Inside Track on new albums, singles and tour updates
By Preshias Harris
February is for lovers… music lovers that is! And there’s plenty to love. Touring updates from Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Bryan, Cody Johnson, Oak Ridge Boys, Dylan Scott and more. Read about hot singles from Lee Brice, Kane Brown, Larkin Poe, LOCASH and Walker Montgomery among others. There are new albums from LANCO, Craig Morgan, Tyler Rich, Six Gun Sally, Mary Chapin Carpenter… Keep reading for all that and more!
ALBUM NEWS
MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER
MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER: “A Heart That Never Closes,” the new song from Mary Chapin Carpenter, Julie Fowlis and Karine Polwart, is out now. Listen/share here. The track is the latest unveiled from the trio’s first collaborative album, Looking For The Thread, released January 24 via Thirty Tigers (pre-order/pre-save here). In celebration of the project, the trio will play six shows in the U.K. in March including sold-out dates in Sunderland and Edinburgh. “An Evening with Mary Chapin Carpenter, Julie Fowlis, and Karine Polwart” will feature tracks from the new album, as well as songs from across their respective catalogues, accompanied by their transatlantic band. Full details can be found at www.marychapincarpenter.com.
Conceived in the remote west of Scotland and recorded at the renowned Real World studios, Looking For The Thread is a rich, resonant and unique record, one that supports and illuminates the core characteristics of each artist while bringing forth a powerful collective identity.
Produced by Bonny Light Horseman’s Josh Kaufman, Looking For The Thread is grounded in mutual respect stretching back decades, as Polwart and Fowlis are dedicated fans of Carpenter, while Carpenter, in turn, has long admired the pair. After first setting up a Dropbox to share ideas remotely, the three convened in January 2023 then headed north to a writing retreat at Kinlochmoidart House, where Looking For The Thread was born. #MaryChapinCarpenter
LANCO
LANCO: Good things come to those who wait. After seven years of anticipation, multi-Platinum selling band LANCO released their long-awaited sophomore album, We’re Gonna Make It, on Friday, January 17, 2025, via Riser House Records. The 14-track album features fan favorites such as “Low Class Lovers” and “Sound of a Saturday Night,” along with the recently released “We Grew Up Together,” featuring Grammy-nominated artist Cory Asbury. Get the album here.
Produced by Jay Joyce, Jared Conrad, and LANCO, We’re Gonna Make It follows the band’s award-winning debut album Hallelujah Nights (2018). Over the past seven years, the band has experienced significant personal and professional growth, which is reflected in the introspective and deeply relatable themes found throughout the new album. The number seven, often associated with insight, intuition, and wisdom, feels like a fitting symbol for this milestone in the band’s journey.
“We’ve poured our experiences, lessons, and emotions from the past few years into this album,” says lead vocalist Brandon Lancaster. “Life isn’t always sunny … but it’s all worth it for the sense of resilience that comes from making it through those tough times and creating an album that reflects our truth. Fans have been so patient with us while we crafted something that truly captures who we are today—fathers, husbands, sons, friends, and so much more.” Music, tour and ticket info at lancomusic.com. #LANCOmusic
CRAIG MORGAN
CRAIG MORGAN: Some people just know innately who they are and what they stand for. Within a few minutes of any interaction with Craig Morgan, it’s readily apparent God, family and country are his foundation. The Country Music hitmaker will continue to celebrate those pillars on his new EP, American Soundtrack, releasing February 28 on BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Pre-add/pre-save Craig Morgan’s American Soundtrack EP here. Morgan co-wrote all but one of the EP’s six tracks, and each song on American Soundtrack is infused with the singer and soldier’s faith and patriotism. The EP was produced by Phil O’Donnell and Craig Morgan.
“I try to celebrate God, family and country in my music and in everything I do,” the Tennessee native says. “That’s what I have always done and I’ve come to realize it’s my platform. I don’t stress about things as much as I used to. I just try to write, sing, produce and play the best music that we can and go where I think God wants me to be.”
The new record will be released the same weekend Morgan joins buddy Blake Shelton on his Friends & Heroes 2025 Tour, kicking off February 27 in Lexington and spanning twelve shows through late March. Visit here for tour and ticket info. More at craigmorgan.com and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.
TYLER RICH
TYLER RICH: Country music singer-songwriter Tyler Rich is set to release his highly anticipated sophomore album, Hello California, on March 7 (via ONErpm). Following the success of his debut album Two Thousand Miles, Rich will give fans a collection of 10 new songs including the recently released “All the Small Things” and “Give Up To Get It.” Pre-save Hello California here. Produced by fellow Californians Brad Hill and Lalo Guzman, Hello California showcases more of the signature style that has made Rich a fan favorite—blending personal storytelling with a sound that mixes his love for country music with a touch of rock.
“This album has been a long time coming, and it’s my first chance to release music straight from the heart, with no limits,” said Rich. “After ten years in Nashville, I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned, the relationships I’ve built, and the success that came from navigating the industry. Now, as an independent artist, I finally get to take the reins and do things my way.”
Rich co-wrote 9 of 10 songs on Hello California, collaborating with some of Nashville and California’s finest songwriters. Rich hits the road in March for The Hello California Tour. New tour dates have just been added, with tickets on sale now at TylerRich.com. Keep up with Tyler on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.
