Inside Track on Music Row May 2023

Music News by Preshias Harris

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

“I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.”

BILLY JOEL

ALBUM NEWS:

John Mellencamp’s forthcoming new album Orpheus Descending is set for release June 2 via Republic Records. In anticipation of upcoming record, Mellencamp is sharing the album track “Hey God.” Listen/share at https://johnmellencamp.lnk.to/HeyGodPR.  This is his twenty-fifth album, produced by Mellencamp and recorded as his own Belmont Mall Studio. One of his most personal records to date, standout tracks “Hey God” and “The Eyes of Portland” focus on social issues Mellencamp continues to passionately advocate for. Mellencamp is currently in the midst of his massive Live and In Person 2023 North American tour, with dates running through June 27 including stops in New York City, Nashville, Philadelphia, Boston and more.  He’s currently performing songs from the new LP during his live set. Mellencamp is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a Grammy winner, a recipient of the John Steinbeck Award, ASCAP Foundation’s Champion Award, The Woody Guthrie Award and Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award and more recently, the Founders Award, the top honor assigned by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers and a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame. #JohnMellencamp 

ANNIVERSAY NEWS:

Award-winning country music legend, Moe Bandy is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Top 10 duet with Becky Hobbs, “Let’s Get Over Them Together.” Written by Charlie Craig and Keith Stegall, “Let’s Get Over Them Together” became Bandy’s 16th Top 10 hit and continues to be a fan favorite. Bandy was recently inducted into the Class of 2023 of The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame along with The Texas Ranger Division of the Department of Public Safety, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, Cleo Hearn, and Boots O’Neal. Bandy, was a proud competitor in bull riding prior to pursuing country music full-time.  Bandy recently released his new album, Thank You Lord. Delivering a heartfelt project, Bandy recorded twelve heartfelt tracks and features special guests The Isaacs on “Family Bible” and The Oak Ridge Boys with Nora Lee Allen on “The Lord Is My Shepherd.” The title track, written by Mo Pitney, Bobby Tomberlin, and Cheryl Riddle offers a true reflection of where Bandy is in his life today, of which he is thankful for another mile, another day, and a life many could have only dreamed of.  Stream or purchase Thank You Lord at https://ffm.to/mb_tyl?ct=t%28MoeBandy_LGOTT%29.

CELEBRATION NEWS:

Buddy Jewell is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his hit song “Sweet Southern Comfort” teaming up with several of his country music buddies to create what could be the vocal collaboration of the year in a newly-recorded version. Strategically picked, each artist represents a different decade in country music. The Bellamy Brothers from the 70’s, Shenandoah and Marty Raybon from the 80’s, Clint Black from the 90’s and Buddy Jewell from the 2000’s. Asking Clint Black to participate in the new recording was a no-brainer for Jewell. At the urging of his wife Tené, Jewell entered Nashville Star, a talent contest set to be televised on the USA Network. Eventually he was voted the winner of the inaugural season – two million votes ahead of the second-placed contestant, a young Miranda Lambert.  It was Black who produced Jewell’s first album that quickly earned Gold certification and included the original version of “Sweet Southern Comfort.” The Bellamy Brothers said, “Such a joy singing on the 20th anniversary version of Buddy Jewell’s big hit (‘Sweet Southern Comfort’) and to be joined by Clint Black and Marty Raybon well, what more could you ask for!”  Details at https://buddyjewell.com


Capitol Records Multi-Platinum singer/songwriter/producer Jon Pardi is celebrating. He was surprised April 28 during his performance in Indo, CA at country music’s premier festival Stagecoach, when his friend and Emmy-winning famed restaurateur, author Guy Fieri directed him and the attention of his thousands of cheering fans to a video where Opry member and Country Music Hall of Famer Alan Jackson appeared officially inviting the California native to become the newest member of the Opry. “That mic stand represents the future of country music as well as its incredible history,” Dan Rogers, Opry executive producer, told the crowd after he sat the Opry mic stand down in front of a surprised Pardi. “This night will go down in history, too, both because Jon is the first artist invited to join the Opry on this stage and because he’s the first native Californian to get that call. What a great night!”  “I moved to Nashville chasing a dream at 22 years old and now I’m here. I love you guys and I love country music. Thank you, everybody. This is an amazing night. I’ll never forget it,” said an emotional Pardi from stage.  More about Jon Pardi and tour info at https://www.jonpardi.com

