are still planning to do the nomination and voting process and to have some sort of either small scale event at OD Resort and/or a virtual event in November to present the awards.
We are not making a final decision at this time for the weekend but plan on making an announcement during the September Nomination Announcements on 94.9FM The Surf on Friday September 25th as to what type and kind of event we will have in November.
We are extending the Nomination window this year until July 31st for availability for a project to be nominated due to the virus. Ballots will be mailed and/or emailed around July 20th so you can have some time to get them filled out and back in by the August 14th Deadline.
****There have been some changes on this year’s ballots in the following categories,
1.) All projects must now be released “and charted” by the deadline. In prior years, the project was eligible if released “and played” by the deadline on at least 3 or more shows.
2.) FM & AM Radio DJ have been combined to Radio DJ of the Year. We will allow up to 7 Nominees in this one category. This change came about as of a result of the many networks doing shows on many different formats which made the category hard to define fairly.
3.) Rising Star has changed the Eligibility period from 3 years to 5 years due to the lack of new artist entering the industry.
We here at CBMA are keeping a close eye on the Covid-19 situation and hope and pray that this pandemic will end soon and we can all get back to the Live Carolina Beach & Shag Music we love so much!!
Please support your local businesses that are struggling to stay afloat and make sure that when the time comes to patronize those establishments that keep our music and dance alive.
Last year with the help and direction of Bo "The Web Guy" Gilbert, we found out it is possible to do the Nominations and Voting online which we might have to do 100% this year due to the Coronavirus and postal restrictions.
We are not making a final decision at this time for Cancelling the Weekend but plan on making an announcement during the 2020 Nomination Show on 94.9FM The Surf on Friday September 25th as to what type and kind of event we will be able to have in November.
(This show is when we announce who is nominated in each category for the November Awards)
**It all depends on the Virus and the Restrictions we must follow in November!!
We do our best here at Flip Flop Live to keep our event calendar updated but of course like most bands, artists, DJs, shag clubs and venue calendars, the COVID-19 pandemic has completely changed the way we do things the past couple of months. We HIGHLY encourage you to check with the venue or entertainer listed on any event on our calendar to confirm it will still be held as scheduled. While we do list/create many of the events on our platforms, the majority are hosted by others are updated on their end and we have no control over the information listed.
At times it seems as though some areas on the East Coast are getting back to "normal" but plans are changing quickly and we try our best to keep things updated daily but it's not getting any easier. Should you need the address or phone number to the various venues we have those available on our Venue Page. If you're a venue owner and you're not listed here, please contact us today so that we can add your information for our visitors.
Stay safe, keep supporting Beach Music and we hope to see everyone soon!
The deadline is fast approaching if you'd like to be eligible to nominate your favorites in the Beach Music industry. It's a fast and simple application to join and you can do so by mail or for faster service you can join online today. Every vote truly does make a difference and it has even been mentioned that several categories came down to a few votes last year.
This has been a tough year for everyone and what better way to show your support then by nominating and casting your votes in 2020. Already a member? Invite your family and/or friends to join before July 15th so they too can nominate their choices.
For more information and for the links to join, visit our CBMA Page
It was just announced that the 2020 Fun Sunday and Fun Monday events have been canceled. The two dates originally scheduled this year were Sunday, September 20, 2020 and Monday, September 21, 2020 in N. Myrtle Beach. Due to issues beyond their control, they've announced the cancellation of the two day event and we've included that for you below!
