On The Cover: MusicRow’s Artist Roster Issue Features Jordan Davis On Cover

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MusicRow has released its 2023 Artist Roster print issue, featuring ASCAP songwriter and MCA Nashville recording artist Jordan Davis on the cover.

Having solidified himself as one of the industry’s top singer-songwriters, 2022/23 marked a breakthrough year for Jordan Davis. In February 2023, Davis released his second full-length album, Bluebird Days, which earned the Shreveport, Louisiana native rave reviews as well as a RIAA Gold-certification. The CMA and NSAI Award winner recently earned his first ACM Male Vocalist nomination (2023) and his hit single, “Next Thing You Know,” continues to climb the charts and resonate with fans. Produced by Paul DiGiovanni, Bluebird Days features 17 songs total, including his fifth career No. 1 hit, “What My World Spins Around” and his double-Platinum, multi-week No. 1 “Buy Dirt” (feat. Luke Bryan), which won numerous accolades including CMA and NSAI Song of the Year and earned ACM, AMA, Billboard and iHeart Music Award nominations.

Davis previously notched three consecutive No. 1 hits off of his Gold-certified album, Home State, including the double-Platinum certified “Singles You Up” as well as the Platinum-certified “Take It From Me” and “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot.” In 2019, Davis was awarded Best New Country Artist at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. He is a two-time nominee for ACM New Male Artist of the Year and was named Billboard’s Top New Country Artist of 2018. Davis has amassed more than four billion streams worldwide and appeared on Ellen, Good Morning America, The Today Show, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live and more. He recently announced his “Damn Good Time Tour,” which will kick off late summer and includes a headlining show at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater as well as tour dates across the country. For more information and tickets, visit jordandavisofficial.com.

Featured by The Tennessean, American Songwriter, Billboard and more, Bluebird Days debuted to early rave reviews, with Billboard noting, “Davis soars on Bluebird Days” and Entertainment Focus echoing, “Jordan Davis comes of age on new album Bluebird Days and shows the world the type of mature, meaningful and melodic songwriter he is.” Bluebird Days is a “rich, deep, meaningful album” (Entertainment Focus) that digs deep into Davis’ personal experiences and offers a wide range of emotions, meditations, and memories, matched by his signature sound blending traditional and contemporary genres and styles.

This year’s Artist Roster print edition features exclusive editorials including a celebration of Kane Brown’s elevation into a genre-leading artist, shared by members of Brown’s team Martha Earls, Braeden Rountree, Dennis Reese and Alex Alvga. Brown recently completed a monumental tour of the nation’s 29 NBA arenas, becoming the first country artist in history to do so and fulfilling a dream sparked in 2020. This season of career wins for Brown also includes his hit single “Thank God” released with his wife, Katelyn, and a television appearance on the drama Fire Country. Brown is continuing to climb to great heights.

Four of Nashville’s top managers—Brad Belanger, Blythe Scokin, Mandelyn Monchick and Zach Sutton—join together for a round-table about working in the fast-paced industry with its dynamic social media and technological climates.

Music Health Alliance’s Founder and CEO Tatum Hauck Allsep and CFO and Certified Senior Advisor Shelia Shipley Biddy celebrate a decade of healing the music. MHA has provided healthcare access through advocacy services since its launch in 2013.

MusicRow catches up with RECORDS Nashville for the Artist Roster issue, speaking with Executive Vice President Joe Fisher, Vice President of Promotion and Commercial Strategy Josh Easler and RECORDS Founder Barry Weiss about their collaborative work with a wide range of artists.

This issue also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Country Music Association’s annual CMA Fest with a look back at some of the biggest moments in the history of the event.

Additionally, the Artist Roster contains a six-part company directory, complete with client rosters in the categories: Label, Management, Talent Agents, Publicity, Artist Services (Banking, Business Management/Financial/Insurance, Digital Music, Legal, Marketing, Radio Promotion and Media) and Organizations (Trade & Professional Development, Performing & Mechanical Rights and Unions).

This edition also offers a summarizing Artist Grid, which has become an indispensable tool connecting artists to their team members in Label, Management, Talent Agency and Publicity categories.

Single copies of MusicRow’s 2023 Artist Roster print issue are available for purchase at musicrow.com for $45, and are included with yearly MusicRow subscriptions.