SIX GUN SALLY
SIX GUN SALLY: Pennsylvania-based, raucous and rowdy indie southern rock band, Six Gun Sally, will release its sophomore recording project titled Stand Up. Poised to appeal to audiences with an appetite for classic rock, Southern rock and rockin’ country music entertainment, the full-length album will be available via all major digital retail and streaming platforms on Friday, March 14, 2025. (Distribution by Ed Gertler/Digital Retail Services.)
Produced by Jeff “Ford” Thurston alongside Dave Barbe (Six Gun Sally band leader and drummer), Seth Cook and Matt Muckle, the musical collection boasts seven Six Gun Sally originals and four fan-favorite cover tunes. Spotlighting the prowess of Aimee Jane Williams on lead vocals backed by the extraordinary collaborative talents and musicianship of seasoned musicians and band members Allen Granus (lead guitar), Jeff Yeckel (lead and rhythm guitar),
Dan Rach (keys), Stan Brusoski (bass), Billy G (percussion/drums) and Dave Barbe on drums, Stand Upbeams with Six Gun Sally “LIVE” performance quality.
As an early introduction to the Stand Up recording project, Six Gun Sally released the singles “Let’s Take A Ride,” “Fast Train” and “Backwards.” The tracks have enjoyed more than 386.5K cumulative Spotify streams to date. The physical CD and two-sided vinyl LP will also be available through the Six Gun Sally online store. Music, merch and tour info at https://www.sixgunsallyband.com/tour.
BENEFIT NEWS
BENEFIT NEWS: A fun evening of amazing music – Roger Cook & Friends – with all proceeds benefiting Our Place Nashville, a nonprofit that empowers adults with developmental disabilities by providing homes that are affordable, work that is meaningful, and inclusive communities in which to live. The show is at 3rd & Lindsley, 818 3rd Avenue South, Nashville, starting at 7:30 pm, Wednesday, March 19. Doors open at 6:00 pm. General admission tickets are $24.76 ($20.00 + $4.76 fees); Reserved Table (includes 4 tickets & 4 seats): $200. Show info and tickets here.
Roger Cook called up a few of his friends and asked them to join him in a benefit concert for Our Place Nashville. Roger and his friends are some of Nashville’s most successful songwriters: Pat Alger, Gary Burr & Georgia Middleman, Dickey Lee, Earl Bud Lee, Richard Lee, Billy Prine, and Leslie Satcher. FIVEare members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. They have written #1 hit after #1 hit, including “I Believe in You,” “The Thunder Rolls,” “Unanswered Prayers,” “What Mattered Most,” “She Thinks I Still Care,” “Friends in Low Places,” and “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue;” songs recorded not only by country’s top artists (Garth Brooks, George Strait, Reba McIntyre, Blake Shelton, George Jones, Tim McGraw), but some of the most storied artists in the world.
INDUSTRY EVENTS
INDUSTRY EVENTS: On January 22, Dee White celebrated the release of his new single, the title track to his upcoming June 13 LP, Heart Talkin’ set for release June 13. Watch the “Heart Talkin’” lyric video here. Hosted by Tony Brown and moderated by Leslie Fram, White shared three tracks from the album, “All Day Singing,” “Whiskey Please,” “Heart Talkin’,” and followed with full-band performances of “Million Miles,” “Wagon Girl” and “Up The Creek.”
“Dee’s been in town a long time, and I’d heard about him, so I figured I’d check out some demos of just him and a guitar,” says Heart Talkin’ producer Tony Brown. “The first thing that hit me was his voice—it’s got that Roy Orbison kind of quality to it. It really grabbed me. From there, I started digging into his writing, and I was impressed. He writes with real depth, and being from Alabama, there’s this strong Southern perspective in his lyrics. What stood out to me the most was his voice, but when I got him into the studio, there was so much more to discover.”
White’s sophomore album Heart Talkin’ features 10 songs, each written by the Slapout, Alabama native, along with collaborators including Daniel Donato, Sergio Sanchez, Ben Chapman, Melissa Erin, William Beckmann, and Kendell Marvel. More at DeeWhite.com, on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and his YouTube channel. #DeeWhite
INDUSTRY NEWS
INDUSTRY NEWS: Music industry veteran Chuck Rhodes is marking an incredible 40 years in the entertainment industry. His career has ranged from a sought-after studio session player in Los Angeles to programming one of the most legendary radio stations in America, KVIL Radio in Dallas-Ft. Worth. The industry icon is marking 40 years in the industry.
A native of Corpus Christi, Texas, Rhodes moved to L.A. in the ’70s where he began his career as a keyboard player, working with Cher, Ray Charles and many more. Returning to the Lone Star state in the ’80s, he transitioned to radio and was part of the team that made KVIL Dallas/Ft. Worth the No. 1 A/C station in America. A move to Nashville in the mid-1980s garnered Rhodes record label promotion and management experience that including stints at MCA Records, (including working with Irving Azoff and Jimmy Bowen), Giant Records, and Magnatone Records. His experience included developing and launching independent country label Audium/Koch Records/eOne Nashville among many other achievements.
“I am beyond blessed and thankful to have made my own way in the music business here in Nashville for the past 40 years, but could not have done it without those who have mentored me and supported me along the way,” said Rhodes. His company, On The Rhodes Entertainment, offers music production fueled by world class Nashville session players.
NSAI NEWS
NSAI NEWS: The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) has announced the newest recipient of the annual Todd Givens Memorial Scholarship, singer-songwriter Brittany Moore.
