Hot new Country singles and albums tour updates and more
By Preshias Harris
QUOTE OF THE MONTH: “Undeniably, I’m a country singer; I’m a country songwriter. But I feel like I make country music for people who like country music and for people who don’t.” – Kasey Musgraves
BIBLE VERSE OF THE MONTH: My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. – Psalms 57:7
Can it be November already? With Thanksgiving fast approaching and Christmas just around the corner?! SO much to get to in this edition of ‘Inside Track on Music Row,’ the longest continuously-running monthly country music column in the USA. Scroll down to check out a whole bunch of new albums and singles to listen to, plus tour updates, Opry news, songwriter pub deals, Christmas music and a lot more. As always, my heartfelt thanks to the artists and songwriters and their reps who keep me in the loop about what’s new with you! So let’s kick off with a roundup of some albums you need to know about…
ALBUM NEWS
KELSEA BALLERINI: When you write songs from your own life, it takes a lot of living to come up with something special. Thankfully, for multiple Grammy nominee and Country Music Association award winner Kelsea Ballerini, a 30-something who never stops, inspiration is never hard to come by. Having created a deep dialogue with her fans, a lot has happened since the Grammy-nominated Rolling Up The Welcome Matand Rolling Up The Welcome Mat (For Good).
Teaming with producer and longtime collaborator Alysa Vanderheym, Ballerini opted for an all-girl approach to PATTERNS. Crystalizing after a songwriting retreat with Vanderheym, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Hillary Lindsey, GRAMMY Songwriter of the Year nominee Jessie Jo Dillon and Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild, the honey blond superstar decided to create an album that focused on female friendship, being vulnerable and honest, owning one’s jagged spaces and the way relationships really are, not the way they look on Instagram.
“There was an unpresumed feeling of knowingness that happened on that retreat,” Ballerini reports. “I felt safe, so then I was able to feel honest, and then more so, creative. We were all, as songwriters, in tandem but more so as women just in a real heart flow of it all. Having these heroes and friends champion the process and the guts of it all has been one of the joys of my career.” Pre-order exclusive PATTERNS on vinyl and CD here via Black River Entertainment. Listen/download the single “First Rodeo” here, and watch the evocative music video here. #KelseaBallerini
MEGAN MORONEY: The much-anticipated release of Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) — the deluxe edition of Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Records singer/songwriter Megan Moroney’s widely acclaimed sophomore album – dropped in early October. Featuring three brand-new tracks, the newly expanded version of Am I Okay? arrives just months after Moroney scored the year’s third-biggest Billboard 200 debut from a female Country artist. Listen to Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) here.
Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) includes a selection of songs she’s recently teased during her must-see live show and on social media. Both written by Moroney, David “Messy” Mescon, Rob Hatch, and Ben Williams, “Break It Right Back” and “I’ll Be Fine” offer the latest evidence of her enormous talent for penning truly unforgettable heartbreak ballads. To that end, “Break It Right Back” takes the form of a piano-laced stunner about the shattered hopes of falling for someone too good to be true (inspiring over 22k creates after Moroney teased it on TikTok), while “I’ll Be Fine” serves as a heavy-hearted response to the album’s wildly hopeful and Country radio-dominating title track.
Moroney will soon release Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) on vinyl on December 13. Pre-order the vinyl here. Tour/ticket updates at Megan’s website and more on social media. #MeganMoroney
GEORGE JONES: Fans of George Jones are in for a treat with the announcement of the new album, George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions set to release on November 15 on Country Rewind Records. Preorder / stream the album here. Originally recorded for radio airplay in the 1970s, these tracks have been enhanced, capturing Jones’ signature sound by bringing the audio quality up to twenty-first-century standards. This was achieved by subtly adding instrumentation and background vocals beneath Jones’ voice where needed.
The record features sixteen tracks, including both beloved hits and lesser-known recordings. Many will recognize iconic songs like “The Race Is On,” “The Grand Tour,” “White Lightnin’,” and “Tender Years.” This collection also brings to light rare recordings of tracks such as “Old Brush Arbors,” “She’s Mine,” “Four-O-Thirty-Three,” and “The Honky Tonk Downstairs,” which was premiered by American Songwriter.
“Music truly is the gift that keeps giving,” shares Nancy Jones, George’s widow. “Even after all these years, we’re still releasing new music from George. This collection features sixteen songs, and while some may be familiar hits, these versions are ones you’ve never heard before. I’m thrilled to share them with all of his devoted fans.”
Country Rewind Records offers a catalog of albums containing previously unreleased songs from Conway Twitty, Waylon Jennings, Connie Smith, Faron Young, Mickey Gilley, Jeannie C. Riley, Bobby Helms and many more. #CountryRewindRecords
BILLY STRINGS: Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Billy Strings has released his highly anticipated new record, Highway Prayers, via Reprise Records. Listen/share here. In conjunction with the release, an album-length lyric video is also out now. Watch/share here. Produced by Strings and Jon Brion (Fiona Apple, Mac Miller, Aimee Mann), Highway Prayers consists of 20 original songs including the previously released tracks “Seven Weeks in County,” “Stratosphere Blues / I Believe In You” and “Leadfoot.” Already receiving critical attention, Strings recently spoke with GQ for an in-depth profile, where he is hailed as “the hottest roots-music phenomenon in decades.” Additionally, American Songwriter praises, “Strings is one of, if not the most, imaginative artists currently playing the game…a masterpiece of the 21st-century version of counter-culture.”
In celebration of the new music, Strings and his band will continue to tour through next year including newly confirmed shows at Denver’s Ball Arena (three nights), Asheville’s ExploreAsheville.com Arena (six nights), Atlanta’s State Farm Arena (two nights) and Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena (two nights). Additionally, following his two-night stand at Bridgestone Arena, Strings will once again return to the historic Ryman Auditorium on March 2 for a third Nashville show. See Strings’ complete tour itinerary here. #BillyStrings
DWIGHT YOAKAM: Multiple Grammy-Award winner and country superstar Dwight Yoakam confirms his first album of new music in nine years, Brighter Days, is set for release November 15 on Via Records/Thirty Tigers. Pre-order/pre-save Brighter Days here.
At once timeless and timely—embracing a “cowpunk-tual” attitude—Yoakam self-produced Brighter Days, infusing a modern appreciation for country music’s history with the trailblazing rock and roll spirit of California. The result is an album that reflects a sense of craftsmanship and immediacy, capturing the quintessential Dwight Yoakam “cool” that has set him apart from his country contemporaries since the beginning of his legendary career. The album was mixed by world-class engineer Chris Lord-Alge.
Dwight Yoakam has sold over 26 million albums worldwide, with five reaching the #1 spot on Billboard. He is a 21-time nominated, multiple Grammy Award winner. He has 12 Gold albums and nine Platinum or multi-Platinum albums. Yoakam is the recipient of the Artist of the Year Award from the Americana Music Association, the prestigious BMI Country Awards’ President’s Award, and has been inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He will receive a Lifetime Achievement Honor at the 2024 Americana Music Awards. Listen to Yoakam’s collaboration with Post Malone: “I Don’t Know How To Say Goodbye (Bang Bang Boom Boom)” here. Tour info and more at Yoakam’s website. #DwightYoakam
CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC NEWS
CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC NEWS: Award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician Lindsay Ell has signed with Universal Music Canada, the country’s leading music company. After a decade of establishing herself as a Platinum-selling artist in Nashville with three #1 hit singles and over 220 million streams, Lindsay Ell has entered her liberated era.
