Take a chance on me! Home Free, Chris and Chance

As I sit here taking in the news Home Free just dropped on the fries and seeing all the comments, I can’t help but think one thing, change is inevitable and it goes down much easier, if you make the best of it. Here we have four sides to look at, and I see great potential in all four sides.

First, and foremost, Chris Rupp. He is young, talented, eager and a workaholic. These are the perfect characteristics for a solo artist that is ready to make that big leap. After hearing Chris’ CD, Shine, I have high hopes that he will do amazing on his own. Will we miss him? Well, hell yes! That smooth voice that make the ladies swoon, that wonderful cowboy hat and, of course, his great interaction with his fans. It’s so easy to adore Chris. He started Home Free and we will always be eternally grateful for that fateful decision. And now he makes another fateful decision that will lead to more great projects. More fantastic music from him and a new sound in Home Free. Chris, your talent has no end and you deserve to be able to spread that talent in a way that makes you the happiest. I wish you the best of everything in all that you do. And remember, the fries love you and we are behind you 100% too.

Next, there’s Home Free. This vocal band has given so many people so much joy and pure entertainment. I don’t see THAT changing at all. Yes, change is hard, but it’s not the first time Home Free has changed. Where I don’t know much about Matt Atwood, I do have a copy of Live from the Road by Home Free. I miss hearing Austin wail in his beautiful voice during Life is a Highway, but Matt has a great voice and his personality fits Home Free just as well as our guys do. I love that CD and Matt’s contributions. But I also love Crazy Life and Country Evolution. There was change, and it all turned out good, damn good. The members of Home Free are willing to take this “Chance,” and I’m happy to go along for the ride. So many possibilities for Chris, Home Free and Adam Chance.

Adam Chance. Most of us have heard of him, maybe seen Street Corner Symphony in concert or caught him in a Home Free video, but we all might not know that much about him. Take some time to listen to him sing. Get to know him as a performer and then imagine his rich voice blending in with the four remaining, and heavy on the talent, Home Free guys. If change is coming, let’s support and applaud it with open arms. So welcome aboard, Adam2 or maybe I should just say Chance.

And lastly, the Home Fries. I know many of you are very shaken by this announcement and admittedly so, the announcement is a bit rattling after following them the last eighteen months. But bands make changes all the time and we as fans have to decide whether we will continue to support them or walk away. I know the Fries will support Home Free and welcome Adam Chance as well as support Chris in his new endeavor. Fries are so full of positive vibes, love and encouragement. Once the shock wears off and we hear Home Free 2.0 (post Sing Off members), the Fries will embrace the change. So keep an open mind, be ready to be pleasantly surprised and hold on tight! It will be worth it, in the end.

Home Free has already won my heart. Chris Rupp, as a solo artist won me over big with Movin’ On and Country Reigns. Now let’s see what our guys can do with this “Chance” to win our hearts, all over again. Until Chris officially leaves, though, I’m going to play the hell out of Crazy Life and Country Evolution. Then I’m going to brace myself for Home Free, the next generation. Plenty of good things to look forward to, if you ask me!

#BringIt

The men and boys of Home Free in perfect harmony

Good morning Home Fries and visitors! It’s a beautiful day here in North Texas, so I thought I’d do a little writing before getting into the busy part of the day. Home Free just released their latest video and the one common hashtag being used to describe it is #totesadorb!

We all know the guys of Home Free didn’t grow up together, but this was a fun way of imagining how they met. Good Ol’ Country Harmony is such a great song and another Tim Foust original. It will leave your toes tapping and you singing it the rest of the day. And if you like the song, you should hear it live, the audience really gets into this song. The video was the perfect addition to this upbeat song. 

