DISClaimer: Caylee Hammack Takes The Lead

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The ladies are gettin’ it done, today.

All of our Disc of the Day contenders come from female artists. For bounce with flounce, we have RaeLynn. For aching survival, there’s Caylee Hammack. For poetic artistry and meditation, we present Gretchen Peters. For topical feminism, check out Tenille Townes. All of them are essential listening experiences. Since she is the newest kid on the block, I’m giving Caylee Hammack the nod.

There’s only one true newcomer here. That’s Payton Smith, who earns himself a DisCovery Award.

CAYLEE HAMMACK/Small Town Hypocrite
Writers: Hammack/Jared Scott; Producers: Caylee Hammack/Mikey Reaves; Publisher: none listed; Capitol Nashville
– Uber cool. The track is a perfect wonder, beginning in acoustic simplicity and slowly adding steel, mandolin, keyboards, electric-guitar and echo to create a gorgeous tapestry. And that’s not even best thing about it. The lyric is extraordinary, relating the saga of a woman who sets aside her dreams for a no-good guy, then summons the strength to move on. The vocal performance is quite moving, radiating vulnerability, heartache, bitterness and honesty. All in all, a fabulous little record.

AMERICAN YOUNG/Some Girl
Writers: Jacob Powell/Jon Stone/Kristy Osmunson/Kylie Schlienger; Producer: American Young/Schlienger; Publisher: none listed; Curb
– Jon Stone, who is one-half of this duo, appears regularly on a reality E! TV series titled Very Cavallari. That is where the act debuted this song last month. It’s a punchy, pop-ish ballad carried along by his strong, emotional lead vocal. Partner Kristy Osmunson is practically inaudible.

BRANDON RATCLIFF/Rhiannon
Writers: Stevie Nicks; Producer: Peter Good; Publisher: none listed; Monument
– This has the same guitar line, the same percussion and the same vibe as the Fleetwood Mac original. Brandon does bring a fresh vocal approach. But the effort is futile, since the 1976 rock hit is so iconic and so perfect that there is simply no way to improve on it. And then there’s the fact that Stevie Nicks devotees are so fanatical that they will want to burn him at the stake for even trying.

JIMMIE ALLEN & NOAH CYRUS/This Is Us
Writers: Noah Cyrus/Tyler Hubbard/Jordan Schmidt/Ilsey Juber/Dernst Emile II; Producer: none listed; Publisher: none listed; Stoney Creek
– Miley’s kid sister teams with country up-and-comer Jimmie on this swirling, genre-bending confection that they perform in unison. Some harmony singing would have been nice, but it is still very appealing ear candy.

GRETCHEN PETERS/The Night You Wrote That Song
Writer: Mickey Newbury; Producer: none listed; Publishers: none listed; Scarlet Letter
– This is the title tune of Gretchen’s forthcoming (in May) album saluting the repertoire of her fellow Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Mickey Newbury. He was always an outstanding poet and her languid, soulful alto brings out every nuance in this waltzing ballad’s wistful, meditative lyric. As a massive fan of both of these troubadours, I was in heaven during each and every note of this. I urge you to listen.

WILLIE NELSON/First Rose of Spring
Writers: Randy Houser/Allen Shamblin/Mark Beeson; Producer: Buddy Cannon; Publisher: none listed; Legacy
– This age-defying legend won his 10th Grammy a few weeks ago. The title tune of his upcoming 70th album is a nostalgic, slow ballad about a romance that died long ago. He’ll be turning 87 years old when the rest of the project sees the light of day, but based on this preview, Willie sounds younger than yesterday.

TENILLE TOWNES/In My Blood
Writer: Tenille Townes; Producer: Jordan Hamlin; Publisher: none listed; Columbia Nashville
– This award-winning singer-songwriter penned this to honor female farmers. That is her heritage, so the lyric is honest and autobiographical. Fittingly, it is recorded with an all-female band and is introduced via a female-produced music video. I am hypnotized every time I hear her sing, and this time is no exception.

TUCKER BEATHARD/You Would Think
Writers: Tucker Beathard/Casey Beathard/Donovan Woods; Producer: Jordan Rigby/Ryan Tyndell/Tucker Beathard; Publisher: none listed; Warner
– I remain a big fan. This hurtin’ tune features a brightly mixed lead vocal performance backed by a crunchy audio concoction that shudders and crashes in all the right places. With every release, this fellow sounds more and more talented.