“Lindsay Ell is a one-of-a-kind human, and a once-in-a-lifetime artist. We are so honoured to partner with her to share her powerful music and message to the world,” says Julie Adam, EVP/GM Universal Music Canada.
Making her producing debut alongside Doug Schadt (Maggie Rogers), Lindsay Ell has evolved her sound and crafted a collection of songs that showcase her outstanding talent as a songwriter and guitarist for her new EP love myself, released October 25th. Listen/stream love myself here. Channeling pain into power, Ell has undergone a musical metamorphosis that has transformed her into an unbound, fearless, and unapologetic artist.
“I am more inspired and excited to make music than I ever have been before and, for the first time in a long time, I’m no longer standing under a veil of trying to be who I’m not,” says Lindsay Ell. “This project is all about learning how to love myself again. This has been my journey back to myself, back to the music that I have wanted to make since I first moved to Nashville.” More about Lindsay Ell here. #LindsayEll
CHRISTMAS MUSIC NEWS
CHRISTMAS MUSIC NEWS: Need the perfect soundtrack to help you deck the halls? Multi-platinum Grammy Award-winning four-piece Little Big Town – comprised of Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet, and Jimi Westbrook – have unwrapped their first-ever Christmas album, The Christmas Record, out now via Capitol Records Nashville. Listen to The Christmas Record here. But wait, there’s more. Alongside The Christmas Record, Little Big Town have released a beautiful music video for “Glow” – available now. Little Big Town pine for the holiday season as they venture through the breathtaking town of Gstaad, Switzerland, in search of the holiday spirit. The video is directed by long-time collaborators Becky Fluke and Reid Long. Watch the video for “Glow” here.
“We shot the video for “Glow” while on tour in Switzerland this summer. Being in Gstaad and the Swiss Alps channeled our holiday spirit, so we couldn’t pass up the chance to create our own winter wonderland magic!” says Little Big Town. “We’re so happy to finally share our first-ever Christmas record with the world. We hope this soundtrack will create some new traditions for you this holiday season.”
The 11-track record – produced by Dave Cobb – includes new interpretations of country classics and a stellar batch of original soon-to-be-classics. Among these originals is “Glow,” the upbeat track that’s begging to be listened to around a crackling, stocking-adorned fireplace. Find tour dates and more at Little Big Town’s official website. #LittleBigTown
CMA AWARDS NEWS
The 58th CMA Awards will soon be here (Nov 20) aired live on ABC TV. See my preview at Center Stage Mag here. Meanwhile, here are some news items about Award nominees:
CHRIS STAPLETON: 16x CMA Award-winner Chris Stapleton is nominated for five awards at this year’s 58th Annual CMA Awards: Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year (Higher), Single of the Year (“White Horse”) and Song of the Year (“White Horse”).
The nominations add to yet another triumphant year for Stapleton, who released his latest album, Higher, last fall via Mercury Nashville (stream/purchase here). Produced by Dave Cobb, Morgane Stapleton and Chris Stapleton, the record landed on several “Best of” lists including Billboard, Esquire, Vulture and Rolling Stone, who praised, “dazzling…the best evidence yet for the way one man’s voice has become synonymous with the very idea of a musical genre.”
Following the release, Stapleton unveiled the official music video for current single, “Think I’m In Love With You,” which stars actor Andre Royo (The Wire, Empire, etc). Released to critical attention, Rolling Stone declares, “It’s both sad and joyous, but it renders an afterlife so comforting that we’d almost be happy to hasten our demise,” while Music Row praises the song saying, “Totally awesome. A groove-soaked, rump shaking, classic soul sound. Stapleton is an artist who grips you tightly with every note he sings.” Watch the video here. Find Stapleton’s updated tour info here.
ZACH TOP: Country artist Zach Top is nominated in the New Artist of the Year category at the 58th Annual CMA Awards. Named one of the “hottest acts right now” (Rolling Stone), this is Top’s first nomination at the awards. The recognition follows the release of Top’s widely praised debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music—out now on LEO33. Produced by Carson Chamberlain (Billy Currington, Easton Corbin), the record garnered over 3.5 million streams in just its first week and received widespread acclaim. Additionally, Top recently took home the Discovery Artist of the Year at the 2024 MusicRow Awards.
Known for his live performances, Top will be on tour through the end of the year with Lainey Wilson on her Country’s Cool Again Tour and will also headline select shows of his own. Upcoming stops include Fort Worth’s Billy Bob’s, Lubbock’s United Supermarkets Arena, Pittsburgh’s Petersen Events Center and Oklahoma City’s Paycom Center among many others. Check out the full tour itinerary at www.zachtop.com/tour.
COLLAB NEWS: Country duo BoomTown Saints and country star Sam Grow have teamed up on “Heart Breaks You, a powerful ballad that captures navigating the tough moments in life that lead to personal growth. Written by hit songwriters Connie Harrington, Houston Phillips and Josh Dunne, “Heart Breaks You” was produced by Colt Ford, Grammy-winner Noah Gordon, and industry veteran, Gary Kraen, and released via 8 Track Entertainment/Average Joes Entertainment. With lyrics that reflect the journey from youthful carelessness to the sobering realization that true love requires vulnerability and resilience, Sam Grow’s rich soulful vocals perfectly complement the duo’s strong harmonies on “Heart Breaks You.”
BoomTown Saints is a Nashville based country music duo and named 2024 “Independent Artist of the Year” by MusicRow Magazine. Capitalizing on the momentum created by their smash hit “Blacktop Don’t” reigning as the #1 independent song on country radio for 12 straight weeks, collaborate with Sam Grow on tis new release. More at Boom Town Saints website and on social media. #BoomTownSaints #SamGrow
COLLAB NEWS PART TWO: Platinum pop singer-songwriter Jake Scott returns with an upbeat and undeniable new single entitled “Rather Be Us” featuring multi-platinum and award-winning country duo Maddie & Tae, available now on all streaming platforms here. It notably marks both his first collaboration with Maddie & Tae and his first release since the arrival of his acclaimed debut album, Lavender, in 2023.
About the song, Jake said, “‘Rather Be Us’ is such a fun song for me personally because it’s so true of the season of life I’m in. There’s nowhere I love being more than home with my wife. I’ve been a huge fan of Maddie & Tae for years and they took this song to the next level!”
Maddie & Tae added, “We’ve been fans of Jake’s for years and ‘Rather Be Us’ felt like something we would write ourselves, so this collab felt so natural. Jake is so talented and is making music that feels familiar but really fresh.”
In addition to co-writing “Rather Be Us” alongside Tyler Hubbard [Florida Georgia Line], Jake co-wrote and co-produced the single with frequent collaborator and longtime trusted creative confidant Josh Kerr—who happens to be married to Taylor of Maddie & Tae. Jake had also worked with Josh on his first country hit and the 2022 CMT Award-nominated double-platinum Russell Dickerson collab “She Likes It.” #JakeScottMusic #MaddieandTae
DOLLY NEWS
DOLLY NEWS: Modern recording technology is allowing us to hear Dolly Parton singing alongside her late uncle on her upcoming album titled Smoky Mountain DNA: Family, Faith and Fables, available for pre-order now as vinyl, CD and digital download here.