Moore, originally hailing from Northwest Arkansas, began songwriting around the age of 15 and she focused in on the craft through her studies at Berklee College of Music where she obtained her degree. Moore relocated to Nashville in 2018, also joining NSAI at the time, and her songwriting talents have continued to grow over the past six years.
“I couldn’t think of a more deserving songwriter for us to recognize with this Todd Givens Scholarship than Brittany,” said Bart Herbison, Executive Director of NSAI. “Todd was a beloved friend and staff member of NSAI, and an avid supporter of songwriters with the spirit that Brittany embodies. I personally choose the recipient of this honor every year with Todd in mind, and I know that he would have been a huge fan of her talents.”
Scholarship recipients receive a complimentary NSAI membership, the ability to attend a premium NSAI educational event, and dedicated attention from the NSAI creative team throughout the year to assist them in navigating their career goals.
Moore will formally receive this honor during the annual “NSAI Member Awards” to be held at 3rd & Lindsley Nashville on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 as part of NSAI’s Tin Pan South week in Nashville, Tennessee. #NSAI
OPRY DEBUT NEWS
CHASE MATTHEW
CHASE MATTHEW: Delivering his third album Chase on February 21, while current single “Darlin’” charges Country radio, Warner Music Nashville’s Chase Matthew continues to make his case as one of the genre’s boldest emerging voices.
Matthew celebrates the album release with his hometown headline debut at the Ryman Auditorium, 8:00 p.m., Friday February 21, 2025. Find show tickets at Ryman.com here.
A Music City native, the rising star began his career by blazing an independent trail, leveraging an infectious country-or-nothing personality, rowdy live performances, and authentic music built around his low-slung vocal twang. Amassing 1 billion+ global career streams (with more than 350 million global streams on his first RIAA Platinum-certified smash, “County Line”), Matthew has garnered over 1.5 million followers across social media; named “One to Watch” by HITS; Opry NextStage Class of 2024; and among MusicRow’s Next Big Thing Class of 2024; in addition to being nominated at the 2024 People’s Choice Country Awards.
The in-demand emerging talent recently hit Top 5 with Gold-certified debut single “Love You Again,” after releasing back-to-back collaborations with Flo Rida (“Floats Your Boat”) and Fernando & Sorocaba (“Cold Blooded”). Selling out venues across the nation on his U.S. headline Come Get Your Memory Tour and Extended trek, tickets are on sale for his 2025 World Tour plus a trek with Keith Urban on deck, after last supporting Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean. Tour info and more at ChaseMatthew.com; keep up on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.
RINGO STARR
RINGO STARR: Multi-Grammy Award winner Ringo Starr was invited to make his debut on the Grand Ole Opry during the first of his two-night sold-out headlining shows at the famed Ryman Auditorium in support of his new country album, Look Up. The Academy Award winner and two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee was surprised onstage with the invitation by his friend and Opry member Emmylou Harris. Starr will make his Opry debut on February 21 at the Grand Ole Opry House as part of the Opry’s ongoing 100th Anniversary celebration.
Harris surprised Starr onstage to welcome him to Nashville and asked if he would come back again to play the Grand Ole Opry for the first time. When Harris asked, Starr pretended to think about it and, with his trademark wit, teasingly replied, “When is that, July?” Harris answered, “February,” to which he enthusiastically replied, “I’d love to. It’s an honor and a pleasure. Thank you.” Find show ticket info here.
Starr’s lifelong love of country music has been apparent and celebrated throughout his illustrious career. Ringo’s new album, Look Up, comes after a chance meeting with T Bone Burnett at an event in Los Angeles in 2022 (the two had first met in the 1970s). More about Ringo here.
RECORD-SETTING NEWS
RECORD-SETTING NEWS: Just four years since 19x Billboard Music Awards-winner and two-time Grammy nominee Morgan Wallen‘s record-breaking blockbuster Dangerous: The Double Album (Big Loud / Mercury / Republic) debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the 30-song centerpiece took the crown as Billboard‘s Top Album of the 21st Century, Wallen’s third studio album One Thing At A Time also arrives at No. 6, while his hit single “Last Night” charts at No. 7 on Billboard‘s Top Hot 100 Songs of the Century chart.
Logging 158 weeks in the top 10 and 97 at No. 1, the East Tennessean’s Dangerous established the all-time record for longest run at the top of Billboard‘s Top Country Albums chart and produced three country airplay No. 1s with “Wasted On You,” “Sand In My Boots” and “More Than My Hometown.” In every year since its release the album has remained in the year’s top 10 most popular albums on Billboard‘s Top 200 albums chart. Following its predecessor’s colossal success, the 36-song 2023 One Thing At A Time (Big Loud / Mercury / Republic) spent 19 weeks at the top of the Billboard 200, the most weeks at No. 1 for a country album. The album logged seven country radio No. 1s. Music and more at Wallen’s website and social media. #MorganWallen
RISING STAR NEWS
CALI TUCKER
CALI TUCKER: The year 2024 was monumental for Cali Tucker who has seen her artist profile skyrocket. Her solo recordings have amassed over one million streams on Spotify and over 250,000 views on YouTube. Born into Country music royalty, Cali carries on the Tucker Dynasty, with her mother being ’70s hitmaker LaCosta Tucker and her aunt the legendary Tanya Tucker. Cali has appeared on national television shows and performed live with her family across the US and Canada
Cali’s career surged when she was featured on NBC’s “The Voice,” becoming a finalist on Blake Shelton’s team. Since then, she has established herself as a headlining act in Las Vegas. Cali’s breakout song, “Country Couture,” epitomizes her brand. The single and its infectious music video, which has garnered significant attention, showcase designer labels and a luxury lifestyle while highlighting Cali’s down-to-earth personality. The song received a limited release to radio last July and has since been streamed over 600,000 times while continuing to gain traction across music and video platforms.
