Grand Ole Opry To Remove Capacity Restrictions May 14

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The Grand Ole Opry announced today (May 7) that it will open up to full-capacity for the first time in more than a year, beginning May 14. Its first performance at full capacity will be May 14’s show featuring Opry members Lorrie Morgan, the Oak Ridge Boys and more.

The Opry will continue to follow enhanced COVID-19 health and safety protocols throughout the spring, including mandatory masks for all guests and Opry House operations/production staff, per Metro Nashville Health; as well as enhanced cleaning practices.

Among other performances recently announced, Lady A will mark their first Opry show as members with an appearance on Sat., May 15. The group was invited to join the Opry family and officially inducted as part of the show’s Opry’s 95th Anniversary network television special last winter. Among those joining Lady A on the May 15 show are Opry member Morgan and Ryan Hurd, who is scheduled to make his Opry debut.

The Opry’s annual Salute The Troops show, honoring members of the U.S. Military, is scheduled for May 29. The show will feature Lauren Alaina and Opry members Luke Combs and Chris Young, among others. Also scheduled for upcoming spring and summer Opry performances are Trace Adkins, Bill Anderson, Aaron Lewis, MercyMe, Keb’ Mo’, Old Crow Medicine Show, Carly Pearce, Rhonda Vincent, Mark Wills, and more.

Frank Ray Inks Recording Deal With BBR Music Group

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Pictured (L-R): Oscar Chavira (CEO, WKP), Frank Ray, Jon Loba (President, BMG Nashville), Sara Knabe (VP A&R, BBR Music Group)

Bilingual recording artist Frank Ray has signed a record deal with BBR Music Group.

The Texas chart-topper will release his first song for the label, “Streetlights,” on June 11. Inspired by his Mexican heritage, the new track penned by Ray is a hybrid of country and Latin music.

Always passionate about music, Ray spent a decade as a police officer before electing to embark on a journey to pursue music full-time. He made the decision to take the leap after getting the opportunity to open for Keith Urban, performing live for several thousand fans. In the three years since, he has racked up two No. 1 singles and three Top 10 singles on Texas country radio, as well as becoming a staff songwriter at Spirit Music Nashville/Fluid Music Revolution.

“Frank wasn’t an artist pitched through the Nashville machine. I came across him, like many fans, through a new artist playlist—when I heard his vocal and unique musical direction, I immediately needed to know more,” says Sara Knabe, VP A&R BBR Music Group. “What was clear from the jump is that Frank has a defined artistry, a winning work ethic and a fresh perspective, missing from our genre. I am proud to welcome him to our roster of artists.”

“I’m incredibly excited and humbled to join the BBR Music Group family! I’ve dreamt of this moment since I was a kid and I couldn’t be more grateful to have it manifest with a team who’s as diverse and forward thinking as any label I’ve ever seen,” says Ray. “Their collaborative efforts inspire the vision I’ve had for myself in country music! I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together.”

Ray is managed by Oscar Chavira and booked through WME.

Black River Adds Dan Wilson To Publishing Roster

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Pictured (L-R): Attorney Lauren Kilgore, Black River’s Gordon Kerr, Rachael Skvorak, Rebekah Gordon, Dan Wilson, and Katie Barolak

Black River Vice President of Publishing Rebekah Gordon has announced the addition of Dan Wilson to its publishing roster.

After the Black River Publishing team saw Wilson perform at a songwriter round last year, Gordon began noticing his name credited to many of the songs being pitched around town and reached out.

“Dan’s talent, work ethic, and reputation in the writer room are exactly the type of songwriter we love to partner with at Black River,” says Gordon. “We are thrilled with what Dan brings to our diverse roster, and we look forward to great songs and celebrations to come!”

Originally from Greenville, South Carolina, songwriting became a passion once Wilson learned a few chords on his father’s hand-me-down Ovation guitar. Prior to joining the Black River Publishing roster, Wilson has spent the last couple of years working with some of Music Row’s top songwriters and building a name for himself among Nashville’s next hitmakers.

“Every songwriter dreams of finding that champion, those people in your corner, those true believers,” shares Wilson. “The first time I met with Black River I knew I had found that team. I couldn’t be more excited to partner up with Rebekah, Katie, Rachael and the whole team at Black River. This is a dream come true for me and I’m pumped to see what the next chapter holds!”