Industry Celebrates Historic 50th Anniversary Of CMA Fest With Events Across Nashville

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Brothers Osborne performs during UMG Nashville’s Music Is Universal event. Photo: Chris Hollo

CMA Fest marked its 50th anniversary in Nashville this past weekend, wrapping on Sunday (June 11) after four straight fun-filled days. The milestone anniversary of the largest and longest-running country music festival in the world brought over 90,000 estimated attendees from all 50 states as well as a record-breaking 51 countries each day, a 12 percent increase from 2022.

Packed lineups of both established and rising acts hit the daytime stages, while Nissan Stadium—which alone saw a 10 percent increase in attendance—and Ascend Amphitheater featured performances by a variety of stars at night.

Carrie Underwood kicks off her new channel live and in person from SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour at the Margaritaville Cafe in Nashville with SiriusXM host Buzz Brainard. Photo: Jason Davis

Parmalee, Lauren Alaina, Ingrid Andress, Priscilla Block, Tyler Braden, Breland, Jackson Dean, Travis Denning, Madeline Edwards, Morgan Evans, Corey Kent, Maddie & Tae and more took the Chevy Riverfront Stage. The Dr Pepper Amp Stage included A Thousand Horses, Avery Anna, Rodney Atkins, Blanco Brown, Craig Campbell, Mackenzie Carpenter, Callista Clark, among others.

Tyler Booth, Dillon Carmichael, Carter Faith, Ryan Griffin, Chapel Hart, Home Free, Kat & Alex, Tiera Kennedy, Brett Kissel, Jerrod Niemann and more serenaded crowds from the Chevy Vibes Stage at Walk of Fame Park, and the Maui Jim Reverb Stage at Bridgestone Plaza hosted the likes of Justin Champagne, Ben Chapman, Kyle Clark, Abbey Cone, Taylor Edwards, Drew Green, Jonathan Hutcherson, Willie Jones, Bryan Martin, Chase McDaniel, Madeline Merlo and more.

Throughout the four days, BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) and Ryman Auditorium gave 19 emerging artists the opportunity to showcase their talent during the Ryman and BMI Block Party. During the event, BMI’s VP of Creative, Nashville Clay Bradley presented The Dolly Parton Songwriters Award to its first-ever recipient, Macy Dot Neal, in honor of the legendary artist.

Fans also headed to Skydeck on Broadway for UMG Nashville’s inaugural Music Is Universal event as well as Spotify House at Ole Red and Fan Fair X in Music City Center, which hosted daily performances on the Spotlight Stage from nearly 50 artists to full audiences. Chapel Hart, Blanco Brown, Adam Doleac, Tiera Kennedy, Kimberly Perry, Mason Ramsey, Randy Travis, Sam Williams, Bailey Zimmerman and many others participated in anticipated meet-and-greets with excited fans.

Pictured (L-R): Warner Music Nashville’s Ben Kline, Cody Johnson, Reba McEntire and Warner Music Nashville’s Cris Lacy

On Friday (June 9), Wilson and Tractor Supply co-hosted Lainey Wilson’s Bell Bottom Barn Dance presented by Tractor Supply for her fan club at downtown Nashville’s Bell Tower, and Carrie Underwood launched her exclusive year-round SiriusXM channel Carrie’s Country in person from SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour at the Margaritaville Cafe.

On Night One, Nissan Stadium hosted King Calaway, Jo Dee Messina, Jordan Davis, Luke Combs, Carly Pearce, Dan + Shay and special guests on the main stage as well as RVSHVD and Ashley Cooke on the platform stage. Night Two featured Tanya Tucker, Lainey Wilson, Cody Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Jelly Roll, Keith Urban and Hardy along with more surprise guests in addition to Hailey Whitters and Dalton Dover on the platform stage. Johnson surprised special guest Reba McEntire with a Gold plaque for their hit duet “Dear Rodeo” backstage before his set.

Ascend Amphitheater returned for a fifth year with a packed crowd on Friday night. The party started with headliner The Cadillac Three bringing the energy alongside Little Big Town. Additional acts included Boy Named Banjo, Randy Rogers Band, Elvie Shane and Tenille Townes.