Looking ahead to 2025, Cali has several exciting projects on the horizon. In addition to the release of “Country Couture” to worldwide radio and video outlets, she has a new single and video, “Last Name,” There’s a new Tucker in town and you’re gonna be hearing a LOT more from her! More about Cali at CaliTucker.com #CaliTucker
ANDREA VASQUEZ
ANDREA VASQUEZ: One of country music’s most promising new artists, Andrea Vasquez, achieves the prestigious honor of being in Apple Music’s 2025’s Class of Color Me Country, presented by host/country artist Rissi Palmer, acknowledging her reach with national and international listeners.
Joining her in this year’s class is David Unlayao, Elsie, and Serafia. Color Me Country is a radio platform celebrating the music of black, brown, Latin and indigenous country musicians on Apple Music Country. The radio show sets out to educate listeners on the diverse history of country music, while bringing these artists to the forefront that for too long have lived outside the spotlight and off mainstream airwaves. This show has featured artists including Darius Rucker, Mickey Guyton, The War and Treaty, and more. With this opportunity, Andrea will be eligible to be a part of the Long Road Festival, UK’s largest, most authentic celebrations of country, Americana and roots music, multiple stages of live performances. More details on this festival to follow.
Listen to the Color Me Country show with Rissi Palmer on Apple Music Country or by clicking here. The episode featuring Andrea and her music, premieres February 1, 2025 at 2PM ET/1PM CT. Listen live for free (no subscription needed). More on Andrea’s website and on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter/X.
SIGNING NEWS
SIGNING NEWS: Quartz Hill Records, a Brown Sellers Brown company, has announced the signing of soulful country pop duo 2 Lane Summer to its artist roster. Comprised of Naperville, Illinois, native Joe Hanson and Mississippi-born Chris Ray, 2 Lane Summer has already built a strong fan base, earning more than five million streams for the duo’s meaningful original songs, written to “hit people in the heart.” With romantic country covers and clever mashup medleys, 2 Lane Summer has also amassed over 300,000 social media followers in the past year alone.
“What first caught my attention with 2 Lane Summer was the power and emotion in their vocal harmonies,” says Brown Sellers Brown Partner Benny Brown. “The sound reminded me of the blood harmonies you usually only find with brothers. Joe and Chris are both also talented songwriters and multi-instrumentalists, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome them to the Quartz Hill family.”
In December, 2 Lane Summer joined celebrated country trio Chapel Hart for five dates on the Hartfelt Family Christmas Tour. Fans can get their first taste of new music from 2 Lane Summer with the worldwide release of “Eyes That Ain’t Yours (Wedding Version),” produced by Ash Bowers. The body positive, everyday love song was co-written by Hanson and Ray with Dustin James and John Marlin. More at 2LaneSummer.com and on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X and YouTube.
SINGLES
DUSTY BLACK
DUSTY BLACK: Stone Country Records newcomer Dusty Black amps up the fight for family-owned farms with the release of a defiant new rural anthem, I Don’t Wanna Be Right, available now across all digital and streaming partners and watch the official visualizer video here.
Amid corporate America’s ongoing interest in buying out family farmers, “I Don’t Wanna Be Right” doesn’t just politely decline any purchase offers; it instead adopts a firmer tone, both lyrically and musically. Written by Nate Kenyon, Matt Gorman and Cooper Bascom, the song acknowledges the perceived problem of family-owned farms and traditional rural life (They say we’re stuck in the past / And we’re messin’ up the progress) while refusing to accept a buyout solution (Well, we’ll sell the grain but naw we ain’t gonna sell the farm).
“I love that this song sticks up for the little guy – family-owned farms – but at the same time, it’s about much more than that, too,” says Dusty. “The lyric celebrates so many different parts of rural life, from putting on camo to hanging up a buck rack.”
Produced by Mickey Jack Cones (Joe Nichols, Blake Shelton), the high-octane track stokes the fires of a contemporary country-rock soundscape around Dusty’s commanding, no-holds-barred vocal. Black has surpassed 14 million total plays across all digital and streaming partners. More at DustyBlack.com, Instagram, Facebook and TokTok.
LEE BRICE
LEE BRICE: Prolific storyteller and multi-Platinum Curb Records recording artist, Lee Brice, has released his latest single, “Cry,” available now. The track, written by Dallas Davidson, Ben Hayslip and David Garcia, is an ode to masculine vulnerability. Rounded out by an infectious hook and retro groove that is reminiscent of the great 1950’s crooners, “Cry” is a confessional anthem that shows men might act tough, but heartbreak breaks them just the same.
“I mean, come’on…sometimes you get your heart broke and you just gotta “Cry” it out,” said Brice. “We had a great time making this one and the video was a lot of fun to shoot. We took a real light-hearted approach on the video…goofin’ around with the band and crew had me cryin’ – in a good way.” Listen to “Cry” here.
Also out now is Brice’s official music video for the track. Directed by Chase Lauer, the lighthearted video shows Brice helping a love-struck and heartbroken guy find his way back to the one that got away. Watch here. Brice has kicked off his highly anticipated intimate acoustic tour – You, Me & My Guitar Tour. Find tour dates and ticket info at LeeBrice.com. #LeeBrice
KANE BROWN
KANE BROWN: Global superstar, Kane Brown, has released a new album track, “Gorgeous.” The acoustic ballad is the latest song revealed from his latest album, The High Road, released Friday, January 24, via Sony Music Nashville. Listen to “Gorgeous” here.