PAYTON SMITH/Like I Knew You Would
Writers: Payton Smith/Dan Fernandez/Ronnie Bowman; Producer: James Stroud; Publisher: none listed; BMLG
– The joy and the dizzy, giddy rush of young love. Utterly charming.

RAELYNN/Keep Up
Writers: RaeLynn/Corey Crowder/Tyler Hubbard/Steven Lee Olsen; Producer:Corey Crowder; Publisher: Big Tree Vibez Music/Queens Write Hits/Georgia Song Vibez/Big Crowd Publishing/Big Loud Shirt/Rhythm House; Round Here Records
-Lotsa fun. It’s a twang-banger with a feisty-female lyric and a dancefloor rhythm that are both as cute as a button. Best line: “My lipstick matches the shade of my neck.” Best rhyme: “Country boys sure know how to have fun, but let me show you how a country girl gets it done.” She can out-drink, out-drive and out-dance you, buster.

Industry Ink: Dailey & Vincent, Kobalt, Don McLean

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Dailey & Vincent Lonestar Landfest Set For May

Dailey & Vincent are bringing their Landfest music series to Texas for the first annual Lonestar Landfest, set for May 30-31 at The Theatre at Grand Prairie.

Along with Dailey & Vincent, the inaugural lineup includes Alison Krauss, Ricky Skaggs, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Steve Earle & The Dukes, Jerry Jeff Walker, Yonder Mountain String Band, Bradley Walker, and Jake Hoot. Dallas Wayne from SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country and Willie’s Roadhouse will be the MC for both nights of the festival. Tickets went on sale Friday, Feb. 21 and are now available at AXS.com.

 

Kobalt Founder Willard Ahdritz To Receive Music Biz Innovator Award 

Kobalt Music Group Founder and Chairman Willard Ahdritz will receive Music Biz’s 2020 Innovator Award during the annual Music Biz Awards Dinner on May 13 at the JW Marriott Nashville, as part of the Music Biz 2020 Conference. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Kobalt serves more than 600 publishers and 40,000 artists and songwriters, including Childish Gambino, Glassnote Music, Dave Grohl, Lorde, Marshmello, Max Martin, Paul McCartney, Elvis Presley, and The Weeknd.

“It’s safe to say that the music industry as we know it today was uniquely shaped by the pioneering mind of Willard Ahdritz,” said Music Biz President Portia Sabin. “His foresight regarding the coming changes in the marketplace combined with his ability to reimagine standard practices has been a dynamite recipe for commercial success. For these reasons and more, we’re honored to present Willard with Music Biz’s Innovator Award.”

 

Don McLean Signs Recording Deal With Time Life

Pictured (L-R): Mike Jason, Sr. VP Strategic Partnerships, Marketing & Live Entertainment, Don McLean, Tom Hemesath, VP Retail Sales. Photo: Jeremy Westby for 2911 Media

Don McLean has inked a recording and distribution agreement with Time Life. In addition to releasing catalog albums such as Prime Time, Chain Lightning, Believers, Don McLean Sings Marty Robbins, The Western Album, and others, McLean will be releasing a new project of his favorite cover songs soon.

“I am really excited as my first six or seven albums have been the only music of mine available for people to listen to on Spotify and through all the streaming services,” says McLean. “I was astounded to learn how many streams I received just in 2019 alone from those projects so I figured I might as well make all of my music available through this great new opportunity with Time Life. I have worked with them in the past on the American Troubadour project with success, so why not join them again for this next chapter?”

BMI Partners With Muzooka To Streamline Concert Setlist Reporting

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BMI has partnered with live concert asset management company Muzooka to streamline set list reporting for its songwriters and composers. The move marks Muzooka’s first alliance with a U.S. performing rights organization; Muzooka has previously partnered with PROs SOCAN (Canada) and BUMA/STEMRA (the Netherlands).

In addition to reporting on BMI’s official site, BMI affiliates who already use Muzooka’s platform to manage their live concert assets such as artist photos and social media links can now also report setlists from a central concert management hub.

“Songs are the foundation for any live concert, and we’re in the business of making sure our songwriters, composers and music publishers get paid when their music is played publicly,” said Alison Smith, EVP, Distribution, Publisher Relations & Administration Services, BMI. “This new partnership with Muzooka gives our affiliates an alternative way to report their setlists, which in turn helps facilitate the distribution of royalties when their music is performed at concerts around the world.”