The announcement reads as followed:
"It is with a heavy heart that we must write this note, as SOS Fun Sunday / Fun Monday has been cancelled for 2020. Due to projected revenue of our event being compromised due to Covid 19, a decision was made and agreed upon by the SOS Enhancement Committee in conjunction with SOS and the ACSC. Approximately 85% of our revenue comes from shag club raffle sales and since they are not currently allowed to hold meetings or socials and no time line as to when clubs will be able to meet, a decision had to be made, at this time. We are so sorry to have to cancel this great event but due to circumstances beyond our control, it is our only option. We appreciate all of your support in the last 20 plus years and are looking forward to 2021! - The SOS Enhancement Committee
The next time you catch a live show from the Castaways you may notice a few new faces on stage. Known widely for their music since 1961 and based out of Durham, North Carolina, they always deliver a professional show with their blend of Beach, Soul and and Rock n' Roll. It's no wonder they're Carolina Beach Music Award recipients in: 2006 for Brand New Artist, 2009 for Collaboration or Duo for "Your Love Looks Good on Me" with Bo Schronce and in 2012 for "Blues Album - I'm Just Sayin". "With 8 members on stage, The Castaways bring a full sound that includes live horns and versatile vocals covering a variety of music. Don't be surprised if you hear some current country, Top-40, or a little southern-rock as well! No tricks or gadgets - what you see is what you hear!"
Current Lineup Karen Clayton - Lead Vocals Guy Brooks - Bass
Randy Smith - Keys
Jeff Weidhaas - Trumpet
Jason Pulley - Trombone
Brady Hasting - Sax
Cole Brown - Guitar
Justin Fitts - Drums
Mike Ashworth - Sound aka "Sound Chef"
We'd like to welcome the new members and we look forward to seeing you on the road soon and we're thinking about all of you during this time. We'll all be back on the road soon attending live events.
" The future of our music industry is in dire straits. I understand that there are a lot of serious issues at hand today. However, when this is all over we may have a crisis in the music world. Small music venues are the foundation of live performing artists. Without them there is no musical expression. From small clubs to amphitheaters, they complete the circle that is the relationship between the artist and the music lover. We as the writers, singers, and performers have been most creative during these insane and most unusual times. But, we need to be mindful of the dormant structures that we all call home for the healing with sounds of soul. Please go to saveourstages.com and write a letter to legislators asking them to save our independent music venues. #saveourstages"
Wayne Kessinger has released a new single "The Older I Get" and we're told that it was written and recorded in memory of Ammon Tharp. Wayne has played with many bands over the last thirty years including; Bill Deal & The Rhondels, Mainstream, Elite, Fat Ammons Band, Bill Deal, Ammon Tharp & The Shieks Of Shag, Ferguson, Boomerang, Catalinas, Coolin’ Out and Ammon and the Allstars. Check out the new song below!
Beach Music Loses Another Legend DJ Steve Hardy This past year has been filled with so much news surrounding legendary Beach Music contributor and DJ, Steve Hardy. From the announcement of his retirement, to the release of the “Party for a Lifetime” CD, his final farewell during his “Thanks for Listening Christmas Party” and now to the sad news of his passing. The Hardy family members have been through a lot but the love shown throughout various areas of the industry for Steve and the family surely is a blessing. We will continue to keep them in our prayers as they move forward with the arrangements and final preparations.
COVID-19 We hope you and your family are staying safe during the recent health issues facing our country and the rest of the world. We know everyone is ready to get back to the clubs and events and we’re praying for the bands, artists and venues who are feeling the biggest effect of the shutdown. We’re so thankful for the connections we still have with everyone because of technology and we’re at least able to see each other online.
CBMA NEWS 2020 Hall of Fame Inductees Did you catch the 2020 Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame Inductee show on 94.9FM The Surf with Mike Worley and Peter Carpenter? Congratulations to all of the inductees and we can’t wait to see you in November in N. Myrtle Beach.
Inductees
Wilson Howard.
Pat Christie
Steve Davis
Eddie Cogle
Johnny B Barkley
Fred Foxx
Neal "Soul Dog" Furr
Bob Collins and the Fabulous 5
Loafers Beach Club in Raleigh, NC
WNCT 107.9FM in Greenville, NC
Jim Quick
Reminder to Renew your CBMA membership Let’s make a big push for new and renewing CBMA members. No matter your role in the industry whether you’re a fan, music lover, band, DJ, artist, venue or shag club, invite your family and friends to join. Single memberships start at only $25.00 for the year and couples start at $40.00. We have all of the information for you on our website: www.flipfloplive.com/cbma In order for our industry to grow and to increase votes for your favorites during the awards show it takes members to make it count. Every vote counts!