CMA FEST NEWS:

CMA Fest has announced four days of jam-packed programming and performances, on the CMA Close Up Stage and acoustic Spotlight Stage, at Fan Fair X inside Music City Center. With everything from celebrity panels, a vendor marketplace, games, and partner activations to performances and meet-and-greets, Fan Fair X remains at the heart of the CMA Fest fan experience. Fan Fair X takes place Thursday, June 8 through Saturday, June 10 (10:00 AM-5:00 PM) and Sunday, June 11 (10:00 AM-4:00 PM). Venue doors open daily at 9:00 AM.  Always a fan-favorite, the CMA Close Up Stage connects fans with some of Country Music’s biggest stars to deliver an up-close-and-personal experience each day (Thursday – Sunday, 10:45 AM – 3:30 PM).  Each day, the CMA Close Up Stage will kick off with a featured Artist of the Day: Thursday, June 8 – Dierks Bentley hosted by Charlie Worsham; Friday, June 9 – Reba McEntire hosted by Cody Alan; Saturday, June 10 – Brothers Osborne taping a live episode of Country Heat Weekly podcast on Amazon Music with hosts Kelly Sutton and Amber Anderson; Sunday, June 11 – Wynonna Judd hosted by Trisha Yearwood.  Stay connected with CMA Fest at https://cmafest.com. #CMAFest 

DUO MUSIC NEWS:

Grammy Award-winning artist Lukas Nelson releases his new album, Sticks and Stones, July 14 via 6ACE Records/Thirty Tigers. Ahead of the release, the official music video for the first single, “More Than Friends,” featuring CMA and ACM Award-winning artist, Lainey Wilson, debuted at CMT. Watch the video at https://lukasnelson.com/pages/videos.  Of the collaboration, Nelson shares, “When I wrote ‘More Than Friends,’ I had always envisioned it as a duet. I am a big fan of Lainey and she was at the top of my list of artists I wanted to sing with me on this track. When we sent her the song, I was thrilled to hear back that she loved it and wanted to do it.” Reflecting on the record, Nelson shares, “This album is about celebrating the human connection, joy and excitement. We went from quiet and introspective on A Few Stars Apart to something big and fun to really showcase the band’s talent and performance. You can listen to the album Sticks and Stones from start to finish and get the songs to dance to and then the quiet, poignant songs. To me, this album is the perfect setlist.” Music and tour updates at https://lukasnelson.com

EP MUSIC NEWS:

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Leah Marie Mason has released her debut EP, Honeydew & Hennessy, available everywhere now: https://orcd.co/honeydewhennessy.  Showcasing her versatile artistry and cross-genre appeal, her powerful vocals throughout the project are ethereal and romantic while the songwriting is raw and honest. Highlighting themes of self-reflection, picturesque love stories, heart-wrenching breakups and more, the rising songstress has arrived and is welcoming her already growing fanbase even deeper into her world. Mason co-penned all six songs, often inspired by real moments that made an impact on her. She also enhances the project’s release with a lyric video for the title-track.

 “I poured my heart and soul into this collection of songs and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share it with the world,” Mason reflects of the project. “This EP marks a significant milestone in my journey and I’m honored to have it serve as a representation of my growth and evolution over the past year.” Mason will take Honeydew & Hennessy on this road this spring, sharing her new music with fans across four cities. Music and tour info at https://www.leahmariemason.com

GRAND OLE OPRY NEWS:

Grammy® Award-Winning singer-songwriter and reigning ACM Awards Female Artist of the Year Carly Pearce notched another career milestone as she made her 100th performance at the Grand Ole Opry since making her debut in 2015. The special set from Pearce closed out the night at the Opry and featured a slew of surprise special guest performances. Ashley McBryde joined Pearce to perform their Grammy® Award-winning hit “Never Wanted To Be That Girl,” while fellow Kentucky native Ricky Skaggs – who inducted Pearce into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame last year – performed a rendition of Bill Monroe’s “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” The Isaacs’ Ben and Sonja Isaacs lent their voices on Pearce’s performance of “Easy Going” while Lady A’s Charles Kelley joined Pearce for her second No. 1 and now 3X Platinum-certified hit “I Hope You’re Happy Now.” The two first performed the song together at the 54th Annual CMA Awards in November 2020. Additionally, Pearce launched a personally-curated exclusive merchandise line with Opry Entertainment that included t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other giftable items that are available for purchase on Opry Entertainment websites To view the collection, visit https://shop.opry.com/collections/carly-pearce-collection

