BMI Celebrates 30th Anniversary Of Key West Songwriters Festival

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The Brummies. Photo: Carol Tedesco for BMI

The 30th annual Key West Songwriters Festival, presented by BMI, brought five days of sunshine and storytelling to the island last week (April 29 – May 3).

The festival offered more than 80 shows across five days with over 250 BMI multi-genre creators participating.

ERNEST. Photo: Carol Tedesco for BMI

Early highlights included Wednesday’s “Sunset Pier Kick Off Party” at the Ocean Key Resort & Spa hosted by Storme Warren with performances by DJ Smoke, The Brummies and Jeffrey Steele. Steele dedicated his hit “What Hurts The Most” to the late Ronnie Bowman, a beloved festival regular since 2017. Following the festival’s launch, fans sold-out the Key West Theater for a distinguished lineup featuring Ashley Cooke, Thomas Edwards, Aaron Raitiere, Tyler Reeve and James Slater.

The momentum carried into Thursday with multiple rounds hosted poolside at several island venues, including The Marker Resort and La Concha Hotel, where Bryan Frazier, Kurtis John and Casey Levasseur performed. The Blue Flamingo Resort hosted Marti Frederiksen, Jack Ingram and Trent Tomlinson. Fans gathered at Blue Heaven for the annual Bluebird Presents Liz Rose &

Photo: Carol Tedesco for BMI

Friends, where she was joined by Gloria Anderson, Phil Barton, Johnny Clawson, Mags Duval, Jack Ingram, Luke Laird, Lori McKenna, Lee Thomas Miller, Wendell Mobley, Summer Overstreet, Peytan Porter, Abbey Rowe and Paul Sikes. The day concluded at sunset with an intimate acoustic performance by Ashley Cooke at Lunara Live: Waterfront.

Friday featured performances from Mark Collie, Hayden Blount, Rob Hatch, Jim McCormick, Chord Overstreet, Hannah McFarland, Bob DiPiero, HARDY, Lee Thomas Miller, Bobby Pinson and more. That night, the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association and Texas Music office presented the San Carlos Institute with Gloria Anderson, Jack Ingram, Robert Earl Keen, Lori McKenna, Bruce Robison, Liz Rose and Larry Joe Taylor.

Ashley Cooke. Photo: Carol Tedesco for BMI

On Saturday, BMI and the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association celebrated the festival’s 30th anniversary with a VIP reception where Charlie Bauer, the founder of the event, was presented with the BMI Ambassador award. BMI’s Clay Bradley and Mason Hunter as well as past award recipients Storme Warren and Xperi’s Joe D’Angelo alongside FRLA’s Carl Dover, praised Bauer’s significant impact on the songwriting community. Following his 2019 festival debut, ERNEST headlined the annual block party at Main Stage on Duval Street, with direct support from Ashley Cooke and Cody Lohden.

The final day brought attendees together for gospel music with “Sunday Songs: Music & Mimosas” at Williams Hall on Sunday, featuring BMI’s Shannon Sanders, Chuck Cannon, Elisha Hoffman, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Megan Linville, Danny Myrick, Tommy Sims and DJ Smoke.

Marti Frederiksen, Jack Ingram and Trent Tomlinson. Photo: Carol Tedesco for BMI

Photo: Carol Tedesco for BMI

HARDY and Jeffrey Steele. Photo: Carol Tedesco for BMI

Ella Langley Stays Atop MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Ella Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard

Ella Langley has claimed the No. 1 spot on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. Her own tracks “Be Her,” “Bottom Of Your Boots,” “Broken,” “Butterfly Season,” “Choosin’ Texas,” “Dandelion,” “girl you’re taking home,” “Last Call For Us,” “Loving Life Again,” “Low Lights,” “Somethin’ Simple,” “We Know Us,” and “You & Me Time” give her her second consecutive week at No. 1.

Joybeth Taylor remains at No. 2 with “Broken,” “Butterfly Season,” “Choosin’ Texas,” “Dandelion,” “Empty Words,” “girl you’re taking home,” “Last Call For Us,” “Low Lights,” “Somethin’ Simple,” “Speaking Terms,” “We Know Us,” and “You & Me Time.” Luke Combs stays at No. 3 with “Days Like These,” “Rethink Some Things” and “Sleepless In A Hotel Room.”

Randy Montana (No. 4) and Chase McGill (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.

The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

BREAKING: Bill Macky Joins Quartz Hill Music Group

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Bill Macky.

Bill Macky has joined Quartz Hill Music Group as Senior Vice President of Promotion & Marketing, effective immediately. In his new role, he will lead radio strategy for both the Quartz Hill Records and Stone Country Records roster of artists.

Macky brings over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry to the role. He joins Quartz Hill after 13 years as the Vice President of Promotion at Black River Entertainment. During his time at Black River, he helped Kelsea Ballerini earn seven No. 1 hits, as well as working alongside Chris Young.

His other previous career stops include MCA Nashville, Sony Nashville and several independent record labels. Before label work, Macky spent 16 years in radio at WDSY-Pittsburgh, KSON-San Diego, KRTY-San Jose, KNCI-Sacramento and KUZZ-Bakersfield.