Louis Owens was a singer, songwriter, and musician who began his career performing with his brothers. In 1967, he joined his brother Bill Owens and their niece, Dolly Parton, as a partner in Owepar Publishing. Louis managed the publishing company along with overseeing the construction of the original Fireside Studios. He co-wrote “When Possession Gets Too Strong” with Dolly for her 1970 album, The Fairest Of Them All, and recorded his own version in 1993 at Mountain Star Studios in Sevierville, Tennessee.
Smoky Mountain DNA producer Richie Owens utilized modern recording technology to combine the vocal from his father’s archival recording with new instrumental backing and a new vocal performance from Dolly to create this loving tribute. More about Dolly, her new cookbook, Dollywood news and more at dollyparton.com.
DUET NEWS: “Better Than You,” the smoldering, powerhouse duet from multi-platinum-selling traditionalist Joe Nichols and celebrated, rising star Annie Bosko, catapulted out of the gate as the Top 3 Most Added Song at U.S. Country Radio (Mediabase), with a total of 45 adds upon the single’s official impact date.
This week marks the second consecutive week that “Better Than You” has landed in the Top 5 Most Added at U.S. Country Radio (Mediabase). The highly anticipated single began earning airplay from coast-to-coast well before its official impact date.
“Better Than You” marks six-time No. 1 hitmaker Nichols’ first radio single from his new album, Honky Tonks and Country Songs, released Friday, Oct. 25. Stream/Listen to “Better Than You” here, and Pre-Save / Pre-Add the album Honky Tonks and Country Songs here.
The irresistibly melodic “Better Than You” channels the moment two lovers realize that no other love can compare to what they have found in each other’s arms. The smoldering ballad also reminds us that love at first sight can stop you in your tracks, changing the trajectory of your life. Watch the lyric video here. “Better Than You” was penned by chart-topping songwriters Derek George (Bryan White’s “So Much for Pretending”) and John Pierce (Zac Brown’s “Sweet Annie”). #JoeNichols #AnnieBosko
EP NEWS
EP NEWS: After making a mark on Country music with his dynamic debut album Cross Country, Platinum artist, singer, producer, and songwriter BRELAND is poised to continue his artistic evolution – and embracing a personal one. With his forthcoming EP, Project 2024, the hitmaker reaches a creative tipping point, building for the future while looking home for inspiration. Pre-save/pre-add the EP here.
Released via Bad Realm Records/Atlantic Records, the six track Project 2024 finds a game changer known for feel-good fusions of Country, Hip-Hop, Gospel and more bringing purpose to his passion. In an age defined by agendas, BRELAND’s is not political – but does recognize a time of collective reflection, similar to the Civil Rights struggle which became front and center to American history in Selma, Alabama, where BRELAND’s family is from.
With Project 2024 the agenda is simple. To uplift and inspire, and to do so on behalf of all those who labor for a better future. To finally remember Selma – not as a setting for selfies but as a symbol of how real the struggle still is. And for BRELAND, to do his part to keep the movement going. BRELAND peppers Project 2024 with sonic experimentation – but also themes of hard work, personal responsibility, community pride and undying hope, bringing the people of Selma out of the shadows. More at BRELAND’s website and on social media (@breland).
FESTIVAL NEWS: Country music superstar Blake Shelton has been added as the fourth and final headliner for next year’s Gulf Coast Jam Presented by Jim Beam. Sam Hunt, Lainey Wilson, and Tyler Childers are set to headline Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 29 – 31, respectively, at the eventBillboard called one of “The 10 Best Country Music Festivals.” All passes are currently on sale at www.GulfCoastJam.com.
“After a long run with The Voice, he’s back to touring and singing music and doing what he does best,” said festival Executive Producer Rendy Lovelady. “We’re excited to have him back!”
“Blake has had 28 #1 singles – 17 of them being consecutive – and to have him back on our stage to close out our 2025 Festival is going to be a party like no other,” said Gulf Coast Jam Presented by Jim Beam COO Mark Sheldon. “Artists love coming to Panama City Beach, because, like our Jammers, many of them hang out at the beach until it’s time for music to start.” All passes for 2025, including General Admission, VIP Pit, Side Stage, hotel packages, as well as lodging partners are available only at www.GulfCoastJam.com. Payment plans are available for all pass levels. Jammers are encouraged to follow Gulf Coast Jam Presented by Jim Beam at www.GulfCoastJam.com and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for special announcements about the Festival.
FOLK/JAZZ ICON NEWS: Throughout the latter half of the seventies, Joni Mitchell continued to creatively break ground with her fearless and fluid exploration of jazz. Rather than tread the same path, she challenged and reinvented her style with a folk fusion like no other. Ascending to an unrivaled sonic peak, this innovative sound took shape across the gold-certified Hejira [1976], the gold-certified double-LP Don Juan’s Reckless Daughter [1977], her collaboration with Charles Mingus entitled Mingus [1979], and live album Shadows and Light [1980]. Channeling the thrill and excitement of these records, she delves even further into this season on Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 4: The Asylum Years (1976-1980) out now via Rhino Records. Listen/play/order here.
It stands out as the 12th release by the Joni Mitchell Archives and extends Rhino’s ongoing, Grammy-winning series exploring the vast untapped archives of rare Joni Mitchell recordings — a project guided intimately by Mitchell’s own vision and personal touch.
Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 4: The Asylum Years (1976-1980) arrives in multiple configurations. It is available as either a 6CD / digital version or a 4LP version, Joni Mitchell Archives – Volume 4 Highlights: The Asylum Years (1976-1980). The 4LP set also specifically consists of Joni’s personal favorites from the 6CD version. #JoniMitchell
FUNDRAISING NEWS
FUNDRAISING NEWS: In just two weeks, CMA New Artist of The Year nominee Mitchell Tenpenny raised $230,500 for his 10Penny Fund with his third annual Music Row Cornhole Tournament, an instore at jeweler David Yurman, online auctions, sponsor and partner donations and an incredibly generous – and surprise – donation from Jordan Davis.
Mitchell participated in an instore signing at David Yurman as they donated 10% of their store sales that day to the Fund and the following day held his cornhole tournament at Sony Publishing on Music Row. Additional partners and sponsors have contributed monetary donations or merchandise items for an online auction to help with the grand total. In Toronto Mitchell, a special guest on Jordan’s “Damn Good time Tour,” was asked to return to the stage where he was surprised with the $200,000 donation. The contribution was not only from the Toronto show but from every stop on the tour this year. Jordan’s donation brings the total amount raised this month for the 10Penny Fund to $230,500.
Tenpenny created the 10Penny Fund in 2018 out of his own personal experience with cancer, losing his father to the disease in 2014. The Fund invests in sustainable + meaningful programs that motivate patients, encourage healing and build a community of support. To donate and learn more: www.10pennyfund.org. #MitchellTenpenny
INSTRUMENT DONATION NEWS: Instruments For Education has announced its partnership with Focus Features, Grimey’s Records, and Multi-Grammy-Award-Winning Artist, Pharrell Williams’ new animated biopic, Piece By Piece. Instruments For Education held a special instrument drive to help spread the word about the movie’s upcoming release.
Donors bringing an instrument (or making a $50 minimum donation) to Grimey’s Record Store in East Nashville October 5th received a complimentary pass to the October 9th advance screening of Piece By Piece at Regal Opry Mills in Nashville.
