Original subtitles

He's wonderful, isn't he?

I think I have every album Duke Sterling ever made.

He's pretty great, all right.

I guess we're both here for the same audition, huh?

Looks like we're the last two of the day.

Better last than not at all, right?

Have we met before?

I'm Shana Judson. Yeah, that's me. Come with me, please.

We've seen a few.

Good luck in there. Oh, thank you.

Dana Judson, this is Carl. Carl Campbell, you are Duke Sterling's

in the business, ask anybody.

Thanks for coming in.

You can set yourself up over there.

Okay, great.

I have my demo for him if he wants it.

Well, see.

So, okay, you know what we're here for. You are looking for backup singers for

Duke Sterling.

Duke is recording a new album next month. After that, there will be a

promotional tour, which means a stretch along the road.

Oh, well, it just so happens my next month's pretty free.

We're seeing a number of singers.

We only need a couple.

So what do you have for us?

Oh, one from the man himself.

That's great.

That's it. I've got more prepared.

I think we're good.

Thanks.

Did you hear back?

Will they do it?

They're ready for you. How did it go?

Hope you have better luck than I did.

Coming home.

Everything all right?

Yeah, everything's fine, Dad. I just, I miss you is all.

Well, I miss you too.

Timing's good.

Fall Music Festival starts next week. We're expecting record crowds.

You love showing off that rant.

White star is my pride and joy. You know that. Next to you, of course.

Are you sure nothing's wrong?

Yes, Dad. Nothing a big dose of home couldn't cure.

We can talk when I get home. Just don't worry about me, okay?

I love you.

Love you, too.

Drive safe.

Okay. Bye.

He's late. He's Duke Sterling. He can be late if he wants to. Oh, look.

It's our first album.

Oh, I'm sorry.

It's his first album.

Ron, you do artist relations.

Right? So can you relate to the idea that I don't really want to do this? I'm

still one of your top songwriters, aren't I? Yes, but most of your stuff

as album tracks these days.

No breakouts. You need a hit. And you think Duke is the answer? I think having

him record one of your songs is good for both of you. You guys wrote a ton of

chart -toppers back in the day. Remember that.

Duke! Come in.

You know Grady?

Well, this is a surprise.

How you doing, Grady?

Duke and Wild.

Carl.

We'll let you get away.

I don't even think they know I'm gone.

I saw your dad yesterday. He didn't say a word.

Oh, he didn't know. I called him on my way in. And I thought, as long as I was

passing through town, why not take a quick stop and say hello to my best

So what's up?

And don't say nothing, because I can read you like a book and you know it.

I had an audition that didn't go so well.

The thing I know doesn't let one bad audition get her down. Not one audition.

a string of them. I mean, Jenny, you know more than anybody that I have been

knocking on all the doors. Oh, yes. I sing at the bars, the cafes, birthdays.

sang a dog's wedding last month.

And then there was this chance to back up Duke Sterling.

Duke Sterling?

Is that why you're here? You know that he's headlining the Silverado Festival,

right?

I didn't get it.

Okay, so you're not singing there. I sing here.

Actually, how about...

Tonight. I don't know, Jenny. I mean, I feel like I need to take a break from

music for a while. I need you. This place needs you. Come on. What do you

That's a yes?

Please. Okay, fine. But one night, Jenny. Okay, great. Yes. I'm going to

the word. Oh, boy. It is so good to have you home, girl.

I'm excited to be here.

I'll see you tonight. Okay. Yes.

Thank you.

You want him to write a song for me? For you? With you?

Whatever. Hey, it wasn't my idea.

Look, guys, you're headlining the Silverado Fall Music Festival next week,

right? The publicity alone.

Introduce it there. Build anticipation for the album.

Grady can go on ahead, check out the talent, find some inspiration.

You guys can get together after and figure it out. You need this as much as

does. Come on, guys, what do you say?

Just like old times.

Won't that be fun?

Hey, Dad.

You made good time.

Oh. Come here.

Oh, let me take a look at you for a second.

Now, when's the last time you had a decent meal, young lady? With all these

waitressing jobs lately, I have been eating just fine.

Welcome home.

Thank you.

So, how do you like the new sign?

Silverado Fall Music Festival.

Isn't that what it always says?

Yes, but it's a new font, and it really makes it pop.

Oh. That's your dad's idea.

How did I miss it? It is so much better.

Okay, come on. Give me a ride back up to the house, okay?

What's all this?

It's just some stuff I brought back.

It looks like more than just something.

Okay. You drive up to the house. Mm -hmm. We'll talk about it up there.

Ah, here for the music festival, I take it.

More musicians here for Square Foot than anywhere in the country this week. Oh,

you don't say. I do say.

There's some big -name talent.

Well, Duke Sterling.

You somebody?

Duke Sterling?

The country music star?

Not really into music.

That's where I keep my shirts.

Thank you.

She looks good.

Everything around here looks good.

Well, ranch is fine. It's you I worry about.

I'm bad.

I just need some space to breathe, to get things out.

Nobody said the music industry would be easy.

Yeah, nobody said it would break my heart either.

I've written some great songs. I've sung for anybody who'd listen. No such thing

as an overnight success. My entire life isn't exactly overnight, Dad.

So you're going to put me to work?

You're not paying me to just sit around and feel sorry for myself?

