QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
With a little more love and a lot less hatin,’ be who you want to be, ’cause everybody else is taken.” – Lainey Wilson, ACM Awards 2023.
ALBUM NEWS:
Multi-Platinum recording artist Jake Owen delivered his seventh studio album, Loose Cannon, June 23. Owen brings his fan-trusted sound to the 16-song collection just in time for the official summer season. Produced by Joey Moi, Loose Cannon is available everywhere now. Listen here: https://jakeowen.lnk.to/LooseCannon. “Loose Cannon has been a long time coming and I’m so excited my fans can finally experience it with me,” shares Owen. “I hope the album makes it into your summertime memories and I can’t wait to see y’all on the road this fall.” Loose Cannon is a collection of summertime staples with sunshine-soaked lyrics that tip their hat to feel-good classic Country sounds and nostalgia a little over four years since his last full-length album, Greetings From…Jake. The album boasts tracks from songwriters Ashley Gorley, Brent Cobb, Rodney Clawson, Jessie Jo Dillon and Luke Laird, to name a few. Additionally, Owen enlisted reputed artist-writers including ACM Male Artist of the Year nominee Jordan Davis, Devin Dawson, Walker Hayes, Jordan Fletcher and Hunter Phelps. Owen kicks off his nationwide Loose Cannon Tour Sept. 7. Tour info, music and more at https://www.jakeowen.net and https://www.facebook.com/jakeowen/. #JakeOwen
ANNIVERSAY NEWS:
Platinum-selling singer/songwriter Darryl Worley recognizes the power of a song. It’s been two decades since his biggest hit “Have You Forgotten?” took Country Music and the nation by storm. Penned alongside Wynn Varble, the pair poured their hearts into the lyrics and created a post-9/11 anthem ensuring people would never forget those lost. Its message quickly resonated with millions, topping Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart in only its fifth week – marking the fastest rise to the top in more than five years – and reigned for seven weeks. Now, 20 years later, Worley revisited his career-defining song with a fresh modern-day perspective on its original themes for a reimagined version titled “Have We Forgotten,” available now via The Valory Music Co. at https://darrylworley.lnk.to/HaveWeForgottenPR. “We recently decided to sit down and write a new lyric for the song that’s appropriate for this day and time with what’s happening in our country today. For the new version ‘Have We Forgotten,’ we wanted to be certain we said what we were truly feeling in our hearts and didn’t compromise what we believe in, which is exactly how it went down with the original. I’m very proud of the message of the song.” #DarrylWorley.
BENEFIT MUSIC NEWS:
The Heimerdinger Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing nutrient-rich meals and education, free of charge, for families facing cancer, hosted Hope for Healing on June 24 at The Factory in Franklin and featured a special performance from Australian-born country star, Morgan Evans. “I’m very proud to be involved with such an incredible organization serving the community I live in and am so grateful to be a part of,” shared Evans. This year’s Hope for Healing fundraiser celebrates 10 years of the hands that have prepared and delivered meals from the nonprofit’s healing kitchen and planted and harvested from their Giving Garden. In addition to Evans, the Warner Music Nashville recording artist was joined by The Joshua Clegg Band offering bluegrass pickin’ during the evening’s cocktail hour as well as a performance by Music City favorite, The Petty Junkies for the event’s afterparty. Meals 4 Health and Healing is a heart-centered, caring community preparing organic, immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory meals free of charge for cancer patients undergoing cancer treatment and their caregivers. Since 2013, the nonprofit has served over 200,000 servings to hundreds of clients and their caregivers in Williamson and Davidson Counties. More about the Heimerdinger Foundation at https://hfmeals.org/donate/. #MorganEvans.