Piece By Piece was directed by Academy, Emmy, & Grammy-award-winning producer/director, Morgan Neville, and it was produced by the award-winning team of Williams, Neville, Mimi Valdés, and Caitrin Rogers. It is a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience about one of music’s most innovative minds. The movie features the voices of Gwen Stefani, Kendrick Lamar, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake, Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg. Piece by Piece invites audiences on a vibrant journey through the life and career of cultural icon Pharrell Williams, told through the lens of LEGO® animation.
Have an instrument you’d like to donate? IFE will place it into the hands of teachers, students, and classrooms! Your support is what allows these instruments to be brought into the schools and utilized to enrich students’ lives and their education. To learn more about IFE and how you can help, click here.
LIVE ALBUM NEWS: Southeastern Records has released Live from the Ryman Vol. 2, the new live album from six-time Grammy Award winner Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit. Live from the Ryman Vol. 2 draws from multi-track recordings by the band’s longtime front-of-house engineer, Cain Hogsed, from four of the last six years of sold-out shows at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium. Hogsed co-produced the album alongside Isbell, and mixed the tracks with Nashville, TN’s Todd Tidwell. (Pre-save, pre-order Live from the Ryman Vol. 2 here.)
Live from the Ryman Vol. 2 features 15 live versions of songs from the band’s last two critically acclaimed, award-winning studio albums – Reunions (2020) and Weathervanes, (2023), as well as stunning rendition of “The Last Song I Will Write,” from Isbell’s 2009 self-titled release, and a poignant cover of Tom Petty’s “Room at the Top.”
Since his first show there in 2014, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit has sold out over 50 nights at the Ryman Auditorium. Isbell and his band added to that number in October, performing another eight nights at the Ryman. Isbell has established himself as one of the most respected and celebrated songwriters of his generation. The North Alabama native possesses a penchant for identifying and articulating some of the deepest, yet simplest, human emotions, and turning them into beautiful poetry through song. #JasonIsbell
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENES NEWS: Dennis Quaid, Darci Lynne, The Imaginaries, Lexie Hayden and more united to support Horses For Mental Health and raise awareness for mental health programs by incorporating horses during Mental Illness Awareness Week Oct. 6-12.
Horses For Mental Health (HMH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit advocacy organization harnessing the transformative power of the horse-human connection to revolutionize mental well-being. This significant fundraising effort addresses the urgent need for mental health support in the U.S., where 1 in 5 individuals will experience mental illness each year (NAMI), 132 people die by suicide each day (CDC), and depression is the number one disability worldwide (WHO). Despite the prevalence, only 46% of adults receive treatment (SAMHSA), emphasizing the critical need for accessible mental health resources in communities across the U.S.
HMH is at the forefront of this critical conversation, leveraging the unique bond between humans and horses to create powerful experiences and lasting positive change for individuals and communities. More about Horses For Mental Health here.
NEW YEAR’S EVE NEWS: It’s almost time to get the novelty hats and the noisemakers down from the loft again. CBS Presents New Year’s Live: Nashville’s Big Bash to be headlined and co-hosted by 4x Grammy award-winning artist Keith Urban. Kane Brown and Jelly Roll will join Urban live from the Bicentennial Mall stage. Entertainment Tonight’s Rachel Smith will return as co-host. New Year’s Live: Nashville’s Big Bashairs Tuesday, Dec. 31 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT, 10:30 PM-1:30 AM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).
As previously announced, the star-studded entertainment special will feature high-energy performances from country music’s hottest superstars, including Kane Brown, Jelly Roll and many more. The five-hour star-studded entertainment special will air across multiple time zones, with the traditional countdown at midnight, ET, culminating with the renowned Nashville Music Note Drop and fireworks at midnight CT. Additional performers will be announced at a later date. For more information visit Paramount Press Express and follow CBS on Facebook, X and Instagram.
OPRY NEWS: The Grand Ole Opry, the longest-running radio program in history, has previewed plans for its upcoming 100th year to fans, artists and friends who gathered to mark the Opry’s 99th birthday in mid-October.
Of the milestone, 32-year Opry member Marty Stuart said, “For me, the Opry is more than just showing up and keeping the red “on air” light lit. The Opry is a light that spills down into people’s lives with hope and encouragement, and you know we have touched a lot of lives in 100 years.”
Beginning with the Opry’s first show of 2025, the year-long celebration dubbed “Opry 100” will pay tribute to the artists, fans and songs that have cemented the Opry as the cultural heart and home of country music since its debut on WSM radio in 1925.
“As we approach the Opry’s 100th, I am proud to say that more people are connecting with the Opry than ever before through Opry Live, digital content platforms and WSM Radio,” said Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Opry parent company Ryman Hospitality Properties.
Opry 100 will be marked through a series of memorable events during 2025, from an international Opry performance to special shows, exhibits, deluxe book publishing and merchandise. Celebratory Opry 100 events (including a show at London’s Royal Albert Hall) updated at https://opry100.opry.com. #Opry100
OPRY DEBUT NEWS: Best known as the co-founder and creative powerhouse behind the legendary band INXS, Andrew Farriss, will mark a major milestone in his career by making his Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday, December 14. Opry ticket info here. Farriss, whose songwriting and musical contributions helped shape the sound of INXS and drive their success to over 80 million albums sold worldwide, is now stepping onto one of America’s most revered stages. For Farriss, a global rock icon, this performance marks not only a personal achievement but a merging of two worlds – the international rock stage and the heart of American country music.
While INXS achieved major success with 7 U.S. Top 10 Singles, 3 Grammy nominations, and an induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame, Farriss is now channeling his creativity into a new direction, one deeply influenced by American roots and country music. His self-titled debut solo album blends Americana, rhythm, and country, revealing a new dimension to the artist behind some of the most memorable songs of the last 40 years.
His latest release, “Something Stronger,” is a bold track that underscores his deep connection to the American musical landscape, infusing southern rock with country flair. Co-written with multi-award-winning songwriter Lawrie Minson, the song is a testament to Farriss’ ability to evolve while staying true to his musical roots. Something Stronger Tour details at Farriss’ website. #AndrewFarriss
PLATINUM NEWS
PLATINUM NEWS: As Morgan Wallen continues to tease time in the studio and release fan-demanded new single “Love Somebody”, the current seven-time CMA Award nominee was recently presented with a 7x-Platinum plaque at Neyland Stadium for his record-breaking third studio album, One Thing At A Time, released in March 2023.
Since its release, One Thing At A Time has yielded seven No. 1 singles at Country radio, and remained atop the all-genre Billboard 200 chart for 19 non-consecutive weeks – with the most weeks at No. 1 for a Country album in history – and was the most-streamed album of the year on Spotify. Of Wallen’s seven nominations at the 58th annual CMA Awards, four relate to his collaborations with Post Malone on “I Had Some Help.” Follow on TikTok, X and Instagram (@morganwallen)
PODCAST NEWS: five-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Mary Chapin Carpenter has launched a new podcast, “Hope is a Muscle.” The first episode features legendary artist and activist Joan Baez as the podcast’s first guest. Listen here. Produced by Magnificent Noise, “Hope is a Muscle” finds Carpenter in conversation with people from all walks of life, discussing how they maintain hope in today’s world. The show will be scored by Carpenter’s own music. Other episodes include international yoga teacher, actor, writer, activist and entrepreneur Adriene Mishler, bestselling novelist and leader of acclaimed, cult-beloved group the Mountain Goats John Darnielle, and U.S. Congressman Jamie Raskin.
