Lori McKenna, Liz Rose, Hillary Lindsey Debut Love Junkies Radio Show

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The Love Junkies, hit songwriters Lori McKenna, Liz Rose and Hillary Lindsey, are debuting a new program called Love Junkies Radio on Apple Music Country today (Feb. 25).

The debut episode has the trio sharing stories about collaborating with Taylor Swift, Miranda Lambert, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, and more, along with the stories behind their hits they penned together as a songwriting supergroup, such as Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush.” In the kickoff episode they also discuss their favorite songs from each other’s catalogues.

Fans can listen live for free to Love Junkies Radio today (Feb. 25) at 5 p.m. CT on Apple Music Country: apple.co/_LoveJunkies.

Artist Action: Tenille Townes, Sony Nashville, Westwood One, Willie Jones

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Tenille Townes To Perform As Part Of HALO’s Main Event Fundraiser

Tenille Townes will perform as part of the organization HALO’s virtual fundraiser, “The Main Event,” this Friday, Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m. CT, continuing her mission to help homeless and at-risk children across the world. The event will feature a live and silent auction, a special documentary premiere and an exclusive interview with Oprah Winfrey.

Friday’s performance is the latest charitable effort for Townes, who raised $89,000 last summer during her virtual “Big Hearts For Big Kids” fundraiser which benefitted Sunrise House, a youth shelter in her hometown Grande Prairie, Alberta, and Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee’s Troop 6000, which supports girls without permanent housing in the Nashville area. In the eleven years since Townes started the annual fundraiser, “Big Hearts For Big Kids” has raised over $2 million.

 

Westwood One, Sony Music Nashville Join Forces For Special Olympics

Cumulus Media’s Westwood One and Sony Music Nashville have announced a multi-faceted program to build support for the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games scheduled for June 5-12, 2022, in Orlando. Kane Brown helped launch the collaboration this month, and Luke Combs, Old Dominion, Chris Young, Ryan Hurd, Maren Morris, Jameson Rodgers, Matt Stell, and more are among the participating Sony Music Nashville artists who will join the campaign to support the athletes and spread the word about the Special Olympics through Westwood One’s broadcast channels, as well as interviews and more on Westwood One’s programs.

 

 

Willie Jones To Make Opry Debut

Willie Jones is set to make his Grand Ole Opry debut on Friday, March 5. He joins a lineup that includes Waylon Payne, Rhonda Vincent, Don Schiltz and others on the hallowed stage.

Willie Jones and Waylon Payne are planning to perform a duet of “Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys,” the classic country tune originally recorded by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings.

Jones was featured on NPR earlier this week during a conversation with Apple Music’s “Color Me Country” host and artist Rissi Palmer, who says Jones’ music is “one of [her] favorite things that has come out of Nashville in a really long time.”

Ronnie Milsap Returns With ‘A Better Word For Love’

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Country Music Hall of Fame legend Ronnie Milsap is back with new music this spring. His 10-song album, A Better Word for Love, will be released April 30 on Black River Records, and is the follow-up to his all-star project Duets.

Teaming with longtime co-producer Rob Galbraith, Milsap recorded much-loved songs that didn’t fit his prior albums, including those by renowned songwriters Mike Reid, Gary Nicholson, Al Anderson, Jim Weatherly, Brent Maher, Allen Shamblin, and David Ball.

“I have been blessed to work with some of the very best songwriters in the world,” says Milsap. “Over the years, they’ve kept bringing me unbelievable songs, and in some cases, they’ve let me hang onto them because I loved them so much. When Rob and I started this project a few years ago, we decided some of those songs were so special… We wanted to build this album around them, so they wouldn’t be treasures only [my wife] Joyce and I could hear.

“We got to go back to Ronnie’s Place, the studio I built all those years ago, just dig in and cut them—and some songs that have the same kind of heart, the soul and that joy that I’ve always loved. You know, even a sad song when you do it sad enough’ll make you feel better.”

Milsap enlisted some of Nashville’s finest players for the project: guitarists Brent Mason, Steve Gibson, Mark Casstevens, and Chris Leuzinger; bass player Michael Rhodes; drummer Lonnie Wilson; double steel players Mike Johnson and Paul Franklin; and Milsap’s longtime musical director Jamie Brantley.