“My thanks to Benny [Brown], Paul [Brown], Jason [Sellers], and Ash [Bowers] and their entire staff for this opportunity and their belief in me,” says Macky. “We’re going to build something great! Quartz Hill Music Group has an outstanding roster of artists with so much potential! I’m looking forward to helping them bring these incredible artists to Country Radio and their fans. Let’s GO!!”

“I am excited to have Bill joining our Quartz Hill Music Group family! He’s worked with some of the best of the best in Nashville and has had great success at each step in his career,” adds says QHMG Founder/President Benny Brown. As our QHMG family continues to grow, Bill will be an important part of our efforts to help our artists achieve their dreams!”

Macky will report directly to Benny Brown, Paul Brown, Sellers and Bowers. He can be reached here.

Additionally, VP, Promotion Will Robinson and Dir. Promotion April Rider have exited the company after six years.

Robinson began his career at WQYK/WRBQ in Tampa, WNEW in New York, and WCAT in Harrisburg before going into the label system. As a regional, he worked with RPM, IRS, and Reviver, before rising to Vice President at Quartz Hill Records. He can be reached here.

Rider has previous career stops as managing partner at RPM Entertainment, General Manager at Stoney Creek Records and VP of Promotion at Curb Records. She can be reached here.

MusicRow Weekly (InCharge, News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly captures a moment of both momentum and reflection across the country and broader music industry, with major announcements, career milestones and the remembrance of influential figures shaping the headlines. Click here to see the full edition.

MusicRow Magazine has unveiled the 2026 edition of its flagship print directory, InCharge. Long regarded as an essential resource within Nashville’s music business ecosystem, the annual guide continues to spotlight the executives steering the industry forward. This year’s volume features 384 profiles, offering not only contact information but also in-depth career biographies and detailed affiliations across boards and organizations.

Award season is also beginning to take shape. The Country Music Association has confirmed that the 60th Annual CMA Awards will air live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 18, broadcasting on ABC with streaming availability on Hulu the following day. Alongside the date announcement, CMA released its full ballot schedule and key timelines for its Broadcast Awards, Touring Awards, International Awards and Industry Honors.

On the executive front, Big Machine Records/Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment has appointed Allison Jones as Executive Vice President of A&R. Elsewhere in media, Joseph Hudak has been promoted to Deputy Editor and Head of Country at Rolling Stone.

The artist community saw a mix of celebration and new beginnings this week. Avery Anna has been named ACM New Female Artist of the Year. Owen Riegling stepped into one of country music’s most revered circles with his Grand Ole Opry debut, while Naomi Carman and Sam Drysdale each marked new chapters by signing with Big Machine Records and ONErpm Nashville, respectively.

The industry also gathered to honor excellence at the Musicians Hall of Fame induction ceremony, held April 28 at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. The sold-out event recognized a diverse and accomplished class, including Dann Huff, Dolly Parton—who received the Industry Icon Award—George Thorogood & The Destroyers, John Boylan (Producer Award), Keith Urban, Leland Sklar, Michael McDonald and the late Nicky Hopkins.

Amid these forward-looking moments, the week also brought somber news with the passing of two respected figures. Country music outlaw David Allan Coe died at age 86, leaving behind a legacy defined by his distinctive voice and songwriting. Known for hits such as “The Ride” and “You Never Even Called Me by My Name,” Coe also penned songs recorded by icons including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Tammy Wynette. His songwriting contributions also include “Take This Job and Shove It” and “Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)”. Additionally, industry veteran Cliff Downs passed away at 72 following a battle with cancer. His multifaceted career as an artist, composer, producer and publisher earned him deep respect across the business.

This week’s edition also features a conversation with FlyteVu’s Laura Hutfless.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Ella Langley remains in the No. 1 spot with “Be Her.” Explore more chart data here.

The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.

Mark Your Calendar—May 2026

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Single/Track Releases & Radio Add Dates:

Luke Combs. Photo: Robby Klein

May 1
Diplo & Adrien Nunez/Two Steppin’/Atlantic Outpost
Cody Johnson/Hello Lonesome/CoJo Music/Warner Records Nashville
Lee Brice/Truck Bed Mixtape/Curb Records
Gavin Adcock/Wannabe/Thrivin’ Here Records/Warner Records Nashville
Wyatt Flores/Driving All Night/MCA/Island Records
Bayker Blankenship/Keep Calm/Santa Anna Nashville
Matt Maher/Gonna Be Alright
Gretchen Wilson/Redneck Shit
Drew Baldridge/Love Needs You/BBR Music Group/BMG
Alana Springsteen/i loved you then/Santa Anna Nashville
Thompson Square/Lay It On Me
Jordan St. Cyr/Wild Love
Tyce Delk/Mind If I Smoke
Kyle Clark/Checking Out
Danny Worsnop/I Tried To Write A Sad Song
Robyn Ottolini/If Hell Were a Bar
Matthew Goodnough (feat. Mac Hankins & The Moonlighters)/Bad Terms/Santa Anna Nashville
Abbie Callahan/Drag, Queen
Cody Oliphant/When I Go/Santa Anna Nashville
Parker Ryan/Loaded Gun
Caryn Dixon/Accidental Cowgirl
Jonathan Lee/Saturday Night/Pacific Standard Entertainment Group
Frank Ray/Third Row George Strait/BBR Music Group/Broken Bow Records
Julianna Rankin/XYZ71s/Big Loud Texas
Kyle Jenkins/It’ll Be Alright/Santa Anna Nashville
Hadlie Jo/God Made Mama
Diamond Dixie/Made A Liar
Carrie Brockwell/That’s Real
American Blonde/Mississippi Moonshine
Karly C/The Grass Looks Greener
Ashton Butler/One More Won’t Hurt
Neah McMeen/Little Scrap of Love
Camille Harrison/I Miss You, Mother
Cooper Riley/Outta Time