BOOK NEWS:
Racheal Davis, widely known by her stage name RaeLynn, is a country music singer and songwriter and a two-time ACM “New Female Vocalist” nominee with gold and Platinum singles. Now she is releasing a children’s book in partnership with Brave Books. Her book “Raisin’ Me A Country Girl” is based on her hit song and is also the book’s namesake. Her book describes the adventures of a little country girl who is not afraid to be, you guessed it, a country girl! Her book ‘Raisin’ Me a Country Girl’ follows a sundress-wearing, pink jeep-driving little girl named Daisy who loves her Pup Pup and isn’t afraid of a little mud. One day, Pup Pup runs away, and Daisy has to go searching for him with the help of all of her farm friends. While she drives around in her jeep looking for Pup Pup, she encounters several messy obstacles, which she tackles head-on without hesitation. When she returns home, she realizes that she is covered in mud and ruined her new blue dress. The story ends with Daisy’s mom realizing that she was just like Daisy when she was little. Find the book here: https://bravebooks.us/products/raisin-me-a-country-girl #RaeLynn
CD NEWS:
Michael Ray, pride of Eustis, Florida (and a true country boy) has been waiting a long time to send Dive Bars & Broken Hearts into the world. Working with CMA Album of the Year-winning producer Michael Knox to create a collection of songs that spoke for who he is – and was growing up on bandstands all over Central Florida – the six-song EP serves as a survey course into life, loneliness, truth, friendship, family and the way people grow as they evolve into who they’re meant to be. Dive Bars & Broken Hearts was released June 23. Listen/add here: https://michaelray.lnk.to/preorder-dbabh “I heard this sound in my head,” Ray says. “It was country, but it was a little harder edged. It was a little more what was happening in the ‘80s and ‘90s, more Hank Jr., Haggard, Conway, Earl Thomas and John Conley. It’s not grown up, but it’s for people who know there’s more to life than just bonfires and field parties. And we really tried to find songs that gave you a sense of the whole reality of coming into your own as a person.” #MichaelRay. More about Michael Ray at https://www.michaelraymusic.com and https://www.facebook.com/MusicMichaelRay/
CHARITY NEWS:
Once again, great things happen when the country music community comes together for a cause! Country For A Cause pulled out all the stops during their CMA Fest 2023 concert at Nashville’s 3rd & Lindsley and raised $60,000 for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Hosted by country legend T.G. Sheppard & Kelly Lang, along with Devon O’Day, an eclectic group of stellar performers, including Mark Wills, Wade Hayes, John Conlee, Paulette Carlson, Tim Atwood, Makenzie Phipps, Elizabeth Cook, Michelle Wright, Heath Wright of Ricochet, Terry McBride, Leon Everette, Brandon Davis, Jake Hoot, and Jamie O’Neal donated their time and talents to raise money to help children in health-related crisis. The evening didn’t come without several surprises including Alex Miller, T. Graham Brown, Jeannie Seely, John Schneider, John McEuen, Charlene Tilton, and a special tribute to Jeanne Pruett. The event was sponsored by Gus Arrendale and Springer Mountain Farms Chicken and the group of dynamic entertainers performed to a sold-out house for the fourth consecutive year. #CountryForACause
Pictured: L-R: Wes Schmitz, Kathy Ashworth (Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt), Marcia Campbell, Charlotte Sneed, Makenzie Phipps, T.G. Sheppard, Kelly Lang, Jenny Streams (Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt), Sherri Forrest, Scott Sexton. Photo by Jeremy Westby / 2911 Media
CMA FOUNDIATION NEWS:
SOLID proudly gathered at the CMA office on Tuesday, June 19 to deliver a check in the amount of $37,900 to the CMA Foundation as a result of funds raised via the Backstage Auction at CMA Fest. The donation set a new benchmark for SOLID as it was the largest contribution to the CMA Foundation in the organization’s 26-year history. “The Backstage Auction establishes the financial backbone of our organization,” says SOLID President Erin Pettit. In 2018, it was elevated to the auction inside CMA Fest’s Fan Fair X and this year, the event chairs took it to a whole new level by establishing a multi-year partnership with the CMA Foundation and adding an online element for more inclusion and participation for the festival’s fans. More at https://www.solidnashville.org. Photo caption:From left to right: Victoria Rutledge, CMA Director, Major Gifts, Lindsey Jones Morrison, CMA Community Engagement Manager, Tiffany Kerns, CMA Foundation Executive Director/CMA SVP of Industry Relations and Philanthropy, SOLID’s Music Market Chairs: Jenny Methling, 615 Leverage + Strategy Director of Strategic Partnerships, Lizzy Stone, Wiles + Taylor & Co. Jr. Account Manager & Colin McKay, Clair Global Quality Control Engineer. Photo Credit: Drew Noble (CMA)
CMA NEWS:
The Country Music Association presented legendary country music band, Alabama, with the CMA Pinnacle Award during CMA Fest, with help from Country Music star Dierks Bentley. The Country Music Hall of Fame milestone 50th anniversary celebration. The Pinnacle Award recognizes an artist or group who has undeniably redefined the pinnacle of success in the genre by achieving prominence through concert performances, consumption numbers, record sales and/or other significant industry achievements at levels unique for country music. They have also attained the highest degree of recognition within the broad expanse of music worldwide, and their talent and presence will have a long-term positive impact on the appreciation of Country Music for generations to come. The Pinnacle Award was created in 2005 when it was presented to Garth Brooks. The award’s only other recipients are Taylor Swift (2013) and Kenny Chesney (2016). One of Country Music’s most iconic acts, Alabama’s unprecedented streak of success in the ’80s played a huge part in Country’s global awareness and expansion. More about Alabama here: https://www.thealabamaband.com and https://www.facebook.com/TheAlabamaBand/. #AlabamaBand
COLLABORATION NEWS:
Ten years following the release of the critically-acclaimed Bakersfield album, country music icon Vince Gill and legendary musician Paul Franklin, have joined forces again for their latest project, Sweet Memories: The Music of Ray Price & The Cherokee Cowboys. The 11-track album is set for release on August 4, 2023 on MCA Nashville; pre-order now at https://strm.to/SweetMemories.