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
July 15, 2020 – Deadline to join the CBMA and be eligible to nominate
September 15, 2020 – Deadline to join the CBMA and be eligible to vote
November 12-15, 2020 CBMA Weekend and Award Show
BAND / ARTIST NEWS
Blackwater Band / Too Much Sylvia The Boys are Back in Town
Back in March, Green dot records released “The Boys are Back in Town featuring Blackwater and Too Much Sylvia. Expect a forthcoming compilation CD, including “THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN” and other
new music from Carolina artists very soon!
Hip Pocket Band Member Lineup Changes
Through a Facebook post on March 14, 2020, the band announced that Jaron Bradley “Breeze” was no longer with the band. No other information was offered at that time and we haven’t been notified of any further updates to their lineup. We wish the band and Breeze nothing but the best going forward.
Bands/Artists Perform Live Online
Several bands and artists are using the internet and social media to continue to entertain their fans. We’ve shared several videos on our website from these sessions and we will continue to add them as we receive the submissions. This is the dedication and creativity that we love in our industry. So many refuse to take a break and they keep the music playing and we’re loving it and so are many others.
Swingin’ into a New Website
The Swingin’ Medallions announced April 17, 2020 that they’ve launched their brand new website and they also provided updates to their upcoming shows. We have the video posted on our website news feed if you have a few minutes and would like to watch.
Rick, Lesa and Mike Debut New Music
On April 20th, Rick Strickland, Lesa Hudson and Mike Taylor announced the release of a new song “A Little More Love”. It was released on April 19th during a worldwide Facebook Live event where Rick and Lesa were joined via webcam by Mike as they discussed the details and allowed viewers the chance to preview the new track. We have more details and the video posted on our website news feed.
Randy Clay Band Release New Song
The Randy Clay Band’s new song “Tip the Hat” debuted today, (Saturday) on Eric Bowman’s show on WDZD 99.1FM The Wave. On their announcement they state; “Get ready line dancers! This is one you’ll love”. We have the full store along with links to Eric’s live stream and the band’s website. Be sure to tune in Saturday to hear the new release.
INDUSTRY NEWS
Beach Music and Covid-19 Let’s all support the industry during this period…
On March 17, 2020, we posted on our website an article on what we felt everyone could do to help the industry continue to thrive during the pandemic. You can read the full article on our website newsfeed but some of the ideas were to call your favorite DJs and while we’re at home support their shows. We suggested how you can interact with the bands and artists online helping boost their exposure as well as buying merchandise to help support them financially. We also included shag club, venue and industry ideas. If you have a few minutes, you can the entire article that goes more in-depth.
Good News Anyone? Firefighter helps a Virginia Beach Music celebrity
Have you ever visited the Virginia Beach oceanfront during one of their Beach Music events? If so, chances are you’ve seen or met Travis Thereault! You will usually find him announcing the bands, helping with equipment or hanging out backstage. Travis is a local celebrity and friends to all of the Beach Music bands. A local firefighter heard that Travis’ bike was stolen and he jumped into action. You can watch the heartwarming news segment on our website. We were so happy to finally hear good news for once in the past few weeks.
FFL Launches Online Station Flip Flop Live Radio
On Thursday March 19, 2020, Andy Lucy and Jonathan “JJ” Sharpe announced the newest addition to the FFL platform, Flip Flop Live Radio. We’ve been planning to launch an online station for some time but we ushered in the idea several months early with the launch of a new website and radio show. Currently Andy Lucy is hosting a weekly show every Saturday from 7:00-11:00PM called the “Saturday Night House Party” which is an all request show playing a wide array of genres. For more information you can visit: www.FlipFlopLiveRadio.com Last weekend we also debuted the “Flip Flop Live Radio Show” on WEVA 860AM in Emporia, Virginia. A twenty-four hour format is planned with several featured shows in the works. Thank you to everyone for your support and join us on Saturday evening where you can text your requests and join our live chat!