May 4
Luke Combs/Be By You/Columbia Nashville
Kacey Musgraves/Loneliest Girl/Lost Highway Records
Jason Charles Miller/Digging in the Dust (Water On Rust Remix)/One Opportunity Records
Caroline Jones/you’re it for me, honey/Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
Soul Circus Cowboys/Something Stronger

May 8
Kenny Chesney/Carry On
Koe Wetzel/Hurts Like You/Columbia Records
Greylan James/Small Town/Big Machine Records/Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
Chanel West Coast/Down To The Filter

May 11
Trey Pendley/Family Man/Leo33
Alex Miller/Just A Mom
Adam Chaffins/King Of Coal Dust County
Johnathon Heilbroun/Goodbye Looks Like/Johnathon Heilbroun Music

May 12
ALeeN ROSE (feat. Willie Nelson)/They’re There/Luna Wolf Records

May 15
Charles Wesley Godwin (feat. Luke Combs)/Better That Way/Big Loud
Love and Theft/Farm Truck
Angie K/Contigo
Wishgarden/Holy Water

May 18
Rodney Atkins/The Years Are Short/Curb Records
Jim Stanard (feat. Crystal Gayle)/Waking Up Dead/Manatee Records
Karly C/The Grass Looks Greener/Quirky Cowgirl

May 22
Andrew Mitch/muscle memory
Smokin’ Otis/Trail Ride

May 25
Skip Ewing/Me & God And A Fishing Pole
Robert Weston/Life’s A Beach/Weston Records

May 29
Levi Foster/Bloodhound
Bryan Ruby/Bonfire
Paige King Johnson/It Ain’t Me
Lauren Rismiller/Heart Broke In A Bar

 

Album/EP Releases:

May 1
Kacey Musgraves/Middle Of Nowhere/Lost Highway
Lainey Wilson/Lainey Wilson (Amazon Music presents: Live from Stagecoach 2026)/BBR Music Group/BMG
ERNEST/Deep Blue/Big Loud Records
Tauren Wells/Breathe On It
Austin Snell/Colors/River House Artists/Warner Records Nashville
Southall/Kinfolk
Emily Nenni/Movin’ Shoes/New West Records
Rita Wilson/Sound of a Woman
Ashley Anne/Generational Heartbreak
Alex Hall/Turn This Love Around/Yeehall Records/Blue Harbor Music
Jeff Bates/Hymns From the Church in the Wildwood/Tall Grass Records

May 8
Ashley McBryde/Wild/Warner Records Nashville
Chase Wright/Chasing Shadows
Amy Grant/The Me That Remains/Thirty Tigers
Josiah and the Bonnevilles/As Is/Rounder Records
Coleman Jennings/Lead You Home/Big Loud Texas/Mercury Records
Michaela Anne/These Are The Days/Georgia June Records

May 15
Braxton Keith/Real Damn Deal/Warner Records Nashville
49 Winchester/Change of Plans/Lucille Records/MCA
Ryan Bingham & The Texas Gentlemen/They Call Us The Lucky Ones/The Bingham Recording Co./Thirty Tigers
Cook Allender/Music Your Parents Hate/VibraHive Records
Sarah Harralson/Just The Beginning/Synapse Publishing & Entertainment, LLC

May 22
Julia Cole/Love You To Death
Kyle Clark/Better On A Boat
The Deslondes/Don’t Let It Die Vol. 1/New West Records
Steep Canyon Rangers/Next Act/Yep Roc Records
McCoy Moore/Sunshine State/Sony Music Nashville/Cervidae Records
Ian Harrison/Jealous/Sony Music Nashville/Free Flight Records
Ben Chapman/Feet On Fire/Soundly Music
Thomas Csorba/Tender Country/Turtlebox Records

May 29
Don Williams/EPILOGUE: THE CELLAR TAPES/Craft Recordings
Willie Nelson/Dream Chaser/Legacy Recordings
Rodney Atkins/True South/Curb Records
Kip Moore/Reason To Believe/Virgin Music Group
Alana Springsteen/I HOPE THIS HELPS/Santa Anna Nashville
Renée Fleming & Béla Fleck/The Fiddle and the Drum/Thirty Tigers
Bellah Mae/Keep It Peachy/Sony Music Nashville
Susto Stringband/Susto Stringband (Volume Two)/Missing Piece Records
Joshua Ray Walker/Ain’t Dead Yet/East Dallas Records/Thirty Tigers
Keyland/Knuckle Sandwich/One Riot
Carrie Brockwell/That’s Real
Frank Evans/Fit for a Dog