A heartfelt and intimate tribute to his wife, the song serves as a personal reflection on the deeper connection that truly matters—emphasizing that it’s what’s inside that counts. With tender lyrics, this love song celebrates those who cherish each other for who they are at the core. Following previously released tracks, “Body Talk With Katelyn Brown,” “Miles On It,” and “Backseat Driver,” Brown also released “Says I Can (The High Road Tour Version),” a revised version of the original track featuring his tourmates Ashley Cooke, Dasha, Mitchell Tenpenny and Scotty McCreery.
Brown is currently gearing up to hit the road on The High Road Tour this year which kicks off on March 13, 2025, in San Diego, CA. With no signs of slowing down, Brown’s immeasurable success continues to grow as he reaches new heights and continues to expand his musical influence. Tickets available at www.kanebrownmusic.com/tour. #KaneBrown
IAN FLANIGAN
IAN FLANIGAN: The celebrated finalist from NBC’s The Voice, Ian Flanigan, has unveiled his deeply personal new single, “Evergreen,” available now across all music platforms. Listen here. https://vyd.co/IanFlaniganEvergreen. The song, co-written by Ian Flanigan and Jim Ranger, marks a significant milestone in Flanigan’s career and offers a heartfelt glimpse into his life and love. Featuring Flanigan’s soulful vocals and produced by the artist himself, “Evergreen” showcases his talent not just as a performer but also as a producer and recording engineer.
“‘Evergreen’ is the first song I wrote for my wife Kelsey after we were married last year in Colorado,” said Flanigan. It’s a love song about always staying true to ourselves no matter what life brings.”
The single has already made waves, being featured on prominent playlists such as Amazon’s Breakthrough Country and Apple Music Country’s New In Country. With its soulful lyrics, Flanigan’s distinctive vocals, and a theme that resonates universally, “Evergreen” is poised to climb even further as more listeners discover its magic.
Recorded and mixed by Ian Flanigan and Aaron Chmielewski, respectively, the single is a masterful addition to Flanigan’s growing discography. It serves as the next single from his forthcoming album The Man My Mama Raised, set to release on March 17 through Reviver Records. Tour and ticket info and more at Flanigan’s website with news and updates on social media. #IanFlaniganMusic
GREYLAN JAMES
GREYLAN JAMES: ACM Award winner Greylan James tugs at the heartstrings of parents everywhere with his new track “Wait Til You Have Kids,” out now. Written by James and Matt Roy, the Jason Massey and Brock Berryhill-produced tune explores the ways in which priorities and perceptions shift when you become a parent. A writer on the award-winning No. 1 hit “Next Thing You Know” by Jordan Davis, James again proves his one-of-a-kind ability to write stories that people need to hear. Listen to “Wait Til You Have Kids” here.
“I’ve been told ‘wait til you have kids’ more times than I can count,” said James. “Any time I’ve expressed being tired or worn out from playing shows and being on the road, my friends always have said ‘wait til you have kids.’ I’ve also watched my parents go through the challenges of having kids, saving every nickel through the recession, making sacrifices to get me to Nashville and helping my brother get through college. I was excited to take this phrase that my parents and my friends have said to me time and time again and explore the specific ways I’ve seen their worlds change because of having kids.”
James returned on the road with Ashley Cooke for her your place Tour in Tallahassee, Fla. Tour info and tickets at GreylanJames.com. #GreylanJames
LARKIN POE
LARKIN POE – the Grammy Award-winning duo of Georgia-bred, Nashville-based multi-instrumentalist sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell – are kicking off the new year with their latest single, “Easy Love Pt. 1,” available now via their own Tricki-Woo Records. Listen here and watch the music video here. The track heralds Larkin Poe’s new album, Bloom, available here.
“‘Easy Love Pt. 1’ is, hands down, the truest and most detailed love song I’ve ever written,” says Rebecca Lovell. “As referenced in the lyrics: there is in fact an Eiffel Tower recreation in Paris, TX. And yes, it does have a little cowboy hat on top. We can’t wait to perform this song live, the instrumental interlude creates a trippy little 70’s rock ’n’ roll moment that we can’t wait to jam out.”
Bloom – which follows 2023’s Grammy Award-winning Blood Harmony – was first unveiled following Larkin Poe’s “Duo/Group of the Year” triumph at the 2024 Americana Honors & Awards. The album includes such recently released singles as the passionately mindful “Little Bit,” the contemplative opening track, “Mockingbird,” the lush, blues-soaked “If God Is A Woman,” and the genre-bending “Bluephoria,” all accompanied by official music videos streaming now at YouTube. Full tour details here.
LOCASH
LOCASH: Platinum-selling duo LOCASH are kicking off 2025 with a bang, stacking TV appearances on ABC’s Good Morning America and GMA3: What You Need to Know. Lighting up Good Morning Americawith their feel-good fun, LOCASH performed their hit single “Hometown Home,” that is currently verging Top 10 at Country Radio. Written by the duo’s Preston Brust and Chris Lucas with Zach Abend and Andy Albert, the Jacob Rice-produced song is a tribute to putting down roots in the very place that raised you. Listen/play “Hometown Home here.