Tracy Lawrence, Little Big Town, Old Dominion, Jon Pardi and Eric Church took Nissan’s big stage and Ian Munsick and Alana Springsteen took the platform stage during Night Three.

On Sunday, The Black Excellence Brunch was held at the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) and featured notable Black artists and industry leaders while honoring BMI Executive Director, Creative, Shannon Sanders. After the cancellation of the afternoon shows due to bad weather, Nissan’s Final Night housed thousands of fans as Josh Turner, Ashley McBryde, Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw and Luke Bryan sang on the main stage and Megan Moroney and Nate Smith served as platform stage performers. Bryan also closed out the final day of CMA Fest with his Nut House at Luke’s 32 Bridge to celebrate 15 years of the fan club.

Ticket proceeds directly benefit music education initiatives across the country through the CMA Foundation. This year, CMA will donate $2.5 million to the CMA Foundation. Additionally, the three-hour primetime concert special CMA Fest was filmed during this year’s festival and will air July 19 on ABC.

Pictured: Parmalee with Chevy Riverfront Stage hosts Bubba and Big D

Pictured (L-R): Warner Music Nashville’s Ben Kline, Stephanie Davenport, Madeline Edwards, Warner Music Nashville’s Cris Lacy and Sam I Am Entertainment’s Sam Borenstein

Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Clay Bradley, Macy Dot Neal and BMI’s Mitch Ballard. Photo: Erika Goldring for BMI

Lainey Wilson performs during Lainey Wilson’s Bell Bottom Barn Dance presented by Tractor Supply. Photo: Roxy Moure

Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Shannon Sanders, K. Michelle, CMA’s Mia McNeal and Trell Thomas at the Black Excellence Brunch. Photo: Derrick Johnson for CMA

Luke Combs’ ‘Beautiful Crazy’ Earns Diamond Status

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Pictured (L-R): Caryl Atwood (SVP, Commercial Partnerships, SMN), Ken Robold (EVP & COO, SMN), Luke Combs, Steve Hodges (EVP, Promotion & Artist Development, SMN), Rob Williford), Taylor Lindsey (SVP, A&R, SMN), Randy Goodman (Chairman & CEO, SMN) & Liz Cost, (VP, Marketing, SMN). Photo: David Bergman

Luke Combs‘ titanic hit “Beautiful Crazy” is officially Diamond-certified by the RIAA, meaning it has sold 10 million copies. The tune is only the sixth country song in RIAA history to achieve the feat.

Combs co-wrote “Beautiful Crazy” with Rob Williford and Wyatt Durrette as a bonus track to his 2017 debut album This One’s for You. Combs and Williford joined the Sony Music Nashville team to celebrate its Diamond certification at Comb’s CMA Fest Bootleggers Fan Club Party.

Combs performed “Beautiful Crazy” as part of his set at Nissan Stadium during Thursday night (June 8) of CMA Fest.

Chase McGill Enters The Top 5 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Chase McGill at ACM Songs & Stories, Powered by The Bluebird Cafe + NSAI held at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort on May 10, 2023 in Frisco, Texas.

Chase McGill moves from No. 7 to No. 5 this week on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

McGill is a co-writer on Russell Dickerson’s “God Gave Me A Girl,” Jordan Davis’ “Next Thing You Know,” Morgan Wallen’s “Ain’t That Some,” Luke Combs’ “5 Leaf Clover,” Luke Bryan’s “But I Got A Beer In My Hand” and Conner Smith’s “Creek Will Rise.”

Ashley Gorley marks another week at No. 1 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. Tracy Chapman (No. 2), Zach Bryan (No. 3) and Ryan Vojtesak (No. 4) complete the 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.

CMA Fest Night 4: Alabama, Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan & More Close Out The Weekend

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Josh Turner performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

Following the cancellation of the afternoon shows due to severe weather warnings, thousands of country music fans flooded into Nissan Stadium under cloudy skies for the final night of CMA Fest on Sunday night (June 11). The energy was electric for the closing performances of the legendary 50th anniversary year.

Throughout the night, those on stage regaled the early days of CMA Fest and thanked the fans for their continuous support through the years.

“There is nothing in the world like a country music fan, and we got a lot of them here tonight,” said Josh Turner, his voice booming as he opened the night.