 

Industry Events:

May 17
61st Annual ACM Awards

 

Upcoming Nashville Concerts:

Chris Stapleton. Photo: David McClister

May 1
Ethel Cain/FirstBank Amphitheater
Bailey Zimmerman/Ascend Amphitheater
Ani DiFranco/Ryman Auditorium
Ashnikko/Marathon Music Works
Arm’s Length/Brooklyn Bowl
The Nude Party/The Basement East
Aaron Hibell/Cannery Hall (The Mil)
Raven/Exit/In
Liz Cooper/The Blue Room
Multi Ultra/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 2
Florence + The Machine/Bridgestone Arena
Bailey Zimmerman/Ascend Amphitheater
Josh Ritter/Ryman Auditorium
Nettspend/Cannery Hall (Mainstage)
Flyte/The Basement East
Krooked Kings/Exit/In
Sluice/The Blue Room
Jesse Solomon/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 3
Maddox Batson/The Pinnacle
Tracy Lawrence/Ryman Auditorium
Strings & Heart/Exit/In
Vanessa Carlton/City Winery

May 4
Fender Presents: Tele Town/Ryman Auditorium
The Paper Kites/Brooklyn Bowl
Freddie Dredd/The Basement East

May 5
Disclosure Live/The Pinnacle
Courtney Barnett/Ryman Auditorium
Failure/The Basement East
Patrick Droney/Exit/In
David Broza/City Winery
Andrew Duhon/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 6
Bruno Mars/Nissan Stadium
David Lee Roth/Ryman Auditorium
Sepultura/Brooklyn Bowl
Bahamas/The Basement East

May 7
Sammy Virji/The Pinnacle
Satchvai Band/Ryman Auditorium
Breakfield/Exit/In
Black Marble/The Blue Room

May 8
Russell Dickerson/Ascend Amphitheater
Amy Grant/Ryman Auditorium
Sleeping With Sirens/Marathon Music Works
CHE: ENCORE/Cannery Hall (Mainstage)
Colby Acuff/The Basement East
VAMPA/Cannery Hall (The Mil)
Sons Of Legion/Exit/In
CusCampbell/City Winery
Gia Margaret/The Blue Room
Babes In Canyon/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 9
David Byrne/Ascend Amphitheater
Benjamin Tod/Brooklyn Bowl
White Reaper x Drug Church/The Basement East
Sons Of Legion/Exit/In
Keiko Matsui/City Winery
Folk Bitch Trio/The Blue Room

May 10
Dethklok & Amon Amarth/The Pinnacle
Ari Lennox/Ryman Auditorium
Juvenile/Marathon Music Works
Alpha Wolf/Brooklyn Bowl
Dry Cleaning/The Basement East
Sun Kil Moon/City Winery
FLAKE/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 11
Unprocessed/The Basement East
Grant Knoche/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 12
Earth, Wind & Fire/FirstBank Amphitheater
Mac Demarco/Ryman Auditorium
Elmiene/Brooklyn Bowl
Cattle Decapitation/The Basement East
the Pharcyde/City Winery
Whitney/The Blue Room

May 13
Bilmuri/The Pinnacle
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band/Opry House
Herbie Hancock/Ryman Auditorium
Magnolia Park/The Basement East
49 Winchester/The Blue Room
Miles Minnick/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 14
Black Label Society/Ryman Auditorium
Pub Choir/Brooklyn Bowl
The Black Angels/The Basement East
Amelia Day/Exit/In
The Spooklights/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 15
Bush/FirstBank Amphitheater
Marilyn Manson/The Pinnacle
Drew & Ellie Holcomb/Ryman Auditorium
Behemoth/Brooklyn Bowl
TYNAN TIME/Cannery Hall (Mainstage)
Corrosion of Conformity/Cannery Hall (The Mil)
Happy Landing/Exit/In
Grace Ives/The Blue Room
Sterling Ezla & Cole Barnhill/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 16
Treaty Oak Revival/Bridgestone Arena
Drew & Ellie Holcomb/Ryman Auditorium
Kings Kaleidoscope/Cannery Hall (Mainstage)
Bella White/The Basement East
Earth Tongue & Pink Fuzz/The Blue Room
Katelyn Tarver/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 17
Treaty Oak Revival/Ryman Auditorium
Little Image/The Basement East
’68/Cannery Hall (The Mil)

May 18
Paul Gilbert/City Winery

May 19
Godsmack/FirstBank Amphitheater
Electric Callboy/The Pinnacle
Tech N9ne X E-40/Marathon Music Works
Chet Faker/Cannery Hall (Mainstage)
Saving Abel/City Winery
Edge of Broken/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 20
Diljit Dosanjh/Bridgestone Arena
Ann Wilson/City Winery

May 21
The Black Crowes & Whiskey Myers/Bridgestone Arena
Alter Bridge/The Pinnacle
Jarrod Walker/The Basement East
Sonja Morgan/City Winery