LOCASH then gave fans another preview of their highly anticipated album coming this spring on GMA3: What You Need to Know with “Isn’t She Country.” Re-imagining Stevie Wonder’s classic “Isn’t She Lovely,” the duo dropped the new track at midnight leading up to their appearance. Listen here. Catching up with GMA3: What You Need to Know co-hosts Eva Pilgrim, DeMarco Morgan, and Dr. Darien Sutton, LOCASH talked about what’s to come in 2025 and how “Isn’t She Lovely” came to be.
“We’re big fans of Stevie. We took ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ and put a little LOCASH Country-twist to it,” says Brust on GMA3: What You Need to Know. Find upcoming tour info here and keep up on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
WALKER MONTGOMERY
WALKER MONTGOMERY’s new single “Never Had You Anyway” is a classic country heartbreaker that sways along in a haze of slow burn acknowledgement and regret as he laments the fact he always knew his true love would go right from the start, but just couldn’t help but fall anyway knowing full well it would lead to goodbye, right from hello. Listen to “Never Had You Anyway” here. Written by Clint Daniels, Justin Lantzand Lee Star, and produced by Bart Butler, the stripped-down ballad’s production shines in its pure simplicity and highlights Montgomery’s well-seasoned baritone to perfection. This straight-up country tearjerker would be right at home on any country jukebox next to Haggard, Paycheck, and Jones.
“Sad songs and country music just go together. ‘Never Had You Anyway’ is the kind of heartbreak song that I heard growing up while I was listening to country music. It tells a story that few songs can portray, but everybody can relate to,” says Montgomery.
Walker’s current release “I Love The Way You Love Me” has garnered more than 25 million views on his TikTok page. His latest EP produced by Bart Butler will release this year. Tour updates and more at WalkerMontgomery.com and on social media. #WalkerMontgomery
SONGWRITER NEWS
SONGWRITER NEWS: Texas songwriter Dustin Brown will release his third full length self-titled album on March 28th on Smith Music Group, but he makes his humbled entrance into Americana beforehand with two single releases this winter. It always piques people’s interest when a songwriter emerges on the scene packing timeworn observations that don’t quite match his years.
The curious among us imagine what kind of life nurtured such a mind. Where have they been? What have they seen? Who are they? Dustin Brown is that songwriter: a young man whose relatively short life story feels lived multiple times. From a childhood of solitude to time trekking around the globe, Dustin Brown isn’t solving the world’s problems, he’s just offering up dust-covered narrations wrapped in conversational tones that speak to the common man.
The first single “Falcon 9” was released digitally on January 31st, a candid commentary on small town sellouts where politics ruin industry and fields become Dollar General stores. “Burn” will follow on February 28th, the centerpiece from which the entire album is built around. The singles can be heard here.
“Being raised running wild in the woods with just my dog and my thoughts,” says Brown. “I feel deeply about everything. I’m a writer and a poet first, and a music creator second.” More info at Dustin’s website, Facebook and Instagram.
SUPER BOWL NEWS
SUPER BOWL NEWS: Nearing 50 years since its initial recording, the Bellamy Brothers’ iconic “Let Your Love Flow” serves as the soundtrack for Budweiser’s new Super Bowl ad. The spot is now available to view on Budweiser’s social and digital channels and will be airing nationally on Super Bowl Sunday during the Big Game. Watch the ad here.
Back on a stage as synonymous with the brand as its iconic horses, Budweiser is returning to the Super Bowl with the famous Clydesdale hitch. For the first time in over a decade, this year’s spot, titled “First Delivery,” features a Clydesdale foal as the star, depicting a story of resilience and dedication. “First Delivery” illustrates Budweiser’s commitment to always deliver for its fans and brings to life the brand’s iconic tagline, “This Bud’s For You,” which celebrates the grit and determination that make up the American spirit.
“We are so proud to have our hit song ‘Let Your Love Flow’ featured in the new Budweiser Super Bowl Ad. Such a beautiful video. The Clydesdales are simply awesome,” shared the Bellamy Brothers.
“First Delivery” was directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker and Emmy Award-winning commercial director Henry Alex Rubin and created by FCB New York. Follow the Clydesdales’ journey leading up to the Big Game by visiting Budweiser’s social channels: YouTube, X, Instagram and Facebook. Follow the Bellamy Brothers on Facebook, Instagram and X.
TOUR NEWS
KELSEA BALLERINI
KELSEA BALLERINI: Five-time Grammy Award-nominated and multiple ACM and CMA Award winning multiplatinum songwriter, producer and author Kelsea Ballerini kicked off her highly anticipated Kelsea Ballerini Live On Tour 2025 at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI, joined by openers Sasha Alex Sloanand MaRynn Taylor. Promoted by AEG Presents, the 36-date tour will visit arenas in major markets coast to coast this spring, wrapping up on April 9 at South Carolina’s North Charleston Coliseum. Find tour and ticket info here.
The tour comes on the heels of the release of Kelsea’s highly acclaimed fifth studio album, Patterns, on October 25th, 2024. The album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Albums chart and No. 4 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums, earning Ballerini the highest debut of her career. On the album, she enlisted Noah Kahan to appear on the tender and beautifully crafted – and Grammy-nominated “Best Country Duo/Group Performance” – single “Cowboys Cry Too,” which continues to climb at Country radio. Last fall, Kelsea celebrated Patterns’ arrival with a sold-out show at New York City’s iconic Madison Square Garden, previewing what fans can expect on her full arena run.