“As a creator-focused company, we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the livelihood of touring artists by making setlist reporting a little easier,” said Muzooka CEO Shawn Wilson. “Concerts are a huge part of the overall music experience for fans around the world, and without great songs, there would be no live shows. Knowing that Muzooka is working together with BMI to support its songwriters and rights holders is paramount to us.”

Rachel Whitney Joins Spotify

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Rachel Whitney. Photo: Robby Klein

Rachel Whitney has joined Spotify as Head of Editorial for Nashville, where she joins fellow members of Spotify’s Nashville team including John Marks (Global Director of Country Music), Brittany Schaffer (Head of Artist and Label Marketing), Alison Junker (Manager, Artist & Label Marketing, Nashville), James Clauer (Creative Producer), Jen Hoogerhyde (Creative Manager), Paul Logan (Lead/Content Experiences),  Laura Ohls (Senior Editor), Mary Catherine Kinney (Manager, Artist & Label Marketing) and Dan Franquemont (Manager, Artist & Label Marketing).

Marks and Ohls will report to Whitney on the editorial side.

Whitney previously served as Head of Country Programming at Pandora, and then joined YouTube as Country Music Programming Manager in 2018.

Whitney shared the news on Instagram Thursday morning (Feb. 27).

NMPA, Peloton Settle Lawsuit With Joint Collaboration Agreement

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The National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) and fitness company Peloton have fully settled the litigation brought last year by 14 NMPA members. In addition, the two have entered into a joint collaboration agreement and will work together to further optimize Peloton’s music licensing systems and processes.

Plaintiff publishers included Downtown Music Publishing, Anthem Entertainment, Big Deal Music, Pulse Music Group, peermusic, Greensleeves Publishing, Me Gusta Music, Reservoir Media Management, The Richmond Organization (TRO), Round Hill Music, The Royalty Network, STB Music, Tunecore and Ultra Music Publishing. The case was Downtown Music Publishing LLC v. Peloton Interactive, Inc. (1:19-cv-02426-DLC) District Court, S.D. New York.

The publishers filed a $370 million lawsuit in March 2019, alleging that exercise bicycle manufacturer Peloton—which boasts more than 2 million members and streams instructor-led classes for members—used more than 1,000 music compositions without acquiring proper licenses. Peloton brought a counterclaim, alleging that the publishers engaged in anti-competitive practices, and that the NMPA had worked to prevent Peloton from securing agreements with companies individually; however, Peloton’s counterclaim was dismissed in January of this year.

“We are pleased the music publishers and their songwriter partners in this case have reached a settlement with Peloton that compensates creators properly and sets forth the environment for a positive relationship going forward,” said NMPA President & CEO David Israelite. “Peloton is an innovative company, and we are impressed with the company’s investment in technology and commitment to delivering a powerful, authentic music experience. We look forward to our ongoing collaboration to find solutions that will benefit all songwriters.”

“Music is an important part of the Peloton experience, and we are very proud to have pioneered a new revenue stream for recording artists and songwriters,” said Peloton’s Head of Music Paul DeGooyer. “We’re equally proud to partner with David and the NMPA to ensure that songwriters are, and continue to be, fairly compensated. With the NMPA’s input, we are confident our proprietary, state-of-the-art music system will provide an even more dynamic fitness experience for our millions of members worldwide.”

 

 

 

 

 

Gord Bamford Signs Publishing, Recording Deal With Anthem Entertainment

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Gord Bamford has signed with Anthem Records and extended his worldwide publishing deal with the company. Anthem has also acquired Bamford’s masters from Cache Entertainment including all albums from 2001’s God’s Green Earth, to 2018’s Neon Smoke. Bamford is set to release his new album REDNEK on Anthem on April 17.

“Gord is a global country music icon,” said Helen Murphy, CEO, Anthem Entertainment. “He is a brilliant songwriter, amazing artist and one of the hardest working men in the business. I am proud to partner with him to take him to new heights.”