Although there are currently no plans for Gill and Franklin to tour together in 2023, on August 3 they will make an appearance on the Grand Ole Opry followed by an exclusive event. The first 300 ticketholders that purchase Sweet Memories: The Music of Ray Price & The Cherokee Cowboys in the Opry shop that evening will receive access to an exclusive Q&A with Gill and Franklin in Studio A directly following the show.
Sweet Memories:
The Music of Ray Price & The Cherokee Cowboys contains material that might be surprising to even the most die-hard of Price’s fans. Gill explains, “When we originally started thinking about doing this record, we were going to do half and half, focusing on two different artists like we did with Bakersfield, recording songs of Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. But we got to liking so many of Ray’s songs, that it became ‘Let’s do all Ray’ and ‘Well, Okay!”” Franklin adds, “Once we locked in on Ray, we started looking through the sheer volume of his material. We looked for obscure songs, ones even Ray’s fans might not know as well.” Gill explains, “This isn’t a sound-alike record. I never wanted to do that. I don’t think any of these songs sound comparable to the original.” Details at https://www.vincegill.com/#/ #VinceGill
EP (Extra Playing) MUSIC NEWS:
Craig Campbell has released the first single from his The Lost Files: Exhibit B album. The upbeat “What I Thank (When I Drank)” Pre-save/add here: https://stem.ffm.to/whatithankwhenidrank. Craig wrote the song with Wyatt McCubbin for his Grindstone Recordings label. “If you know me, you know I love ‘90s country, and when Wyatt and I wrote this, I knew immediately it had to be that kind of song,” said Craig. “From the chicken pickin’ to the squeezbox, if this song don’t get you fired up…nothing will!” Craig released the 16-track The Lost Files: Exhibit A in February. The album covered music recorded during two label deals and other songs he had cut over the years. The collection of songs he called “unfiltered, unapologetic, and from my heart” will be followed by Exhibit B later this summer. Craig’s 9th Annual Celebrity Cornhole Challenge was held June 6th in downtown Nashville. Craig, his wife Mindy, and a host of artists and celebrities partnered with the highest-bidding fans to compete for a trophy and bragging rights and a free concert followed. More info at https://www.craigcampbell.tv. #CraigCampbell
GOSPEL NEWS:
Emmy®️ Award winner and two-time Golden Globe nominee Dennis Quaid’s cover of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” (listen at https://gaithermusic.lnk.to/WhatAFriend-DQ) from his forthcoming debut gospel album, Fallen: A Gospel Record for Sinners, set for release July 28. Pre-order the album now at https://gaithermusic.lnk.to/Fallen-DennisQuaid. “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” follows Quaid’s cover of Kris Kristofferson’s “Why Me Lord,” which “shows off his rugged vocals (American Songwriter),” as the second track to be released from Fallen. Combining soul-stirring renditions of seven hymns and classics with five original songs, Quaid delivers honest, inspiring lyrics sung with unmistakable tones that reflect heartfelt gratitude and eternal hope. Fallen was executive produced by Quaid with producers David R. “Fergie” Ferguson, Ben Isaacs and Chris Lindsey. The Isaacs and Jackson Brumley supply background vocals on “I’ll Fly Away,” while The Oak Ridge Boys join Quaid on “Life’s Railway to Heaven.” Originally released on the soundtrack for Quaid’s faith-based film I Can Only Imagine, “On My Way to Heaven” was inspired by the global superstar’s public grapple with addiction. More at https://gaithermusic.lnk.to/Fallen-DennisQuaid and Instagram (@dennisquaid) #DennisQuaid
ICON NEWS:
Global superstar and recent Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Dolly Parton, has released two new tracks from her forthcoming Rockstar album, arriving November 17. The original song “Bygones (feat. Rob Halford)” with special guests Nikki Sixx and John 5 and a personalized cover of the Rock classic “Magic Man (Carl Version) (feat. Ann Wilson)” with special guest Howard Leese are available now. The second and third tracks follow the release of Parton’s self-penned lead single “World On Fire,” which became a No. 1 song on the Billboard Rock Digital Songs chart upon release in May. “’Bygones’ is an original song of mine featuring Rob Halford from Judas Priest with Nikki Sixx and John 5. It is one of my very favorites on the whole album,” said Dolly. “I’ve always wanted a reason to sing ‘Magic Man’ by Heart and it was one of my first choices for the album. I was so happy that Ann Wilson agreed to sing it with me. Nobody can out sing Ann, but I gave it my darndest. Listen to “Bygones (feat. Rob Halford)” here: https://dolly.lnk.to/Bygones and “Magic Man (Carl Version) (feat. Ann Wilson)” here: https://dolly.lnk.to/MagicManCarlVersion. Pre-Order Rockstar here: https://dolly.lnk.to/RockstarPR.
