Briefs: News From Kenny Rogers, Zac Brown Band

• Kenny Rogers is currently putting the finishing touches on his first autobiography, scheduled for a fall 2012 release by HarperCollins. The book includes numerous stories from Rogers’ life both on and off stage.

 

“I have to admit, I’ve had an incredible life,” Rogers says in a press release announcing the book. “Once I started actually recalling some of the special moments, I was shocked as to how much fun it was for me. I would hope that as you read this book you get a sense of where I came from, who I am, and where I’m going.”

 

Rogers is also carving out time this year to begin recording a brand new studio album with producer Dann Huff (Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban).  Huff previously worked with Rogers on 2006’s “Water & Bridges.”

 

The busy star also plans to perform on an as yet unannounced date at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, taking place in in Manchester, Tenn., June 7-10, as well as at the CMA Music Festival in Nashville on June 9.

 

• Zac Brown Band will once again stage its Southern Ground Music & Food Festival this year. The second annual event will take place Oct. 20-21 at Blackbaud Stadium on Daniel Island in Charleston, S.C. Zac Brown Band will perform both nights of the festival, and curate every facet of the concert experience from the food to the talent lineup and craft vendors. VIP tickets include onstage seating and a gourmet meal prepared by a team of renowned chefs under the helm of Southern Ground executive chef Rusty Hamlin.