Australian-born and Alberta-raised, Bamford stands as one of the most decorated artists in Canadian country music. He has received 26 Canadian Country Music Association awards including Album of the Year, Single of the Year and Male Artist of the Year wins, and multiple JUNO Award nominations. Bamford is the two-time winner (2013/2015) of the CMA Global Country Artist Award, with 25 Top 10 singles in Canada including the No. 1 hits “When Your Lips Are So Close” and “Dive Bar.”

“I’m extremely excited about the new partnership with the team at Anthem Entertainment,” said Bamford. “We have been great partners on the publishing side for many years and with both the dedication and planning Helen Murphy has put into place to elevate and expand the record label it was simply too good not to be a part of. I feel very fortunate to work with Helen and the team she built. It’s a new decade, new times and new music is on the way. I look forward to seeing everyone on the road!”

REDNEK Track Listing:
1. #REDNEK
2. To Get To You (feat. Jess Moskaluke)
3. Who’s Your Farmer?
4. Boat People
5. White Oak Cathedral
6. Just Let Go
7. Father’s Prayer

BREAKING: ACM Awards Nominees Announced

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Maren Morris, Thomas Rhett, Old Dominion and Dan+Shay are among this year’s leading ACM Awards nominees, which were announced Thursday morning (Feb. 27).

Notably, both Thomas Rhett and Luke Combs have earned their very first nominations for ACM Entertainer of the Year.

The nod is one of five nominations Thomas Rhett has earned in four categories this year. He is nominated twice, as both artist and producer, for his album Center Point Road in the Album of the Year category. Additionally, he received his first Video of the Year nomination for “Remember You Young,” and his fourth Male Artist of the Year nomination. Thomas Rhett is the reigning Male Artist of the Year.

Reigning New Male Artist of the Year Combs received three nominations including Male Artist of the Year and his first nomination for Entertainer of the Year. He also received his first nomination for Album of the Year for What You See Is What You Get. These nominations make Combs eligible to win the ACM’s Triple Crown, should he win both honors.

Morris, who recently celebrated a multi-week chart-topper with “The Bones,” has earned five nominations, including her fourth Female Artist of the Year nomination and first Group of the Year nomination as a member of The Highwomen. Notably, The Highwomen are the first all-female group to be nominated for Group of the Year since Dixie Chicks in 2002. Morris is also nominated in the Album of the Year category twice, as both artist and producer, for GIRL. Additionally, Morris is nominated for Music Event of the Year for “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” with Miranda Lambert, Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Caylee Hammack and Elle King.

Dan+Shay earned five nominations, including their seventh nomination for Duo of the Year. They are also nominated for Video of the Year, Music Event of the Year, and Song of the Year for “10,000 Hours,” their collaboration with Justin Bieber. Shay Mooney earned his first individual nomination in the Song of the Year category for “10,000 Hours,” while Dan Smyers has earned two additional individual nominations, as a songwriter in the Song of the Year category and as a producer in the Music Event of the Year category.

Reigning Group of the Year Old Dominion’s nominations include their fifth nod for Group of the Year. They are also nominated for Single of the Year, Song of the Year and Video of the Year for “One Man Band.” Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen and Brad Tursi each received individual nominations as songwriters in the Song of the Year category for “One Man Band,” and also earned additional producer nominations, bringing their total individual nominations to six.

Blake Shelton earned four nominations. Shelton is nominated for Single of the Year, Song of the Year, and Video of the Year for “God’s Country.” He is also nominated alongside Garth Brooks for “Dive Bar.” Shelton previously won this category in 2009 for his Trace Adkins collaboration “Hillbilly Bone.”

Brooks & Dunn return as nominees in the Duo of the Year category this year, having previously won in this category a record 16 times.

This year, 25 artists and creators are receiving their first ACM Awards nominations, among them Ingrid Andress, Gabby Barrett, Riley Green, Caylee Hammack, HARDY, The Highwomen, Cody Johnson, Jordan Reynolds, Tenille Townes, Morgan Wallen and more.