I'm not paying you anything at all.

Free room and board?

Who said anything about free?

Start by taking the truck back into town.

Okay. I got this list of things we need around here. All the boys have their

hands full. Everything's ready and waiting. Just needs to be picked up.

Useful at last. Feels so good.

Wait till the crew comes tomorrow to start setting up the festival.

Going to be more to do. Mm -hmm. Well, I will be here.

Okay.

Well, thanks for all your help, Tyler.

Can you make sure that all of this is on the ranch count?

Will do.

Try A minor.

Excuse me? The chords you're looking for. So you go from the G to the D, then

try the A minor, then back to the C.

Might work.

And who are you again?

Somebody who knows a little bit about chord progression.

It sounded kind of stuck.

Is that how it sounded?

Mm -hmm. Because I wasn't.

Oh, do you say so?

Sounded stuck.

I wasn't stuck. I was just exploring where to go next.

Oh, well, maybe try exploring A minor.

That won't work.

Oh, it won't work if you don't try it.

Did it ever occur to you that I might actually know what I'm doing?

No.

Not once.

Good luck.

Thank you.

Just look more and more like your mother every day.

She used to love to sing almost as much as you, too.

She loved music more than anything.

There were a couple other things.

You, for instance.

Somebody's never made a go of it in Nashville.

There might be one reason.

You know, people spend their lives looking for something, and I think she

found what she was looking for right here.

Are you coming to Jenny's place tonight? Hear me sing?

I'm going to do my best, but I have to meet with the festival board, and you

know how that can go.

But you go show them what Nashville's missing.

Not a

word

from Duke yet. If we're going to write this together...

People need that song no matter who writes it. A hit song doesn't happen

overnight. Especially if one of the writers won't answer his emails.

Between us, Duke's getting a little too big for his hat lately. So do this for

you, if not for him.

You got the short end of the stick early on. This is your opportunity to show

them what you've got.

And all I need is a number one song.

Is that asking too much?

Yeah, how hard could it be?

Welcome, my friend.

What can I get you?

A little inspiration, maybe.

That was last week's special. Yeah, just my luck.

Well, then, beer.

What have you got on tap?

You got it.

I'm good.

Okay.

I know it's a cliche, but this really is a small town.

Look who it is.

You ever find that lost chord? Turns out you found it, Wanda.

I'm glad it worked out.

Well, the chord worked, the song didn't.

You here for the entertainment tonight?

Yeah, in a way.

Anything worth listening to?

Oh, well, I mean, everybody said it was great, but you never really tell.

It's right in Nashville out here. Oh.

Mm -hmm.

We have a special guest, one of my oldest and dearest, direct from

Please give a warm welcome, Shana Justin.

Hello, Colorado.

It is so good to be back.

I see so many familiar faces out there,

a stranger or two as well.

Hope you guys enjoy it.

And as far as I can tell, it's the only thing I'll ever hold.

I guess that road less traveled on is the one I chose to take.

But sometimes it seems I'm trying to see how.

Gonna be a big deal in a small town.

Be a big deal in a small town. She's great.

Hey,

listen up, everybody.

The festival starts on Wednesday and runs through to Duke Sterling.

have a few days to pull everything together now earl here has all your

assignments if you have any questions just check with me so thank you so much

let's get to work hey do you want to help me stand up my tent to somehow

wrangle myself a prime spot oh it doesn't hurt that adelaide is your aunt

yeah i'll help you here's this car

looking for another songwriting lesson?

Looking for you, actually.

So many fans last night. You didn't get the chance to tell me I really liked

your voice.

Thank you.

How did you find me?

Pays to advertise.

Oh, right.

This is where the music festival happened.

Yeah, my family's ranch.

It's quite the spread.

What keeps you busy out here?

Oh, we board horses.

Riding, training, lessons, if you're looking to brush up on your cowboy

credentials.

Of course, the annual fair.

But, um, seriously, you came all this way because... Listen, my name's

Grady Connor.

I think you're really talented, and I'd like to hear more of your music.

Do you know how many times I've heard that line?

I'm serious.

Okay, uh, card's a bit worn. It's been in there a while.

Sorry. Smoky Mountain Records.

That's Duke Sterling's label.

And a lot of other talent.

Look, you have a fresh ear for melody.

Lyrics could use another path.

But I think you have something special.

Maybe we could try to write a song together.

I don't think so.

Come on. Give it some thought.

Check me out. My number's on the card.

You're real good.

Well, except for my lyrics, apparently.

I think I can help. Just think it over.

You know where to reach me.

You sure this isn't a line?

Not a line.

What do you mean a line?

He's kind of cute.

What do you want?

You have to write a song with me.

That's totally a line. Totally. Come on.

Crowds used to be bigger.

Well, the festival hasn't started yet, too. And you're the main attraction, so

by Saturday you'll be mobbed.

Well, come on.

Don't keep them waiting.

Come on, now. Let's hear it for Duke.

Well, if this is a Silverado welcome, then I'm never leaving.

to take care of some business, but I'm here all week, so those of you I missed,

we'll catch you later, all right?

Come on in.

I'm the thief.

It's hard to choose where. There's so many of them.

Oh, hey, Carl.

Grady.

So, let's come to this, huh?

I call it home.

Let me leave you boys alone to talk.

Expecting great things, Grady.

Yeah. Remember that night?

