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Country Stars Come Together to Support 4-H
USAgNet - 03/20/2008

Some of country music's biggest stars -- who also happen to be alumni of the 4-H Youth Development Program -- have come together in a new compilation CD aimed at creating awareness and support for 4-H, America's largest youth development organization. Titled "Clover Country," the album will be available for sale through www.4-hmall.org, local 4-H programs and on Amazon.com beginning March 25, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting 4-H.

"Clover Country" first came to fruition when 4-H representatives recognized that many 4-H alumni were high profile country music artists, who were interested in continuing to show their support for 4-H. "Clover Country" was specifically conceived to include recording artists with a 4-H background.

"I was involved in every aspect of 4-H. I loved it with all my heart," said Reba McEntire, whose song "You're Gonna Be" is included on the compilation.

Artists contributing to "Clover Country" include 4-H alumni, such as Sugarland, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride, Hillary Lindsey, Faith Hill, Vince Gill, Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Luke Bryan and Alabama. Featured on the album will be a track written and recorded by Grammy-winning songwriter Hillary Lindsey called "The Clown," produced by Loren Harriet and with top Nashville musicians including Eddie Bayers, Michael Rhodes, Brent Mason and Steve Nathan. "The Clown" will be available on iTunes as a digital download and ringtune with proceeds also going to benefit 4-H. For more information about "Clover Country," visit www.clovercountrycd.com

"We at National 4-H Council are very excited to share this first-ever compilation of hits from famous 4-H alumni with the nation. Not only does it showcase the benefits of participation in the 4-H Youth Development Program through our talented 4-H alumni, it also raises much-needed support for 4-H," said Donald T. Floyd, Jr., president and CEO, National 4-H Council.

EMI Music Special Markets was tapped to manufacture, distribute and assist in marketing the CD.

"EMI Special Markets is honored to be working with the National 4-H Council on this wonderful release. Not only is this CD a perfect vehicle to display the talent of 4-H alumni in front of Country fans and potential new audiences, it's also a terrific way to raise funds and awareness for a great organization, 4-H," said Eli Okun, president of EMI Special Markets.