ICON NEWS: 

‘Still Playin’ Possum: Music & Memories of George Jones’ was recorded for national broadcast to premiere on Great Performances on PBS. Filmed in front of a live audience at Propst Arena at The Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama, the all-star lineup includes Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Wynonna, Travis Tritt, Jelly Roll, Tanya Tucker, Trace Adkins, Sara Evans, Justin Moore, Jamey Johnson, Joe Nichols, Aaron Lewis, Michael Ray, Uncle Kracker, Lorrie Morgan, Tracy Byrd, Tracy Lawrence, The Isaacs, Dillon Carmichael, T. Graham Brown, Gretchen Wilson, Sam Moore, Janie Fricke, Charlie Starr of Blackberry Smoke and special appearances by Randy Travis. For more info, visit www.HYPERLINK “http://www.pbs.org/gperf”pbs.org/gperf.  “Thank you to the fans and artists who traveled from all over to be in Huntsville, Alabama, for this incredible tribute to George,” says Nancy Jones. “Everyone from the producers to the performers created an evening we will never forget and for those who couldn’t be there in person, this is your chance to have your own front-row seat. I hope everyone that attended or gets to see it on television will enjoy it and remember their favorite George song.” PBS stations will announce air dates of the show. #GeorgeJones

INDIE ARTIST NEWS:

A decade ago, Bradley Gaskin (30A Life Records) was country music’s newest hitmaker, reaching the Top 40 with his debut single “Mr. Bartender” and making numerous appearances on the Grand Ole Opry. After stepping away from the spotlight for ten years, the singer/songwriter and social media star will make his long-awaited return this year with an EP of new songs.  Playing a key role in that comeback is producer Keith Stegall. A former Top 40 artist himself, Stegall is perhaps best known as a hit producer for Alan Jackson, Zac Brown Band, and George Jones. Brought together by a mutual appreciation for great storytelling and ever better songwriting, Gaskins and Stegall recently wrapped up a recording session at The Castle Recording Studio outside of Nashville, TN. Although Bradley Gaskin’s upcoming record will mark his first release since 2011, the country artist has built remarkable momentum by rallying his audience on social media during the intervening years. He has earned more than 237.5 million views on TikTok and has continued to write new material, too, penning songs for the likes of Sammy Kershaw and Grammy-winning gospel duo Jeff and Sheri Easter. More at https://www.facebook.com/thebradleygaskin. #BradleyGaskin

INDIE SONGWRITER ARTIST NEWS:

Nashville-based, singer-songwriter and indie country recording artist Seth Alexander (Platform EightyNine Music) has announced the scheduled release of his new single “Love On The Rocks.” Penned with co-writers Elmer Knable and Allen Pommer, and produced by Alexander, the track is the second in Alexander’s 2023 waterfall series of releases and will be available via all digital retail outlets and streaming platforms Friday, June 9, 2023. Listen at https://www.sethalexanderofficial.com. The Bob Seager-esque opener sets the lonely mood paving the way for whining electric guitars that carry the weight of juxtaposed, metaphorical lyrics as an emotional musical relay of the “Love On The Rocks” sentiment. “The storyline canvases the recollections of a relationship, the good and the bad, and emotions of a breakup,” said Seth Alexander. “I worked hard to convey the sadness and hopelessness of the final realization in my vocal performance and we incorporated a number of metaphors to ‘killing the pain.” The corresponding “Love On The Rocks” music video was shot in Music City locations and will be available in mid-June.

INDUSTRY NEWS:

The DIY Musician Conference has been ‘reimagined’ for 2023, making it an intimate VIP experience in conjunction with the MusicBiz Conference.  Set for May 18 – 20, 2023 in Nashville, the DIY Musician Conference VIP Experience provides unprecedented access to industry heavyweights and tastemakers at an affordable price.  With attendance limited to just 300 artists and priced affordably at $149.00, attendees can expect the same sense of indie community and innovative spirit as the DIY Musician Conference, but in a more intimate setting. That means there’ll be a greater focus on small-group mentorship and direct access to industry professionals. The DIY Musician VIP Experience includes: Access to Thursday sessions at MusicBiz ($1800 value); All-day Friday DIY Musician educational sessions, panels, mentoring, and networking; Small-group fireside chat sessions with industry pros; A chance to showcase in front of industry movers-and-shakers; Plenty of opportunities to connect with other artists, speakers, and the CD Baby team. Additionally, there is a special offer called Bonus day 3 at which for just $30, you get access to Tom Jackson’s exclusive “solo artist” live makeover on Saturday (with a chance to workshop your stagecraft).Tickets and more info at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/diy-musician-vip-experience-tickets-549561141167