INT’L MUSIC NEWS:
South African native Xander Hayes absolutely rocks his Country radio debut, “Cooler,” with a shout-a-long chorus and an infectious beat. The 27-year-old is taking a chance and embracing a genre he loves. With several Afrikaans Pop hits (“Aardbewing,” “Blus My,” “Jy Oortref My”) in his homeland to his credit, Hayes is ready for a change. “There’s an honesty and passion to Country music that’s hard to find anywhere else,” Xander explains. “And I’m a country person at heart – and I love this song. It has a feel-good, summertime vibe that gets in your head and doesn’t let go.” “Cooler” was written by Nashville hitmakers Bill DiLuigi, Derek Alldredge and Kathie Eidson. The track was recorded at The Hit Factory in Pretoria, South Africa, and produced by respected music man Murray Lubbe (Jo Black, Appel, Demi Lee Moore). Behind Xander’s vibrant vocals, Lubbe sets the pace on drums, while world-acclaimed guitarist Juan “Floors” Oosthuizen ramps, riffs and shreds. Play / download “Cooler” here: https://ffm.to/p5kqgoe More about at Xander at https://xanderhayesmusic.com and https://www.facebook.com/XanderHayesMusic.
INDUSTRY NEWS:
With nearly 20 years of experience supporting artists and songwriters in nearly every facet of their careers, Ryan Beuschel joins The Neal Agency (TNA) as head of business development. Sharing his excitement to join the team, Beuschel said, “It’s truly incredible to see what Austin, Adi and the entire TNA team has built in such a short period of time. Their approach and vision of supporting artists and executives alike is one I am completely aligned with. I couldn’t be more excited to join this super star company and its impeccable client roster.” “Ryan has been a close friend of mine for many years. He carries the same entrepreneurial spirit and artist first mentality that aligns with the core values of our company,” shared Neal, co-head and founder of TNA. “We are very fortunate to add another great leadership team member to the company.” During his time at WCM, he was named to Billboard’s 40 under 40 list for signing some of country music’s fastest rising stars, including 2022’s most-streamed all-genre debut artist Bailey Zimmerman. More at https://thenealagency.net.
LABEL NEWS:
(Big Loud Records)
Big Loud’s rising country star Ashley Cooke releases her debut album, shot in the dark, Friday, July 21. Pre-save / pre-add at https://ashleycooke.ffm.to/shotinthedark. Revealing the highly anticipated body of work in a surprise moment at the Grand Ole Opry, Cooke treated fans to the first live performance of the album’s closing track “state i’m in.” On June 23 Cooke shared the flavorful introduction to the album with the release of three tracks: “tastes like,” “shot in the dark” and “mean girl (feat. Colbie Caillat).” “The last year of my life has been crazy and wonderful in so many ways, but I think the next year might be even better…” shared the Opry NextStage artist from the coveted Circle. “It’s been full of bucket list moments for me… I made my Opry debut, signed my first deals, went on tours with my heroes, and lived a lot of life in the moments in between. This album is about all of that — and it’s about the magic that can come if you really take risks in life and love.” The album enlists some of country music’s hottest names like Caillat, Nate Smith, Jackson Dean, and Brett Young for collaborations. https://ashleycooke.com #AshleyCooke …
(BMLG)
Multi-Platinum selling songwriter and artist, Chris Janson, is known for his unabashed and raucous style both as a songwriter and performer. His free-spirited approach has captivated Country music’s newest generation of fans and his latest album, The Outlaw Side of Me, is turning up the heat even more. Each track on the album was carefully selected to showcase who Janson is as a man and performer – from the reflective sentimental like “All I Need Is You” to the barn burner “Tap That,” this album is a tapestry of Chris Janson. Release date for The Outlaw Side of Me: June 30. Listen/order here: https://store.chrisjanson.com. “From the minute I started this album ’til the minute we finished, I enjoyed every second,” said Janson. “This record encompasses all sides of me: the lover, the party guy, the conservationist, the family man… I love these songs, and I had such a good time making the music. The Outlaw Side of Me is my favorite album to date. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!” #Chris Janson.