The Home Fries love our fave five guys, but I think many would agree that these five new young guys did a great job! Each one of them embraced their “older selves” and gave this video the same fun, groovy Home Free feel we all look forward to seeing. The young Rupp brothers were perfect, I can see them always up to something…something musical, that is! And young Rob…can you say flawless and amusing mini-me? This kid was awesome! Now young Tim was terrific, love the brow action practice session in the mirror, but was Tim ever shy? Then there’s young Austin (giggles), he is so adorable, just as current Austin, and the weight lifting is quite amusing! I give these five young versions of Home Free a large Fry approval! 

Now let’s go over some of the band name suggestions. The Christopher Rupp Project and The Adams Family were priceless! I can imagine those names did cross the minds of the brothers and both fine names (insert winking emoticon and laughing emoticon here). Robster Bisque, bwahahahaha! Brilliant and hysterical, that’s our guys! Then throw in some typical a cappella names, In Treble, Bari-Toned, Pendle-Tones and Aca-Holics before they get to Home Free. Most of us know the story of how they got the name Home Free, but I have to admit, this process is just darlin’! 

If you haven’t seen this video yet, you really need to go watch it! The song itself is worth the watch, but the video is sweet and charming (just like Home Free) and you’ll love it! You can hear Good Ol' Country Harmony on Home Free's Country Evolution CD, available on iTunes and Amazon.

 https://youtu.be/_W9ue85L9PA

Home Free releases I've Seen video, 1 year ago

It's been one year since Home Free released the video for I've Seen, written by Tim Foust. And where the video is only a year old, the song dates back to Tim's EP, The Way The Story Goes, released in 2010. Then he released The Best That I Could Do CD, in 2012, which also had I've Seen on it. After seeing the Ring of Fire video, by Home Free, featuring Avi Kaplan, I started watching videos of Home Free. I decided to buy their Crazy Life CD and Tim's CD came up on iTunes too, so I bought it. Why not, right? I fell in love with this song, on Tim and Home Free's CDs!

I've Seen was the song that started me down the great and wonderful path that lead me to the kind, crazy, dedicated and party everyday world of the Home Fries, I know today. This song (sorry to sound a little mushy here) took my life back to a place where the days were filled with laughter and enjoyment. Not just because of the all encompassing and soul grabbing music of Home Free, but because I remembered what it was like to enjoy life and not just make through one long day after another. I remembered my music and my passions. I couldn't remember why I gave them up, but I was glad to have them back. I've Seen took hold of my heart and breathed life right back into it. This song convinced me to start writing again. I don't think I've stopped since I heard it, in August of 2014. (If you ever want to read my poems or song lyrics, check them out at http://lifeinmywordsmichelle.blogspot.com/)

I've Seen will always be my favorite Home Free song, because it means so much to me. I have often struggled with which version I like better, Home Free's or Tim Foust's. They are both moving in their own way. Then I saw the video. The video is like hanging out with guys for a few minutes. They give so much and work so hard for what they love and their fans. I love how the include their fans in so many videos. I was even at one of the concerts in the video, just way in the back. Now, since I support them on Patreon, I sit up front! Yeah, baby!

Home Free has revamped this song many times, and the last live video I heard of it, sounded like they'd gone back to one of the earlier versions and I can't wait to hear it live in April! 

If you haven't heard this song or seen the video, or if it's been a while, check it out.
https://youtu.be/u_v_5Jr8bx0?list=PLfWdh4XTtIqnVcLdXTjXzvv_ahtWOC2S7

"Brand new cowboy breed," in California Country, baby

I think many of the Home Fries would agree that Austin Brown is like the little brother of Home Free. Picked on a lot and just cute as a button. Don’t get me wrong, Austin is a good looking man with a soulful and exquisite talent. But his playful side and endless spirit reminds me of the adorable little brother the gets all the girl’s attention We love it when he blurts out what video they are working on, “fangirls” over legends they work with, or forgets the lyrics to a song and makes us laugh. But we really love it when he writes a song that you can’t get out of your head. You hear the words all day and find yourself humming the melody, like California Country.