Oh, yeah, that was Austin. That's when we first started.

We looked like kids there.

We were.

Both so green.

Fun, sure, but we had no idea how the business really worked.

So I sent you a couple ideas for this song to label once.

I haven't heard back.

Gotta be honest.

It doesn't really feel like me. Yeah, but isn't that the idea?

Write a song like we used to write? We just need to figure a way to make it

work.

And this time, we both need to have Grady for us.

There it is.

I'm not going to have this same old fight with you over and over, Grady. It

happens every time we're in the same room.

You're right.

This isn't going to work, is it?

You and me.

I'll tell you what.

I'll come up with something and send it your way and you either sing it or you

don't. No lie.

I need a big hit here.

So, truce?

Truce.

All right.

See you, Carl.

Later.

Have you heard of Grady Conner? Doesn't ring a bell.

Wait, is that the guy? The guy with the line?

Yeah. It turns out he's completely legit.

He's written for every artist that you could possibly think of, including Duke

Sterling. Are you kidding?

No. Shayna, you need to jump on this opportunity.

You know that I need a break from the business right now.

Yeah, well, maybe music isn't ready to take a break from you.

Can't see me right now, but I have my serious face on.

Don't mess this up. What if it just ends in more rejection?

What if it doesn't?

Okay, I gotta get set up.

Okay, I'll catch you later.

Mr.

Connor.

Hi, Shana Judson.

I'd like to talk to you about writing that song.

Thanks again for coming.

Okay, so tell me again what the deal is, just so we're clear.

We write a song, you and me.

One song.

We both like it.

You'll give it to your label?

Better, maybe.

Let me be straight with you.

The last few months, I've hit a wall.

Now, well, I need to come up with something.

A new song for Duke Sterling.

Wait, did you just, you just said Duke Sterling?

Maybe. Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

You just said Duke Sterling.

Let's see what we come up with.

Just as long as you know that this is serious for me.

I've given everything I've got to this business and all it's gotten me is back

to where I started.

Music is all I've been able to think of since I was old enough to hold a guitar.

It didn't happen for me overnight, but it happened.

I want to sing, I want to write, and I want people to hear what I have to say.

This is as big a deal to me as it is to you. How is that true?

You've got a deal, a contract, a catalog most artists would die for.

Yeah, but it's been a while since I've had a real hit.

Look, I need a fresh way of looking at things.

I'd really like someone to bounce things off of. You think that someone might be

me? Well, we're not going to know unless we try.

But I really like what I've heard from you so far. So what do you say?

Where do we start?

You wrote all these?

I did.

I've always had songs running through my head.

Your music's great.

Love these melodies.

But your lyrics could... Right, that's what she said.

What about my lyrics?

Well, um... What am I trying to say?

Your lyrics, they could be more personal.

What do you mean personal? Like love song personal?

That's one approach.

Okay. If you've lived it.

You've been in love?

Once or twice. You?

Enough to know I wouldn't mind feeling it again sometime.

I don't mean to interrupt. I just thought you might like the taste of a

cider. There you go.

Jeremy Judson, you can call me Jud.

This is my dad.

Dad, this is Grady Conner.

The songwriter that Shayna was looking up online.

Just want to show you who you said you were.

Yes.

Nice to meet you, sir. And thanks for this. The sun's going down before too

long. We're having a little family gathering tonight. You'll join us. I

appreciate the invitation, but I don't want to impose.

Well, now, that wasn't a question, son.

Nothing like a family gathering to get to know a person.

Well, all right.

Welcome to Silverado.

Hey, everybody.

This is Grady. Grady, this is everybody.

Hiya, Grady. Hey,

Shayna. How about a song?

Guitar's handy.

Anything for you, Earl. All right.

Molly, get this young man a marshmallow.

French tradition here. Try it.

Let's see.

All right.

We spent hours yesterday trying to write a song and came up with nothing.

Well, I imagine it's the whole getting to know you process, isn't it? Yeah, but

I'm going to get this done in time to flip at Duke Sterling.

Do you know how great that would be if he sang my song on Saturday?

Well, I don't know much about the country music business, but... You sure

can count on that?

It is a long shot, but... If he didn't think you were talented, he wouldn't

offered this.

Right? Maybe he sees more in you than you see in yourself.

Okay, so is this the part where you give me a pep talk and tell me everything's

going to be okay?

Someone has to.

I know what could help.

What?

Singing for me again tonight?

Jenny. You know that I'm asking because I'm in a bind.

Bind.

Those the ideas from Grady? Most of them are just a riff on the same old stuff

we used to do.

Oh, which is what the label wants.

Come on, Carl.

I want to surprise my fans, show them there's more to me than they know. Then

you have to figure out how to please the label.

In the meantime, you have two dozen fledgling songwriters eager to bask in

creative wisdom. So, let's move it.

What's the last song you wrote?

The last song I wrote, or the last one that was any good.

Oh, gentleman's choice.

It was a love song about my pickup.

Your pickup truck?

No. It was.

Well, was it any good?

It was a love song about a truck.

So no.

What was the last song you wrote?

Down Home Tennessee.

It's about growing up on the ranch.

You know, playing in the fields, working the horses.

And I bet the lyrics were terrific.

The best songs are authentic.

Personal experience.

So we just need to find the right inspiration, yeah?