May 22
Trace Adkins/Ryman Auditorium
Chrisette Michele/Brooklyn Bowl
Noah Gundersen/The Basement East
Culture Wars/Exit/In
ChRocktikal/Riverside Revival
Maggie Miles/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 23
Chris Stapleton/Nissan Stadium
Trace Adkins/Ryman Auditorium
Krewella/Marathon Music Works
Uncle Lucius/Cannery Hall (The Mil)
Rickshaw/The Blue Room
hallpass/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 25
Alex Warren/Bridgestone Arena
Stella Standingbear/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 26
The Kid LAROI/Marathon Music Works
The Mountain Goats/Brooklyn Bowl
Vana/The Basement East
Alvin Garrett/City Winery
Arlo Parks/The Blue Room

May 27
Marcus King Band/Nashville Municipal Auditorium
Chicago/Opry House
Cold/The Basement East
MAJOR./City Winery

May 28
America/Ryman Auditorium

May 29
Cinderella’s Tom Keifer Band/Ryman Auditorium
Echo & The Bunnymen/Brooklyn Bowl
Genevieve Heyward/Exit/In
Caroline Carter/The Blue Room
Daydrnkrz/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

May 30
Joshua Slone/Marathon Music Works
Free Throw/Brooklyn Bowl
Fulton Lee/The Basement East
BARELY ALIVE/Cannery Hall (The Mil)
Tyler Boone/Exit/In
Ariella & Nicolaas/City Winery

May 31
Steve Earle/Ryman Auditorium
Peelingflesh/The Basement East
Fattmack/Exit/In
Andres/Cannery Hall (Row One Stage)

Ella Langley Stays Atop The MusicRow Radio Chart With ‘Be Her’

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Ella Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard

Ella Langley notches a second week atop the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart with her track, “Be Her.”

Langley co-wrote the song with Jordan Schmidt, Smith Ahnquist and HARDY. It appears on her sophomore album Dandelion.

The album has scored the largest streaming week for an album by a woman in 2026, and the biggest streaming week for a country album by a woman in two years. It currently sits at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.

“Be Her” currently sits at No. 8 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 6 Mediabase chart.

Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.

Tucker Wetmore Wins ACM New Male Artist Of The Year

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Tucker Wetmore

Tucker Wetmore has been crowned ACM’s New Male Artist of the Year. This mark’s Wetmore’s first-ever ACM Award.

Wetmore was surprised with the news in London today (April 30) during his sold-out show at the O2 Forum Kentish Town. Thomas Rhett appeared on screen via video message to announce the win before Wetmore’s mom Sia presented him with the trophy on stage.

“I’m at a loss for words right now for the first time in a long time. I can’t do any of this without you guys,” Wetmore shared from the stage. “I can’t do any of this without that woman [mom] right there… Y’all made this possible. Every single person in this venue. And there’s countless more outside of this venue that I can’t sit here and name because I’d be here all night. Thank y’all so much and thank you ACMs for this amazing honor.”

Wetmore is currently amidst his “The Brunette World Tour,” selling out shows in New York, Boston, three consecutive nights in London and more, and he will also make his Red Rocks debut this summer.

The 61st ACM Awards will stream live Prime Video on May 17 at 7 p.m. CT from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Kassi Ashton ‘Has Never Sounded Better’

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The country stars are swinging into spring in wildly diverse ways.

In this edition of DISClaimer, you’ll find flavors ranging from hip-hop to reggae, from rockabilly to pop.

You might think that one of the big star contenders would rule the listening session — Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Lee Brice or Dylan Scott. But you would be wrong. The Disc of the Day belongs to Kassi Ashton. She’s been musically all over the map during the past five years, but it sounds like with “Bitches” she has found her groove.

The DISCovery Award goes to Kelli Belles, who is billed with her last name only. She’s an old-school country singer duet-ing with a Living Legend. More power to her.

THE HEATHERLYS / “Maybe Baby”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: American Love Affair
– What a complete and utter blast. Merriment simply leaps out of the speakers as Eric and Lindsey strut their stuff on this deliciously retro rockabilly tune. Everly harmonies, stinging guitar, slappin’ bass, rollicking rhythm. What more could you want from a springtime single?

LEE BRICE / “Truck Bed Mixtape”
Writers: Andy Sheridan/Brian Davis/Lee Brice; Producers: none listed; Label: Curb Records
– He vows to make love to her in his truck all night. Which doesn’t sound all that comfy. The production of this love anthem is somewhat muddy.

LAUREN LUCAS / “Bringing Me Home”
Writer: Lauren Lucas; Producer: none listed; Label: LL
– Moody and contemplative. She has been wandering lost, but now she has found her way, thanks to the power of love. Lucas dips into her low alto range here, which adds to the languid atmosphere.

JASON ALDEAN / “Don’t Tell on Me”
Writers: John Morgan/Kurt Allison/Lydia Vaughan/Tully Kennedy; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: Broken Bow Records
– The track rocks mightily as he wails. His well-hidden secret is that he’s still in love with his ex. No one knows, but he’s afraid his heart will give him away. The new album is Songs About Us, and the title tune is a duet with Luke Bryan.