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
• Luke Bryan
• Eric Church
• Luke Combs
• Thomas Rhett
• Carrie Underwood

FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
• Kelsea Ballerini
• Miranda Lambert
• Maren Morris
• Kacey Musgraves
• Carrie Underwood

MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
• Dierks Bentley
• Luke Combs
• Thomas Rhett
• Chris Stapleton
• Keith Urban

DUO OF THE YEAR
• Brooks & Dunn
• Brothers Osborne
• Dan + Shay
• Florida Georgia Line
• Maddie & Tae

GROUP OF THE YEAR
• Lady Antebellum
• Little Big Town
• Midland
• Old Dominion
• The Highwomen

NEW FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
• Ingrid Andress
• Gabby Barrett
• Lindsay Ell
• Caylee Hammack
• Tenille Townes

NEW MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
• Jordan Davis
• Russell Dickerson
• Riley Green
• Cody Johnson
• Morgan Wallen

ALBUM OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
• Center Point Road – Thomas Rhett. Producers: Julian Bunetta, Jesse Frasure, Dann Huff, Thomas Rhett, The Stereotypes, Cleve Wilson. Record Label: The Valory Music Co.
• GIRL – Maren Morris. Producers: busbee, Greg Kurstin, Maren Morris. Record Label: Columbia Nashville
• Heartache Medication – Jon Pardi. Producers: Bart Butler, Ryan Gore, Jon Pardi. Record Label: Capitol Records Nashville
• What You See Is What You Get – Luke Combs. Producer: Scott Moffatt. Record Label: River House Artists/Columbia Nashville
• Wildcard – Miranda Lambert. Producer: Jay Joyce. Record Label: Vanner Records/RCA Records Nashville

SINGLE OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
• God’s Country – Blake Shelton. Producer: Scott Hendricks. Record Label: Warner Bros. (Nashville)
• One Man Band – Old Dominion. Producer: Shane McAnally. Record Label: RCA Records Nashville
• Rainbow – Kacey Musgraves. Producers: Ian Fitchuk, Kacey Musgraves, Daniel Tashian. Record Label: MCA Nashville
• Rumor – Lee Brice. Producers: Lee Brice, Dan Frizsell, Kyle Jacobs, Jon Stone. Record Label: Curb Records
• What If I Never Get Over You – Lady Antebellum. Producer: Dann Huff. Record Label: BMLG Records

SONG OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Songwriter(s)/Publisher(s)/Artist(s)]
• 10,000 Hours – Dan + Shay Featuring Justin Bieber. Songwriters: Justin Bieber, Jason “Poo Bear” Boyd, Jessie Jo Dillon, Shay Mooney, Jordan Reynolds, Dan Smyers. Publishers: Beats and Banjos (ASCAP), WB Music Corp. (ASCAP) / Shay Mooney Music (BMI), Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. (BMI) / Big Ass Pile Of Dimes Music (BMI), Big Machine Music (BMI) / Buckeye 26 (ASCAP), Jreynmusic (ASCAP), WB Music Corp. (ASCAP) / Bieber Time Publishing (ASCAP), Universal Music (ASCAP) / Poo B Z Inc. (ASCAP), BMG Gold Songs (ASCAP).
• Girl Goin’ Nowhere – Ashley McBryde. Songwriters: Jeremy Bussey, Ashley McBryde. Publishers: Songs of Song Factory (BMI) / Universal Tunes (SESAC).
• God’s Country – Blake Shelton. Songwriters: Devin Dawson, Michael Hardy, Jordan Schmidt. Publishers: Relative Music Group (BMI), Administered by Songs of Kobalt Music Publishing (BMI) / WB Music Corp. / Georgia Song Vibez / We-volve Music (ASCAP) / Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. / Neon Cross Music (BMI).
• One Man Band – Old Dominion. Songwriters: Josh Osborne, Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Brad Tursi. Publishers: WB Music Corp/Smackville Music/Smack Songs LLC (ASCAP) adm by Kobalt Songs Music Publishing. Rezsongs/Reehits World/Smacktown Music, a division of Smack Blue, LLC/Unfair Entertainment (ASCAP) adm. by Me Gusta Music. We’re Really Doin’ It Publishing (ASCAP) adm by Words & Music. Sony/ATV Cross Keys Publishing/Smackville Music/Smack Songs LLC (ASCAP) adm. by Kobalt Songs Music Publishing.
• Some Of It – Eric Church. Songwriters: Eric Church, Clint Daniels, Jeff Hyde, Bobby Pinson. Publishers: Sony/ATV Tree Publishing/Longer and Louder Music, admin. by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC; Mammaw’s Fried Okra Music/Little Louder Songs, admin. by Songs of Kobalt Music Publishing; New Writers Of Sea Gayle Music, admin. by ClearBox Rights; New Writers Of Sea Gayle Music/Not A Track Guy Music, admin. by ClearBox Rights (BMI).