Reflecting on the project, Carpenter shares, “I am a devoted podcast listener—they are my company on walks, on planes, on tour busses, in the car on quotidian errands. Over the course of our visits, my guests help me consider those questions as well as inspire new ones, which, after all, is the gift of conversation when one encounters bright minds and open hearts.”
Additionally, Carpenter’s most recent release, One Night Lonely (Live), was nominated for Best Folk Album at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. A rare solo performance, the album was recorded at Carpenter’s hometown venue, Virginia’s legendary Wolf Trap, and features songs from across her acclaimed career including several from her latest studio album, The Dirt And The Stars. #MaryChapinCarpenter
PUBLISHING NEWS
JONAS GROUP PUBLISHING: Texas-born songwriter Terri Jo Box has re-signed her deal with Jonas Group Publishing (JGP). As the first writer signed to JGP in 2020, Box has gone on to have songs recorded by some of the most notable and distinguished voices in country music, including Cody Johnson on “God Bless The Boy (Cori’s Song)” and Lainey Wilson with “Those Boots (Deddy’s Song)” and “Hillbilly Hippie.” Both songs appeared on Wilson’s Bell Bottom Country album, which won a Grammy for Best Country Album and a CMA and ACM Award for Album of the Year. It is only the ninth album to complete country music’s “triple crown” by winning all three of these awards.
In addition to her JGP cuts, she’s enjoyed success with Ashley McBryde’s “American Scandal” and “Bible and a .44,” which has also been recorded by Eric Church, Trisha Yearwood and others. Additionally, her song, “Dear Old Sun,” written with Miranda Lambert and Gwen Sebastian, was featured on Lambert’s Weight Of These Wings album which won the 2017 ACM Award for Album of the Year.
“Terri Jo has a deep understanding of what makes country music country,” said JGP President Leslie T. DiPiero. “She is a visible thread between new and established artists and writers. Her approach to songwriting and encouragement of all songwriters enriches our creative community.”
PORCHLIGHT MUSIC: Nashville-based music publishing and artist development company Porchlight Music has announced the signing of songwriter/artist, Joe Whelan. Whelan, a Nashville native, grew up playing and loving sports. After attending Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), with music on his heart, Whelan moved back home to spend time honing his craft and connecting with songwriters. Before long, he found himself on the radar of top industry professionals on Music Row making a name for himself, and ultimately writing songs that landed him his first publishing deal. It was then he had the opportunity to write with some of Nashville’s legendary songwriters and also had numerous cuts on artists including Tucker Beathard (“Can’t Stay Here,” “Too Drunk,” “How Gone Will I Go”), Vincent Mason (“Livin’ Proof”), and Grant Gilbert (“Drunk Since Dallas”) and as they say, the rest is history.
“I’m so excited to be signing with a company where everyone seems hungry to make it happen,” reflects Whelan. “They have a true passion for the music and the songwriters that are behind it all! I’m looking forward to a bright future with Porchlight!”
Jenny Hall, Senior Creative Director, Porchlight Music, adds, “We are beyond thrilled to have Joe join the Porchlight team and to be a part of the next step of his musical career. Recently, Whelan partnered up with singer/songwriter Andew Stone to form a duo, Whelan Stone.
PUBLISHING (BOOK) NEWS
PUBLISHING (BOOK) NEWS: Girlilla Marketing Founder and Chief Executive Officer Jennie Smythe has signed an exclusive publishing deal with Resolve Editions, an imprint of Forefront Books. The Nashville-based independent publisher, distributed by Simon & Schuster, will release Smythe’s memoir in 2025.
A forward-thinking entrepreneur who leads her self-built digital marketing agency — Girlilla Marketing — with equal parts passion and drive, it is no accident that Smythe has emerged on top of an ever-evolving field. Founded in 2008, the female-led company spearheads the digital marketing endeavors for a diverse roster of world-famous entertainers and brands including Dead & Company, Willie Nelson, Darius Rucker, Blondie, Brooke Shields, Iliza Shlesinger, Terry Crews, Kristin Chenoweth, Vince Gill and many others.
Motivated by a lifelong love of music, Smythe’s creative approach has earned numerous awards and recognition. She has been featured in the Associated Press, Billboard, MusicRow, Fast Company, People, HITS and The Tennessean. She is a multi-year winner of the Nashville Business Journal’s Women in Music City Awards, a MusicRow magazine Rising Women on the Row honoree and was recognized on the Nashville Post In Charge 2023: Music list. More about Smythe at Facebook and Instagram.
SINGLE NEWS
DEVON BECK: Singer-Songwriter Devon Beck has released her new single “Blame It” that brings together Beck’s signature blend of country and pop elements and was co-written by Beck, Nathan Wilson, Cody Garrett, and Sam Johnson. Stream/play “Blame It” here. Noted as an artist with a “songwriting ability beyond her years” (Bethany Bowman) “Blame It” is a driving up-tempo track about the challenges of a relationship overshadowed by blame and alcohol addiction. Guitar Girl Magazine premiered the track ahead of the single’s release lauding, “a raw and relatable narrative of accountability and heartbreak, wrapped in a catchy, powerful sound.”
Prior to the single’s release Beck showcased her bold and fierce personality with a performance of her new single on WSMV-TV “Today In Nashville”, Watch the performance here. As Beck’s most personal song to date she shared, “This song was the soundtrack to my life at one point and now that it’s over, I’m finally ready to share it. Thank you so much for listening.”
“Blame It’ follows Beck’s previously released and highly lauded singles “Homewrecker” and “Mirrors,” which was featured on Apple Music’s “The Ward Guenther Show”, “Cigarette Smoke,” “Say To You” and her debut EP One Sided Expectations. Beck has over 370,000 cumulative streams on Spotify and a captivating audience on TikTok. More at Beck’s website. #DevonBeck
SPENCER HATCHER: Bluegrass-influenced country artist Spencer Hatcher has released his debut music on Stone Country Records, with whom he signed in October. The collection of three traditional-leaning country songs, anchored by focus track “Cold Beer and Common Sense,” is available now. Stream / listen to “Cold Beer and Common Sense” three-pack here and watch the official visualizer video here.
A timely musical salve for a divided nation in a historically uncivil election season, “Cold Beer and Common Sense” reminds us that most Americans have more shared values than political differences. Where differences exist, Hatcher sings, “Let’s agree to disagree,” and even the mid-tempo tune’s warm, acoustic-led production harkens back to simpler, less strident times.
“Cold Beer and Common Sense” was co-written by Michael Wilkes, Styles Haury (Luke Bryan’s “Country On”), Jay Clementi, and Lance Miller (Tim McGraw’s “I Called Mama”). The unifying lyric deftly avoids off-putting preachiness by focusing on “we” rather than “you”: Produced by Jason Sellers, Ilya Toshinskiy and Mickey Jack Cones the “Cold Beer and Common Sense” three-pack also includes “Leave This Town,” about how falling for a local girl can make an adventurous young man think twice about wanting to quit his small hometown, plus, “Has Anybody Ever,” a toe-tapper that sees Hatcher asking a new sweetheart how well she’s been loved in the past. Tour dates and more at Hatcher’s website. #SpencerHatcherMusic
THE IMAGINARIES: Critically acclaimed husband-and-wife duo The Imaginaries unleash their newest single, “Crossroads,” which features No. 1 Billboard charting blues rock guitarist, Joe Bonamassa, and the visually captivating music video, available everywhere now. Stream and download “Crossroads (feat. Joe Bonamassa)” here.
