Luke Bryan will be joining Chris Stapleton, Kid Rock, Larry The Cable Guy, and Travis Tritt to celebrate with Charlie Daniels at his 80th Birthday Volunteer Jam on November 30 at Bridgestone Arena. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

Joining Volunteer Jam for the first time is Cox Media Group’s Rare Country who has signed on as an official media sponsor. RareCountry.com will provide in-depth coverage of the event, including backstage artist interviews, performance footage, and more.

“Rare Country is proud to stand alongside Charlie as he celebrates his 80th Birthday Volunteer Jam,” said Laurissa Phillips, GM, Rare Country. “This year’s incredible performance lineup is a testament to Charlie’s legendary status both on and off the stage. We look forward to providing Rare Country fans with unparalleled access to this epic event.”

A portion of the proceeds from the night will go to the The Journey Home Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit co-founded by Daniels and manager, David Corlew, to help Veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

Gary Allan Surprises Super Fan At Her 300th Show

On Friday night (Aug. 26) Gary Allan honored a longtime fan for her loyalty. When the singer heard that one of his biggest fans, Renee Wray, was planning to attend the show at The Cotillion in Witchita, Kansas, and that it would be her 300th show, he made the show special for her. When Wray arrived at the venue, Allan and his band were waiting backstage and surprised her with a private gathering, a custom-designed cake, on-stage seats and a specially-designed and handcrafted ring from Allan’s jewelry collection.

 

Tucker Beathard Welcomes Brother C.J. Beathard During Iowa Show

Rising singer-songwriter Tucker Beathard took the stage at the first-ever concert at Iowa’s Kinnick Stadium on Saturday (Aug. 27). Beathard’s performance was part of a lineup that featured Blake Shelton, Thomas Rhett and Big & Rich. It was also a full-circle moment as the venue also hosts games for the Iowa Hawkeyes; Beathard’s brother, C.J. Beathard plays starting quarterback for the team. Their father is songwriter Casey Beathard.

 

Tegan Marie Sings On Good Morning America

Dr. Cheryl Carr Named Associate Dean At Belmont University

Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business has named Dr. Cheryl Carr as Associate Dean. In this position, Carr will oversee all undergraduate operations of the College including accreditation assessment, student advising, academic affairs and faculty development.

A frequent presenter, writer and researcher, Carr is co-author of Music Copyright Law which provides in-depth coverage of copyright fundamentals within the music industry, contributing author of Trademark Infringement Remedies which focuses on the fundamentals of trademark law, and author of numerous articles ranging from strategies for success in the industry to funding film projects.

As a Curb College professor, Carr has taught courses on many topics including copyright and contract law, intellectual property and diversity, among others. She is an alumna of Leadership Music.

 

Wordcountry Publishing Turns Three

Wordcountry, a country division of Word Music Publishing, is celebrating its third anniversary on Monday (Aug. 29). The company is run and operated by Creative Director Janine Appleton, formerly of THiS Music Publishing.

The songwriting roster includes Brice Long, Justin Ebach, Steven Dale Jones, Jason Blaine and Hannah Ellis.

Current cuts include Brett Young’s single “Sleep Without You” (written by Justin Ebach) and Craig Morgan’s “When I’m Gone” and “I’ll Be Home Soon” (written by Ebach and Steven Dale Jones). Canadian singles include Aaron Goodvin’s “Woman in Love” (written by Brice Long) and Jason Blaine “Back to You” (written by Blaine).

 

Songwriters Gather For Flood Relief Concert

A songwriter event called Louisiana Revival will take place Tuesday (Aug. 30) from 7-10 p.m. at Tin Roof on Demonbreun. The suggested donation is $10 and all proceeds will benefit Louisiana Flood Victims.

Confirmed songwriters include: Randy Montana, Tyler Reeve, Trent Willmon, David Borné, Bobby Pinson, Brian Carper, Kevin Gordon, Kalsey Kulyk, Jason Martin, Benjy Davis, Rob Snyder, Lainey Wilson, Hannah Harber, Samantha Leigh, Ross Lipsey, Monty Russell, Chris Canterbury, and Thomas Wynn.

Big Machine Records artist Trent Harmon made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday (Aug. 27). Harmon was named the winner of American Idol in April, marking the series finale.

During his Opry set, Harmon performed “What Are You Listening To” (originally recorded by Chris Stapleton) and his debut country single, “There’s a Girl.” He is currently preparing his debut album for Big Machine Records, expected in 2017.

“It’s an honor to be here tonight. I feel so blessed to be able to share this incredible moment with you and all of my fans,” he said.

He celebrated with family and friends, including one of his “There’s A Girl” co-writers, Laura Veltz. Big Machine Records surprised him with a congratulatory cake, commemorating the performance.

Miranda Lambert will be honored by the Academy of Country Music with its inaugural ACM Merle Haggard Spirit Award during the ACM Honors event, a two-hour taping that will be held Tuesday (Aug. 30) at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. The 10th annual ACM Honors will make its television debut on Friday, Sept. 9 on CBS Television Network.

“Merle was an integral part of the Academy’s history, and it was important to us that we honor his legacy. We couldn’t imagine anyone better suited to receive the first ever ACM Merle Haggard Spirit Award than Miranda,” said ACM EVP/Managing Director Tiffany Moon.

The award honors uncompromising artists in the spirit of Merle Haggard. The award was approved by the ACM Special Awards panel and voted on by the ACM Board.

The 10th Annual ACM Honors will tribute special honorees and off-camera category winners from the 51st Academy of Country Music Awards and will feature performances by Jason Aldean, Kelsea Ballerini, Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan, Cam, Dan + Shay, Toby Keith, Alicia Keys, Lambert, Maren Morris, Blake Shelton, Cole Swindell, The Band Perry, Keith Urban, Chris Young, and hosts Lady Antebellum.