Troy Brown and Mark Oliverius have announced the grand opening of their dynamic new entertainment group, Big Timber Entertainment (BTE). BTE is a full-service multi-genre entertainment company encompassing a record label, artist management, radio promotion, record distribution, and publishing company, along with live show production all under one roof. Partners Brown and Oliverius look forward to growing BTE into a multi-faceted artist-centric powerhouse record label and entertainment group, founded on integrity and a solid reputation for musical excellence, signing only the finest in musical talent. BTE will be announcing its first signings in the coming weeks. Big Timber Entertainment came to life when Wausau business veteran and executive Troy Brown and Nashville music producer, director, and hit songwriter, Mark Oliverius realized their extraordinary working synergy and their shared vision to develop and nurture emerging young artists to succeed in their careers. With their diverse and combined backgrounds, this partnership made perfect sense to help rising talent in making their musical dreams and aspirations come true. Details at https://bigtimberentertainment.com

LABEL NEWS:

(Big Loud Records)

Griffen Palmer released his debut album, Unlearn in late April. All songs on the album were produced by Joey Moi. Growing up musically, his artist/musician father instilled an early appreciation for lyricism in him that soon turned into a love for the craft of songwriting. Cultivating a strong pen and sturdy performance chops through four-hour, back-corner cover sets in dusty college bars at Ohio’s Bowling Green State University, the D1 rugby player’s house party introduction to Grammy-nominated hitmaker Geoff Warburton (Shawn Mendes, Machine Gun Kelly) was the tip of the scale that moved him to Music City. Winning NBC’s Songland in May of 2020, the in-demand wordsmith has only continued stacking cuts with global superstars like Florida Georgia Line (“Second Guessing”), Keith Urban (“Polaroid”), The Band Camino, Chelsea Cutler, MacKenzie Porter, Jade Eagleson and more. Hot off his debut release, a solo version of “Second Guessing,” the SiriusXM The Highway’s “Highway Find” performed the heart-stopping ballad on ABC’s The Bachelor. On the road now with labelmate Lily Rose supporting her 2023 headline tour, the 27-year-old’s midwestern drive and versatility are on full display. Watch the “Unlearn” music video at https://griffenpalmer.com. #GriffenPalmer.

(BMLG)

Danielle Bradbery is no stranger to lyrical truths. Whether accepting she deserves more than someone’s “Potential” or sharing an empowering message on “Worth It,” the powerhouse vocalist is at her best when pouring her heart into song. Now, Bradbery faces an unshakeable “Monster” with a vulnerable new track detailing her personal struggles with anxiety. Fans can find “Monster” here: https://daniellebradbery.lnk.to/MonsterPR.  “I went to Los Angeles for a writing trip last year and the songs I was trying to create, weren’t aligning with where my mind and heart were at,” shared Bradbery. “On the last morning, I was feeling anxious and knew I needed to write about it. I started talking about living with anxiety, something I’ve struggled with for a while – how the weight of it can feel like a monster that doesn’t leave you alone, causing you to be someone you’re not and at times, can almost be crippling to your body.” “Monster” was penned by Bradbery alongside Lauren LaRue (Sam Hunt, Arizona Zervas, JoJo, Alana Springsteen, Jimmie Allen) and Sam De Jong (Alec Benjamin, Lennon Stella, Gracie Abrams, Marina, Little Mix).  Tour dates, ticket info and music at https://www.daniellebradbery.com. #DanielleBradbery

MEDIA NEWS:

Country music icon and philanthropist Tracy Lawrence has released his celebratory Live at Billy Bob’s Texas album, available now at https://smithmusic.ffm.to/662582751925. Lawrence reinvigorates his classic hits with his authentic Country twang live on-stage at the World’s Largest Honky Tonk. The 18-track record boasts a number of fan favorites and two encores including “Alibis,” “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” “Paint Me A Birmingham” and “Time Marches On.” Lawrence also puts his twist on a couple of the genre’s most recognizable tracks including “In Color” and “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”  “Billy Bob’s is a show that I’ve always looked forward to playing throughout the years,” shares Lawrence. “I have a lot of family and friends in Texas that come out and the history of this venue makes for a really fun show. I’m excited for fans to be able to hear the energy that my band helps me create while on the road.”  The Country mainstay has played over 30 shows at the Texan venue since the start of his career and you can find his handprints cemented into concert hall walls next to the likes of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Ringo Starr. More at https://www.tracylawrence.com. #TracyLawrence