The music video, which was directed by Reagan Elkins with Intellego Media, has a mysterious edge, drawing inspiration from the legendary tale of Robert Johnson’s encounter with the devil at the crossroads—flipping the narrative to focus on choosing light over darkness. The bluesy/rock track features an electrifying collaboration with world-renowned guitarist Bonamassa, adding his signature style to this powerful piece.
“‘Crossroads’ is a dark and mysterious blues-infused rocker we wrote with Bradford Loomis. We drew inspiration from the folklore of Robert Johnson’s fateful encounter with the devil at the crossroads and flipped the sentiment around choosing light instead of dark. We’ve been long time friends with Joe Bonamassa and it’s really great to finally collaborate on a track together. He’s one of the best guitar players on the planet and was the perfect person to play on ‘Crossroads,'” shared Maggie McClure and Shane Henry of The Imaginaries.
The duo is also currently embarking on their Wheels To The Pavement Tour. Ticket info at ImaginariesBand.com.
GREYLAN JAMES: ACM Award winner Greylan James proves his lyrical prowess once again with his vulnerable new track “Man Up,” available now here. Written by James alongside Jordan Minton, the song finds the singer-songwriter struggling with the emotional weight of trying to move on despite friends telling him to ‘man up’ when it’s easier said than done. Confronting the conflicting emotions of a broken heart, James looks to the man upstairs for guidance and closure. Watch the lyric video here.
“’Man Up’ is a song I’ve been waiting to drop for a while now, and I’m so excited the time has come,” said James. “I’m so proud of every lyric, and over everything, I’m hoping it reaches those who are going through the tough time of a breakup. If it’s able to help just one person, I’ll feel it served its purpose. That’s what I’m looking forward to.”
“Man Up” follows James’ previous track release “Who Broke Up With You.” Written by James and heavy-hitters Brad Clawson and Ashley Gorley, the upbeat, made-for-summer song received rave reviews from Billboard, who deemed it one of their must-hear country songs of the week. More about Greylan James, videos, music and Your Place Tour date/ticket info at his website. #GreylanJames
GEORGE JONES: New releases from country icon George Jones are few and far between (Jones died in 2013) but the big news for Jones fans is the November release of an album of tracks that were never before commercially released, having been produced exclusively for radio airplay. For more about the album, titled George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions, check out ALBUM NEWS, in this column, above.
Meanwhile, Country Rewind Records has released “The Honky Tonk Downstairs,” the first single from the album. Listen to “the Honky Tonk Downstairs” at YouTube here.
RUNAWAY JUNE: Quartz Hill Records’ Runaway June – the first female trio since The Chicks to break the Top 5 on the U.S. Mediabase Country Chart – have released an exhilarating new song, “New Kind of Emotion,” available here across all digital retailers and streaming partners. Watch the official lyric video here. A feel-good ode to falling in love, “New Kind of Emotion” perfectly captures the intoxicating feeling of starting to love someone or something.
Showcasing Runaway June’s trademark three-part harmonies, “New Kind of Emotion” was produced by two-time Grammy-winner Kristian Bush (Sugarland, Megan Moroney, Lindsay Ell). Band members Jennifer Wayne, Natalie Stovall and Stevie Woodward co-wrote the song with Paul Sikes (Lainey Wilson’s MusicRow No. 1 “Hang Tight Honey”). “Paul is one of our favorite co-writers and he’s also helped us create our sound as a band, so it’s really special that we have a song coming out with him,” says Jennifer.
“We were talking about that feeling you get when you experience any kind of new love,” explains Natalie. “And it doesn’t just have to be romantic love. Of course, a lot of us were thinking about our romantic partners, but Jen was also thinking about her daughter, and I was probably thinking about my dog. I know Stevie was thinking about her cat!” Music, tour info and more at RunawayJune.com and social media.
TIM McGRAW: Three-time Grammy winner and country icon Tim McGraw has debuted his release of the track “People Like Us.” The track, and its accompanying lyric video are available now on all streaming platforms. Listen to “People Like Us” here and watch the lyric video here.
The track features McGraw’s signature storytelling and celebrates the differences that connect us, highlighting the importance of coming together for the better. “People Like Us” is a song meant to remind fans that “we’re all in this together” and walk on a common ground. “People Like Us” was written by Scooter Carusoe and Tom Douglas and is produced by Byron Gallimoreand McGraw.
Tim’s current single “One Bad Habit” recently reached Top 10 in Mediabase/Country Aircheck marking his 55th Top 10 as a lead artist, with 62 including collaborations. McGraw’s unparalleled career includes sales of over 103 million records worldwide, 47 number one radio singles, 19 number one albums and countless industry awards and accolades. He holds the record for second-most No. 1 albums in the U.S. just behind George Strait. #TimMcGraw
DOLLY PARTON/ALEX-ZSOLT: Acclaimed piano virtuoso Alex-Zsolt has released a breathtaking new version of Dolly Parton‘s legendary hit “I Will Always Love You,” featuring the iconic Dolly herself and celebrated vocalist Charles Billingsley. Stream/listen to the track here. This powerful reimagining soars with vocals from Parton in a duet with Billingsley to celebrate the song’s 50th anniversary, accompanied by Zsolt’s exquisite piano and the illustrious City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestrations and track were arranged by two-time Grammy and twenty-six-time Dove Award winner David T. Clydesdale.
This highly anticipated track is a standout from Zsolt’s forthcoming project, At The Ivories, an album that showcases Zsolt’s remarkable versatility across genres—from country to jazz, Broadway to classical, and sacred music.
In this new rendition, Zsolt brings a fresh, orchestral approach to the beloved classic, intertwining his extraordinary piano skills with Dolly Parton’s unmistakable vocals and Billingsley’s powerful performance. The collaboration highlights Zsolt’s passion for bridging genres and generations, blending modern arrangements with timeless melodies. More about Alex-Zsolt here.
DALLAS REMINGTON: Established Country songwriter and performing artist, Dallas Remington, known for her energy and ambition, has released her new project “Life In Podunk,” to digital music platforms. The song is a Country anthem for navigating life’s unexpected turns written by Dallas Remington, Cyndi Limbaugh Torres, Nancy Deckant and Scott Barrier. “Life In Podunk” is available here.
“This is one of my favorite songs that I’ve written. It’s one of those songs that makes me ‘feel like a songwriter’. I love how we captured the life so many people I know have lived. Growing up, we all struggled to decide whether to stay home and build a life or leave to find a different life. While the couple in this song chose not to leave after finding out they were pregnant, they went on to live a life they would never trade and I think that’s beautiful. Personally, the lyrics from this chorus helped me decide to relocate to Key West for my music career. ‘Some dreams get broken, some dreams get changed either way it goes a dream just the same.’ Being in the music industry, you feel like you HAVE to be in Nashville. But in reality, it doesn’t matter where you are if you’re doing what you love and living the life you want to live” exclaimed Dallas Remington. More about Dallas here. #DallasRemington
ABBY SCHILLER: Nashville singer/songwriter Abby Schiller released her new single “Rosalie” on Oct. 25. Rosalie is a song for all women who are still learning about who they are and who they want to become. Rosalie represents that perfect person who appears to have life all figured out and who everyone is drawn toward. While Rosalie exemplifies perfection, others are often filled with doubt and struggling to find their own identity. The song, Rosalie, represents all women on their journey to find their true identity, purpose and happiness. Listen to “Rosalie” here.