Fans didn’t miss a beat as they sang along to his classics like “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” “Would You Go With Me” and “Your Man.” Turner also celebrated the newly 4x Platinum-certified “Long Black Train” with a rousing performance to close his set.

With over 40 total No. 1 country hits, more than 75 million records sold and over 200 awards from a variety of organizations, Alabama is one of the most successful bands in country music history. As they took the stage next for a surprise performance, the stadium was full of fans on their feet, jamming along to “Tennessee River,” “If You’re Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)” and “Mountain Music.” Blending “Dixieland Delight” with “Will The Circle Be Unbroken,” the entertainers celebrated over 50 years of music and honored their late bandmate, Jeff Cook.

Alabama performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

The Country Music Association presented Alabama with the Pinnacle Award to honor their career and accomplishments. The Pinnacle Award recognizes an artist or group who has undeniably redefined the pinnacle of success in the genre by achieving prominence through concert performances, consumption numbers, record sales and/or other significant industry achievements at levels unique for country music.

Following the legends, country newcomer Megan Moroney took the Platform Stage in Nissan Stadium. Donning Georgia red for her home state, she sang her rising hits “I’m Not Pretty” and “Tennessee Orange.” She thanked the fans for helping her grow her career over the last year to heights she had only dreamed.

Ashley McBryde performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville..

With an electric set, Ashley McBryde and her band kept the energy high after sundown. She thrilled fans with “Made for This” and her spunky hit “Brenda Put Your Bra On” before performing “Light On In The Kitchen” and “The Devil I Know.” Everyone was singing along at the top of their lungs to her closing song, “One Night Standards.”

Nate Smith then took the Platform Stage for a heartfelt performance of “World On Fire,” reminiscing on how far music has brought him over the last year. Fans were sticking it out through the rain to hear him play “Whiskey On You” as he closed his set.

Dierks Bentley performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

The rain did not hold Dierks Bentley back as he doubled as a co-host and performer for CMA Fest’s final night. From the main stage, he had the fans on fire with “Burning Man,” “Gone,” “Gold” and “Up On The Ridge.” Joined by Charlie Worsham, his stellar set included a cover of Garth Brooks‘ “Callin’ Baton Rouge,” with both Worsham and Bentley on the mics.

Bentley wowed the crowd with an energetic lineup of “Free and Easy (Down The Road I Go)” and “5-1-5-0” before closing with a his hits “I Hold On” and fan-favorite “Drunk On A Plane.”

Tim McGraw performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

Award-winning country superstar Tim McGraw packed punch after punch in his set, starting with his charged performance of “How Bad Do You Want It.” The crowd was keeping up with the energy, singing along to “Something Like That,” “Just To See You Smile,” “Southern Girl” and McGraw’s current single “Standing Room Only.”

He had the fans swooning as he sang “Real Good Man” and roaring to “Truck Yeah.” McGraw closed his set with some special guests—fifth and sixth grade students from the Metro Nashville Public Schools joined him onstage to sing and sign along to “Humble and Kind.” Ticket proceeds from CMA Fest go to the CMA Foundation’s work to provide students around the country with quality music education.

Luke Bryan performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 11 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

Luke Bryan had the fans’ full attention as he took the stage for the last set of the 50th anniversary weekend. He opened with “That’s My Kind of Night” and had fans cheering to “Rain Is A Good Thing,” despite the afternoon’s weather.

Bryan’s newest single “But I Got A Beer In My Hand” helped fans forget their troubles as they raised their hands high to “Country On” and “What Makes You Country.” Early into the morning hours, Bryan hyped the crowd with the “Drunk On You,” “Down To One” and “Play It Again.”

Everyone was on their feet for Bryan’s finales, kicking it back with “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)” and dancing it out to “I Don’t Want This Night To End”—a sentiment shared by all in attendance.

Chris Lane Signs With Red Street Records

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Chris Lane. Photo: Sean O’Halloran

Multi-Platinum country artist Chris Lane has signed a new record deal with Jay DeMarcus’ Red Street Records, in partnership with Lane’s new endeavor, Voyager Records.