VIDEO OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Producer(s)/Director(s)/Artist(s)]
• 10,000 Hours – Dan + Shay Featuring Justin Bieber. Director: Patrick Tracy. Producer: Christen Pinkston
• God’s Country – Blake Shelton. Director: Sophie Muller. Producers: Jamie Amos, Patrick Kennedy
• One Man Band – Old Dominion. Director: Mason Allen. Producer: Mason Allen
• Remember You Young – Thomas Rhett. Director: TK McKamy. Producer: Dan Atchison
• Sugar Coat – Little Big Town. Directors: Alexa Kinigopoulos, Stephen Kinigopoulos. Producers: Wes Edwards, Carlo Glorioso, Angie Lorenz

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR*(Off Camera Award)
• Ashley Gorley
• Michael Hardy
• Hillary Lindsey
• Shane McAnally
• Josh Osborne

MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
• 10,000 Hours – Dan + Shay Featuring Justin Bieber. Producers: Dan Smyers. Record Label: Warner Music Nashville
• Dive Bar – Garth Brooks Featuring Blake Shelton. Producers: Garth Brooks. Record Label: Pearl Records, Inc.
• Fooled Around And Fell In Love – Miranda Lambert Featuring Maren Morris, Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Caylee Hammack & Elle King. Producer: Jay Joyce. Record Label: Vanner Records/RCA Records Nashville
• Old Town Road – Lil Nas X Featuring Billy Ray Cyrus. Producers: Michael Trent Reznor, Atticus Matthew Ross, YoungKio. Record Label: Columbia Records
• What Happens In A Small Town – Brantley Gilbert Featuring Lindsay Ell. Producer: Dann Huff. Record Label: The Valory Music Co.

INDUSTRY AWARDS:
CASINO OF THE YEAR – THEATER
• The Colosseum at Caesars Palace – Las Vegas, NV
• The Joint: Tulsa – Tulsa, OK
• Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort – Mt. Pleasant, MI
• The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino – Las Vegas, NV
• WinStar Global Event Center – Thackerville, OK

CASINO OF THE YEAR – ARENA
• Mark G. Etess Arena – Atlantic City, NJ
• MGM Grand Garden Arena – Las Vegas, NV
• Sandia Amphitheater – Albuquerque, NM
• Stir Concert Cove – Council Bluffs, IA
• T Mobile Arena – Las Vegas, NV

FAIR/RODEO OF THE YEAR
• California Mid-State Fair – Paso Robles, CA
• Cheyenne Frontier Days – Cheyenne, WY
• Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo – Houston, TX
• Minnesota State Fair – St. Paul, MN
• San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo – San Antonio, TX

FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR
• Boots and Hearts Music Festival – Oro-Medonte, OR
• Stagecoach – Indio, CA
• Tortuga Music Festival – Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Watershed Festival – George, WA
• Windy City Smokeout – Chicago, IL

CLUB OF THE YEAR
• Billy Bob’s Texas – Fort Worth, TX
• Coyote Joe’s – Charlotte, NC
• Grizzly Rose – Denver, CO
• Joe’s Live – Rosemont, IL
• Losers Bar & Grill – Nashville, TN

THEATER OF THE YEAR
• The Beacon Theatre – New York, NY
• The Chicago Theatre – Chicago, IL
• DeJoria Center – Salt Lake City, UT
• Rialto Square Theatre – Joliet, IL
• Ruth Eckerd Hall – Clearwater, FL

OUTDOOR VENUE OF THE YEAR
• Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion – Gilford, NH
• Greek Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
• Innsbrook After Hours – Glen Allen, VA
• Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO
• Rose Music Center – Huber Heights, OH
• The Wharf at Orange Beach – Orange Beach, AL

ARENA OF THE YEAR
• Infinite Energy Center – Duluth, GA
• Madison Square Garden – New York, NY
• Staples Center – Los Angeles, CA
• Van Andel Arena – Grand Rapids, MI
• VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena – Jacksonville, FL

DON ROMEO TALENT BUYER OF THE YEAR
• Clay Campbell – Triangle Talent
• Gary Osier – Gary Osier Presents
• Gil Cunningham – Neste Live!
• Kell Houston – Houston Productions
• Nina Rojas – Neste Live!
• Todd Boltin – Variety Attractions