California Country has a special meaning to me also, because I used to live in Van Nuys and Burbank, California. First time I went to Venice Beach, this small town Texas girl had to do everything in her power not to stare or let out a verbal “OH MY…”. I loved every minute I lived there and miss it. This song and video has brought it all back to me.

California Country is simple, heartfelt, flirty, fun, sweet and beautifully harmonic (am I describing the song or Austin? LOL). The video portrays a bit of a touristy day in Hollywood and Home Free, the new cowboy breed, appears to be having a blast. I have to say that when I saw Adam show the Michael Jackson impersonator his moves, I let out a rather loud, “hell yeah, show ‘em how it’s done, Adam!” I remember a couple Periscope videos that happened the day they were filming this video and they looked tired, but still thought to share their adventures with us fans. From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the incredibly picturesque scene where they are facing the Hollywood sign to the quiet atmosphere around the fire at the end, this video is charming and this song makes me feel just plain happy. 

This is a fantastic original song by Austin Brown and performed by Home Free. The video gives the song life and Austin gives the song heart. It brought back my California dreams, so Thank You Austin! It’s safe to say we can chalk up another successful video that the Home Fries and new Home Free fans will love! California Country can be found on Home Free's Country Evolution CD. This CD is plum full of damn good country music, from The Oak Ridge Boys' Elvira to several brilliant originals like Don't It Feel Good and Good Ole Country Harmony. This blogger looks forward to seeing them live, again, soon. They just got back from their first overseas tour and if you want to hear how amazing it was, check out Carina's Joys of Life blog and her recent post about the concert in Birmingham at http://carinasjoysoflife.blogspot.com/2016/02/my-first-home-free-show-live.html?spref=tw

See the California Country video for yourself! https://youtu.be/yXiqN1EyJ6Y

 

My personal top 10 Home Free moments of 2015

OK, so Home Free asked what our favorite video of 2015 is and there is no way I could pick just one. But I thought I’d put together a list of my favorite personal Home Free moments from 2015. I had the opportunity to see four concerts this year and met many Home Fries. Not to mention other events that happened this year because I found Home Free and their fans. These are my personal top 10 Home Free moments for 2015. Counting down from #10.

10. Getting amazing encouragement from Carina Lindberg, Genevra Lazzeretti and Leslie Tidd to start both this and my other blog. I have wanted to share for years and these ladies helped me believe in myself! I have some pretty amazing followers too, who keep me going! #HomeFryLove

9. Small after party in Houston left me with a wonderful selfie of Johnny F’s thumb and another of him and Georgene. That’ll teach me to leave my phone on the bar!

8. Meeting Dena Foust in Abilene. I talked with her briefly in Nederland, but in Abilene she stopped Misty McAllister and me and asked us about the birthday VIP picture with our girls (my daughter's bday is Oct. 11, Chris is Oct. 12 & Misty's daughter's bday is Oct. 13). We talked for a few minutes and she is a delightful woman and her mama pride was beaming brightly.

7. Rob remembers me from the Oklahoma City concert at the Dallas concert. I was all giggles after he said “You made it, where are your kids?” In that same VIP my small fry bravely stood between Austin (her fave) and Chris for the VIP photo. She was a little nervous, but did great!

6. I was honored and thrilled to be asked to be an admin for the Home Free’s Home Fries Facebook group by Cynthia Blizzard. I am an admin today and the ladies I “admin” with are absolutely fantastic! I’ve only been able to meet one of them so far, but I hope to meet them all someday! Love y’all! #HomeFryLove

5. I was asked if one of my pictures of Chris could be used for his Thinkin’ posts. I was floored, and I mean I literally hit the floor, when I got the request. Of course I said YES and I was giddy like a school girl when I saw my picture up there on his post! Since then he has used another one of my photos. #smilin

4. In the signing line in Houston, I had the guys sign a collage I had made of each one of them. They all seemed to like the collage, but Adam took particular interest in his. He asked if those were my photos and I said Yes. Then, he looked at me and asked me if I would send him those pictures. I was proud of myself, I said YES, but very calmly (at least I think I did). Then, when out of his view, I freaked out! He said they were really good pictures! #smilinbigger

3. I got the nerve to ask for a hug from each guy in Houston at the VIP signing. I was so nervous, but each gentlemen was sweet and gave me a hug. That was a turning point for me, I’m not so nervous any more.