Along the way, Milsap received a special package from Carl Perkins’ widow, containing the last song the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer ever wrote. She knew Milsap would do it justice. To that end, Milsap tapped Vince Gill to join him on the song that isn’t about a woman, but instead the famous “Big Bertha” driver. Says Milsap, “Singing a song about a golf club without Vince Gill just didn’t feel right.”

A Better Word for Love Track Listing:
“Big Bertha” featuring Vince Gill -Randy Moore, Carl Perkins, DJ Perkins
“Wild Honey” – Jim Weatherly, Nigel Wright
“A Better Word for Love” – Al Anderson, Gary Nicholson
“Almost Mine” – David Ball, Randy Goodrum
“Fool” – Thomas Cain
“This Side of Heaven” – Brent Maher, Allen Shamblin, Mike Reid
“Civil War (Live),” recorded at Atlanta’s Chastain Park in 1993 – Cindy Richardson, Carol Chase
“Fireworks” – Steve Dean, Don Gatlin, Mike Ulvila
“Now” – Thomas Cain, Tim Nichols
“Too Bad for My Own Good” – Joe H. Hunter, Jim Whitehead, Jim Weatherly

The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project Donates $25,000 To Aid Veterans [Exclusive]

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The organization made a $10,000 donation to A Soldier’s Child. Pictured (L-R): Trace Adkins, Carolyn Corlew (TCDJHP), W.D. Wheeler, Angela Wheeler (TCDJHP), Joel Pruitt (TCDJHP), David Corlew (TCDJHP), and Daryl Mackin (A Soldier’s Child).

The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project (TCDJHP), a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting military veterans, is continuing the mission of its late founder with several recent donations.

Since the passing of Country Music Hall of Fame member Charlie Daniels last year, TCDJHP co-founder/Daniels’ longtime manager David Corlew has donated $25,000 to various organizations that directly aid veterans and their families.

Recent contributions include $10,000 to A Soldier’s Child, which benefits children of veterans, and $5,000 to God’s Word for Warriors, a non-profit committed to serving spiritually wounded and emotionally distressed vets.

“Our mission is to continue our vision and commitment to the supporting of our veterans as they reintegrate from service to civilian life,” says Corlew. “The loss of Charlie, combined with the impact of Covid, has made it even more difficult to do. But the need is there, and as you can see, we are unwavering in efforts to serve.”

TCDJHP donates $5,000 to God’s Word for Warriors. Pictured (L-R): God’s Word For Warrior’s Jim Humphrey and Dr. Tom Seals, and TCDJHP’s Angela Wheeler and David Corlew.

Additionally, last month, TCDJHP joined forces with Chris Young to establish the Daniels/Young Veterans Scholarship at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. TCDJHP donated $10,000 to fund the yearly scholarship that will be awarded to former servicemen and women pursuing a degree from MTSU’s College of Media and Entertainment.

“Charlie was not only an influence on my music but was a mentor too,” says Young, who attended MTSU prior to signing with RCA Nashville. “I’m extremely honored to help continue his legacy through this new scholarship.”

MTSU also houses the Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center, an on-campus facility that provides transition services for veterans and their families as they return to civilian life.

TCDJHP’s daily operations rely solely on public donations. To donate, visit thecharliedanielsjourneyhomeproject.org.

David Corlew, far right, co-founder of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project and Daniels’ longtime manager, presents a $10,000 donation for the Daniels/Young Veterans Scholarship. Pictured (L-R): Keith Huber, MTSU senior adviser for veterans and leadership initiatives; Angela Wheeler (TCDJHP); Chris Young; and Corlew. Photo: Courtesy MTSU by Andy Heidt.

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row Breaks Ground In Denver

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Pictured (L-R): Michael Fancher, Iconic Investments, Matt Runyon, Summit Capital Venture Group; Mayor Michael B. Hancock; Dierks Bentley; Kenneth Monfort, Monfort Companies; Tami Door, Downtown Denver Partnership; Ryan Hibbert, Riot Hospitality Group. Photo: Monfort Companies

Dierks Bentley recently traveled to Denver, Colorado for the official groundbreaking of his fourth Whiskey Row restaurant and bar. This marks the gastropub’s first location outside of his home state of Arizona and current home state of Tennessee.