Yeah.

Okay.

Grab that notebook.

Follow me, good sir.

Well,

here we are.

It's hard to believe you.

This is incredible.

Yeah.

I guess I never really knew how lucky I was, you know?

It's always just home to me.

Where were you raised?

Oh, the mean streets of Nashville.

Ooh.

Don't get me wrong, it was great, but it was a big city compared to all this.

Mm -hmm.

Sidewalks and playgrounds, skateboards, guitar lessons.

But to have all this every day.

Yeah. Wow.

My mom used to bring me down here all the time, especially this time of year.

You know, she always said she did her best songwriting down here.

She was a musician, too?

Oh, yeah, my mom.

She was good.

She was really good.

She had this nice career starting, and my dad was super supportive. But, you

know, when it came down to the ranch or the road, her heart was here.

I mean, she still played bars and cafes around Silverado.

My dad, when I was little, used to sneak me in so I could watch her perform.

Yeah. More than anything, I wanted to be her when I grew up.

What if our song is about finding love?

You know?

Knowing that your true love is out there somewhere, you just haven't found that

person yet.

That's not bad.

Boy, what are you thinking?

You know I've seen you perform twice now.

Yeah. And you're different when you're up on stage, you know.

You're not the real you, not this you.

Nobody wants to see the real me.

Last night at the bonfire, it was just you and that song.

Yeah, but that's with friends.

The stage is so different, you know that.

Right, but it doesn't mean you should forget who you are.

Songs come from the heart.

It doesn't matter where you play them.

I'll remember that, Grady Conner.

Welcome, everyone.

And some fresh faces here tonight.

You all here for the music festival?

Just out there to be myself?

That's the idea.

Easier said than done. So, a good friend of mine sang here the other night.

And she was so good that we decided to bring her back.

So please give a warm Silverado welcome to my dear friend, Shayna Judson.

How y 'all doing tonight?

Okay.

So tonight, I'm going to do something a little more laid back if that's alright.

means for this song.

People got one red light.

No folks around here get married.

My mama gave me this guitar when I was 12 years

old. And as far as I can tell, it's the only thing I'll ever hold.

I guess that road less traveled on than the one I chose to take.

Sometimes it seems I'm trying to see how.

Is that great?

I didn't even perform anymore.

Who's that rhythm?

No, I'm just helping a friend is all. Well, may I say you a great taste in

friends?

Care to introduce us?

Duke, this is Shana Judson.

Shana, nice to meet you. I'm such a fan.

My family owns the ranch that the festival will be on this weekend.

Well, you'll have to give me a tour of the place.

Yeah, anytime you're out that way.

I think we'd all like to hear you finish the set. No one's going to want to pay

attention to me with Duke Sterling in the room. I will pay attention.

Oh.

This is Carl Campbell, my manager.

Actually, Carl and I met last week in Nashville.

In Nashville?

For the backup singer auditions.

Oh, of course.

Yeah, I'm sorry that didn't work out. Carl, how could you let a voice like

slip by?

I think a do -over was called for. That would be really great.

Maybe I could sing the song that Grady and I are writing for you.

You and Grady?

I can't wait to hear it.

Say no?

I think the audience is getting restless. Oh, right.

Sorry.

It was really nice to meet you, Duke. Pleasure's mine.

We were writing a song together.

Coming up dry on your own, are you?

It's something we're trying.

We'll see where it all goes.

You're tired.

She had the best night in years.

I can't believe you just met Duke Sterling.

I started to make fun of myself. I feel like I always think about what I should

have said or shouldn't have.

You were fine.

Was there something going on with you two?

How you guys were friends?

Long story.

My favorite story is not the long one.

Forget that.

Now that he knows about the song, we've got to make some serious headway.

I came up with a few lines.

An idea for the melody to run by you. Based off what we talked about today?

Yeah. When can I hear him?

Give me a chance to flesh it out a little first.

I don't want to embarrass myself.

Okay, fall.

Night. Night.

You can talk to me.

Then it goes

somewhere else from there.

But your tune's good.

It's really good.

Yeah, well, I even hear some of my own words in there.

Well, you should.

It's a riff on everything we've been talking about.

Well, it sounds more personal when you sing it.

That means I'm doing my job.

You got that oven working overtime.

Pumpkin pie for the festival.

The faster I finish these, the faster I help finish that song. So, am I putting

these oven mitts on and taking them out for me? Yes, ma 'am.

Thank you.

There are a couple of beauties going for a blue ribbon.

Oh, these aren't contest buys. These are eating ties for the bake sale.

Bake room.

How would you like these?

Right here, please.

Thank you.

That one's pulled down? Yeah.

Oh, excuse me.

Paying customers only.

Step away from the pie.

All right.

Thanks, by the way, for last night.

Singing with me on stage, introducing me to Duke. I still cannot believe that

that happened.

Yeah, that was something.

Oh, his manager called, by the way, about the second audition.

For the backup singer?

Mm -hmm. Getting a spot on Duke's tour would boost my career.

You can try this one.

All right.

Mmm.

That's really good.

Yeah? If singing doesn't work out, you have a career as a baker.

You helped me find a different

road One that I'd never traveled before Now I feel I can

carry that load You gave me the strength

But I think we can take it a lot farther.

This is a song about knowing that true love is out there somewhere, right?

And how life changes when you find it.