Pictured: Chris Lane, Red Street Records and Red Light Management team members. Photo: Xander Calhoun

Lane celebrated his new record deal at CMA Fest over the weekend. The team at Red Street Records and Lane’s representatives at Red Light Management took over SiriusXM The Highway’s Music Row Happy House at Margaritaville to share the news.

Lane brings 1.7 billion on-demand streams, three career No. 1 hits, three Platinum and two multi-Platinum singles to Red Street Records. He has been nominated for iHeart Radio Music Awards, Radio Disney Music Awards and ACM Awards, and has made major television appearances on shows such as The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Bachelor, Seth Meyers, Conan, Today Show and more.

“I was looking for the right partner for my new music and venture Voyager Records and found it in Red Street Records,” Lane says. “Not only is Red Street an artist-driven label that supports my vision for music but Jay DeMarcus has been and continues to be a great friend. I have been spending the time needed to write and record new music and can’t wait to share what I have been working on real soon.”

Red Street’s DeMarcus shares, “I couldn’t be more thrilled to have Chris join our family here at Red Street. We’ve been friends since he opened for [Rascal Flatts] in the summer of 2016. It has been so much fun for me to watch him turn into the star that he has become over the last few years, and now we have the privilege of being his label home.

“I have been so impressed with his growth musically both as a singer and a songwriter,” DeMarcus continues. “I cannot wait for everyone to hear what he’s been up to in the studio. He’s gonna surprise a lot of folks. I am even more impressed with the man Chris is, and he defines the kind of artist that we want to be in business with. This a big day for Red Street Records!”

Fans Flock To Spotify House During CMA Fest 2023

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Reba McEntire performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify

Spotify House at Ole Red in downtown Nashville was the place to be during the 2023 edition of CMA Fest, which took place Thursday (June 8) through Sunday (June 11). Lines started blocks away from Ole Red for the renowned event of free music, special surprises and lots of fun.

Diplo performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify

Thursday’s lineup included Brett Young, Avery Anna, 49 Winchester, Ashley Cooke, Conner Smith, Warren Zeiders, Ingrid Andress, Chayce Beckham, Riley Green, Sam Hunt, Jordan Davis and Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley on the main stage as well as Mae Estes, Logan Crosby, Lauren Watkins, Sam Barber, Nolan Taylor and Wyatt Flores on the Fresh Finds stage.

Some highlights on Thursday included a CMA Fest 50th Spotlight Performance from Billy Currington as well as a surprise performance by Kelsea Ballerini.

On Friday, fans heard from Mackenzie Carpenter, Josh Ross, Ella Langley, Dalton Dover, Ian Munsick, Dierks Bentley, Chase Rice, Tenille Arts, Brian Kelley, Jon Pardi, Old Dominion, Brad Paisley and Chris Young on the main stage. The Fresh Finds stage featured Graham Barham, Abbey Cone, Grant Gilbert, Halle Kearns, Harper Grace and Payton Smith.

Pictured (L-R): Mary Catherine Kinney (Spotify), Dustee Jenkins (Spotify), Sam Hunt, Kelsea Ballerini, Jeremy Erlich (Spotify) and Rachel Whitney (Spotify) at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify

One of the highlights of the whole festival took place at Spotify House on Friday, when Reba McEntire made a surprise performance. She sang a new song set for release this fall, “Seven Minutes In Heaven,” in addition to her top hits.

Day Three at Spotify House featured music from Tanner Adell, Dylan Marlowe, Restless Road, Hailey Whitters, Colbie Caillat, Kameron Marlowe, Mickey Guyton, Luke Grimes, Danielle Bradbery, Ruston Kelly, Brothers Osborne and Cheat Codes + Friends on the main stage as well as Haley Mae Campbell, David Unlayao, Rodell Duff, Meg McRee, Griffen Palmer and Dipper on the Fresh Finds stage.

Fans were surprised on Saturday by performances from Craig Morgan and Turnpike Troubadours.