Located in the historic LoDo district, the establishment is expected to open in late 2021 following a major renovation of existing buildings. This includes a 6,000-square-foot addition, structural and design improvements to maintain the historical components of the buildings, a two-story infill structure and extended patio that will be constructed on an existing surface parking lot. A second-story rooftop addition will be constructed from the historic facade at 1946 Market St., along with a redesigned streetscape to improve the Market Street pedestrian experience.

“It’s really meaningful to me to open up a Whiskey Row in Denver, a city I’ve come to love from the many concerts and visits to the Rocky Mountains over the years,” said Bentley. “We’re very selective in the places we choose, and I’m honored to build something that will contribute to what’s happening down here in the Ballpark neighborhood for years to come. Selfishly, this gives me a great excuse to come back to Colorado to visit, and of course, play some live music here when it’s safe.”

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row is part of a joint venture between Monfort Companies, Iconic Investments and Riot Hospitality Group. Additional team members include Riot Hospitality Group, Alpine Bank, Circle West Architects and Jaco General Contractor, Inc.

Dierks Bentley with Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock; Photo: Monfort Companies

SmithField Puts On ‘Sunday Best’ Ahead Of Upcoming EP

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SmithField has released new single, “Sunday Best,” from their upcoming third EP, due out later this year.

Penned by the indie duo’s Jennifer Fielder and Trey Smith with Trannie Anderson and Ian Christian, and produced by Derek Wells and Adam Wood, the tune is a nod to the societal expectations that SmithField experienced while growing up in rural Texas.

YouTube video

The best-of-friends pair have amassed more than 40 million career streams since turning heads with their breakthrough single “Hey Whiskey.” They’ve made 30-plus Grand Ole Opry appearances, performed at high-profile festivals, and shared the bill with some of country’s biggest stars including Brothers Osborne, Scotty McCreery and Old Dominion, plus headlined their own nationwide tour.

 

Industry Ink: Queue Records, Sister Sadie, YEP

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Amanda Quinton Launches Queue Records


Amanda Quinton, Founder/President of Quinton Digital, is launching a new label venture, Queue Records, and partnering with Ingrooves Music Group for global distribution. Non-traditional in its approach, Queue Records will focus on artist-friendly, artist-owned deal structures aimed to help independent acts build sustainable, successful businesses.The first three signings are powerhouse trio Texas Hill, country troubadour Nate Fredrick, and singer/songwriter Lindsay Ellyn.

“I’m always looking for new ways to champion emerging talent, and Queue Records is the next natural step in that direction,” said Quinton. “I have enormous belief in the art, the artists, and the power of the fans, and can’t wait to showcase what we’ve been working on.”

 

 

Sister Sadie Adds Two To The Family

Sister Sadie has added bassist Hasee Ciaccio and vocalist Jaelee Roberts to its award-winning lineup. “We couldn’t be more excited to announce that Hasee Ciaccio (who has been playing shows with us for almost two years now) and Jaelee Roberts will be officially joining Sister Sadie!” shared band members Tina Adair, Gena Britt and Deanie Richardson. “We feel these two ladies add a whole new dynamic, excitement and sound to the band and are looking forward to creating music with them. Both are talented beyond their years. Their energy and drive is simply infectious and we couldn’t be more thrilled to make this announcement.”

Sister Sadie made history in October 2020 by becoming the first all-female band to win IBMA’s Entertainer of the Year Award, and will be featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s American Currents: State of the Music exhibit, opening on March 12, 2021.

 

 

 

YEP Kicks Off New Episodes Of Coast To Couch

Young Entertainment Professionals has announced the return of “YEP Edu: Coast to Couch,” hosted by the organization’s Nashville and L.A. chapters. The virtual educational series, titled “Young Hustlers of the Music Business,” aired in two parts on Tuesday, Feb. 23 and Wednesday, Feb. 24 with special guests Bradly Palmer (A&R Manager, Concord Music Publishing), Chloe Weise (VP, A&R, RCA Records), Wes Davenport (Culture Marketing Manager, 1824-UMG), Kelly Sayer (A&R, Atlantic Records), John Tomlinson (Creative, BMI Nashville), Bennett Beckner (Agent, CAA), Annie Aberle (Director, Creative; Pulse Music Group), Charlene Bryant (Founder, Riveter Management), Josh Toll (A&R, APG), and Maria Gironas (Director of Digital Platform Strategy, Q&A).