Yeah. You believe in love, right? I mean, deep, true love.

Yeah, of course I do.

Okay. So what does that mean to you, then?

Oh, Grady, that's... You should know by now that I'm not good at expressing

stuff like that. Come on.

Describe the person who you want to spend the rest of your life with.

Okay, let's try something.

Close your eyes.

What? Trust me. Close your eyes.

All right, now visualize what you want that to look like for you.

I want to be sure.

I want it to be easy for once.

I'm tired of falling and getting my heart broken.

When we look at each other, I just want us to know, you know?

I want to look him in the eyes and know that everything's okay.

My heart's been broken a thousand times. It feels like it took years to

find.

The one to turn those wrongs to right.

Now it's all right.

That's it.

How did you just do that?

How did you, like, take my heart and make it sing?

Okay, do you remember it, though?

All right, my heart's been broke.

Yes, because it has.

Yeah, a thousand times.

Sorry to bother you two, but we have a guest.

Duke?

Hope I'm not interrupting anything. I just wanted to check out the venue and

maybe get that tour you promised me.

Well, yeah, it's perfect timing.

Isn't it, Grady?

Yep. Well, then I'm all yours.

Great. You go on ahead. I've seen it.

Coming, Grady? No, it's all right.

No, stay here. Play around with the song a little bit. Yeah?

Yeah. Okay, cool. You good?

Yes, sir.

This is quite the setup.

And it opens tomorrow?

Yep, brand new early.

It's the biggest event of the year.

We used to have these back home.

Tulsa.

Someone's done their homework.

So is that how you and Grady know each other from back then?

How did you guys meet?

Grady hasn't told you?

He actually doesn't talk too much about you.

Well, I was doing the roadhouse circuit.

Didn't know where.

One day after a gig, this guy comes up, introduces himself, says he wants to be

a musician.

We hit it off. Just like that.

Like that.

And a year later, we're in Nashville, and I'm singing Country Mile on the

First big hit. Oh, gosh, I love that song.

But you know what my favorite of yours is?

A life and a love.

I mean, you wrote that one yourself, yeah?

Those lyrics are great. Where did you come up with them?

Who knows where lyrics come from, right?

Yeah.

I can see why you're proud of the ranch.

It's a gem.

All this land and mighty fine horses, too.

Do you ride?

I used to.

Back when I had time, it's been a while.

Well, don't you make time to do the things you love?

Where do you draw the line between Duke Sterling the superstar and Duke Sterling

the person?

Well, I've been asking myself that question a lot lately.

No easy answer.

You sure make it look easy.

You guys look like you're having a great time on stage with your fans.

Some days it's a pure joy.

Other days, it's like putting on a costume.

Hey, Dad.

Grady, you will not believe what just happened.

Duke asked me to sing at the music festival Saturday night with him on the

stage.

That's fantastic.

Thank you.

My pleasure.

I hope I was right to say yes.

It's a great opportunity.

A featured spot.

I know, but... I mean, am I ready for that?

I've been in this business for years.

Voices come and go all the time. But the ones who last are the ones who have

something special. Something nobody heard.

Nobody expects.

And you have that.

You think so?

Anybody who doesn't see that or hear that doesn't know what they're talking

about.

Shana, you are one of a kind.

First things first, we still have a lot of work to do on the song, so I better

get back to the motel.

Yeah.

Night.

feels so different right now, you know?

It's like, it's exciting again.

I mean, I was up all night working on these lyrics.

Wow, Brady's really got you digging in.

Yeah, well, it had to be perfect.

I still don't know what I'm going to sing on Saturday.

Well, you have plenty of time.

The show's not for three days. Oh, I do not have plenty of time. The show is in

three days. Well, it depends on how you look at it. See? Oh, hey, Mr. Johnson!

You must be pretty proud of your girl here.

Only every single day of her life.

Well, let's see how you feel after Saturday.

Hey, you're going to be incredible, and you know it. It's just, with Duke

headlining, this place is going to be packed. I've never sung in front of that

many people before.

Just keep in mind that most of the folks who are going to be there love you

already. Friends and family, people you grew up with, Baby Safford.

They did.

It's Duke who should be nervous. You've got the hometown advantage, and they're

all going to love you. Me and Jenny are going to be your...

What's that word? Posse.

Posse.

Look at you, Mr. Judson. When does your father become so cool?

I don't know. Never.

You know, for that, you get a firefighter on the house.

Thank you very much, lady. See you later. See you.

Reaction. Festival's in full swing.

Shana's down there helping Jenny.

Well, the song needs some work. Shana asked me to meet her here in a bit. Oh.

Can I ask you a question?

How do you really feel about Duke Sterling asking Shana to sing with him?

It's great.

Just great.

Why don't I believe you?

No, it is. It's going to be a showcase for her.

I just hope with the rehearsing and all, we'll have enough time to polish the

song. Right, so you're concerned about her spending time with Duke because of

the song.

Well, mostly the song, yeah. And yet I just told you Shane is down there at the

festival and you're still standing here.

Come here.

Do you want some corn?

That's good. That's really yummy.

Good job, I got you.

Make a new friend?

Not so new.

This here is Pumpkin.

She was all round and her face was all orange when she was born. So we call her

Pumpkin. Yeah.

Every time I pass by, I can't help but stop and say hello.

