Taste of Country

The latest development in the Mindy McCready saga is that her ex-boyfriend, Billy McKnight -- who is also the father of her missing son Zander -- spoke with the 'Today' show about McCready's past, their son and his recent communication with both of them. Though there is no warrant out for McCready's arrest, a judge did issue an 'emergency' order on Thursday to have the boy brought back to Florida,

The cat is out of the bag as to which major country artist Lauren Alaina will be hitting the road with in 2012. Starting in January, Alaina will link up with Jason Aldean on the next leg of his My Kinda Party Tour.

Count Jason Aldean as one Hank Williams Jr. fan who understands his peculiarities. The 'Tattoos on This Town' singer says that the country legend's sudden departure from the stage during the CMT taping of their 'Artists of the Year' duet on Tuesday night was surprising, but not offensive.

'American Idol' contestant Lauren Alaina admits she didn't enjoy the 'American Idol' experience as much as she could have. Her time on the reality show went by so quickly, and the then 16-year-old was so consumed with critiquing her every movement that she failed to realize what was happening.

While the world anticipates celebrations for Christmas in just a matter of weeks, Kellie Pickler and her songwriter husband, Kyle Jacobs, are looking forward to what comes after the holiday. On Jan. 1, 2012, Pickler and her handsome husband will celebrate their one-year wedding anniversary. The two eloped on an island in the Caribbean on New Year's Day 2011.

The second annual 'CMA Country Christmas' special on ABC finished with all the evening's performers returning to the stage to sing a snazzy rendition of 'Jingle Bells.' Host Jennifer Nettles wore yet another new outfit as she introduced what turned out to be an awards show-worthy lineup.

After all of her wild outfit changes throughout the 'CMA Country Christmas' event, it was a little bit of a let down to see Jennifer Nettles dressed down when the Sugarland duo took the stage for their starring performance of 'Silent Night.'

Jennifer Nettles was clearly glowing from the countdown to her big wedding day when she filmed the 'CMA Country Christmas' special! The Sugarland singer hosted this year's holiday event by bringing warm yuletide cheer to the crowd -- and by wearing festive (may we say daring?) outfits at the show.

Little Big Town let their lush harmonies flow on their rendition of the classic 'I'll be Home for Christmas' at the 'CMA Country Christmas' special.