PROMOTER OF THE YEAR
• Adam Weiser – AEG Presents
• Brian O’Connell – Live Nation
• Jered Johnson – Pepper Productions
• Stacy Vee – Messina Touring Group
• Troy Vollhoffer – Premier Global Production

STUDIO RECORDING AWARDS:
BASS PLAYER OF THE YEAR
• Eli Beaird
• Mike Brignardello
• Tim Marks
• Michael Rhodes
• Jimmie Lee Sloas

DRUMMER OF THE YEAR
• Fred Eltringham
• Miles McPherson
• Greg Morrow
• Jerry Roe
• Nir Zidkyahu

GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR
• Tom Bukovac
• Dann Huff
• Rob McNelley
• Adam Shoenfeld
• Ilya Toshinskiy

PIANO/KEYBOARDS PLAYER OF THE YEAR
• David Dorn
• Tony Harrell
• Charlie Judge
• Tim Lauer
• Gordon Mote
• Mike Rojas

SPECIALTY INSTRUMENT(S) PLAYER OF THE YEAR
• Stuart Duncan
• Jenee Fleenor
• Jim Hoke
• Danny Rader
• Joe Spivey
• Charlie Worsham

STEEL GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR
• Dan Dugamore
• Paul Franklin
• Josh Grange
• Russ Pahl
• Justin Schipper

AUDIO ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
• Chuck Ainlay
• Jeff Balding
• Tony Castle
• Julian King
• Steve Marcantonio
• Justin Niebank

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
• busbee
• Buddy Cannon
• Dann Huff
• Michael Knox
• Joey Moi

Academy Of Country Music Names Host For 55th Annual Awards

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Reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year Keith Urban will serve as host for the 55th annual Academy of Country Music Awards on Sunday, April 5. Urban also announced the release of his first new song of 2020, “God Whispered Your Name.”

“As if having a new song out today wasn’t enough, I also get to host the ACM’s in April,” said Urban. “I’ll tell you – this year already feels like the most creative and energized year of my life… and there’s so much more to come. Incredibly grateful – and ready to roll!”

“We are thrilled to have our reigning Entertainer of the Year as the centerpiece of our 55th ACM Awards ceremony. Keith epitomizes greatness in our industry, is beloved by fans and fellow artists, and I can’t think of a better representative to be the face of our Awards show and to help usher in a new era at the Academy,” said Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music.

The ACM Awards air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, April 5 (live 8:00-11:00 p.m. ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network and will be available to stream live and on-demand across digital platforms on the CBS All Access subscription service.

CMA Presents Triple Play Awards

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Pictured (L-R, back row): Ross Copperman, Justin Ebach, Bobby Pinson, Jim Beavers (Host, CMA Board President Elect and Big Yellow Dog Music songwriter), Sarah Trahern (CMA Chief Executive Officer), Josh Osborne and Jon Nite. (L-R, front row): Jesse Frasure, Kane Brown, Ashley Gorley, Thomas Rhett and Jordan Reynolds. Photo: Hunter Berry/CMA

The Country Music Association recognized 16 of country music’s most successful songwriters during the 11th Annual CMA Triple Play Awards Tuesday (Feb. 25) at Marathon Music Works in Nashville. During the luncheon, honorees received trophies for having written three No. 1 songs within a 12-month period.

CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern welcomed luncheon guests before turning the podium over to event host Jim Beavers, CMA Board President Elect and Big Yellow Dog Music songwriter, who presented trophies to the 16 songwriters: Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Ross Copperman, Justin Ebach, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Michael Hardy, Shay Mooney, Jon Nite, Josh Osborne, Bobby Pinson, Matthew Ramsey, Jordan Reynolds, Thomas Rhett, Trevor Rosen and Dan Smyers.

Earning a trio of CMA Triple Play Awards for the second time in his career for penning nine songs within a 12-month period, Gorley is the most decorated Triple Play Award recipient with 15 total Triple Play trophies to his credit.