Here.

Hold this.

Say hello to Grady.

I'm not Grady. Say hello to Grady.

Sorry I'm running late. I just, um...

I wanted to make sure that I sat by Jenny's booth, you know, make sure that

had everything handled.

But we can begin work whenever you want.

Actually, I was thinking, opening day and all, we got a really good jump on

lyric. The tune's good.

The verse is pretty solid.

I think we've got a good start.

So maybe we deserve a break.

Yeah, maybe we do.

Yeah. Yeah.

She thinks so.

Well, have you walked around yet?

A little. Not too much, though. Let's go. Let me show you around.

You know, I was listening to some of your old songs.

Mm -hmm. That one that you wrote for Becky Shaw, Dancing at Dawn.

Still my absolute favorite.

That was just an album cut.

We didn't release that as a single.

Doesn't make it any less awesome.

You are awesome.

Why do you need my help?

Well, the label lost faith in my ability to do it on my own.

I did, too.

I guess I've always been better with the right partner.

And early on, that was Duke?

Early on.

My favorite game! Come on!

What? Okay.

Oh,

it's my favorite carnival game.

Hey, Tyler.

So, do you know how to play this?

You do? Well, I'm going to tell you anyway. You have to knock down all six

bottles in one throw.

You don't have to tell me.

I'm the unofficial state champion.

Oh, well, then I think that you will have to prove yourself.

All right.

Okay, no laughing. Look, I'm just warming up. Yeah. I mean, I think that

should just be warmer than whatever that was.

Fair.

All right, so I'm a little rusty.

Everyone.

All right, this one's the good luck one.

Mind if I give that a shot?

Duke, I thought you were welcoming the newbie. I was, and now I'm just seeing

what else the festival has to offer.

It's a lot harder than it looks, Duke. Well, I think I can handle a couple milk

balls.

I'm just going to sit back here.

I think we've got an audience.

Ready for this?

Yep, make you a little bit nervous.

There's one thing I was meant to be.

So close.

But the bridge is not quite right.

I know.

You think it's the tune or the lyrics?

One or the other.

I bet.

Yeah, we'll figure it out.

Hey, you maybe want to go back to the festival tonight and check out some

Oh, Grady, I'd love to, but I told Duke I'd go to Jenny's place tonight.

You should come with us.

Right. Yeah, I'll think about that.

Okay, when are you going to tell me what happened between you two?

I mean, it's just the way it is.

Life happens.

People change.

I have to take that. Okay.

Excuse me.

Hey, what's up?

Who's this Shana Judson I keep hearing about? You really need to start

listening, Ron. I told you, the woman I'm writing the song with.

And now she's opening for Duke?

Wow, that might be stretching a point.

She's singing in number, Duke's idea.

Is she that good?

Well, Duke and I don't see eye to eye on many things these days, but yeah.

Yeah, she is.

And you know, I wouldn't want another label to spot her first.

Maybe you should come on out here.

Listen for yourself.

Maybe I will.

Good idea, Grady. I still have one now and then.

Thank you.

What? I didn't know what to wear.

No, you look perfect, girl.

Is this for Duke? No, it's not for Duke. It's... I mean, what do you wear when a

country star asks you out? Well, this will get his attention.

Are you in here? Oh, stop it. No, we're just, we're here to listen to the band

and talk about the show on Saturday.

The place is jumping.

Yeah, well, you know, some folks might have got the idea that you'd be here,

How would they know that?

Oh, it's a small town. People talk.

Okay, I talk.

What can I say? You're good for business.

Why don't you guys take a seat? I'll send someone over to get you some

Oh, thanks, Jenny. On the house.

If you're ever looking for a manager, that girl wouldn't be your worst.

You look very pretty tonight.

Thank you.

So we're hurrying to get you a song so you have time to practice.

Don't worry about me. I'm a quick study.

If I told you how much I appreciate what you're doing for me, for all the

struggling musicians in this town this week, you can't even begin to imagine.

I've been there.

Not an easy business.

Sometimes you need a helping hand.

I had that, so this is just me paying it forward.

Welcome one and all.

You're all here for the music festival, I bet.

Yeah.

I thought so.

We're going to play one for you that you all know and love.

Matter of fact, this one's written by a good friend of mine.

He asked to be here tonight.

And I think, a little encouragement.

Come on, come on, if you're going to help us out, what do you think?

No, Lonnie, no, you're not.

You know they're not going to stop until you get up there, right?

All right.

Don't worry.

Oh, no.

No, no.

Come on.

Late nights at Richard's don't have no business. There's one thing I need to

derive.

It's the light in the morning, my baby.

Holdin' on to that wild green crazy.

Is there life in love?

Is there life in love with my baby?

And I'd love to live the life with you.

Yeah,

I'd love to live the life with you.

There's too many people in there.

Just needed some air.

Come on. That's not it.

Tell me.

We can't wait for you to hear the song we've been working on.

Well, he didn't mean it like that.

He meant it exactly like that.

What is your problem with Duke?

Can't trust him.

Why? What did he do?

He stole my song.

What?

What song?

That song.

The one you just sang with him. A Life and a Love.

We wrote that song together, but then he took all the credit for it.

He made it this huge hit, and now everyone, well, they think it's his.

I mean, if that's true, why didn't you sue him or go to the press or something

like that?