Guests can tune in to learn more about the ins and outs of label services, digital marketing, artists and business management, publishing, and more at facebook.com/YEPNashville/videos.

ACM Nominations To Be Revealed On ‘CBS This Morning’

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The Academy of Country Music will announce nominees for the 56th Academy Of Country Music Awards on Friday, February 26 at 8:30 AM/ET.

Kelsea Ballerini and Brothers Osborne will appear live on CBS This Morning to announce the nominees for Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Duo of the Year, Group of the Year and Single of the Year beginning at 8:30 AM ET on the CBS Television Network.

Following that, the remainder of the categories will revealed by ET’s Rachel Smith on ETonline.com. Beginning at 8:45 AM ET, this includes nominees for New Male Artist of the Year, New Female Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Video of the Year and Music Event of the Year.

The ACM Awards official social media accounts will also post updates in real time with all nominees being posted at ACMcountry.com immediately following the morning’s ceremonies.

The 56th ACM Awards will return to Nashville and broadcast live from three iconic country music venues: the Grand Ole Opry House, the historic Ryman Auditorium and The Bluebird Cafe on Sunday, April 18 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network. The show will also be available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+, ViacomCBS’ upcoming global streaming service.

Saturday’s Grand Ole Opry To Benefit Feeding America

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The Grand Ole Opry, Circle, and Gray Television are coming together on Saturday, Feb. 27 during the live Opry broadcast to help raise money and awareness for the fight against food insecurity.

All proceeds will benefit Feeding America, a network of 200 food banks and more than 60,000 food pantries in communities across the country.

Opry members Chris Janson and Travis Tritt, along with rising star Hailey Whitters, will perform on the broadcast. Bobby Bones will host the show which airs at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT.

Gray television stations, including several in markets hit particularly hard by last week’s weather events, will contribute local stories and personalities to speak to the problem of hunger in America and ways viewers can help.

The Grand Ole Opry will air on Circle, and on Gray TV stations, DISH Studio Channel 102, Sling TV and other TV affiliates in addition to a companion live stream on Circle’s Facebook and YouTube pages. The show will also be heard on 650 AM WSM and SiriusXM’s Willie’s Roadhouse.

Food insecurity has been rising at alarming rates over the last year and was compounded by extreme weather across several states last week.

Viewers can donate at www.feedingamerica.org/circle.

Triple Tigers Records Promotes Laura Hostelley To VP, Marketing

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Laura Hostelley. Photo: Courtesy Triple Tigers Records

Laura Hostelley has been promoted from Director to Vice President of Marketing at Triple Tigers Records.

Hostelley joined the label in 2016 and reports to President and Partner Norbert Nix. Triple Tigers Records is a joint venture with Sony Music Entertainment in partnership with Nix, Thirty Tigers, and Triple 8 Management.

“Laura is a proven leader with boundless energy and drive,” Nix says. “She is a keen observer, creative thinker, and fearless when it comes to advancing the careers of the artists we work with at Triple Tigers. Everything she has accomplished has been from the ground up—and now the sky’s the limit.”

“I am excited to keep pursuing opportunities to connect artists with fans in new and creative ways,” says Hostelley. “Norbert Nix has always encouraged innovation, and I am thankful to him for this opportunity to keep growing Triple Tigers and our incredible artist’s brands.”

Hostelley joined Triple Tigers Records in 2016 soon after the label was created. In 2017 she was elevated from Promotion Coordinator to Product Manager, and then to Director of Marketing in 2019. During her tenure, Triple Tigers Records has signed a boutique roster of critically acclaimed singer-songwriters including Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson, and Cam, who joined the label in a first-time partnership with RCA Records New York.

Before her time at Triple Tigers, Hostelley worked as a freelancer for Sounds Like Nashville and Taste of Country. She is a graduate of Belmont University, and while in college she interned at MusicRow Magazine, Sirius XM Radio, Country Aircheck, and the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce.

Reach Hostelley at laura@tripletigers.com.