LIVE MUSIC NEWS:
The 2023 season of 27 LIVE continues at The Westin Nashville. An immersive and energetic live concert series, 27 LIVE features today’s favorite and up-an-coming country acts on a local and national scale – creating Nashville’s hottest summer playlist. The series, hosted by country singer and ‘The Voice’ alum Taryn Papa, kicked off on May 25 and continues through September. Already scheduled lineups include: July 20: Georgia Webster and Meg McRee; August 24: King Calaway and Ben Chapman; September 7: Kassi Ashton and Abbey Cone; September 21: David Morris and an artist to be announced. 27 LIVE has drawn wide audiences of local and visiting country music fans with past performances by Alana Springsteen, Drew Green, Jillian Jacqueline, Chayce Beckham and many more. In addition, guests looking for the ultimate country music experience can enter for a chance to win VIP meet-and-greets with the performing artists at @westinnashville. 27 LIVE is a free event and open to the public. You must be 21+ to enter. To reserve a table or cabana, visit https://www.l27nashville.com/reserve. For more information on the 27 LIVE event series, visit www.l27nashville.com and follow along on social @westinnashville for special giveaways, meet-and-greets and more. #27LIVE
MEDIA NEWS:
BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records singer/songwriter Elvie Shane is sharing his new song “Baptized”, co-written by Shane with Dan Couch, Luke Preston, and Oscar Charles, available to listen here: https://elvieshane.lnk.to/baptizedPR. Shane finds salvation in the here and now, feeling like a gritty blast of Gospel pop which features a shadowy, electro-soul thump with an eclectic influence ranging from Steve Earle and The Who, to Mac Miller. Shane also released a visual component to the track, co-starring his wife Mandi, available to watch here:
“Baptized” follows up Shane’s recently released track, “Forgotten Man.” An anthem for those chasing the American dream with calloused hands and a weary, but still-believing heart, it’s another example of Shane’s deep-feeling take on country, as a new blue-collar generation arrives. Meanwhile, Shane (following his #1 smash “My Boy”) is coming off a “Best New Country Artist” nomination at the iHeartRadio Music Awards and will spend this spring and summer back on the road, with headline shows and appearances at CMA Fest, Country Fest and more, as well as joining select dates with The Cadillac Three. More information at https://www.elvieshane.com.
MUSIC ROW NEWS:
ACM award-winning ‘90s country vocal group, Ricochet, best known for their chart-topping, gold-selling single, “Daddy’s Money,” Top-10 hits, “What Do I Know,” “Love Is Stronger Than Pride,” and the Top-20 “He Left A Lot To Be Desired,” has signed with Encore Music Group to release the band’s first album in over a decade. Ricochet Then & Now…The Hits & More (distributed by Smith Music Group), is slated for release on August 18 and will mark the 30th anniversary of the band’s formation in 1993. With various tracks being produced by Robert Wright, Justin Spears, Pat McMakin, and Eric Silver, the 16-track project reflects Ricochet’s past success with new renditions of their classic hits and introduces 8 new songs indicative that the group has no plans of letting up anytime soon. For nearly two decades, original lead vocalist Heath Wright has maintained the group’s legacy and fan base with a hefty tour schedule. Current band members are Chris Hempfling (vocals, drums), Rick Toops (vocals, keys), Bruce Bennett (vocals, bass), and Larry Hight (vocals, rhythm/lead guitar, steel, dobro, and saxophone). Tour dates, music and more here: https://ricochetonline.com/. #RicochetBand
NEW MUSIC NEWS:
Now more than ten years into his Nashville recording career, Country-Soul singer Drake White has learned first-hand that a rolling stone gathers no moss – but it comes at a price. With his new single, “Spirit,” he tributes those with a rambling heart, for better or worse. Stream/download here: https://found.ee/spirit. A swaying traveler’s anthem with a hard-won sense of inner peace, “Spirit” was co-written by White with Leslie Satcher and Phil Pence as the first taste of an upcoming EP. Co-produced by Matthew Ridenour and White himself, the tune taps a deep well of experience and features the easy-going sound of an acoustic-Soul ballad. But with White’s aching vocal leading a soft-touch mix of emotive slide guitar and homesick fiddle, it finds a man coming to terms with the blessing that is also his curse. Called to the open highway and the mysteries around each bend, White sings that he’ll soon ride off again – like a lonesome cowboy chasing the sun. “When I get lost in the wheels, you go on and say goodbye / I can’t seem to settle down (lord), so I don’t even try,” the chorus goes. More at https://www.drakewhite.com #DrakeWhite