It's just like that.

He was Duke Sterling.

One of the most powerful men in country music.

If I'd have gone after him, I would have never worked again.

And that doesn't sound like the Duke I know.

It's because you don't know the album.

Why?

If you did that to us, I'd drop out of the festival. No, you can't do that.

Why not?

There's a record label coming to hear you sing. How do you know that? Because

asked them to.

You did that?

For me?

I believe in you, Shana.

I'm serious.

Look, this is your shot.

You have to take it.

Powerful feeling.

Stage.

Spotlight.

All those people cheering just for you.

Feel at once it's hard to walk away from.

You disappeared on me last night.

Oh, it was late.

You know, and I figured it would take you a while to get away from the

line.

Um, we wanted to get this to you.

It's the newest version of the song.

Mine and Grady's.

Just so you have an idea.

Okay, great.

Well, have a look.

Great.

Something else on your mind?

Grady told me about a life and a love.

or my version, chances are I come up a bit better in it.

We'd been writing together a while.

Good songs, but nothing caught fire.

And then he brought me that set of lyrics. I loved it.

Heck, everybody loved it.

Label wanted to release it as my first single, but only if it had my name on

Why?

Why would they do that?

They wanted to build me up as this big -time, authentic country music artist,

and they thought a song that wasn't 100 % mine would hurt that.

So they told everybody you wrote it.

I could have told reporters, set the record straight, but I didn't.

It's on me.

I guess it's kind of what you said earlier, right?

That one shot at fame?

I apologize. I tried to explain.

I made sure Grady got every penny he deserved, but... No.

He's a proud man.

He was a good friend once.

Not all that many of those.

I'm...

I'm not trying to come off like it's so hard to be famous.

But sometimes you have to choose between your career and the

people you care about.

I hope you never have to make that choice because sometimes it's sad to say

career wins.

Got your message.

I knew you couldn't turn down an invitation to see Pumpkin again.

Look, about the other night, I've been thinking I didn't mean to dump all that

me and Duke stuff on you. It's just sometimes I let it get to me.

I'm sorry.

No, what happened to you was wrong.

Honestly, I had no idea how I would handle that kind of situation if I was

your shoes.

I do think that the two of you should talk about it, though.

I've tried that over and over again.

It never gets us anywhere, though.

It's a shame, too.

Man, he and I were a good team.

And so are we.

You know, you and I have something special.

And I just want to let you know how much I appreciate everything we're doing

together. I really enjoy working with you two, Grady Connor.

Nothing's ever going to get in the way of that.

You've helped me remember what I love most about music.

Even my lyrics have gotten better somehow.

Tell you about that.

I just talked to Duke.

Wait, you talked to Duke?

Yep.

But what did he say?

Wants us to look at the bridge and a couple of the lyrics, but I think we

that. Yeah.

Shana, Duke's looking for you.

We need a time through your number for lights and sound.

Okay. Well, this will be quick, right?

So that we can polish the song this afternoon?

Well, that won't give Duke and the boys enough time to rehearse it if he wants

it in the show tonight.

That's okay. Go ahead.

That's fine. I can handle what's left.

On your own?

That's our song, Grady.

It still will be.

Look, it'll always be our song.

Now go. Get up on that stage, girl.

Okay. All right.

Looks good.

I can't hear.

Shana. Yeah. So sorry. We're having a bit of a sound issue.

Give us 10.

Sure.

They said that was an hour ago. They need to fix this.

Shana, this is your big break.

What's going on with you?

Greedy.

He went to polish the stone by himself and I just... I can't help but feel like

I'm letting him down in the moment he needs me most.

Well, maybe you need to decide what's more important.

Okay, what were we going to do?

I told you I'll be back as soon as I can.

What do I have to do?

What about your rehearsal with Duke? I have sung that song a million times.

First things first.

And Duke's okay with it?

All right, then come on in. No.

Not here.

Well, then where?

It's my hair.

Come with me.

All right.

She was just here. I know.

She... She said she was going to be right back.

Carl! Yeah, hold on.

One sec.

What's up?

Where's Shana? I don't know exactly.

Her stomach or something.

But I'm sure she'll be... We were

talking about choices.

I guess she made hers.

That's it.

Now we just gotta write it down.

Sounds more like Duke than Duke.

Just need to get these changes to him and then... Well...

That's that.

That's that?

Yeah.

I'll, uh... I'll just get this written out for Duke and the band then.

Hmm.

You guys need to sing this as a duet.

Me and Duke.

No. It's the perfect song for the two of you. Duke's a smart man. He'll see

that. Grady, if I'm going to sing this with anybody, that somebody should be

you.

No.

Are you imagining that something's going on between me and Duke? No.

It's just, look, you're already going to be there.

Yeah? Nobody wants to see the two of us up there. They want to see Duke.

And as soon as you start singing, They're going to want to see you, too.

well, I don't care what they want.

If you're going to be there, you should be up there. I won't be, because I

can't.

I've got to finish this up and then get back to Nashville tonight.

To Nashville tonight?

Yeah, I've got a job waiting there.

That's, uh, didn't I?

Thought I told you about it, didn't I? No.

Grady.

Hey.

You're on the edge of something huge.

Shana, please don't let anything get in the way of that.

The truth is, you don't need me. Between us, you don't need Duke Sterling.

You got this.