KASSI ASHTON / “Bitches”
Writers: Bryan Simpson/Kassi Ashton/Oscar Charles/Ryan Tyndell; Producers: Kassi Ashton, Oscar Charles; Label: MCA
– This is a wonderfully cool sound. A spare, thumping rhythm track features twang guitar and a splendidly drawled lyric. Ashton has never sounded better as she lays on the sass and admits that every gal in her family is as big a spitfire as she is. This delightfully refreshing track deserves massive exposure.

KEITH URBAN & MICHAEL McDONALD / “We Go Back”
Writers: BRELAND/Keith Urban/Sam Sumser/Sean Small; Producers: Dann Huff, Keith Urban; Label: MCA
– Urban’s forthcoming album is a collection of yacht-rock oldies (”Summer Breeze,” “How Much I Feel,” “Baby Come Back,” “I Just Wanna Stop,” etc.). Its lone original song is this collaboration with Rock & Roll Hall of Famer McDonald. The breezy ode appropriately recalls an old love from the 1970s. McDonald’s velvety voice shines on the choruses.

SMOKIN’ OTIS / “Trail Ride”
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Label: TS
– Also known as Tennessee Slick, handsome Smokin’ Otis is a Clarksville, TN native who stirs together his country raps, cowboy imagery and gang-sung choruses on this stoner anthem. Hooky and listenable.

DYLAN SCOTT / “Slow Down Ol’ Son”
Writers: Dylan Scott/Matt Alderman/Will Weatherly; Producers: Andrew Baylis, Will Weatherly; Label: Curb Records
– The inevitable passage of time and the fleeting hours we have to live are the themes of this powerfully delivered, thoughtful power ballad. Heartily recommended.

RAY BENSON / “Highway 61 Revisited”
Writer: Bob Dylan; Producer: none listed; Label: Tafari Records
– And now for something completely different. Durable Asleep at the Wheel leader Ray Benson is releasing a collection titled Swingin’ and Skankin’ that fuses western swing with reggae. Guitarist Warren Haynes joins him on this funky reworking of the Dylan classic. Believe it or not, the musical melange works. Also on board on the album are Willie Nelson, jazz legend Stanley Jordan and reggae superstar Sly Dunbar. Ear opening.

BELLES & DOLLY PARTON / “Son of Jolene”
Writers: Dolly Parton/Dan Harrison/Kelli Belles/Tyler Bank; Producers: Austin Luther, Johnny Gates, Kent Wells; Label: East Music Row Records
– The song that answers the musical question, “What would happen if Dolly’s jezebel Jolene had a child?” No surprise: He’s a wicked heartbreaker. The scampering track and Dolly’s pinpoint harmony singing are tingling delights.

BELLAH MAE / “Salt and Sugar”
Writer: Bellah Mae; Producers: Brett Truitt, JANEVA; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– In this pop-country ditty, she regrets her romantic decisions. He seemed like a nice guy, but then she got to know what he was really like. So she goofed, but can you blame her? After all, “salt and sugar both look the same.’

THE BELLAMY BROTHERS / “50 Years On”
Writer: David Bellamy; Producers: Randy Hiebert, The Bellamy Brothers; Label: Bellamy Brothers Records
– The legendary duo is marking its golden anniversary with this lilting, swaying reflection of music and memories. They’ve accomplished so much, so a little name-dropping in the lyric is only natural. Loggins & Messina, Merle Haggard, The Rolling Stones, George Jones, Queen and Conway Twitty are name checked, and the video shows many other compatriots who have passed on. Their innumerable international tours, Opry appearances, war-zone USO shows, youthful pop stardom and country classics are referenced, in case you need any reminders about Howard and David’s extraordinary career.

ALEX MILLER / “Just a Mom”
Writers: Steve Williams/Wood Newton; Producer: Jerry Salley; Label: Billy Jam Records
– Just in time for Mother’s Day (coming on May 10), Alex lists the multitude of multi-tasking jobs that being a mom entails. She’s embarrassed to be applying for work when her only experience is being “just a mom.” But she gets the gig anyhow. As usual, Alex delivers the goods as an expressive vocalist. Also as usual, Salley’s production is understated perfection.

Country Outlaw David Allan Coe Dies At 86

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David Allan Coe. Photo: Matthew Woitunski via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Talented country star David Allan Coe has died at age 86.

The charismatic performer was known for recording such hits as “Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile”, “The Ride”, “You Never Even Called Me by My Name”, “She Used to Love Me a Lot”, and “Longhaired Redneck.” He notched 63 singles on the Billboard charts.

Coe was a talented songwriter, with artists including Johnny Cash, George Jones, Willie Nelson, Tammy Wynette, The Oak Ridge Boys and many more recording his songs. His biggest hits as a songwriter were “Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone),” recorded by Tanya Tucker, and Johnny Paycheck’s iconic rendition of “Take This Job and Shove It,” which later inspired a movie of the same name.

Coe often spurred controversy with lyrics, with frequent profanities, tales of drug use and sexually explicit material. His rebellious attitude and image garnered him the title of the ‘outlaw’s outlaw.’

Coe was born in Akron, Ohio on Sept. 6, 1939. As a boy, he was sent to the Starr Commonwealth For Boys reform school. Coe would spend the next 20 years in correctional facilities, including three years at the Ohio Penitentiary.