Wilson joins the Black River Publishing roster alongside Hannah Kerr, Pryor & Lee, Josh Wilson, Anna Vaus, Grammy-winning Josh Kerr and more.

 

Chris Young, Kane Brown Hit No. 1 On MusicRow Radio Chart

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Chris Young and Kane Brown earn a No. 1 this week on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart for their single, “Famous Friends.” Young co-wrote the song with Cary Barlowe and Corey Crowder. This isn’t the first song the duo has collaborated on; they recorded Brown’s “Setting the Night On Fire” in 2017. 

Young marked a major career milestone this year, surpassing the four billion streams mark for his catalog worldwide, which includes eleven No. 1 singles.

In April, Brown received news he had won the ACM Video of the Year Award for “Worldwide Beautiful,” marking his first official ACM award win. Brown is also set to launch his headlining Blessed & Free Tour on October 1. 

Click here or above to view the latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly.

Dierks Bentley Announces Beers On Me Tour, Hitting The Road This Summer

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Dierks Bentley has announced the dates for the Beers On Me Tour, which will run through over twenty amphitheaters later this fall.

The cross-country trek with specials guests Riley Green and Parker McCollum kicks off on Aug. 13 at Salt Lake City, Utah’s USANA Amphitheatre, and will hit 22 cities including San Diego, Phoenix, Boston, Indianapolis, Detroit, and more through October 22.

“I wrote a song a few months back with some friends called ‘Beers On Me’ that inspired this year’s tour name,” said Bentley. “It’s a pretty simple recipe for summer… get your friends together, have a round or two and dive into some great country music. That’s exactly what Riley, Parker and I plan on doing out there on the road with our fans. Both these guys are road warriors and great performers that are going to help us get this summer fired up.”

To kick off the upcoming run and to celebrate the announcement, Bentley, Green and McCollum have released a live performance of the Jerry Reed classic “Eastbound & Down.”

YouTube video

 

Citi is the official pre-sale credit card of the tour and Citi cardmembers will have access to purchase pre-sale tickets beginning Tuesday, May 11th. Tickets go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, May 14 at 10 a.m. local time on dierks.com.

Before his return to the road this summer, Bentley revives his High Times And Hangovers club tour next week with five shows in five nights. Additionally, this summer Bentley has been tapped to headline major festivals including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Windy City Smokeout, Oregon Jamboree, and Watershed.

2021 Beers On Me Tour Dates:
8/13/21 Salt Lake City, UT – USANA Amphitheatre
8/14/21 Boise, ID – Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
8/15/21 Bend, OR – Les Schwab Amphitheater
8/20/21 Irvine, CA – FivePoint Amphitheatre
8/21/21 Mountain View, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre
8/22/21 Stateline, NV – Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harvey’s***
8/26/21 San Diego, CA  – North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
8/27/21 Phoenix, AZ – Ak-Chin Pavilion
8/28/21 Albuquerque, NM – Isleta Amphitheater
9/16/21 Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach
9/17/21 Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
9/18/21 Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion
9/23/21 Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion
9/24/21 Wantagh, NY – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
9/25/21 Boston, MA – Xfinity Center
10/07/21 Detroit, MI – DTE Energy Music Theatre*
10/08/21 Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center*
10/09/21 Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live*
10/15/21 Indianapolis, IN – Ruoff Music Center**
10/16/21 Pittsburgh, PA – The Pavilion at Star Lake**
10/21/21 St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre*
10/22/21 Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP*

*Riley Green and TBD
**Mitchel Tennpenny and TBD
***Riley Green Only

Keithan Melton Promoted To GM, Mojo Music & Media Nashville [Exclusive]

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Keithan Melton. Photo: Glenn Sweitzer/Fresh Design

Keithan Melton has been elevated to General Manager of Mojo Music & Media, Nashville. He will report to company Founder/CEO, Mark Fried.

Formerly Senior Creative Director at the company, Melton has spent the last five years at Mojo and was instrumental in signing Neil Medley, who co-wrote Jake Owen’s current hit  ‘Made For You,” which reached No. 1 at country radio this week, and Lindsey Ell’s ballad “I Don’t Love You.” Working closely with fellow song plugger Courtney Crist, he helped advance the careers of roster writers Bart Butler, Mike Walker, Joe Clemmons, Brinley Addington, Sarah Allison Turner, and Lalo Guzman.