MUSIC ROW NEWS:

Global music giant ONErpm has hired Kylie Dembek as its country music project manager. Dembek began her career at a country radio station in Boston during college, and after a few lateral moves, Dembek landed at Big Machine Label Group, where she worked as a strategic planning manager, helping established artists such as Florida Georgia Line, Lady A and Brett Young and newer artists like Shane Profitt develop their radio and marketing strategies.  Dembek has now joined the ONErpm team, where she will focus on creating and executing release and marketing strategy for emerging and established artists by designing marketing plans, setting timelines, managing budgets and focusing on music streaming growth. “I’ve always loved working directly with artists, particularly new artists,” she says, “so I’m very excited to dive in with so many emerging country artists at ONErpm.” More about ONErpm at https://onerpm.com. #ONErpm

MUSICAL EVENT NEWS:

Dustin Lynch’s history-making “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter)” has earned the Broken Bow Records Multi-Platinum star his first Academy of Country Music Awards nomination for Music Event of the Year. Marking Porter’s first nod as well, the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards are set for May 11 at 8 p.m. EDT/7 p.m. CDT. “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be sharing my first ACM nomination with MacKenzie [Porter]. We’ve had quite the journey with this song, and it’s been such a thrill to do it with a great new friend,” shares Lynch. “‘Thinking ‘Bout You’ being the most-played song of 2022 at Country radio, and now scoring an ACM nomination is icing on the cake for a chapter that has already been so good to us.” Featured on his fifth studio album Blue In The Sky, the Platinum, six-week #1 collaboration penned by Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, and Will Weatherly is the longest-running Top 10 single in Billboard Country Airplay chart history at 28 weeks and Broken Bow Records’ longest-reigning single at Country radio. More at https://www.dustinlynchmusic.com. #DustinLynch

NEW MUSIC NEWS:

Dynamic independent Country artist Spencer Crandall continues to feed his fans new music as part of Western Reloaded, tapping rising Country artist Shaylen for a passionate duet on “To Be Continued…” out everywhere May 5. Originally released last fall on his 20-track mega album Western, the reimagined track invites fans into an on-again, off-again relationship capturing the bittersweet feelings of a love that just won’t die. Continuing to breathe new life into fan-favorite hits, the new single announcement comes just weeks after releasing “Girls Like You (Stripped)” and “Made (Wedding Version).”  Pre-save “To Be Continued… feat. Shaylen” at https://stem.ffm.to/tobecontinued.  “When I first heard Shaylen’s voice I was blown away by her emotional delivery and tone,” shares Crandall. “In a city with a million voices, hers immediately stood out to me and I knew she’d be the perfect fit for this song. She shares the same love for her fans as I do for mine and I always want to work with like-minded individuals. It felt like a no-brainer and I can’t wait for y’all to hear this one!”  Crandall’s carefully-crafted Western album was released in October 2022 and has garnered over 60M+ streams.  More at http://spencercrandallmusic.com. #SpencerCrandall #Shaylen

NUMBER ONE NEWS:

Recent number hitmaker Dustin Lynch (Platinum, six-week #1 “Thinking ‘Bout You feat. MacKenzie Porter”) after launching the first-ever Country music-themed full-weekend pool party of its kind in Sin City called Dustin Lynch Pool Situation: Vegas in June 2021, Broken Bow Records multi-Platinum star Dustin Lynch has announced that Nashville, Tenn., is his next location. Speaking exclusively with The Tennessean, Dustin Lynch Pool Situation: Nashville will up the ante from 2-5 p.m. CT at Margaritaville Hotel Nashville on June 10 during CMA Fest weekend. “I can’t believe I didn’t think to do this sooner,” Lynch shared with The Tennessean. “Currently, I’m having the most fun I’ve ever had in my career. I’m in control of fun, interactive and pumped-up crowds. I’m ready to make memories with them at whatever heights I dream are possible.” The event will serve up the long-standing essentials of his seven-year-running Pool Party bash during Luke Bryan’s annual Crash My Playa, mixed with all the “Party Mode” debauchery of his live shows. Promising new music later this year, Lynch is bursting up the charts with current Top 40-and-climbing single “Stars Like Confetti.” Listen here: https://dustinlynch.lnk.to/starslikeconfetti.  Tour info, videos, music and more at https://www.dustinlynchmusic.com. #DustinLynch