After ending a prison term in 1967, Coe moved to Nashville where he reportedly lived in a hearse which he parked in front of the Ryman Auditorium. While street performing, he caught the attention of the owner of the independent record label Plantation Records, Shelby Singleton, who signed him.

In 1970 Coe released his debut album Penitentiary Blues. In 1971 he signed to Pete and Rose Drake’s publishing company Windows Publishing Company, and when Tanya Tucker’s recording of his “Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)” went to the top of the charts, Coe was signed to Columbia Records. He cut his own version of the song for his second Columbia album, Once Upon a Rhyme, released in 1975.

Once Upon A Rhyme also contained Coe’s biggest hit, “You Never Even Called Me by My Name,” written by John Prine and Steve Goodman.

His third album, The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy, was named for the rhinestones suit and a Lone Ranger mask he wore to perform.

Coe would go on to release a handful of more albums throughout the ’70s, including Longhaired Redneck (1976), Human Emotions (1978), Family Album (1978), Compass Point (1979) and Spectrum VII (1979).

In 1980 Coe enlisted producer Billy Sherrill for I’ve Got Something to Say, which included featured vocals from Guy Clark, Bill Anderson, Dickey Betts (of The Allman Brothers Band), Kris Kristofferson, Larry Jon Wilson, and George Jones.

Coe’s 1983 album Castles in the Sand would prove to be a mainstream success for Coe, peaking at No. 8 on the country albums chart. Its success was spurred on by “The Ride,” which spent 19 weeks on the Billboard country singles charts, reaching a peak of No. 4. The song tells the story of a hitchhiker’s encounter with the ghost of Hank Williams, Sr. in a ride from Montgomery, Alabama to Nashville.

1984’s Just Divorced contains Coe’s second biggest chart hit, “Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile”, which rose to No. 2 on the Billboard country singles chart.

Coe’s 1986 album Son of the South featured contributions from fellow country outlaws Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Jessie Colter. His final album for Columbia, a concept album A Matter of Life…and Death, was released in 1987.

Throughout the 1990s, Coe toured throughout the United States and Europe. In 1990 he reissued his independent albums Nothing Sacred and Underground Album on CD, as well as the compilation 18 X-Rated Hits–which were very controversial for racist, misogynist and homophobic lyrics.

In 2003, Coe wrote a song for Kid Rock, “Single Father,” which appeared on Kid Rock’s self-titled album, and was released as a single. He released Rebel Meets Rebel, with Dimebag Darrell, Vinnie Paul, and Rex Brown, in 2006, two years after Darrell’s murder.

Coe is survived by his son Tyler Mahan Coe, who created the country music podcast Cocaine & Rhinestones and the podcast Your Favorite Band Sucks. He is also survived by his daughter, Shelli Coe Mackie. He is preceded in death by his son-in-law, the late Michael Mackie, formerly of Texas band Thunderosa.

BREAKING: Date Revealed For 60th Annual CMA Awards

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The Country Music Association has announced the date for The 60th Annual CMA Awards, which will air Wednesday, Nov. 18 from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena live on ABC and next day on Hulu.

The CMA has also revealed the full ballot schedule for the 60th CMA Awards, as well as key dates for the CMA Broadcast Awards, Touring Awards, International Awards and Industry Honors.

“Country Music is shaped by the people who dedicate their lives to it, whether on stage, in the studio, on the road, or behind the scenes,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “At CMA, celebrating that work is at the heart of everything we do. Across our awards and honors, it is this community that determines what excellence looks like, and in our 60th year, I hope every member of this industry truly understands the significance of that. Their participation is how Country Music recognizes itself, and how it shapes its future.”

Below is a snapshot of key dates, eligibility requirements and voting processes across CMA’s annual awards cycle.

CMA Awards Balloting Timeline — “The 60th Annual CMA Awards”

The CMA Awards celebrate excellence in Country Music across 12 categories, honoring artists, musicians, songwriters, producers, mix engineers, and music video directors who made a significant impact on the genre during the eligibility period.

Eligibility Period:
– July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
Voting Process:
– All CMA Professional voting members can vote in three rounds. As of today, 6,678 Professional members are eligible to vote.
– Nomination Ballot: Voters write in any artist or project they think deserves a nomination. If it fits the criteria for that category, it counts.
– Second Ballot: The top 20 vote-getters from the first round move forward (only the top 15 for Entertainer of the Year). Members can vote for up to five candidates in each category.
– Final Ballot: The top 5 from the second round become the official nominees, and CMA members vote one last time to choose the winners. Members can vote for one nominee in each category.
– All three rounds of voting will be conducted online by Election Services Corp. (ESC). To ensure ballot delivery, members are encouraged to add CMAAwardsVote@mg.electionservicescorp.com to their safe senders.
– All balloting is tabulated by the professional services organization, Deloitte.
Nomination Ballot:
– Emailed to eligible CMA members on Monday, July 6
– Closes Thursday, July 16 at 6:00 PM/CT
Second Ballot:
– Emailed on Tuesday, Aug. 4
– Closes Monday, Aug. 17 at 6:00 PM/CT
– Final nominees in each of the 12 categories will be announced later this summer.
Final Ballot:
– Emailed on Thursday, Oct. 1
– Closes Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 6:00 PM/CT
Membership Deadline & Information:
– To vote in all three rounds, prospective CMA members must apply for membership by Monday, June 1 at CMAmember.com.
– Only CMA Professional voting members receive voting privileges. The Professional voting tier is offered to industry professionals who primarily work within Country Music.