A veteran of the Nashville publishing community since 2003, Melton previously worked at Magic Mustang and Sea Gayle, with writers like Steve Bogard, Justin Wilson, Dave Turnbull, Lee Thomas Miller and Chris Stapleton, and contributed to the songwriting careers of artists Craig Campbell, Runaway June and Dustin Lynch. He’s pitched numerous hit singles including the chart-toppers Trace Adkins’ “You’re Gonna Miss This,” Randy Houser’s “We Went,” and Michael Ray’s “Kiss You In The Morning.”

“Keithan is one of the strongest advocates of songs and songwriters I know,” said Fried. “His devotion these past few years to Mojo’s mission of proactive song promotion, next generation royalty management and helping our writers build their brands and legacies has been tireless and has proven he’s ready to lead. I’m looking forward to working with him in keeping our Berry Hill home buzzing with positive energy and non-stop creativity.”

“I couldn’t be more honored that Mark, Alan [Wallis] and Peter [Shane] have trusted me to lead Mojo’s Nashville office,” said Melton. “I look forward to growing this great catalog and continuing the legacy of my predecessors.”

Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Zac Brown Band Among 2021 Summerfest Lineup

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Summerfest has announced the lineup of headliners for its 2021 festival set for Sept. 2-4, 9-11, and 16-18. Held at the new American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, artists Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Zac Brown Band, Gabby Barrett, Dylan Scott, Sheryl Crow, Cam, Jordan Davis, Brett Eldredge, Jimmie Allen,  and more are among the lineup.

Also set to perform during the new festival format are Chance the Rapper, Miley Cyrus, Black Pumas, Wilco, Nelly, Rise Against, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Diplo, and many more.

The new venue will also host special Wednesday Kick-Off Concerts, prior to each weekend of Summerfest including performances by the Jonas Brothers, Dave Matthews Band, and others yet to be announced. Ticket holders for the Wednesday Kick-Off Concerts will receive a digital ticket via email for Summerfest 2021, valid for any of the nine days of the festival.

“We could not be more excited to unveil the lineup for Summerfest and introduce a new festival format; more weekends and more headliners, promises to be a big hit among our fans,” said Don Smiley, president and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “From first timers, including Chance the Rapper, Miley Cyrus, and Run the Jewels, to Fest favorites including Dave Matthews Band, T-Pain, Styx, and Chris Stapleton, our lineup continues to be one of the most diverse and unique in the industry.”

Previously purchased tickets for concerts at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater during Summerfest will be honored for the rescheduled date. Refunds will be available from the original point of purchase, 30 days from the announcement of the rescheduled date. Summerfest is committed to providing a safe environment for its fans, vendors, sponsors, and staff.  Festival officials are working closely with local civic officials and health professionals to implement health and safety procedures and protocols.

Alan Jackson Set For Grand Ole Opry Show At Big Machine Music City Grand Prix

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Alan Jackson. Photo: Russ Harrington.

The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix has announced its partnership with the Grand Ole Opry to present a special performance in downtown Nashville on Sunday, August 8 to conclude the weekend of racing.

This stage will feature a full lineup of talent to be announced at a later date, culminating with country icon, and longtime racing enthusiast Alan Jackson.

“When we first began to conceptualize the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix we knew music had to be just as big a part of this event as the racing itself, and there is no better partner for this than the Grand Ole Opry – the show that made country music famous,” says Matt Crews, CEO of Big Machine Music City Grand Prix. “We are looking forward to closing out what is sure to be an unforgettable weekend in the best way possible with the Grand Ole Opry.”

Since its inception, the Opry has rarely taken its show outside of its home venue, only visiting prestigious locales such as New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Washington, D.C.’s Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as well as headlining shows at Bonnaroo.

“The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix has brought together a course like no other, an artist like no other and a show like no other to create an experience that could only take place here in Nashville,” said Scott Bailey, President of Opry Entertainment Group. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to connect artists and fans in such a unique setting.”

The three-day festival taking place August 6-8 will be staged on a temporary 2.17-mile grand prix circuit in Nashville and around the Nissan Stadium campus. In addition to a weekend of racing, attendees can look forward to live music performances by top artists, best-in-class food experiences and entertainment that centers on speed.