OPRY NEWS:

Carrie Underwood celebrates her 15th Anniversary as a proud Grand Ole Opry member with a two-show performance on the Opry Saturday, May 13. She made her Grand Ole Opry performance debut on June 10, 2005, just two weeks after winning American Idol. Underwood’s love for the Opry started as a child as she grew up watching and listening to the show, dreaming of one day performing there and even becoming a member herself. The multi-GRAMMY®/CMA/ACM award winner was officially inducted in to the Opry family on May 8, 2008 by fellow Oklahoman, Opry member Garth Brooks. Underwood recently completed her 43-city U.S. arena tour, The Denim & Rhinestones Tour, and will return to her ongoing Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency in June. Other artists set to appear on the show to celebrate Underwood include Deana Carter, Michael Ray and more. Tickets are on sale now at (615) 871-OPRY and opry.com. A one-hour portion of the show airs live at 9/8 pm CT and will re-air at 12/11pm CT, as Opry Live on Circle Television. The shows will air in their entirety on WSM Radio and opry.com/wsmonline.com

PR NEWS:

Case Hardin, a four-time Texas Radio #1 hitmaker achieves his third consecutive opening week “Trifecta” with his new radio single “Stoned”. “Stoned” is featured on Hardin’s latest album Lucky Him produced by Hardin and Kenny Grohman (George Strait). Other singles off the album, “Honky Tonk Highway” and “Most Beautiful Place I’ve Ever Been” are also both “Trifecta” singles, meaning each single had more adds by country radio than any other song on the chart in that week, with the most spin increases and is the highest debut of any other song on the chart at the time.

“’Stoned’ is exactly that,” says Case. “It’s a rock-solid love song that perfectly demonstrates how it feels when you’ve found your person, and all you want to do is give them your everything. That feeling you get is better than any high or buzz you’d get from anything else. I’m proud of Stoned, with its smooth melody and lyricism. It’s solid country gold in the making.”  This release follows Hardin’s “Most Beautiful Place I’ve Ever Been” which was his fourth consecutive Texas Regional Radio #1 and his seventh Texas radio Top 5 hit. More at https://www.casehardin.com. #CaseHardin

SINGLE NEWS:

Country superstar and reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year Luke Combs’ single, “Love You Anyway,” was shipped to country radio in April after being chosen by his fans in an unprecedented move.  Of the single, Combs shares, “I’ve always put a lot of stock in what my fans think. After all, they’re the ones who make it all happen and have gotten me to where I am today. This leads me to try and find opportunities to let them have their say in decisions I’m making. I wasn’t sure if letting the fans have a public say in choosing someone’s next single on Country Radio had ever been done before, but I wanted to let my fans do that for me, especially considering the choices of ‘5 Leaf Clover’ and ‘Love You Anyway.’ They had been very passionate about ‘5 Leaf Clover’ from the beginning, then greatly supported ‘Love You Anyway’ once it came out, so I truly wanted them to tell me which one they preferred and that’s what they did by choosing ‘Love You Anyway.’ Pretty cool stuff.” Music and tour info at https://newalbum.lukecombs.com. #LukeCombs

SONG NEWS:

Teddy Robb has a lot on his mind in his newest song, “Question The Universe,” releasing the thought-provoking and relatable track. Based on Robb’s personal experience, no one else but the Midwestern riser could have recorded it. Listen here: https://cmdshft.ffm.to/questiontheuniverse. “Question The Universe” was written by Old Dominion’s Brad Tursi after he witnessed Robb’s real-life love story, which inspired Tursi so much, he penned the entire song on his own before Robb made it to Tursi’s house for their writing session.  Produced by Pete Good, an understated piano backs Robb’s honeyed vocals with a hint of rasp as he recalls meeting and falling for a woman who was already in a relationship and planning to move across the country, making him question everything he thought he felt.  “Losing someone you love — and the person that you believe is your soulmate — is devastating to the heart,” Robb shares. “It’s something that can make you question life, love, God, and even the Universe. This song is based on a true story of experiencing that feeling.” “Question The Universe” is the latest in a string of new music from Robb, starting with 2022’s “Pretty Things”.  More at https://www.teddyrobb.com. #TeddyRobb