Abby co-wrote “Rosalie” with Nashville artist and songwriter, Brooke Hatala. The two met in high school and share the same hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina. “Rosalie” was produced by Ben Reno at Majestic Ape Studios in Nashville. Ben has worked with a number of artists including, Blake Shelton and Loretta Lynn.
Abby released her debut single, “Narcissistic Tendencies,” in May 2023 and her second single, “Out of My Head,” in June 2023. Abby’s debut EP, I Love You Isn’t Enough, released shortly thereafter on July 28, 2023. While Abby has been writing songs her whole life, over the past few years she has discovered both herself and her sound. More about Abby Schiller at her website: https://www.abbyschillermusic.com/. #AbbySchiller
SIX GUN SALLY: Pennsylvania-based, raucous and rowdy indie Southern rock band, Six Gun Sally, will release its twentieth studio recording titled “Backwards.” Written by Jeff “Ford” Thurston, Natalie Brady, Seth Cook and Six Gun Sally drummer Dave Barbe, the stomp n’ holler, clap-along celebrates the beauty of diversity and difference. The boastful, rough-around-the-edges Six Gun Sally signature original will be available on Friday, November 1, 2024 via all digital retail outlets and streaming platforms. Listen, pre-save here.
Produced by Jeff “Ford” Thurston alongside Dave Barbe, the no-holds-barred, pull-no-punches tune stands for the freedom and liberties of living life “Backwards.” Lyrics like “Lord knows I got a story to tell” and “We praise Jesus and still raise hell,” vividly enliven the narrative. The unapologetic storyline embraces homegrown country roots where traditions run deep, and the thread between faith and a rebellious spirit is the backbone of a persevering character.
The recording features performances by the seven-piece band spotlighting the prowess Aimee Jane Williams on lead vocals and the seasoned musicianship of Allen Granus (lead guitar), Jeff Yeckel (lead and rhythm guitar), Dan Rach (keys), Stan Brusoski (bass), Billy G (percussion) and Dave Barbe on drums. More about Six Gun Sally here and on social media. #SixGunSally
ALANA SPRINGSTEEN: Columbia Records/Sony Music Nashville artist-songwriter Alana Springsteen packs a punch with two new songs that introduce her boldest chapter yet: the reflective yet fierce “cowboy” and stadium-sized anthem “hold my beer.” Spotlighting her fearlessly detailed storytelling and empowered point-of-view, the double-song release marks the much-anticipated follow-up to her critically acclaimed 2023 debut album, TWENTY SOMETHING. Listen here.
“’cowboy / hold my beer’ had to drop together. To put it in the simplest terms, ‘cowboy’ is my past and ‘hold my beer’ is my future. If there’s anything I learned from the process of writing and releasing my debut album, TWENTY SOMETHING, it’s that we’re never really done ‘figuring it out.’ With that in mind, I can’t promise I won’t find myself in relationships that don’t end up working out again. But I can promise I’ll be a lot more secure in and out of them,” shares Springsteen. “The guy that ‘cowboy’ is about hurt me in ways that I’m still coming to terms with. I still find myself wondering how I couldn’t see what was right in front of me. That self-doubt finds its way into every part of your psyche, and it manifests in the ways that you interact with the world around you… It was important to me that I start this next chapter of my story with these two songs.” Tour/ticket info here. #AlanaSpringsteen
MORGAN WALLEN: On the heels of his third studio album One Thing At A Time attaining 7x Platinum certification by the RIAA (See PLATINUM NEWS in this column), this year’s leading CMA Award nominee Morgan Wallen delivers the first taste of his upcoming project, releasing “Love Somebody,” available now here.
“’Love Somebody’ is a little bit of a new approach lyrically and sonically,” shares Wallen. “I wanted to try something different, with what I wanted to talk about, how I wanted it to sound, and we were inspired by Latin-leaning influences. I’m really excited about this song and pumped that it is out.”
“Love Somebody” was written by Wallen alongside John Byron, Ashley Gorley, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Elof Loelv and Ryan Vojtesak, and was produced by Joey Moi and Charlie Handsome. Craving something different against a neon-lit backdrop, Wallen offers a candid glimpse at the difficulties of finding someone “Who ain’t hypnotized / By dollar signs and blindin’ lights,” as he searches for authenticity. Riding high off the success of Billboard’s 2024 Song of the Summer “I Had Some Help” with Post Malone and latest single, “Lies, Lies, Lies,” Wallen, originally previewed “Love Somebody” on the European leg of his One Night At A Time 2024 Tour. More information at www.MorganWallen.com.
WYNN WILLIAMS: one of the most promising recording artists to come from today’s vibrant Texas music scene carrying the torch for country music’s golden era, has released his new single “A Woman Can Do That To A Man.” Written by Tony Lane, Matt Dame and David Lee, the reflective sentimental tune is now available under the Good Company Entertainment Records imprint via all major digital retail outlets and streaming platforms. Stream/listen here.
Recorded in Nashville and produced by Brandon Hood, the intentionally simplistic instrumentation features warm acoustic guitars, embracing fiddle and easy-does-it percussion rhythms that sit back making space wide open for Williams’ vocals and the storyline to stand in the spotlight. Refreshing clean production complements the soulful depth of a narrative that speaks directly from a man’s perspective and heart as a testament to the transformative strength of a woman’s love. Williams’ crystal-clear, heartfelt, smooth-as-silk delivery paints vivid imagery of the power of a woman’s grace, faith and unwavering support–a musical canvas that portrays a change of course from restless wandering to grounded devotion and a relationship that brings a man closer to his truest self. Tour info and More about Wynn Williams here and on social media. #WynnWilliams
SONGWRITER NEWS:
ASCAP, BMI and SESAC Country Song of the Year award winner Ben Johnson extends his deal with Tape Room Music and Artist Publishing Group while adding Ryan Tedder’s Runner Music to the team.
“I could not be more excited to be extending my publishing deal with Taperoom/APG and adding Runner to the team,” Johnson shares. “It’s so special to be able to work with people who have been my heroes for so long – first Ashley and now Ryan. I’m grateful for the support of Taperoom, APG, and Runner, and can’t wait to get to work together!”
“We are so excited to be working with Ben alongside our friends at Tape Room and APG,” adds Runner Music’s Amanda Hill and Ryan Tedder. “Ben is an incredible songwriter who we’ve admired for years and are so happy to now call family.”
Johnson has landed cuts across genres, from Justin Timberlake, Meek Mill, Diplo, Weezer and David Guetta to Morgan Wallen, HARDY and Thomas Rhett, among many more. He’s earned 9 No. 1 singles, including his latest hit with Nate Smith’s “Bulletproof,” in addition to Dierks Bentley’s “Gone,” Paramalee’s “Take My Name” and Dylan Scott’s “New Truck.” His 2021 co-written No. 1 song “One of Them Girls,” performed by Lee Brice, had an unprecedented sweep across ASCAP, BMI and SESAC for Country Song of The Year.
TOUR NEWS
TOUR NEWS: Putting an exclamation point on her massive year of milestones, country-pop songstress Tanner Adell will be embarking on her first-ever headlining run, The Buckle Bunny Tour presented by official whisky partner Crown Royal. Aptly named after her viral 2023 debut mixtape, Buckle Bunny, the 10-date run will begin in November and will hit major cities across the U.S. including New York City, Chicago and Dallas. Tickets are on sale now.