Pictured (L-R): Miller Guth (Spotify), Mary Catherine Kinney (Spotify), Jackie Jones (RIAA), Martha Earls (Neon Coast), Dylan Schneider, Joey Russ (Neon Coast), Rachel Whitney (Spotify) and Jackie Augustus (Spotify) pose as Schneider celebrates the Gold certification of his single “How Does It Sound” at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Ed Rode/Getty Images

On the last day of Spotify House, fans heard from Dylan Schneider, Lily Rose, Alana Springsteen, Mitchell Tenpenny, Kimberly Perry, Kylie Morgan and Lady A on the main stage. The Fresh Finds stage featured Matt Schuster, Shelby Darrall, Wyatt McCubbin, Angel White, Kasey Tyndall and Shaylen. Fans were also thrilled by a surprise performance from Megan Moroney on Sunday.

Another highlight from Spotify House was Schneider receiving his first ever RIAA plaque. “Thank you so much! This is the coolest moment ever. I was wondering if this would ever happen and now I got two [plaques] in one year,” he shared about the achievement. “Thank you guys for listening to this music! I appreciate it and it’s great because we get to play this song right now.”

With another CMA Fest in the books, Spotify House once again proved to be a must-see destination at the beloved festival.

Mickey Guyton performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify

Mitchell Tenpenny performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify

Hailey Whitters performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify

Chase Rice performs at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify

Danielle Bradbery performs onstage at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify

Pictured (L-R): Rodell Duff, Haley Mae Campbell and David Unlayao perform on the Fresh Finds Rooftop at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2023. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify

CMA Fest Night 1: Dan + Shay, Luke Combs, Carly Pearce & More Thrill Fans

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Luke Combs and Vince Gill perform at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

Tens of thousands of country music fans celebrated day one of CMA Fest 2023 on Thursday night (June 8). After a day full of great music across Nashville—and shockingly comfortable weather—attendees filed into Nissan Stadium for night one on the big stage.

This year’s CMA Fest is special, as it is the 50th anniversary of the country music pilgrimage to Nashville. The golden anniversary was front of mind for every performer that hit the stage Thursday night.

Tyler Hubbard performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

After CMA CEO Sarah Trahern welcomed everyone to night one at Nissan, King Calaway did a beautiful job with the National Anthem.

Fans were thrilled when ’90s country icon Jo Dee Messina took the stage. She sounded as great as ever on her hits “Bye Bye,” “A Lesson In Leavin'” and “My Give A Damn’s Busted.”

“I’m so grateful to be a part of country music. I have been for the last few years… If you know how many, keep it to yourself,” Messina said. “I’ve had a wonderful run.”

Messina brought out Christian artist Ben Fuller to sing a new song that could be called “He Got A Hold Of Me.” She talked about how her faith had changed her life 10 years ago, and said that the tune would be a single soon.

Before leaving the stage, Messina got the crowd super rowdy with “Heads Carolina, Tails California.”

Jordan Davis performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

Next up was Jordan Davis. He kept the energy high, performing a rousing version of his recent No. 1 hit “What My World Spins Around.” It was his first time playing in a venue as big as Nissan Stadium, and the star did it with ease and eyes full of wonder.

Fans bounced along to Davis’ hits “Singles You Up,” “Almost Maybes” and “Take It From Me,” but his real star power shined in the slower, reflective tunes. The crowd swayed and sang loudly to “Slow Dance in a Parking Lot” and “Buy Dirt.”

A highlight from Davis’ set was his sure-to-be next No. 1 hit, “Next Thing You Know.”

“I moved to Nashville 12 years ago this month to chase country music,” Davis said. “Next thing you know, you’re standing in the end zone at the Titans’ stadium playing CMA Fest.”

The loudest crowd response of the night came when Luke Combs appeared on stage. He blitzed the crowd with hit after hit, getting everyone’s booties shaking and hands in the air to “The Kind of Love We Make,” “1, 2 Many” and “When It Rains It Pours.”

Nissan went wild when Combs sang his cover of Tracy Chapman‘s “Fast Car,” which is quickly climbing the charts. Before he sang his 2017 mega-hit “Beautiful Crazy,” he let the crowd know that he had been presented with a Diamond-certified plaque for the song earlier in the day, aligning him with a very exclusive crowd of Diamond-selling country songs.

One of the night’s top highlights came when Combs invited out a hero of his to sing a song. “I have never been as excited as I am right now in my entire career to bring out my absolute hero. He’s an absolute legend on the guitar and on vocals. Singing one of his incredible songs, give it up for Vince Gill!” Combs said.