RYMAN NEWS:

One of Country music’s few Diamond-certified songwriters, Chase Rice brought his critically acclaimed album I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell to the sold-out Ryman Auditorium April 11, playing all 13 songs off the new project along with his decade-plus catalog of fan-favorites and chart-topping hits. In addition to sharing an unreleased song, “Church,” the first he’s written since releasing the new project, Rice was joined onstage for album track “Oklahoma” by surprise guest Read Southall, who also appears alongside him on the recorded version of the song. He also invited a special guest onstage for the poignant “Bench Seat,” as Rice’s beloved dog Jack appeared to the delight of fans for his performance of the powerful song about the companionship a dog can offer. From start to finish, the sold-out show was a celebration of the album that fans and critics alike have celebrated as Rice’s best work to date. Rice continues the Way Down Yonder Tour throughout the summer. Tour dates and tickets at https://www.chaserice.com and follow Rice on Facebook, Twitter and TikTok @ChaseRiceMusic and on Instagram @ChaseRice.

SONGWRITER NEWS:

Songwriter Nicolle Galyon receives her second consecutive nomination for Academy of Country Music (ACM) Songwriter of the Year at the 58th ACM Awards taking place in Frisco, Texas on May 11. Nominated alongside fellow hit-writers Ashley Gorley, Chase McGill, Josh Osborne and Hunter Phelps, Galyon represents the only female in the category. The recent nomination adds to the trailblazer’s growing list of recognition from the ACM, which includes a 2022 Songwriter of the Year nomination as well as two ACM wins for Song of The Year with Miranda Lambert’s “Automatic” in 2015 and Dan + Shay’s “Tequila” in 2019. The nomination follows a momentous April for Galyon, which included the announcement of Grammy Award-winning songwriter Kimberly Perry’s joint publishing deal at Galyon’s female-focused publishing house Songs & Daughters in partnership with Warner Chappell Music. Most recently, Songs & Daughters writer Lauren Watkins announced her label deal with Big Loud Records and Songs & Daughters.  This year, Galyon notched her 10th career No. 1 and was honored with her second CMA Triple Play Award. #NicolleGalyon

TEXAS MUSIC NEWS:

David Adam Byrnes new single, “Drinking Games”, is now impacting country radio. Described as “one of the Lone Star states most intriguing artist” by Taste of Country, Byrnes has scored EIGHT back-to-back No. 1 songs on the Texas Regional Radio Report. He is the only artist in that chart’s history to accomplish a No. 1 with a debut single. That song “Beer Bucket List” produced by Trent Willmon also earned him Nominations for “New Male Vocalist of the Year” at both The Texas Country Music Awards and Texas Regional Radio Awards. Listen to “Drinking Games” at https://orcd.co/2yykg3e.  Country Music has been all that David Adam Byrnes has ever known. One of his earliest memories is attending a George Strait concert and really hearing a George Strait song for the first time. From that day forward, he would always take his cowboy hat to school; earning him the nickname of “George Strait” amongst his peers and he spent his high school graduation night opening up for the legendary Hank Williams, Jr. Heading to Nashville he spent many nights playing in Broadway honky tonks, before signing a publishing and artist development deal. He found success and true niche after relocating to Texas. More at https://www.davidadambyrnes.com

TRIO MUSIC NEWS:

Powerhouse trio Chapel Hart – comprised of sisters Danica and Devynn Hart and first cousin Trea Swindle – took the world by storm on America’s Got Talent last year with their show-stopping group golden buzzer performance of the Dolly Parton inspired track, “You Can Have Him Jolene.”  Now, the ladies, deemed “America’s Sweethearts” following the show, have released their album, Glory Days.The trio had a hand in writing all 11 tracks including the previously released title track along with the late Loretta Lynn requested, “Welcome To Fist City.” Find Glory Days at https://www.lnk.to/CHGloryDaysAlbum.  

