NASHVILLE, TN. (CMT) - They're the hottest newcomers in country music this year, with mega-selling albums, multiple awards nominations, and legions of devoted fans --
Gretchen Wilson and Big & Rich. Viewers will see these stars like they've never been seen before when CMT premieres back-to-back original programs on Friday, Sept. 24.
IN THE MOMENT: GRETCHEN WILSON - Friday, Sept. 24 at 8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT*
CMT telecast her live performance television debut mere months ago and since that time, Gretchen Wilson has set the music world on fire, earning five CMA nominations, two American Music Awards nominations, and going double-platinum with her debut album "Here For The Party."
For many, becoming a country star is just a dream that never comes true. But for Wilson, not only are her dreams playing out in real life, they are being documented for the CMT original series. Wilson, the country fireball whose hit "Redneck Woman" has remained at the top of the charts, breaking records and winning audiences, gives CMT exclusive access into her journey to stardom.
Long before Wilson hit it big, CMT cameras followed her every move. Viewers will get an intimate look at how the former bartender turned country star deals with the rapid onset of fame and hits career milestones including receiving her first gold record for "Here For The Party," playing her first stadium concert, going on her first oversees tour and meeting her hero, Charlie Daniels.
IN THE MOMENT: GRETCHEN WILSON will also reveal the personal side of Wilson, as she candidly shares private moments with her daughter, celebrates moving into her first house and much more.
CMT TOTAL ACCESS: BIG & RICH - Friday, Sept. 24 at 9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT*
They are the duo breaking down musical barriers, spreading their message of "country music without prejudice" and electrifying each stage on which they perform. They are Big & Rich - Big Kenny and John Rich - and they are throwing a party where everyone is invited. Capturing the attention of music lovers across the nation, Big & Rich recently scored nominations for two CMA awards including the coveted Horizon Award and Vocal Duo of the Year. Their debut album, "Horse of a Different Color," has rapidly made Big & Rich a household name.
In the one hour episode, CMT TOTAL ACCESS cameras capture life on the road with Big & Rich from backstage to onstage, from down time to on-for-the-cameras time, from performance high to utter exhaustion, thrusting viewers into the rush of fame and revealing a brief, but energized and intimate, glimpse of life on the other side. CMT follows the rising stars as they shoot their first music video for their big hit "Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)," tour with superstar Tim McGraw and perform at New York's famous club CBGB's.