Gill joined the young star to sing his infectiously fun “One More Last Chance.” Combs closed with a chest-pumping “Beer Never Broke My Heart” before saying goodbye to a very satisfied Nissan Stadium.

Jo Dee Messina and Carly Pearce performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

In between a few big performances, audience members turned their attention to a platform stage to hear from some newer artists. RVSHVD, one of Thursday night’s featured artists, gave attendees a taste of his country, hip-hop fusion with tunes such as his new song “For The Streets.” Ashley Cooke charmed the audience with “Getting Into” and “It’s Been A Year.”

Carly Pearce was next to perform—it was also her first time playing the big stage. As she has done so well in her career thus far, she put her heart on full display for her seven-song set, frequently letting fans in on the backstory behind her songs and talking about her love for country music.

“I just have one question for you: are you ready for some country music tonight?” Pearce said.

The singer-songwriter brought the sass on “Diamondback” and “Easy Going,” and the relatability on “Next Girl” and her Grammy-winning “What He Didn’t Do.”

In another awesome collaborative moment, Pearce brought back Messina for her “I’m Alright.” The two sounded so fabulous together that we will definitely need a recording.

Pearce closed her set with “I Hope You’re Happy Now” and beamed up at the crowd as she gracefully exited.

Darius Rucker performs at the VIP Stage in Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

In a surprise moment, Darius Rucker appeared on a small satellite stage in the middle of excited fans. With an acoustic guitar and a few band members, he played his new single “Fires Don’t Start Themselves.” When Nissan Stadium heard the first strums of Rucker’s titanic “Wagon Wheel,” they lost their minds.

Back on the big stage, Tyler Hubbard was the next performer. Complete with backup dancers, Hubbard showed off some of his new solo music, playing songs like “Tough,” “35’s,” “Me For Me” and “Inside and Out” from his debut solo album.

Fans really enjoyed hearing “Small Town Me” and his first No. 1 as a solo artist, “5 Foot 9.” “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to have two first singles in my career,” Hubbard said when he introduced the song.

Everyone danced along to Hubbard’s second No. 1, “Dancin’ in the Country,” before he closed his set.

Dan + Shay performs at Nissan Stadium on Thursday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2023 in downtown Nashville.

Dan + Shay got the late shift for CMA Fest night one. They started their set at midnight, and were grateful to the troupers that stayed. “It’s past our bedtime so we appreciate you for being here,” Dan Smyers said to the crowd.

The award-winning duo got everyone on their feet for “10,000 Hours,” “Nothin’ Like You” and “You.” Fans sang their heart out to “How Not To,” “From the Ground Up” and “Speechless,” but no one sings better than Shay Mooney.

In the ultimate finale, Dan + Shay sang their Grammy-winning, seven times-Platinum hit, “Tequila,” leaving everyone who stayed for the long haul pleased.

Friday night at Nissan Stadium will feature music from Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Hardy and more.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Parker McCollum Shows His Star Power On ‘Smoldering Heartache Song’

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Teamwork makes the dream work.

A flurry of collaborations mark this edition of DISClaimer. Putting their voices together to create fine listening are Miranda Lambert & Leon Bridges, Bryan Ruby & Ty Herndon, Brothers Osborne and Kenny & Dolly, who are best harmony singers in the bunch.

But the Disc of the Day goes to a solo performer, Parker McCollum. He sounds more and more like a headliner every day.

The DISCovery Award belongs to singer-songwriter Julie Williams, a captivating new talent, for sure.

DYLAN SCOTT / “This Town’s Been Good to Us”
Writers: Dylan Scott/Ashley Gorley/Ryan Vojtesak/John Byron/Taylor Phillips; Producers: Charlie Handsome/Jacob Durrett; Label: Curb
– Memories of a time and place. Nostalgia and reflection for a well-spent youth. Engaging and hearty.

BOY NAMED BANJO / “What Keeps Me Going”
Writers: Barton Davies/Pat McLaughlin/William Reames; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Excellent vocal harmonies, a gentle vibe, soaring instrumental work and a feel-good message are the hallmarks of this uplifting ballad. The members of this band have been playing together since they were teens, and it shows.