Ballerini recently announced she is set to serve as Coach on Season 27 of NBC’s The Voice, premiering in Spring 2025. More at KelseaBallerini.com. #KelseaBallerini
LUKE BRYAN
LUKE BRYAN: Five-time Entertainer of the Year Luke Bryan will headline his sixteenth Farm Tour in 2025, but with a new twist on schedule and location. For the first time ever, Luke will head to the west coast for three Farm Tour shows in California (Merced, Fresno & Kern Counties) scheduled for May 15, 16 & 17, 2025. These concerts land just ahead of the 2025 season finale of ABC’s American Idol where Luke will serve as a celebrity judge for an eighth year alongside Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood. Special guests will be announced at a later date.
Traditional Farm Tour dates and locations will happen in the fall with announcement of those coming this spring. Farm Tour 2025 is sponsored by Bayer, Fendt, and Citi.
“With the farm tour being such a unique type of show in rural towns we have to be really intentional on where we go in order to have the best experience for the fans all while lifting up the farming community and what they do for our country,” shares Luke. “I have always wanted to raise awareness for the west coast farmer and I’m so excited to get to do that this year. Going to be amazing.” Dates and tickets for Farm Tour are on sale at LukeBryan.com. #LukeBryan #FarmTour
WYATT FLORES
WYATT FLORES: Acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician Wyatt Flores will continue to perform through this spring with his Welcome Back to the Plains Tour, which includes stops at St. Petersburg’s Jannus Live, Memphis’ Graceland Soundstage, New Orleans’ The Fillmore, Charlottesville’s Ting Pavilion and St. Louis’ Ballpark Village among others. Tickets for the new dates are available now at www.wyattflores.com/tour.
The upcoming performances add to a breakout year for Flores, who released his full-length debut album, Welcome to the Plains, this past fall via Island Records (stream/purchase here). In celebration of the new music, Flores was recently featured as part of NPR Music’s “Tiny Desk Concert” series, made his late-night television debut on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” performed on “CBS Saturday Morning” last month, spoke with NPR’s “All Things Considered” and released the music video for “Little Town.”
Produced by Beau Bedford (Orville Peck, Shane Smith & The Saints), Welcome To The Plains details Flores’ journey as he balances the struggle of leaving his hometown of Stillwater, OK with the highs and lows of life on the road. Released to overwhelming acclaim, the record landed several “Best of 2024” lists. Born and raised in Oklahoma, the Mexican-American artist has established himself as one of country music’s most vital voices with his three previous EPs, including Half Life. #WyattFloresMusic
CODY JOHNSON
CODY JOHNSON: 2024 CMA Award winner and multi-platinum selling artist Cody Johnson launched his Leather Deluxe Tour over the weekend with shows in Newark, New Jersey and Charlottesville, Virginia. In addition to shows across the US, upcoming tour dates include Australia, New Zealand and the UK. The 2025 tour kicked off just a few short weeks after Cody wrapped his 2024 touring schedule in mid-December playing 30 sold-out concerts. He capped off last year with two sold-out shows in Las Vegas at the MGM Garden Arena with a surprise appearance by country music superstar Lainey Wilson.
The tour will make back-to-back stops in Nashville at Bridgestone Arena on February 14 & 15. His last visit to the arena took place one year ago achieving the most tickets sold by a male country artist in their Bridgestone debut. The Tennessean glowingly claimed, “Cody Johnson achieves headlining country superstardom at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena” and “Cody wears his heart on his sleeves and bears his soul for the world to witness.”
Cody Johnson has established a following of passionately loyal fans who regularly sell out shows across the country. He has skyrocketed success with numerous celebrated albums including Leather Deluxe Edition – listen here. Cody has 42 Gold and Platinum certifications, 8.5 Billion career global streams and three #1 singles. Music, tour info and more at CodyJohnsonMusic.com. #CodyJohnson
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS: Grammy Award winners and Country Music Hall of Fame inductees The Oak Ridge Boys have announce additional dates for their extended American Made Farewell Tour. The tour, named after one of their most beloved hits, celebrates their decades-long career and supports their latest album, Mama’s Boys (listen/play/download here), which was released in November of last year via Lightning Rod/Thirty Tigers. Known for their timeless harmonies and captivating performances, the group is taking this opportunity to say thank you to all their fans and friends for their love and support.
Despite the farewell tour, The Oak Ridge Boys aren’t slowing down completely as they plan to head back into the studio later this year to record a new album, continuing their legacy of creating music that resonates with fans old and new.
“We’ve had so much fun touring from city to city and getting to see everyone,” shares William Lee Golden. “The response we received from the new album has been wonderful and we hope you love it as much as we do. Keep checking our website as new dates will be added soon!”
Mama’s Boys, the Oak Ridge Boys’ fifth collaboration with Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb, was recorded at the iconic RCA Studio A and Blackbird Studios in Nashville. Find latest tour updates and ticket info at oakridgeboys.com/tour. #OakRidgeBoys
RESTLESS ROAD
RESTLESS ROAD: Already starting the year off strong with new music, country powerhouse band Restless Road keeps the momentum rolling with the announcement of their 2025 headlining Goin’ Out Like That Tour. Joined by special guest Kelsey Hart, the trio maps out 2025 with 20 stops across North America this spring, visiting major markets such as Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago and more. For tickets and more information, visit restlessroad.com.
