Jacquie Roar Inks With Kinkead Entertainment

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Jacquie Roar

Rising Southern rock artist Jacquie Roar has officially signed with Kinkead Entertainment.

Roar first captured the nation’s attention as a finalist on Season 24 of NBC’s The Voice, where her show-stopping vocals and fearless authenticity made her one of the season’s breakout stars. Since the show, she has continued to build a loyal fan base with her classic country grit and modern rock edge-tinged vocals and her high-energy live performances.

She has shared the stage with Reba, Kelsea Ballerini, Cody Johnson, Riley Green, Jackson Dean, Gary Allan, Nelly and more. Most recently, Roar made history performing alongside Jelly Roll at the Oregon State Penitentiary—the first live music event on the prison yard in over two decades

“I’m beyond excited to be joining the Kinkead family,” Roar shares. “Bob Kinkead and his team truly believe in their artists and I can’t wait to hit the road with them by my side.”

Carrie Cunningham Named Owner & President Of Global Songwriters Connection

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Carrie Cunningham, Jim Pace and Sheree’ Spoltore’

Global Songwriters Connection has welcomed a new owner and President, Carrie Cunningham.

Owner Sheree’ Spoltore’ and her partner Jim Pace have officially passed the torch to Cunningham, and Pace will continue in his GSC role as Partner and Technology Director. Spoltore’’s decision comes after a season of focusing on her health. Since launching GSC, she has worked tirelessly to champion songwriters and artist/writers across the globe, helping thousands grow their craft, connect with industry pros, and navigate hundreds of deals. 

Cunningham, an award-winning artist and producer, brings more than 20 years of experience in performance, event production, live sound production, sync licensing, copyright and artist development to her new role. Known for her drive and her deep understanding of the creative process, she’s committed to helping artists and songwriters thrive.

“I am so thankful the legacy of GSC will continue for the next generation,” says Spoltore’. “Carrie shares the same heart for service and passion for songwriters, which have always defined GSC. She has been a vital part of many songwriting organizations and knows the needs of creatives. I will continue my work at GSC in a limited capacity in service to her vision.”

“It’s an incredible honor to continue the mission Sheree’ built,” says Cunningham. “Songwriters are the foundation of Music Row, and I’m honored to build on the bridge Sheree’ has so thoughtfully established between creators and the industry. GSC will continue to be a trusted home for songwriters who are serious about their craft.”

“GSC has always been about supporting songwriters through both creative and technological innovation,” adds Pace, GSC Partner and Technology Director. “I’m excited to continue that mission with Carrie as we build new ways to connect writers and the industry.”

Under Cunningham’s leadership, Global Songwriters Connection will continue its mission of inspiring, educating and connecting songwriters with the opportunities they deserve, offering its signature one-on-one mentoring, publisher pitch events and songwriter development programs, while expanding digital education and live networking opportunities.

GSC will host its annual GSC Holiday Mixer on Dec. 10 in the CMA Event Room. The event is open to GSC members and the Nashville songwriting community.

Cunningham, Pace and Spoltore’ can be reached at carrie@globalsongwriters.com, jim@globalsongwriters.com and sheree@globalsongwriters.com, respectively.

Braxton Keith Debuts At Grand Ole Opry

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Pictured (L-R): Emily Vincent (Torrez Music Group), Cris Lacy (Warner Music Nashville), Victoria Mason (Warner Music Nashville), David Dorn (Producer), Braxton Keith, Mike Dupree (Warner Music Nashville) Alex Torrez (Torrez Music Group), Stephanie Davenport (Warner Music Nashville) and Patrick Worstell (Warner Music Nashville).

Braxton Keith made his Grand Ole Opry debut earlier this week.

The Warner Music Nashville artist was surprised on-stage during the performance with a plaque to commemorate a career-first Gold certification for his breakout single, “Cozy.” He performed the song before giving fans a glimpse at new music with an unreleased track.

Keith is currently amidst his “This Ain’t My First Tour Tour” through December with upcoming stops in Texas, Kentucky, Oklahoma and more He released his debut EP, Blue, last year and has shared stages with Cody Johnson, Gavin Adcock, and Luke Bryan, among others.

Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel Accepting Reservations Ahead Of June 2026 Opening

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SongTeller Hotel rendering

Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel, which will open in June 2026 in downtown Nashville, is now accepting reservations.

Dolly’s iconic charm and songwriting spirit are woven into the 245 uniquely-designed rooms and suites of the hotel, which promises an immersive one-of-a-kind experience with Southern-inspired flair, rich storytelling around every corner, and two live music venues featuring performances from some of Nashville’s most talented artists with tasty cocktails and elevated Nashville-inspired cuisine.