No, you can't just leave.

Not... Not until we talk more.

Well, I... I'm sorry, I... Hey, Jenny, is everything

okay?

Wait, wait, slow down. What is he... He... Well, I'm just... I'm in the

of, um... Okay, yeah, no, okay. I'll be right there.

Duke needs me back at rehearsal.

You gotta go.

You missed the sound check, the rehearsal.

No, but I'm here now. I can explain.

Duke asked me to call Lonnie's band to take your spot.

What? He's sorry this didn't work out.

Wait, but Carl, this is for him. I know you're disappointed about not being on

stage tonight. No, that is not what this is about.

I'm sorry, Gina.

Okay, this whole thing has just gotten way out of hand. Okay, what is really

going on here?

People sometimes want to get near Duke so they can take advantage of his fame

his money.

So when he decides to get close to somebody...

and really trust them, and they aren't there for him.

Wait, he doesn't think that that's me.

Or is this all about Grady? They have a complicated history.

Yeah, I know. I know about the song.

It was never about that.

He always knew Grady was a better songwriter.

What does that matter?

I mean, he's Duke Sterling.

He's number one on the charts. He's famous. He's rich. And he's a guy who

doesn't always feel like he's good enough.

Carl, you've got to let me talk to him.

It won't do any good.

There's only one person I've ever known who could talk any sense into him.

Okay.

Then that's who we need to get.

Shana, Mr. Connell left something for you.

Oh, thank you.

I'm so proud of us.

Proud to have written this with you.

But the label needs a song by Duke Sterling.

So I'm giving him this one.

For him.

And for you.

I'm not leaving until you talk to me.

Duke!

Knock all you want.

Nobody's home.

Do I have to make you fool out of myself here for nothing?

Look, I am so sorry I ran off. I really, I really am. But please, you've got to

give me a second chance.

I don't know, Shayna.

I had to finish the song. It is so important for you, and you know it's

important for me, too.

This is from Grady. It's the final version.

Why isn't he giving it to me himself?

Because he left.

He seems to think that there's something going on between you and me.

My name's on this.

He said that there's a record guy coming tonight and he wants to hear a song by

Duke Sturdy.

That's it.

Grady wanted it this way?

He did that for you.

Honestly, when I look at the two of you, I don't see one of you being better

than the other. All I see is two really, really good men who have one very

annoying thing in common.

What's that?

They are too stubborn for their own good.

Well, you may have something there.

Look, what you said the other night, I don't like it. people close either.

But when I do, it's for life.

I hope that includes you.

If you hurry, you can probably squeeze in a rehearsal.

Not that you need it.

I'll go over these changes. We'll sort the Grady stuff out tomorrow, okay?

Really?

Hold on a minute.

Yeah?

There's a duet now?

Oh, yeah, it just kind of ended up that way.

So I guess you'll be needing someone to sing it with?

Yes, I will.

You good here?

Yeah.

It's a crazy week, huh?

I'll say it.

I'm so proud of you, Shana.

And the show at Duke is a big deal.

I was proud of you when you were playing those little bars up in Nashville.

No, I'm proud of you because of you.

Because of the woman you've become.

I'm sad.

I only wish Mom was here.

She is.

You know she is.

Before you go, I thought maybe you could use this.

That's Mom's guitar.

Yeah.

I've been meaning to give it to you for a while, and time seems especially right

tonight, so... You know your mom would want you to have it.

You have no idea how much this means.

Yes, I do.

Grady Conner.

I'm not here. Leave a message and I'll get back to you.

Hey, Grady, it's Shana.

Um, you know, I just want to say again, you know, how much I appreciate

everything that... Though she

didn't go.

We were great together.

We made each other great.

So, you know, if you're, uh, if you're ever back in town, you know,

You look like a rock star. Well, you don't look so bad yourself.

Well, thank you.

Thank you again for everything.

We're friends forever.

Shayna, we're ready for you. For me?

Local girl makes good.

You go get them started. I'll be right there to join you.

It's going to be great.

So are you.

Okay, I'm going.

Bye. Talking dead.

Oh, there she is. Thank you.

Okay. Grady.

Carl. Grady, I heard you left.

I did.

Then I realized there was something I needed to do.

Look, Carl sent me the tracks of your album.

You don't need another song, especially from me.

It's perfect the way it is.

That means a lot coming from you.

Thanks. Great.

Come on. You're Duke Sterling.

Do the album you want.

Ron doesn't like it. You know how many other labels would love to sign you?

Come on.

Duke.

Is that the only reason you came back?

It's not the only reason.

So how about a warm music festival welcome to Silverado's own J -Mack

Band.

Good evening,

Silverado.

I want to say thank you to Mr. Duke Sterling, a great guy and a great

And to all of you who came out tonight.

who started this music festival, and look at how it's grown.

It's an honor to be here tonight, and I am so happy to be back home.

Finally, I want to give a huge thank you to Brady Conner.

This first number was inspired by him.

It started out as a love song and ended as a love story, even if he doesn't

know.

The song you and Shana wrote?

Yeah.

Doesn't need me to make it a hit.

Seriously?

Amen.

Next Saturday night at 9.

Single ladies, it is time. The bouquet finds who it's meant to find.

It's perfect.

My Best Friend's Bouquet premieres next Saturday night at 9, only on Hallmark

Channel.