JASON ALDEAN / “Try That in a Small Town”
Writers: Kurt Allison/Tully Kennedy/Kelley Lovelace/Neil Thrasher; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: BBR
– Tuneless, bellicose bellowing about how evil big cities are.

KENNY ROGERS & DOLLY PARTON / “Tell Me That You Love Me”
Writers: Todd Cerney/Buffy Lawson/Eric Pittarelli; Producer: Tony Brown; Label: UMG
– The late Kenny Rogers has a new album titled Life Is Like A Song. It contains previously unreleased performances and rarities, including this long-lost duet with Dolly. The jaunty rhythm and buoyant mood burble along while these two superb harmony vocalists bounce their voices merrily against each other. A total smile.

BECKY HOBBS / “About the Children”
Writer: Rebecca Ann Hobbs; Producer: none listed; Label: Beckaroo Records
– “It’s just another shooting in the U.S.A.” is the opening line of this heartfelt ballad about our society’s epidemic of gun violence. Our children are being murdered. “Thoughts and prayers are not enough,” she sings, adding, “When are we gonna say we’ve had enough?” and chanting a middle passage that demands reforming our gun laws.

BROTHERS OSBORNE / “Goodbye’s Kickin’ In”
Writers: John Osbornes/Lee Miller/Mike Elizondo/TJ Osborne; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: EMI Nashville 
– This change-of-pace number is a bluesy, moody stomper with hot guitar licks that don’t quit. Highly listenable.

PARKER McCOLLUM / “Burn It Down”
Writers: Parker McCollum/Hillary Lindsay/Lori McKenna/Liz Rose; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: MCA Nashville
– The smoldering heartache song bursts into flame on its bridge and keeps on burning to its smoking-ashes finale. McCollum’s delivery is appropriately edgy and pained. The man is a star.

JULIE WILLIAMS / “Sugarcoat”
Writers: Julie Williams/Alex Slay; Producers: Michael Beckhart/Gabriel Klein/Gideon Klein; Label: Julie Williams Music
– Every time I have seen her at a Black Opry show, Williams has impressed me with her talent. Now she’s been chosen for the 2023 CMT Next Women of Country class. Last week, she celebrated the release of her debut EP with a show at Analog. On its title tune and first video, she’s showing her sweet self so he will never see her hurting. It’s a lilting, bright, pop-ish ditty that showcases her songwriting talent as well as her winsome vocal style.

MIRANDA LAMBERT & LEON BRIDGES / “If You Were Mine”
Writers: Miranda Lambert/Ashley Monroe/Jesse Frasure; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: Columbia
– These two Texans melt their voices together like an ice-cream sundae on a summer day in this deliciously dreamy duet. The band provides tasty licks between their vocal phrases to complete the sweet dish.

KIDD G / “Daylight Savings”
Writers: Alex Maxwell/Gabe Foust/Jonathan Gabriel Horne/Joybeth Taylor; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Rebel/Geffen Records
– Rocking country that sounds vaguely like an Aldean outtake. Youthful and rousing.

LAUREN ALAINA / “A Walk in the Bar”
Writers: Lauren Alaina/Casey Brown/Lydia Vaughan/Parker Welling; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– Getting over him is as easy as a barroom pick-up. A melody would have been nice.

BRYAN RUBY & TY HERNDON / “The Standouts”
Writers: Bryan Ruby/Chad Sellers/Anthony Fiddler; Producer: Smith Curry; Label: Pivotal Records
– This is a power-packed anthem celebrating heroes who display courage in their lives. Although it’s not specific in the lyric, they intend for it to be a song for Pride Month. Because among the several heroes depicted in the song are LGBTQ+ folks.

Hailey Whitters Nabs First MusicRow No. 1 With ‘Everything She Ain’t’

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Hailey Whitters. Photo: Harper Smith

Hailey Whitters tops the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart for the first time this week with “Everything She Ain’t.”

Co-written with Bryan Simpson and Ryan Tyndell, the tune appears on Whitters’ Pigasus Records/Songs & Daughters/Big Loud Records album Raised. “Everything She Ain’t” was certified Gold earlier this year, and Whitters took home the ACM New Female Artist of the Year in May.

Alongside Big Loud, “Everything She Ain’t” was promoted by Jerry Duncan Promotions. It is the secondary promotion company’s 95th No. 1 song.

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