NORTH CAROLINA MUSIC NEWS:
The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame announced that Triple Tigers recording artist Scotty McCreery is among the six inductees comprising the 2023 class scheduled to be enshrined during the annual induction ceremony this fall. In addition to McCreery, the other inductees are Betty Davis, Bill “Fatback” Curtis, Fetchin Bones, George Beverly Shea and Loudon Wainwright III. The induction ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at the Mooresville Performing Arts Center in Mooresville, N.C. and will feature each artist’s induction into the Hall of Fame as well as live performances from McCreery, Fetchin Bones, Wainwright and more. Tickets are on sale now for the 2023 Induction Ceremony. Find ticket info here: https://northcarolinamusichalloffame.org. “Anyone that knows me knows how proud I am to be from North Carolina,” said McCreery. “It is an honor to be recognized by the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and included with this great 2023 class of artists. It’s also a bit surreal knowing I will be joining some of my musical heroes who are already in the Hall, such as Randy Travis, Ronnie Milsap, Charlie Daniels, and James Taylor, as well as friends like Eric Church and Kellie Pickler.” #ScottyMcCreery
NSAI NEWS:
The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) has revealed first details for the upcoming 6th annual Nashville Songwriter Awards. Presented by City National Bank, the awards will return to Ryman Auditorium on September 26th, 2023 for an evening filled with performances to celebrate the ’10 Songs I Wish I’d Written’ awards, NSAI’s Song, Songwriter, and Songwriter-Artist of the Year. The organization’s highest honor, the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award, will be presented to legendary songwriter and producer Bobby Braddock whose songs include “He Stopped Loving Her Today” (George Jones), “I Wanna Talk About Me” (Toby Keith), and “Time Marches On” (Tracy Lawrence). The NSAI Advocacy Award, given to an individual who has significantly served the American songwriting community, will be awarded to David Israelite, President & CEO of the National Music Publishers’ Association. Tim McGraw will receive the President’s Keystone Award in honor of his significant contributions to the industry for the betterment of all songwriters. Ticket and scheduled performers info will be announced at a later date. The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) is the world’s largest not-for-profit songwriters trade organization. More about NSAI here: https://www.nashvillesongwriters.com.
OPRY NEWS:
Black River’s MaRynn Taylor made her Grand Ole Opry debut June 23. An experience she’s been dreaming of and working hard toward since childhood. When the curtain fell and the lights came on in the Opry House, MaRynn’s family and friends were treated to an intimate celebration of this milestone. Then MaRynn marked the occasion with a release day performance of her new song “01” written by MaRynn, McCall Chapin, and Alex Angelo and produced by Josh Kerr. Listen to “01” here: https://orcd.co/mt01. MaRynn is proud to say she’s taking action in support of her grandparents and is an Alzheimer’s Association Celebrity Champion, using her voice to support the fight to end Alzheimer’s. Receiving the honor to perform on the Grand Ole Opry is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for an artist, and for MaRynn Taylor, it has been at the top of her dream list for years. “The first thing that comes to my head is playing the Grand Ole Opry. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do…That’s always the first thing that comes to my mind, there’s no shutting it off,” MaRynn told Kelly Sutton on Circle and 650 AM WSM’s Coffee, Country, and Cody. Little did MaRynn know, in this same interview, the great Jeannie Seely would be the one to tell her that she’s been asked to make her Opry debut… The rest of the story… Marynn ended her debut with a standing ovation. https://marynntaylor.com #MaRynn
PODCAST NEWS:
