It’s All About The Fans

Terri Clark poses for a picture with a fan.

June 8, 2018

Back in 1972, CMA Fest was known as Fan Fair and it was originally conceived as a place where fans could meet and interact with their favorite country acts. It was a week when country music artists could personally thank the fans for supporting their music. That was 46 years ago and since that time, the event has grown substantially, moved location, changed format and re-branded itself. But it has kept some of that original access to acts which has made it unique in the world of festivals.

There are stories from Fan Fair veterans of marathon signings that have taken on almost mythic proportions. Garth Brooks signed for 23 hours straight. Taylor Swift signed over 900 autographs in eight hours in 2008. While those colossal acts of generosity are now a thing of the past, there are still acts of every caliber waiting to sign, smile and thank fans that make the pilgrimage each June.

Check out photos of some of this year’s signings. Keep coming back to RFDTV.com as we continue to cover CMA Fest 2018.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
First introduced to RFD-TV on Larry’s Country Diner, The Malpass Brothers, modern day troubadours, bring you their very own, brand-new show to RFD-TV. Viewers can enjoy traditional country music from the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass, a featured celebrity guest on each episode, and loads of clever humor.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD-TV! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles produced on location at music festivals from around the country.
Dailey & Vincent are BACK ON RFD-TV for another great season, brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms. Join them as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests!
SharkFarmer TV is the brainchild of Rob Sharkey, a 5th-generation farmer from Illinois. He shares the stories of incredible people in agriculture—both their successes and perhaps a few blunders along the way. You’ll see aerial footage of the field just as the drone crashes into a barn—and hear the story behind it all.
Ray’s Roadhouse is a weekly program featuring the music of Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel. Ray and his band Asleep at the Wheel has had a more than 50 year career in the music industry and over the years have earned nine Grammy Awards. The program also will feature guest performers such as Pat Green, Stoney LaRue and Kelly Willis.