Johnny Draper Blasts into Saturday Nights
Host of the weekly show “Friday Beach Blast”, Johnny Draper launches a new show on Saturday on 107.7 FM The Lake based out of South Hill, Virginia. His Friday night show can also be heard on 107.7 along with WTRG 97.9FM, EARL 98.3FM based out of Weldon, North Carolina. Johnny plays a great mix of music including a weekly tribute to Charlie Byrd who was host of “The Charlie Byrd Beach Blast”. Congratulations Johnny!
Highway 17 with Ben Morris Beach Shag Rhythm and Blues Radio
On April 20, 2020, Beach Shag Rhythm and Blues Radio announced the addition to their current lineup as they announced “Highway 17 with Ben Morris. Loving music from an early age, Ben talks about when he was around seven years old, “I was taken back by the sounds of those old Brunswick labeled records and I was hooked on the R&B music sounds.” Also he recalls “my Mom singing to Far Away Places, Washed Ashore and other songs that eventually woke me up to Beach Music.
SHAG NEWS
Society of Stranders Make Tough Call SOS Spring Safari Canceled
The ACSC/SOS Board members made a tough decision to cancel SOS Spring Safari due to the coronavirus. Nobody likes to cancel or reschedule events and surely an event like SOS that impacts so many, it makes the decisions even harder. In their release it stated: “it is our responsibility for your safety and well-being, as we are an older group and it seems to affect our group the most. Your understanding of the situation will help us get through this.” They are talking about planning for an expanded Fall Migration in which we hope the Covid-19 situation will not be of any concern.
Online Shag Lessons Sam and Lisa West
In an attempt to bring some normalcy to the shag community, Sam and Lisa West offered online shag lessons and we think that’s a great idea! After their first lesson the response was so positive they’ve decided to continue the classes on Sundays and Thursdays and includes; Music and Warm-up, Beginner Class, Music and Break followed by an Intermediate Class. They also started a “Virtual SOS” on YouTube for $75.00 for a single and $100.00 for a couple/household. Visit their website or Facebook page for details and you can find those links on our website news feed.
HAPPENING AT FLIP FLOP LIVE Flip Flop Live Tests New Feature
We’re getting closer to the launch of a brand new feature for Flip Flop Live. We’ve been working on this feature for several months and we’re now in the final testing stages before our official launch. We hope to release more details in the next couple of weeks on the official announcement.
Lake Life / Salt Life…..does it matter? Give us water and Beach Music!
Lake Life Live and Flip Flop Live are teaming up for something special and we plan on bringing you this announcement this weekend or at least by early next week. Stay tuned!
WE NEED YOUR SUBMISSIONS Bands, DJ’s, Shag Clubs, Venues, Radio
We have lists organizing the various aspects of the industry by category. Now is the perfect time to make sure your organization is listed on our website and make sure we have the correct details and links. If your band, club, venue, station or organization is hosting a beach/shag event, send us the details to: events@flipfloplive.com The industry is made up of so many aspects within the Beach Music community and we want your information included and all details to be listed correctly. You can also join the members in the “Flip Flop Live Shaggers” group on Facebook. Share your information, events, photos and anything else you’d like once we get back to normal.
THANK YOU!
Thank you to Skelton Speed Shop in Brodnax, Virginia, Hite’s Clothing in Clarksville, Virginia, Brian Parks with Virginia Farm Bureau of Boydton, Virginia, Butch Halpin and the Carolina Sounds Beach Show, John Hall from Johnny’s Jukebox, Scott Walker from the Thursday Night Beach Therapy and Townsend Link from the Beach Bound and Down Radio Show. They’re all sponsors of Flip Flop Live and we can’t thank them enough for enabling us to take our platforms even further.
Also to the following: Sunset Sounds Concert Series, Lake Life Live Concert Series, ECSC Fall Breeze, Cabin Fever Throwdown, Hope Abounds East Coast Shag Classic, Julian B. Fowler and the We Be Jammin’ Concert Series for allowing us to partner with you on the promotion of your events.
Submit your news!
