Martina McBride Sees a ‘Ghost’ in New York: Exclusive Blog

When Dave Stewart set up camp in Blackbird Studios to record his latest album, he wasn't just a client of the famed Nashville recording studio, he became dear friends and a musical collaborator with its owners: John and Martina McBride. The famed pop/rock musician teamed with Martina for a duet called "All Messed Up" on his appropriately titled project, The Blackbird Diaries. (Listen to the song here.) The two even wrote a tune together, "Karma," which was later recorded by Joss Stone.

Martina and Dave's musical magic turned into a fast friendship, so it was a quick "yes" when the country superstar got the invitation to the premiere of her pal's newest venture: Broadway's "Ghost: The Musical." Based on the iconic 1990 film staring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze, the new play opened Tuesday, April 24, to rave reviews. Dave, along with famed producer/songwriter Glen Ballard, co-wrote the original score for the musical.

Martina sent The Boot her personal blog from the trip. Check out her Big Apple adventures below, in the singer's own words and photos.

A couple of years ago I met Dave Stewart, formerly one half of the duo the Eurythmics, and my life has never been the same. Dave is a unique individual for many reasons. He is talented, creative, smart, funny, and a good friend to both my husband and myself. So when he invited John and I to the Broadway premiere of the musical, Ghost, for which he and his longtime friend Glen Ballard had written the songs and score, I put it on my calendar and waited excitedly for the date. I wouldn't have missed it. And I'm so glad I didn't! It was spectacular. But more about that later ...

We left Nashville on our tour bus. I'm a bit of a nervous flier and we are used to traveling on the bus so it's more comfortable for us. We left around 10:00 PM, and when we woke up we were a few hours outside of NYC. We always park our bus in New Jersey. It's hard to maneuver a tour bus through the streets of NYC! So we got ready and this is what happened next.

Riding into the city from New Jersey. Going slow. Hope we don't miss the red carpet. Why am I always late? You think I would have figured it out by now.

OK, our driver, Max, just went around about 30 cars. Love this guy! He might just be a Ninja.

Still sitting in traffic. Argh!

What is going on in the dang Lincoln Tunnel??? Let's GO people!

Ok. Moving. Slowly.

In the city, 9 blocks away from the Lunt-Fontanne Theater. Love this town!

We made it! Went down the red carpet with Dave. This has been 6 years in the making and everyone is very excited for the premiere. I have never been to a Broadway premiere before, so I'm just taking it all in.

In the theater. Lots of people! Dave takes us down and shows us the orchestra pit. I wave and take a picture. The conductor has a tv monitor so he can see the action on stage and cue the musicians accordingly. Cool.

Almost time!

Lights go down. We settle in. Wow! The opening is like a movie. Amazing video screens. I can tell this is going to be like nothing I've ever seen on Broadway.

The special effects in this play! It's so brilliant. And loving the cast, especially Da'Vine Joy Randolph as Oda Mae Brown. So talented!

Intermission. Time for a quick trip to the bar for a glass of wine and a small can of Pringles. I'm starving!

Now I'm crying. Everyone said I would cry, but I had forgotten just how emotional the movie was. So powerful.

What an ending! Everyone is on their feet cheering. The illusions in this play are amazing. It looks like a guy actually goes through a door! The play is clever, funny, creative, a visual feast, and full of emotion. What else could you want? Now I have to get to a mirror and fix my makeup and re-attach my false eyelash strip! I should have brought tissues!

On our way over to the After Party at The Tunnel. Cool place. Huge! Lots and lots of people. Were all these people in the theater??

We stay for a bit and then head to the Crosby Street Hotel for a private dinner with Dave, his lovely wife Anoushka, and some friends. Never been to this hotel. It's vibey and cool and I like it a lot. Think I'll stay here next time I'm in the city.

I have one vodka martini with Dave (Dave really likes martinis, and who am I to argue?). Then, since I have to be on the radio at 6:45 am John and I call it a night and head back to the bus in NJ.

This play is fantastic. Very modern and groundbreaking in the use of video and production. Yes, it has mind-blowing special effects, but most importantly it has heart. I loved it and would recommend it highly. Congrats to Dave, Glenn, and everyone involved in Ghost The Musical. So glad I was there on opening night! I will definitely be going again.