For more information on The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix or to purchase tickets, visit musiccitygp.com.

Greg Kurstin To Kick Off 2021 ASCAP Experience, Receive Golden Note Award

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Greg Kurstin will open the 2021 ASCAP Experience on Wednesday, May 12 at 4 p.m. CST in a virtual conversation with friend and collaborator Dave Grohl about songwriting, inspiration and more. Kurstin’s relationship with Grohl was forged when he was tapped to produce Foo Fighters’ albums Concrete and Gold (2017) and he also produced their latest chart-topping album Medicine at Midnight (2021).

Kurstin has won eight Grammys and produced or written many of the biggest pop/rock songs of the last two decades. Some of his credits include Adele’s “Hello” and “Water Under the Bridge;” Sia’s “Cheap Thrills” and “Chandelier;” Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger;” P!nk’s “Blow Me (One Last Kiss)” and “Try;” and Halsey’s “You Should Be Sad.”

Kurstin co-wrote and produced Maren Morris’ No. 1 hit “Girl,” as well as produced her CMA and ACM song of the year, “The Bones.” In addition to his writing/producing credits, Kurstin is also an accomplished multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, bass, keyboards and drums on many of the tracks he produces.

The ASCAP Golden Note Award will be presented to Kurstin by Beck (Colors) and ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams, with video congratulations to Kurstin from Maren Morris, P!nk, Sia, Stevie Nicks, Halsey, Nick Jonas, Maggie Rogers, Greta Van Fleet, Mozella, Inara George and Sony Music Publishing CEO Jon Platt. The ASCAP Golden Note Award is given to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Previous recipients include Blondie, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Trent Reznor, Alicia Keys, Tom Petty and more.

After the May 12 kickoff, the 2021 ASCAP Experience which was created to inspire, educate and connect aspiring songwriters and composers everywhere, will continue twice a month on Wednesdays through the end of 2021. Songwriters, composers and music business professionals can join the ASCAP Experience community for access to conversations with A-list songwriters and producers from pop, hip-hop, R&B, country from across the musical spectrum. There will also be panels with top industry execs, song feedback, networking opportunities, and more.

The virtual sessions are free to attend and will take place on a variety of platforms, including YouTube, Instagram and on the ASCAP Experience website. For more information and to RSVP, visit www.ascapexperience.com.

BMLG, Rebel Music, Geffen Records Partner On Breakout Artist Kidd G

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Kidd G. Photo: Ford Fairchild.

Big Machine Label Group’s The Valory Music Co. has announced a partnership with Rebel Music and Geffen Records to bolster momentum for 18-year-old breakout recording artist Kidd G.

The Georgia-bred singer-songwriter joins The Valory Music Co.’s roster alongside artists Thomas Rhett, Sheryl Crow, Brantley Gilbert and Justin Moore. The BMLG imprint will provide genre support through country radio, commerce, and marketing, as Rebel Music and Geffen Records continue leading the efforts for Kidd G in various hybrid markets.

“Kidd G is the sound of the next wave of great Georgia artists who’ve combined country & hip hop in their own unique way,” says Big Machine Label Group President/CEO Scott Borchetta. “Not unlike Jason Aldean or Brantley Gilbert before him, Kidd is a southern boy who will blur and ultimately stretch format lines.”

“When we partnered with Kidd G last year, we knew it would take a special team to help him build his unique fanbase around the world,” says Rebel Music Founder & CEO Javier Sang. “With Geffen and Big Machine Label Group on board with us he has a true dream team set up for him to win.”

“Kidd G is an incredible artist who has galvanized music fans with his powerful songwriting and his ability to bend genres,” says Geffen Records General Manager Lee L’Heureux. “We are excited to be teaming up with Scott Borchetta and everyone at The Valory Music Co. to continue to grow Kidd G’s fanbase in the country music world.”

Kidd G has already achieved success with his breakthrough single “Dirt Road.” The track quickly landed on the Billboard Hot Country Chart as the official music video has garnered 13 million views to date. His first release under the new arrangement follows the December launch of Teenage Dream: 1000 Miles from Georgia, a deluxe version of Kidd G’s debut EP.