Since America’s Got Talent, the ladies have quickly become a mainstay in the country music industry – they made their Grand Ole Opry debut in 2022, receiving FOUR standing ovations and have just been named to the Opry’s NextStage Class of 2023, and kicked off the new year with their 60+ date Glory Days headlining tour.This independent band continues its momentum, contending with some of the nation’s biggest country stars and they’re not slowing down anytime soon. They made a sweep at the New Orleans “Best of the Beat” Offbeat Magazine awards, winning all categories in which they were nominated. More at https://www.chapelhart.com

TOUR NEWS:

Two-time Grammy-winning entertainment legend and recent Country Music Hall of Fame inductee Tanya Tucker will kick off her Sweet Western Sound Tour this summer including a special “Texas Takeover” run with shows at Lubbock’s Buddy Holly Hall, Helotes’ John T. Floore’s Country Store, Houston’s Heights Theater (two nights) and Fort Worth’s Billy Bob’s. Additional stops along the tour include New York, NY, Atlanta, GA, Knoxville, TN and Fayetteville, AR with more dates to be announced. See below for tour itinerary.

Tickets for the tour are available now. Full details can be found at www.tanyatucker.com/tour. The upcoming performances celebrate Tanya’s highly anticipated new album, Sweet Western Sound, released June 2 on Fantasy Records Find it at https://found.ee/TTSweetWesternSound.  Produced once again by Brandi Carlile and Shooter Jennings, Sweet Western Sound reunites the award-winning trio following the release of Tanya’s landmark 2019 album, While I’m Livin’. Her first new album in 17 years, While I’m Livin’ reintroduced Tanya to a new generation and went on to win the GRAMMY for Best Country Album as well as Best Country Song for its poignant single, “Bring My Flowers Now.” Keep up with Tanya Tucker at https://www.tanyatucker.com. #TanyaTucker 

VIDEO NEWS:

Country singer-songwriter and all-around fun guy, Ken Domash is sharing his new video, “If I Was A Beer”  Ken was heavily involved in creating the video, working with Sky Dive Films’ Zac Adams, and hand-drawing the custom “If I Was A Beer” beer can labels. used in the video.  When discussing the creative process, Ken notes that “Zac really took the idea of me playing both parts to another level.  He immediately interpreted this storyline as having a “great reveal” in the end, that I was the other guy.  He really took the role-play idea and made it clever.  It brought mystery. Surprise and made this a real love story.”  Ken is a devoted family man who pays tribute to his late father, an avid Country fan, by wearing his boots and belt buckle in the video.  Ken’s wife, Aimee, joins him in the video as she’s done in his past releases, playing his love interest in, “If I Was A Beer.” Domash said he initially found inspiration for the song from his days at the bars, “Seeing someone holding a beer, peeling the label, thinking about whatever is going on in their life.” More at https://www.kendomash.com. #KenDomash


Jake Ybarra’s latest music video, “BloodFire,” premiered on The Bluegrass Situation: https://thebluegrasssituation.com/read/watch-jake-ybarra-bloodfire/.  A companion piece to Jake’s newest single, the clip is deceptively simple – and compelling. Ybarra is tall and dark, with a commanding presence that draws the eye, and director William Gawley for Charlotte Avenue Pictures makes excellent use of that here. There are three main characters in this piece: Ybarra, a Viking-worthy bonfire, and the moonlight. Special effects make a guest appearance, with mesmerizing images of molten lava creatively used to add to the dangerous feel of the nighttime imagery. Jake’s lyrics tell powerful stories, and it was easy for Gawley to allow them to carry the tale here. “We decided on a performance shoot for this song, using real fire and animation to allow the lyrics to paint the rest of the picture,” Gawley reflects. The pounding, Rockabilly track grounds the sense of primal power at play here.  “We tried several things before settling on the bonfire,” said Ybarra. “It’s a simple approach, but like the song, it moves the story forward.” “BloodFire” is Jake’s first radio single from his debut album, Something In The Water, available here: https://orcd.co/x0vrbkl. More about Jake at https://www.jakeybarra.com

WWWEBSITES TO CHECKOUT:  www.cdxcd.com / www.proverbs1210rescue.org.
www.radiosobro.com / www.furchguitars.com / www.shannoncountry.com

Preshias Harris is a music journalist and music career development consultant with the emphasis on new and aspiring artists and songwriters. Her book, ‘The College of Songology: The Singer/Songwriter’s Need to Know Reference Handbook’ is available at www.collegeofsongology.com.  Follow her blog at www.nashvillemusicline.com.

Send me music stuff, I love to get it! / Preshiaswriter@hotmail.com  TN/USA. Google: “Preshias” #nashvillemusicline

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