“I am so excited to headline these shows,” said Adell. “Y’all have been showing up and showing out for me, so I couldn’t be more thrilled to be coming to your cities and putting on a full performance. And being able to partner with Crown Royal, who has supported my career from the beginning, is a dream come true. Not only is it an amazing whisky, but Crown Royal has long been woven into the fabric of country music and is the perfect partner for this tour. Can’t wait to see all my bunnies on the road and raise a glass with y’all.”
After putting on stellar performances at festivals, direct support on tours and on national television for talk shows and awards shows, Adell has proven her time is now for her headlining run. Follow Tanner on X and Instagram (@tanneradell)
TOUR NEWS PART TWO:
TOUR NEWS PART TWO: After closing out his headlining I Owe You One Tour tonight, Curb Records recording artist Dylan Scott is setting his sights on the next run with the announcement of his spring headlining Country Till I Die Tour. The 17-stop tour will hit cities coast to coast, including major markets such as New York City and a trip across the border to Toronto, Ontario. Special guests George Birge, Dasha and Graham Barham will join select dates, and tickets are on sale now for all stops. See a full list of tour dates here. Scott will release the coinciding track “Country Till I Die” soon; pre-save here.
Fans can expect to hear Scott’s catalog of new tracks and hits on the Country Till I Die Tour, including his two current chart-climbing singles: “Boys Back Home” with Dylan Marlowe continues its rapid ascent on the Country Airplay charts as it approaches the Top 20, while Scott’s “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” hits the Top 25. Both are off his March 2024 deluxe album, Livin’ My Best Life (Still).
Scott’s latest track release “You’d Think I Was A Cowboy” dives into the untamed feelings of love that makes him feel wild and free, with the music video starring his wife Blair, and follows Scott’s previous standalone, “I Owe You One.” More news at Dylan Scott’s website and on social media. #DylanScott
TV SHOW NEWS
TV SHOW NEWS: Americana/Bluegrass/Red Dirt Country Entertainer Jimmy Bowen has announced the launch of Season 9 of Jimmy Bowen & Friends. Hosted by Bowen, the live TV music series consists of thirteen half-hour episodes featuring Bowen performing live with his high-profile band and a weekly featured guest artist. “Jimmy Bowen & Friends is the music variety TV show I always dreamed of hosting. As Season 9 approaches, I am ecstatic about all we’ve accomplished since the launch of Season 1. With the crazy talented team we’ve assembled, and the consistently sensational guests we continue to have on, I know our viewership and reputation for great quality entertainment will expand as we move forward. Jimmy Bowen & Friends offers a diverse lineup spanning multiple musical genres; blending emerging artists and seasoned entertainers, there’s something for everyone,” reflects Bowen.
Jimmy Bowen & Friends is syndicated nationwide and is produced by award-winning production company CJM Productions. Bowen will film Season 10 at The Troubadour Nashville from Tuesday, Jan. 28th through Thursday, Jan. 30th. Shows will be taped at 6, 7, 8, and 9 PM CST daily and are FREE and open to the public. Episodes from prior seasons and airings are available on Jimmy Bowen’s YouTube channel. Subscribe to his channel and check out shows here. #JimmyBowen
TV SHOW NEWS PART TWO
TV NEWS PART 2: Adding a new song to her Country Hall of Fame resume and for her millions of fans to enjoy, entertainment icon Reba McEntire has teamed up with renowned songwriter Carole King and written the show’s theme song for her new NBC comedy, “Happy’s Place.” The song, released by MCA Nashville, is available across all music platforms and debuted on the “Happy’s Place” series premiere, Oct. 18. “Happy’s Place” will stream the next day on Peacock. Listen to the theme song from “Happy’s Place” here and take a behind-the-scenes look into the making of the song here.
“I’m so happy for the opportunity to write the theme song for “Happy’s Place” with my good friend, Carole King,” said Reba McEntire. “It just doesn’t get much better than that! I hope my fans will love this song as much as they did the theme song for the “Reba” show,” added McEntire.
“Happy’s Place” stars Reba McEntire as her character, Bobbie, inherits her father’s tavern (Happy’s Place) and is surprised to discover that she has a new business partner, Isabella, played by Belissa Escobedo, a twentysomething half-sister she never knew she had. The series also stars Melissa Peterman, Pablo Castelblanco, Tokala Black Elk and Rex Linn. #RebaMcEntire #CaroleKing
VIDEO NEWS
VIDEO NEWS: Married for over a decade to wife Brittney, Diamond-selling superstar Brian Kelley shares an intimate look at their storybook romance in the music video for his breathtaking new ballad “If I Go First.” Watch the video here.
In keeping with the soulful authenticity of his forthcoming sophomore album, Ed & Mary Margaret’s Son (Big Machine Records), “If I Go First” presents a deeply personal message to Brittney. Marking his most autobiographical work to date with this full-length project, as it’s centered around family, enjoying a well-lived rural life, and passing down generational land, the tree shown in the Charlton Combs-directed clip symbolizes the deep roots of the Kelleys’ relationship. Penning “If I Go First” solo (like all of his October 25 release), the adjoining footage is also a visual reflection of the lyric, “Our circle won’t be broken,” as the Polaroid-style photos span various memories throughout the years celebrating life, love, and every sweet moment in-between. With Katlin Owen at the helm as executive producer and co-produced by Caleb Gilbreath, listen to “If I Go First” here.
Pre-save/pre-add Ed & Mary Margaret’s Son here. Additional early releases that are now available include “Hold On, Cowboy” and “Put Myself On.” News, music and tour/ticket info at Kelley’s website. #BrianKelley
VIDEO NEWS PART TWO
VIDEO NEWS PART 2: Country/Americana singer-songwriter Dave Lenahan has released his debut music video, “Absalom” for the single of the same name as reported in the October edition of this column. The captivating new video, filmed by Martin Buchanon (Oh Shoot Productions), takes listeners on an inspiring historical musical journey. “Absalom was a remarkable man. He was a Davidson County Magistrate with connections to Andrew Jackson and James Robertson who named the city of Nashville,” said Lenahan. “Surprisingly, we found more than 30 other graves on this site. The song and the project have been a labor of love and my goal is to preserve and protect his final resting place among all the urban sprawl.”
The video was filmed at the Absalom Gleaves Cemetery in Hermitage, Tennessee, and includes 84-year-old Owen Gleaves, a descendant of Absalom. Gleaves and Lenahan have become friends and when Gleaves is able, he has been helping Lenahan to restore the cemetery to its original glory. “Absalom” made its worldwide premiere on Lenahan’s YouTube channel. Watch it here.
“I am so proud of how the ‘Absalom’ video turned out. It truly chronicles this amazing journey and reflects the love, hard work, blood, sweat, and tears that went into this project. I am also extremely thankful to have found Martin Buchanon, who was the perfect choice to direct and produce this video,” reflects Lenahan. More at Dave Lenahan’s website. #DaveLenahan
Send me music stuff, I love to get it! / preshiaswriter@hotmail.com TN/USA. Google: “Preshias” #PreshiasHarris #nashvillemusicline
Preshias Harris is an advocate for songwriters and a music career development consultant with the emphasis on new and aspiring artists and songwriters. Her book, ‘The College of Songology 101: The Singer/Songwriter’s Need to Know Reference Handbook’ is available at www.collegeofsongology.com Follow her blog at www.nashvillemusicline.com @PreshiasHarris #PreshiasHarris