CMA Broadcast Awards Submissions — 2026 CMA Broadcast Awards

The CMA Broadcast Awards recognize excellence in Country broadcasting, honoring stations and personalities who make a significant impact on the genre and its listeners.

Eligibility Period:
– Performances and events between June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026
Submission Process:
– Apply starting Friday, May 1 at broadcast.CMAawards.com.
– Guidelines and entry instructions are available on the website.
– CMA membership is not required to submit.
Eligible Categories:
– Broadcast Personality of the Year and Radio Station of the Year in four market sizes: Major Market, Large Market, Medium Market and Small Market
– National Broadcast Personality of the Year in two formats: Daily and Weekly
– Syndicated, Short-Form, Hub Voice-Tracking, Digital Service Providers, and Satellite personalities with livestream broadcasts are eligible to apply for National Broadcast Personality of the Year.
Submission Period:
– Open Friday, May 1 through Tuesday, June 30 at 5:00 PM/CT
Judging Process & Information:
– Entries will be reviewed and evaluated online by a panel of distinguished radio and industry professionals.
– CMA Broadcast Awards winners will be notified in October and recognized at “The 60th Annual CMA Awards” ceremony.
– All balloting is tabulated by the professional services organization, Deloitte.

CMA Touring Awards Nominations

The CMA Touring Awards honor excellence in Country Music touring, recognizing behind-the-scenes professionals across 20 categories for their significant contributions to the industry.

Eligibility Period:
– Oct. 1, 2025 – Sept. 30, 2026
Nomination Process & Information:
– Nomination Ballot: A Nomination Ballot will be sent to current CMA Professional voting members in the following member categories: Affiliated, Artist, Composer, Entertainment Services, Musician, Personal Manager, Record Company, Talent Agent, Advertising/Marketing/Communications, Venue, Talent Buyer/Promoter and Touring Personnel. Each member is eligible to submit one nomination for each award category.
– Second Ballot: Any candidate that meets the eligibility criteria and receives a minimum of three (3) nominations will be placed on the Second Ballot. Eligible CMA members may vote for up to five (5) candidates in each category for which they choose to vote.
– Selection of Final Nominees: The Top 20 vote recipients from the Second Ballot will be presented to a CMA Touring Awards Task Force to develop a slate of at least five (5) but no more than eight (8) potential nominees for each of the CMA Touring Awards categories.
– Final Ballot: The Final Ballot consisting of the approved nominees are sent to eligible CMA members for voting. Each member may vote for one (1) nominee in each category they choose to vote.
– All balloting is tabulated by the professional services organization, Deloitte.
Nomination Ballot:
– Opens Monday, July 20
– Closes Tuesday, July 28 at 6:00 PM/CT
Second Ballot:
– Opens Tuesday, Aug. 25
– Closes Thursday, Sept. 10 at 6:00 PM/CT
Final Ballot:
– Opens Tuesday, Dec. 1
– Closes Wednesday, Dec. 16 at 6:00 PM/CT

CMA International Awards

CMA International Awards recognize outstanding achievements and contributions to Country Music worldwide, celebrating individuals across six categories who champion the genre and expand its global reach.

Nomination Process & Information:
– All CMA Professional voting members can submit nominations. A CMA International Awards Task Force reviews the nominations and makes finalists and winner recommendations to the CMA Awards & Recognition Committee, which approves the recipients.
– There are six CMA International Award categories—Jo Walker Meador International Award, Rob Potts International Live Music Advancement Award, Wesley Rose International Media Achievement Award, International Country Broadcaster Award, International Artist Achievement Award, and Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award.
– Nominate at https://CMAmember.lnk.to/IntNoms26PR.
Nomination Ballot:
– Open starting Friday, May 1 through Sunday, May 31

CMA Industry Honors Nominations

CMA Industry Honors recognize outstanding achievements and contributions to Country Music, celebrating the individuals whose work has made a lasting impact on the genre.

Nomination Process & Information:
– CMA Industry Honors recognize artists, executives, and other professionals who have made exceptional contributions to the Country Music industry and community.
– CMA Professional members can submit nominations for the following CMA Industry Honors —CMA Foundation Humanitarian Award, Irving Waugh Award of Excellence, Joe Talbot Award, CMA Touring Lifetime Achievement Award, CMA Songwriter Advocate Award, and CMA Award for Recording Excellence.
– Final recipients are selected and approved by the CMA Board of Directors.
– Nominate at https://CMAmember.lnk.to/IndustryHonorsNoms26PR.
Nomination Ballot:
– Open now through Sunday, Aug. 16

For questions regarding awards eligibility or voting and nomination processes, CMA members can contact Brenden Oliver, CMA Director, Awards Stewardship, at BOliver@CMAworld.com. For inquiries related to CMA membership, reach out to the Membership team at Membership@CMAmember.com.