2. After the concert in Oklahoma City, a bunch of fries went out to eat. About an hour later, who walks in but Chris, Adam and Tim. They came out and took pictures with a family, but Tim came over and took pictures and talked with all of us. I have a great picture with Tim, Misty and me. Yeah, I was nervous and couldn’t speak, so I’m glad Misty did.

1. And Number One is.....meeting Home Fries from all over the world in Oklahoma and Texas. I can’t name everyone I have met, but I will name my new partners in crime. Misty McAllister, Eleanor Dennison and Kimberly Pettijohn. I am privileged to be able to share my Home Free escapades with these ladies. They are my posse! When Misty offered me her extra ticket to the OKC show I was not only meeting them for the first time, but spending the night with Misty. Thank goodness none of us were axe murderers, LOL! Oh, and that was my first VIP, see how cool Fries are!  I have enjoyed meeting so many Home Fries and hope to see y’all at the concerts in the spring. I love the Home Fries, they make everything better! #friesgowitheverything #nothinglikealargeorderoffries #HomeFriesRock

Oklahoma City

Dallas

Houston

Thank you Home Free and Home Fries for a year full of friendship, love, tears, loyalty, complete silliness, oh and some pretty damn good music from some pretty damn amazing guys! I'm not sure I'm ready for 2016 and all it has to offer, but bring it on! #HomeFreeRocksOnIn2016 #HomeFryLove

 Oklahoma City

 Dallas

Houston

Abilene

What's my favorite Home Free video of this year? Really?

Really? Did Home Free really post asking what’s your favorite video of the year 2015? That’s like asking a dog what is your favorite cut of steak or a mosquito what is your favorite blood type. Really? Alright, I’ll play along, let’s go through them and see what happens. 

Everything Will Be Okay – adorable, absolutely adorable and the bear is pretty darn cute too!

I’ve Seen – my favorite song and the video is clips from their tour with Home Fries too!

Thinking Out Loud/Let’s Get It On – let’s just say OH MY and leave it at that!

What We Ain’t Got - Very powerful video and arrangement that will move you and make you think!

The Butts Remix – this is so much fun and so well done, great combination of songs and dance!

Honey I’m Good – another fun video with a great message and a brilliant arrangement!

Mom – tears, tears and more tears, beautifully sung and it will make you cry too!

Crazy Life – just when it couldn’t get any better they go and make a Lego video! Too cool!

Wagon Wheel/Song of the South – I really enjoyed the scenery, the song is catchy and Home Fries!!!

Summer in the Country – an original song with the guys and their families, laid back video and song!

Country Fried Pop – a little bit of everything, a little silliness, but still great talent in a simple video!

Elvira – do I really need to say anything here, freaking awesome and I love the comradery shown!

Fishin’ in the Dark/Boondocks – spectacular artistry and an exceptional arrangement of these songs! (this one was even released on my birthday, SCORE!)

House Party – fun video, fun song, PJ’s and pillow fight, yeah, what’s not too like?

Seven Bridges Road – highly anticipated video and song and delivered perfectly, with perfection too!

Alabama Sampler – another simple video that showcases their talents, singing and arranging!

9 to 5 – Yeah this one just rocks, this video is just fun and excellently done!

Children Go Where I Send Thee – WOW, just wow! Again, the simplicity just makes the talent shine for Home Free and Kenny Rogers!

Do You Hear What I Hear – love their version of the song and this video was stunning!