“We’re so excited to hit the road again in 2025,” shares Restless Road. “This past year on tour was incredible, and we were blown away by the energy from everyone who came out to our shows. Seeing fans show up from all around the world meant so much to us. We’re so thankful and can’t wait to do it all over again this spring!”
Restless Road’s touring schedule follows a run of headline shows in 2024 on their Last Rodeo Tour. The group wrapped up the year with sold-out shows across Europe and the U.K., including stops in Berlin, Munich and London. The band kicked off 2025 strong with the release of “Work On Me” in January. Listen here. More at restlessroad.com and follow them on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X and YouTube.
DYLAN SCOTT
DYLAN SCOTT: Readying his headlining spring tour, Curb Records multi-Platinum recording artist Dylan Scott continues to dominate the Country radio airwaves as he sits in the Top 10 with two simultaneous singles, “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” and recent No. 1 “Boys Back Home” with Dylan Marlowe on the Mediabase Country Airplay chart.
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” serves as one of the five new tracks on Scott’s deluxe 2024 release, Livin’ My Best Life (Still), a 26-song collection that became his highest-charted album on the Billboard Top 200. The album has sparked six Gold or Platinum singles, four No. 1 songs, as well as multiple tracks on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The album also features RIAA Platinum-certified No. 1 hit “Can’t Have Mine (Find You A Girl),” “What He’ll Never Have” and most recent No. 1 “Boys Back Home.”
Scott is gearing up to hit his biggest venues yet this spring on his headlining Country Till I Die Tour in 17 cities coast-to-coast. Special guests George Birge, Dasha and Graham Barham will join select dates. The Louisiana native thrived on the road last year, serving as direct support on Cole Swindell’s Win The Night Tour and his own headlining I Owe You One Tour.
Find ticket info for Scott’s Country Till I Die Tour and more information at dylanscottcountry.com.
CHRIS TOMLIN
CHRIS TOMLIN, one of the most successful Christian touring artists known for selling out concerts worldwide, is announcing a first-of-its-kind concert series in 2025: Worship Under The Stars. The Grammy Award winner is inviting people to a breathtaking celebration of faith, worship, and the vast beauty of creation at hand-selected, spectacular outdoor venues.
“One of the things I love about worship is it causes us to lift our eyes off of ourselves for a minute—to remember the goodness of God, the greatness of God, the mercy of God, the power of God,” shared Chris. “Especially when we’re in His creation. You lift your eyes, you see the stars, you see the beauty of God’s creation around you, and you’re reminded of His goodness in a time where I feel like we need it more than ever.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to experience worship amidst the beauty of the mountains, the serenity of the sea, and the striking nature of the city, as their backdrop. This is a rare opportunity to join in worship at iconic locations such as Central Park in New York City, the picturesque Pier Six in Baltimore, and the prestigious Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.
Tickets on sale now local time at www.christomlin.com. Worship Under The Stars is presented by TPR and made possible by Food for the Hungry.
MORGAN WALLEN
MORGAN WALLEN: On the heels of One Night At A Time becoming the highest-selling country tour in history – receiving two 36th Annual Pollstar Awards nominations for Major Tour of the Year and Country Tour of the Year, playing to over 3 million fans across 87 shows in 10 countries – Morgan Wallen is rewriting his setlist as he unveils the title of his 4th studio album: I’m The Problem. (Find the title track single here) The highly anticipated project sparks the coinciding 10 city, 19-stadium-dates 2025 I’m The Problem Tour, produced by Live Nation.
A rotating lineup of guests including Brooks & Dunn, Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett and Koe Wetzeljoin in direct support with Gavin Adcock, Corey Kent, Ella Langley and Anne Wilson as first-of-three across select dates.
“We made so many lifelong memories on the One Night at A Time World Tour, and I cannot begin to express how grateful I am for my fans and the way they showed up each night,” reflects Wallen. “As I’ve been working on new music, it has inspired me to get back on the road and share these new songs with each of you on the I’m The Problem Tour. See y’all there.”
Tickets on sale now at MorganWallen.com. #MorganWallen
LAINEY WILSON
LAINEY WILSON: Grammy, CMA and ACM Award-winning artist Lainey Wilson confirms her Whirlwind World Tour to kick off in March. Produced by Live Nation and sponsored by Coors Light and Wrangler, the tour will include stops at Zurich’s X-TRA, Paris’ Elysée Montmartre, New York’s Madison Square Garden, Los Angeles’ Kia Forum, Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, Austin’s Moody Center, Baton Rouge’s Raising Cane’s River Center Arena and Denver’s Ball Arena among many others.
Special guests on the tour include ERNEST, Muscadine Bloodline, Kaitlin Butts, Maddox Batson, Drake Milligan, Lauren Watkins and Zach Meadows. Find tour itinerary and ticket info here. Wilson’s Wild Horses fan club will get exclusive early access to tickets starting Tuesday, February 4 at 8:00am local time. Citi is the official card of the Whirlwind World Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Tuesday, February 4 at 10:00am local time until Thursday, February 6 at 10:00PM local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
Verizon will offer an exclusive pre-sale for the Whirlwind World Tour in the U.S. through Verizon Access, just for being a customer. Verizon Access Pre-sale tickets for select shows will begin Tuesday, February 4 at 10:00am local time through Thursday, February 6 at 10:00PM local time. For more details, visit Verizon.com/Access or the My Verizon App. The general on-sale will begin Friday, February 7 at 10:00am local time. #LaineyWilson
As always, a tip of the hat to the publicists, labels, publishers, artists and songwriters for keeping me in the loop! 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