We work hard finding the latest and most up to date information pertaining to the Beach Music industry. If you have anything that you feel our visitors would find interesting or if you have an upcoming announcement etc, we want to know about it. If you have something you’d like to include, you can contact us on our website or send an email to: webmaster@flipfloplive.com
We have one goal at Flip Flop Live and that’s to be your one stop destination for EVERYTHING Beach Music. Our platform is not focused on one artist, band, venue, station, shag club or DJ, we're here to promote Beach Music in its entirety. We've built our website around the "community" and the only way we will be able to grow is with your input, suggestions, and submissions. Thank you for the emails we currently receive and we look forward to growing with all of you.
Do you know someone that would like to receive our emails? Forward this to them and
they can also sign up at: www.flipfloplive.com
**CBMA Logo is property of the Carolina Beach Music Academy**
We'll be streaming the show LIVE right here on Flip Flop Live!
This Friday, April 20, 2020, join DJ Mike Worley and Peter Carpenter as they announce the 2020 Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame Inductees LIVE on 94.9 The Surf. Tune in and be the first to hear! Also support your favorite bands, artists, DJ's, venues and the industry by joining the academy today! The biggest Beach Music party of the year is coming November 12th - 15th in N. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the 26th Annual Carolina Beach Music Awards.
Friday you can listen to the broadcast live on the Surf's website and we'll also have it available for you here on our homepage.
Important Reminder:
The entire industry has been hit hard recently and this year we ALL need to step up and help wherever we can.One of the easiest things that you can do is invite new friends to join the academy. If each one of us can at least get one new person to join, that would help give the industry a boost, not to mention we add even more music lovers to the family.
Here are a few other ways that you can help!
DJ's and Beach Radio
Tune in and call your favorite DJ's and stations and request your favorite songs. Most do it for the love of the music but operating a station and/or show can become costly and they rely on their sponsors to keep things going. The sponsors want listeners to hear their ads so the more we can increase their numbers the more it can help. Show them love on their social media pages and keep in touch as you can always find the greatest music on earth playing on one of the great stations available to us. If you haven't tried streaming shows outside of your normal listening area, try it on apps such as Tune-In, IHeartRadio and Live365. Several stations also have apps you can download specifically for their broadcast.
Bands and Artists
The many artists and bands will see a huge impact from the Covid-19 outbreak with attendance becoming limited in an attempt to control the spread. Shows have been canceled or postponed from Virginia to South Carolina and for many bands and artists this is their only source of income. Interact with the bands online to keep their social media pages active and let them know how much you appreciate what they do everyday. You can also purchase their music from outlets such as BuyBeachMusic, Judy's House of Oldies and other streaming sources such asiTunes, Amazon Music, GooglePlay and more. What a great time to go through your phones and upload some of the videos and photos and tag the bands and even invite your friends to like their page. They're just as eager as you to get back on the road and let's do what we can to help promote their brand and music.
Shag Clubs
Although we may not be able to come together and our way of life has come to a screeching hault, that doesn't mean we can't still enjoy sharing and fellowship online. Working on new moves at home? Share it online! Check out the many shag groups available online, meet new friends and invite others to join in the lifestyle. The world may stop but the music never does and anything we can do to promote it will keep things going during this difficult time while putting a smile on our faces.
The Industry
If you haven't renewed your membership for the Carolina Beach Music Academy, take the time now to download and print the forms and/or pay online. With everything being affected, we assume the United States Postal Service could also see a decrease in speed so it's best to get your CBMA forms in the mail today instead of waiting. Don't forget, you can also purchase your CBMA Award show tickets on the Alabama Theatre website. We know many wait until the last minute but we encourage you to secure your seats because after this hiatus, everyone will be ready for some fun in N. Myrtle Beach.
The Venues
Venue owners and management probably don't have a lot of time during their normal business hours to respond to emails and inquiries but now would be a good time to thank them for supporting live music, dance events and of course Beach Music. Maybe there's a band you'd like to see at their club that hasn't been included in their lineup. Why not let them know? The venues which also includes restaurants and bars will also be hit pretty hard with this along with their employees. If they're able to still offer curb-side and carry out, please support these local people who support the lifestyle we enjoy. Without the venues where will we go to continue the tradition?