Following the successful first season of the On The Bus At Country Thunder podcast, season two made its debut in May, and followed that up with a new episode that debuted June 22 featuring the hottest artist in country music, Bailey Zimmerman who has broken numerous streaming records, including the most-streamed country debut album of all time, and biggest streaming debut album of the year across all music genres for Religiously: The Album. His blockbuster single “Rock and a Hard Place” has spent a full year on the Billboard Hot 100 List, which is only the 95th song in Billboard’s history to accomplish this plateau. The young superstar is on a roll and shows no sign of slowing down. More about Bailey at https://www.baileyzimmermanmusic.com. #BaileyZimmerman. Viewers can go behind-the-scenes at Country Thunder Music Festivals with owner and CEO, Troy Vollhoffer, for a chance to get to know the biggest artists from the biggest stages. On The Bus At Country Thunder is available everywhere you listen to podcasts. More information at https://www.countrythunder.com and watch for episode release announcements on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/countrythunder and Instagram and Twitter (@countrythunder)
PR NEWS:
Garth Brooks and TuneIn have launched The BIG 615 radio station from Garth Brooks’ SEVENS Radio Network. The BIG 615 offers listeners an authentic take on country music that offers up the biggest songs and the biggest artists today. “I believe that country music listeners want to hear the latest from George Strait followed by the latest from Luke Combs. The latest from Ashley McBryde followed by the latest from The Chicks,” said Garth Brooks. Fans around the world can stream The BIG 615 for free only on TuneIn. Storme Warren will be the official voice of The BIG 615. Millions of country music fans start their day with Warren, joined by guest hosts on occasion. “The BIG 615 station is purely for the love of country music,” Brooks continued. “We lean a bit more traditional at the BIG 615. We are proud of how the station sounds and want the entire world to hear what we think is the greatest format of all…Country Music.” Stream at https://tunein.com/garthbrooks or download the TuneIn App in the Apple App Store or Google Play for free or ask your smart speaker to “Play The BIG 615.”
RADIO NEWS:
Warner Music Nashville’s Multi-Platinum star Gabby Barrett marks her second time in the coveted most-added position at Country radio launching “Glory Days” with 77 first-week stations – the most first-week adds for a female artist in the genre in 14 months. Beginning the next chapter after a record-setting career launch and the start of her family, the new single soaks up a moment of simple perfection that mirrors her real life. Listen here and watch the visualizer. “Oh my goodness, Country radio – I just love y’all,” shares Barrett. “This song’s simple message means so much to me and my family, and it brings me so much joy to know it’s really connecting with everyone.” Having strong creative input with “Glory Days” as the first release off her hotly anticipated sophomore album, Barrett co-wrote and co-produced (with Ross Copperman) the song, writing alongside Emily Weisband, Seth Mosley, and James McNair. After her massive breakout with the 7X Platinum #1 “I Hope,” 3X Platinum #1 “The Good Ones,” and Platinum “Pick Me Up,” these “Glory Days” truly are a time to remember. Gabby is currently joining Kane Brown on select dates. Music and tour info at https://www.gabbybarrett.com and https://www.facebook.com/gabbybarrett5/. #GabbyBarrett
SINGLE NEWS:
John Oates, of the iconic pop-rock duo Daryl Hall & John Oates, released his new single, the blues-rock “Too Late To Break Your Fall,” June 30. Listen at https://found.ee/toolatetobreak. Oates says, “This is a song I wrote back in 2012 and recorded in a few different styles. This version was recorded at Addiction Studios in Nashville in 2020.” “Too Late To Break Your Fall” is the sixth release from his recent series of standalone singles including “Maneater” (Reggae Version),” the Louis Armstrong cover “What A Wonderful World,” the Timmy Thomas cover “Why Can’t We Live Together,” and originals “Disconnected” and Pushin’ A Rock.” In support of his new music, Oates will be touring throughout the year. John Oates is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The American Songwriters Hall of Fame, recipient of the prestigious BMI Icon Award as well as numerous American Music, MTV awards, and multiple Grammy nominations. With Daryl Hall in the early 1970s, he has gone on to record 21 albums, which have sold over 80 million units, making them the most successful duo in rock history. Tour updates and music at https://found.ee/toolatetobreak. #John Oates
SONG NEWS:
