Ashley McBryde receives the highest honor from her alma mater, Blake Shelton brings Keith Whitley’s life into sharp focus | Music City Minute

Ashley McBryde has been studying music since she was knee-high to a grasshopper. She first learned mandolin and guitar, eventually picking up trumpet, French horn and percussion. Her many talents would lead to a full-ride scholarship to Arkansas State University. However, recognizing her incredible musical abilities, one of her professors encouraged her to drop out and pursue music full-time. That’s not the last she would see of the school though. In a full circle moment, the “Brenda Put Your Bra On” singer was nominated and awarded an honorary doctorate of music from the university. So, from here on out, she will be addressed as Dr. Ashely McBryde, thank you very much!

Considering the influence Keith Whitley has had on generations of artists, it is shocking to learn there is no documentary about his life. Blake Shelton is changing that though. Shelton is coproducing a documentary about Whitley’s life with the blessing of his widow, Lorrie Morgan. It doesn’t sound like they terribly far in the process, however, Blake did confirm that the Country Music Hall of Fame archives have been a tremendous help, suppling over one-hundred hours of never-before-seen footage of “Don’t Close Your Eyes” singer in his prime.

I’m Sheena, and that’s your Music City Minute.