I’ll Be Home for Christmas – have some tissues handy, this one will have you crying in no time!

Away in a Manager – again that simplicity and talent give this simple scene a beautiful meaning!

Now sure, some of those descriptions might lead you to a favorite or two or three. Let’s face it, this is not an easy decision! Pick one, not a snowball’s chance in Texas could I pick just one! Nice try though.

Can you pick just one favorite?

Home Free YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTFuNYrqAcsmSjgqYMvxOqw

My reaction to Home Free's continued love for their fans

Damn it these men know how to make a woman cry! But trust me, in the best way possible. I've said this before but even though I'm not really old enough to be their mom (with the exception of Austin), I get that proud mama feeling when they do something so great it rocks my soul, like singing at the Opry or working with legends like The Oak Ridge Boys or Kenny Rogers or when the get on The Tonight Show but don't make it and still come out looking like complete and honorable gentlemen and thank the fans for it!!!

I have had tears of joy for Home Free for the past two weeks. And it will only continue as they make their European debut in January. Home Fries on the other side of the pond are in for a shock to their system. They know how epic these guys are, but seeing them live will set their hearts pumping and the spirit soaring with bliss!

As the story gets passed around, I'm sure it changes a little each time so I'll keep it short. They were invited to be on The Tonight Show with Kenny Rogers (bless his beautiful heart) to sing Children Go Where I Send Thee. The guys were on top of the world while their fans looked down at their excitement while floating above them, where the guys put us. However, due to some crazy and unbelievable set of events, three flights were cancelled and the guys ended up booking a very expensive private jet. Once it was too late to back out of the private flight, they were told they could not make The Tonight Show and they were being pulled from the line up.

As the Home Fries were broken-hearted, not for us, but for Home Free, they started offering to help pay for the flight of many dollars. The guys decided to do a Go Fund Me, just to help recoup some of the cost of this golden flight and set a goal of ten thousand dollars. Now, personally I just about fell out of my chair at that amount. However, as I sat in a movie theater watching "Star Wars" with my kids, that ten thousand dollar goal came and went in an hour! I made my small donation to help some men who have made me smile and cry and love life again. It wasn't much, but all those "it wasn't much" donations and several very healthy donations had the guys Go Fund Me total ending at twenty five thousand dollars.

Well the Home Fries were just beaming with pride at what they did. But what Home Free did next made us all weep even more! Their next TV gig was a go and it was delightful. An adorable little girl may have stolen the "cute" part of the show, but Home Free stole our hearts. On the Home & Family Show on the Hallmark Channel, Home Free told this very story. The story of how their fans raised the money to pay for the missed opportunity and more. I was stunned. I cried and did a little goofy dance and well maybe let out a little (ok BIG) scream. I felt that mama pride hitting my soul, my heart and my smile didn't stop for hours! I mean it when I say I love each and every member of Home Free. I joke about the good looks they posses and all their other adorable qualities, but they are just damn good people (from the bottom to the top). God Bless Them (and all the Home Fries too). They also got to sing two songs, Angels We Have Heard on High and White Christmas. Needless to say, they sounded amazing. I can't wait to watch it again (cause DVR!)!

This morning us fries got some more news that gave us another grin and feeling of satisfaction. Home Free let the fans know how they are going to use the extra money. The letter from Go Fund Me was heart felt and brought more tears as they talked about wiping away their tears. I am so glad they made this decision and I think the Fries are too. Home Free will use the extra money to help them with their expenses on their European debut. Now you have to understand that the American and Canadian Fries are so excited for those European Fries that get to see Home Free, that this is a double win. Nice job Chris, Adam, Rob, Tim and Austin. Y'all did good and the Fries love you!

And yet, somewhere in all this chaos and enjoyment, they released another video, which is stunning. This is a must see video of Away in a Manger:  https://youtu.be/UwfqhXhvUTs