SongTeller Hotel rendering

Hotel reservations can be made at songtellerhotel.com or call 1-877-SONGTELLER. Pre-sale tickets are also available for Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum, which is housed in the same building and will also open in June 2026. A limited-time “Welcome, SongTeller” package is now available for 10% off the best available room rate per night, plus two museum tickets.

Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum will be the largest exhibit dedicated to Parton to date. Spanning the entire third floor of the hotel, more than 20,000 square feet, the museum is designed to immerse visitors in her extraordinary journey, featuring curated exhibits chronicling her rise “from the top of the mountains to the top of the world.” Guests will gain insight into her career across music, film, TV and philanthropy, as well as the personal values of family and faith that remain central to her story. Museum pre-sale tickets can be purchased at dollyslifeofmanycolors.com.

“I am very excited about the opening of my Nashville hotel and museum next year!” exclaims Parton. “Broadway has become such a hub of tourism, this felt like the right time to bring something special to all the wonderful activity in Nashville. I’ve always dreamed of being able to create something here in Music City and I know we’ve found the perfect addition to the city I call home.”

SongTeller Hotel rendering

SongTeller Hotel rendering

Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum rendering

Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum rendering

Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum rendering

Dave Barnes Inks With Capitol CMG Publishing

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Pictured (L-R): Kent Draughn, Ellie McKay, Emily Belue, Dave Barnes, Katie Barolak, Terryl Padilla, Austin Jones, Isabel Newell and David Gutekunst

Singer-songwriter Dave Barnes has signed an exclusive publishing deal with Capitol Christian Music Group Publishing.

A Grammy-nominated songwriter, Barnes has notched over 100 cuts over his career. He has penned hits for Florida Georgia Line, Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Dan + Shay, Carrie Underwood, NEEDTOBREATHE, Billy Currington and more. Barnes has had two No. 1 hits at country radio with Blake Shelton’s “God Gave Me You” and Thomas Rhett and Maren Morris’ “Craving You.” His other notable cuts include Dan + Shay’s “You,” Lady A’s “Like A Lady,” and Bethany Dillon’s “All I Need.” As an artist, he has collaborated with Lindsey Stirling, Ingrid Michaelson and Ben Rector, among others.

“I am incredibly excited to partner with Dave,” says Katie Barolak, Capitol CMG Publishing Senior Director of Creative. “I’ve been a fan of his lyrical and melodic sensibilities for years, and to be able to walk alongside him in this next chapter is a dream come true. He’s a musical force to be reckoned with, carries a remarkable work ethic, and is one of the best people in the business. It’s an honor to welcome him to the Capitol CMG Publishing family!”

“I’m thrilled to be writing with Capitol,” adds Barnes. “Katie and the team have been such a joy to get to know, and I really admire the way they approach publishing. They cast a wide net with the kinds of songs they pitch and encourage me to write. Knowing that Capitol is beginning to push into the country market, as well as other genres, is especially exciting to me as I love writing so many different types of music. It couldn’t be a better time to step into this new season with a team that’s already shown so much support and enthusiasm.”

Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit Announce 2026 Tour Dates

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Jason Isbell. Photo: Christy Bush

Jason Isbell has announced a new 2026 tour with his band the 400 Unit, in addition to his recently announced solo tour across North America.

Kicking off in Seattle on Jan. 23, the tour will stop through some of America’s most beloved venues, including the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles, Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, (where the band will be supported by Gillian Welch & David Rawlings,) a Radio City Music Hall date in New York City with Alejandro Escovedo, and many more. Tickets for the new shows will go on sale this Friday, (Oct. 31) via JasonIsbell.com/shows.

Isbell reissued his album Something More Than Free via his own Southeastern Records in July to celebrate 10 years of the Grammy-winning studio album. The newly-remastered edition comes with updated mixes and a previously unreleased B-side “Should I Go Missing.”