After the luncheon, Copperman hosted a sold-out CMA Songwriters Series show at Marathon Music Works featuring songwriters Ebach, Gorley, Nite, Pinson and Reynolds

The 11th Annual CMA Triple Play Awards recipients were recognized for the following:

Kane Brown
“Lose It” recorded by Kane Brown
“Good As You” recorded by Kane Brown
“One Thing Right” recorded by Marshmello & Kane Brown

Luke Combs
“She Got The Best Of Me” recorded by Luke Combs
“Beautiful Crazy” recorded by Luke Combs
“Beer Never Broke My Heart” recorded by Luke Combs

Ross Copperman
“Woman, Amen” recorded by Dierks Bentley
“Get Along” recorded by Kenny Chesney
“Love Ain’t” recorded by Eli Young Band

Justin Ebach
“Singles You Up” recorded by Jordan Davis
“Good Girl” recorded by Dustin Lynch
“Here Tonight” recorded by Brett Young

Jesse Frasure
“One That Got Away” recorded by Michael Ray
“One Thing Right” recorded by Marshmello & Kane Brown
“Remember You Young” recorded by Thomas Rhett

Ashley Gorley
“What Makes You Country” recorded by Luke Bryan
“Eyes On You” recorded by Chase Rice
“Love Ain’t” recorded by Eli Young Band
“Rumor” recorded by Lee Brice
“Living” recorded by Dierks Bentley
“I Don’t Know About You” recorded by Chris Lane
“Good Vibes” recorded by Chris Janson
“Remember You Young” recorded by Thomas Rhett
“Ridin’ Roads” recorded by Dustin Lynch

Michael Hardy
“Up Down” recorded by Morgan Wallen featuring Florida Georgia Line
“Simple” recorded by Florida Georgia Line
“God’s Country” recorded by Blake Shelton

Shay Mooney
“Speechless” recorded by Dan + Shay
“All To Myself” recorded by Dan + Shay
“10,000 Hours” recorded by Dan + Shay with Justin Bieber

Jon Nite
“Break Up In The End” recorded by Cole Swindell
“Knockin’ Boots” recorded by Luke Bryan
“Living” recorded by Dierks Bentley

Josh Osborne
“Kiss Somebody” recorded by Morgan Evans
“Hotel Key” recorded by Old Dominion
“One That Got Away” recorded by Michael Ray

Bobby Pinson
“Burning Man” recorded by Dierks Bentley featuring Brothers Osborne
“Some Of It” recorded by Eric Church
“Rearview Town” recorded by Jason Aldean

Matthew Ramsey
“Hotel Key” recorded by Old Dominion
“One That Got Away” recorded by Michael Ray
“Make It Sweet” recorded by Old Dominion

Jordan Reynolds
“Speechless” recorded by Dan + Shay
“Tequila” recorded by Dan + Shay
“All To Myself” recorded by Dan + Shay

Thomas Rhett
“Sixteen” recorded by Thomas Rhett
“Look What God Gave Her” recorded by Thomas Rhett
“Remember You Young” recorded by Thomas Rhett

Trevor Rosen
“Hotel Key” recorded by Old Dominion
“One That Got Away” recorded by Michael Ray
“Make It Sweet” recorded by Old Dominion

Dan Smyers
“Speechless” recorded by Dan + Shay
“Tequila” recorded by Dan + Shay
“All To Myself” recorded by Dan + Shay

ACM Nominations To Be Revealed This Week

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Final nominations for the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards will be announced Thursday, Feb. 27 via digital press conference at 7:30 a.m. CT/8:30 a.m. ET.

The ACM Awards will be presented Sunday, April 5.

Thursday morning select ACM Awards nominations categories will be revealed through video posts, with videos featuring ACM Award-winning artist Lauren Alaina, this year’s ACM Radio Award National On-Air Personality of the Year winner Bobby Bones, Entertainment Tonight’s Cassie DiLaura and Kevin Frazier, CBS This Morning’s Gayle King, and reigning ACM New Female Artist of the Year Ashley McBryde. A press release will be available on ACMcountry.com at 8:00 a.m. CT/ 9:00 a.m. ET.

Prior to the nominations announcement, the ACM will reveal the host of the upcoming awards show via the organization’s social media accounts at 7:00 a.m. CT/8:00 a.m. ET.

The ACM Awards air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, April 5 (live 8:00-11:00 p.m. ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network and will be available to stream live and on-demand across digital platforms on the CBS All Access subscription service.

Twitter – @ACMawards
Facebook – facebook.com/AcademyOfCountryMusic
Instagram – @ACMawards
Website – ACMcountry.com