Turning the key on a new chapter, Lauren Alaina is back, with her first release since signing to Big Loud Records. Unlocked, her six-song return, is out everywhere now. https://laurenalaina.lnk.to/Unlocked Standing firmly in who she’s always been – an all-grown-up girl from small town Rossville, Georgia, devoted to country music and inspired to make it her own – Unlocked delivers a set of new music anchored in truth, digging deeper and stretching her further, both musically and personally, than ever before. “It’s been 13 years since we first met, and until a couple of years ago, I don’t know that I ever slowed down for more than a day or two at a time,” Alaina reflects. “I spent more time with the people that matter most to me – my family, my fiancé, my friends – during that period than I had in years. This music comes from my heart and my hometown. I am who I am because of where and who I come from, and I’m more me today than I’ve ever been. I can’t wait to unlock this next chapter with you.” Watch the “A Walk In The Bar” video and more at https://laurenalainaofficial.com. #LaurenAlaina
TEXAS MUSIC NEWS:
Randy Rogers Band has come full circle, releasing their new album, Homecoming, available everywhere now. A love letter to the Texas band’s past planted firmly in their present, Homecoming serves as a 20th anniversary celebration for the Randy Rogers Band, honoring all that they have achieved and hinting at what’s to come. Listen at https://orcd.co/homecomingrrb. Homecoming was helmed by producer Radney Foster, who helped Randy Rogers Band create and cement their sound with early albums like Rollercoaster. That sound remains on Homecoming with a few updates, keeping the Texas twang and heartfelt, soothing center the group is known for with a side of grit and frontman Randy Rogers’ voice at the center of it all. “’Homecoming’ is finally here,” Rogers shares. “Get out your mums and garters, get a date and give it a listen. It will take you back to the basics of the Randy Rogers Band. We know who we are, and this album just feels like home.” Fronted by singer-songwriter Randy Rogers the band (with 550m career streams) features Geoffrey Hill (guitar), Jon Richardson (bass guitar), Brady Black (fiddle), Les Lawless (drums), and Todd Stewart (guitar, fiddle, mandolin, keyboards). Music and tour details at https://www.randyrogersband.com. #RandyRogersBand
TOUR NEWS:
Wade Bowen has announced 35 new national tour dates, adding to his more than 4,000 career shows. Bowen says, “I love what I get to do. Writing, performing and touring is a dream come true. I look back and think, have I really played 4,000 shows? Yep. And I’m thankful for every one of them.” A go-to musical collaborator and songwriter (including co-writes with Steve Earle, Parker McCollum, Randy Montana, Miranda Lambert, Lori McKenna, Randy Rogers, Sean McConnell and more), Bowen — who released the single “Car Ride Home” (https://orcd.co/carridehome) on April 14 — will headline his own shows, plus two weeks with long-time friend Randy Rogers in promotion of the duo’s third Hold My Beer album (July 7). Bowen will round out the year performing with rising star Koe Wetzel and more headlining shows will likely be added in coming weeks. Additionally, Bowen will host his third annual Bowen Invitational Charity Golf Tournament (August 27- 28 in San Antonio) with proceeds going to the Bowen Family Foundation, plus he’ll lend support to the Angel Heart Farm Cowboy Ball on September 8 in Franklin, Tennessee. Find tour and ticket info here: https://wadebowen.com/tour/. #WadeBowen
VIDEO NEWS:
Breakout country artist Bryan Martin has released his latest single, “Goin For Broke,” alongside an accompanying music video directed by Julian Mendoza. The single is now available on all major digital platforms via Average Joes Entertainment. Listen / watch video here: http://averagejoesent.co/goinforbroke. Co-written with Gary Garris and labelmate Josh Mirenda, the single reflects on Martin’s relentless pursuit of his dreams, fueled by a resilient spirit and a burning desire to leave it all on the line. The track arrives as Martin’s first release following his recently released full-length album, Poets & Old Souls, which has already garnered over 60 million worldwide streams. His hit single from the project, “We Ride,” recently broke Top 50 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart and was added to Spotify’s Hot Country playlist. Hailing from the oil fields of Louisiana, Bryan Martin lives the stories he writes. His real-life emotions and experiences expressed in song unquestionably resonate with audiences because the two are one and the same. Martin has also announced his upcoming North American Goin For Broke Tour, which includes shows in Tulsa, Baltimore, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and more with additional dates to-be-announced. Tour tickets and info here: https://bryanmartinofficial.com/tour/.
WWWEBSITES TO CHECKOUT:
www.cdxcd.com / www.proverbs1210rescue.org / www.radiosobro.com | www.furchguitars.com / www.shannoncountry.com
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
Send me music stuff, I love to get it! / Preshiaswriter@hotmail.com Google “Preshias” (TN/USA)
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