All Tour Dates (newly-announced dates are bolded):
November 7: Houston, TX – 713 Music Hall
January 14, 2026: Durham Performing Arts Center – Durham, NC +
January 15, 2026: Hylton Performing Arts Center – Manassas, VA +
January 16, 2026: Ovens Auditorium – Charlotte, NC +
January 17, 2026: The Classic Center – Athens, GA +
January 23, 2026: Seattle, WA – Paramount Theatre
January 24, 2026: Seattle, WA – Paramount Theatre
January 26, 2026: Sacramento, CA – Channel 24
January 28, 2026: Santa Rosa, CA – Luther Burbank Center for the Arts
January 29, 2026: Oakland, CA – Fox Theater
January 30, 2026: Temecula, CA – Pechanga Theater
January 31, 2026: Los Angeles, CA – Orpheum Theatre
February 18, 2026: Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia Presented by Highmark
February 20, 2026: New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall + %
February 21, 2026: New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall @
February 22, 2026: New Haven, CT – College Street Music Hall
February 24, 2026: Cleveland, OH – KeyBank State Theatre at Playhouse Square
February 25, 2026: Columbus, OH – Palace Theatre
February 27, 2026: Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre
February 28, 2026: Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre
March 1, 2026: Niagara Falls, ON – OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
March 2, 2026: Pittsburgh, PA – Benedum Center
March 4, 2026: Iowa City, IA – Hancher Auditorium
March 5, 2026: Minneapolis, MN – The Armory
March 6, 2026: Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed
March 7, 2026: Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed
March 13 – 20, 2026: Cayamo Cruise
March 25, 2026: SkyPAC (Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center) – Bowling Green, KY +
March 26, 2026: Robinson Center – Little Rock, AR +
March 27, 2026: Orpheum Theatre – Memphis, TN +
March 28, 2026: Murat Theatre at Old National Centre – Indianapolis, IN +
April 24, 2026: Sun, Sand, and Soul – Miramar Beach, FL =
April 26, 2026: Orlando, FL – Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
April 29, 2026: St. Louis, MO – The Fabulous Fox Theatre
May 1, 2026: Denver, CO – Mission Ballroom
May 2, 2026: Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre *
May 3, 2026: Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater
May 20, 2026: Winspear Opera House – AT&T PAC – Dallas, TX +
May 21, 2026: Winspear Opera House – AT&T PAC – Dallas, TX +
May 22, 2026: Long Center for the Performing Arts – Austin, TX +
May 23, 2026: Majestic Theatre – San Antonio, TX +
July 16, 2026: EKU Center for the Arts – Richmond, KY +
July 17, 2026: Tennessee Theatre – Knoxville, TN +
July 18, 2026: Tennessee Theatre – Knoxville, TN +
July 19, 2026: Brevard Music Center – Brevard, NC +
July 23, 2026: Grand Rapids, MI – TBA
July 24, 2026: Interlochen, MI – TBA
July 25, 2026: Huber Heights, OH – Rose Music Center at The Heights
July 26, 2026: Charlottesville, VA – Ting Pavilion
July 28, 2026: Lenox, MA – Koussevitzky Music Shed at Tanglewood ~
July 30, 2026: Washington, DC – Wolf Trap ~ #

* w/ Gillian Welch & David Rawlings
~ w/ Patty Griffin
+ Jason Isbell Solo
= w/ Tedeschi Trucks Band, Drive-By Truckers, Elles Bailey
% w/ Shelby Lynne
@ w/ Alejandro Escovedo
# On sale 2/27/26

Morgan Wallen Slates ‘Still The Problem Tour’

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Morgan Wallen. Photo: Spidey Smith

Morgan Wallen will head out on his “Still The Problem Tour” in 2026, which will hit 11 different stadiums.

The trek will kick off on Apr. 10 at Minneapolis’ U.S. Bank Stadium. The route will hit Las Vegas, Pittsburgh, Baltimore and more before wrapping on Aug. 1 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Brooks & Dunn, HARDY, Ella Langley and Thomas Rhett will rotate as direct support, with additional opening acts including Gavin Adcock, Flatland Cavalry, Hudson Westbrook, Jason Scott & The High Heat, Zach John King, Vincent Mason and Blake Whiten.

YouTube video

A portion of every ticket sold on the “Still The Problem Tour” will benefit the Morgan Wallen Foundation, which supports youth sports and music programs. Since its inception, the MWF has donated $600,000 worth of instruments to schools across the country. It has also donated $30,000 to the Toronto Blue Jays’ Jays Cares RBI program.

Pre-sale registration is open now through Nov. 6 at 10 p.m. local time here. Public on-sale will begin on Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. local time.

“Still The Problem Tour” Dates:
April 10- Minneapolis, Minn.- U.S. Bank Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
April 11- Minneapolis, Minn.- U.S. Bank Stadium w/ HARDY, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
April 18- Tuscaloosa, Ala.- Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Vincent Mason, Zach John King
May 1- Las Vegas, Nev.- Allegiant Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
May 2- Las Vegas, Nev.- Allegiant Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
May 8- Indianapolis, Ind.- Lucas Oil Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Hudson Westbrook, Zach John King
May 9- Indianapolis, Ind.- Lucas Oil Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Flatland Cavalry, Zach John King
May 15- Gainesville, Fla.- Ben Hill Griffin Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
May 16- Gainesville, Fla.- Ben Hill Griffin Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
May 29- Denver, Colo.- Empower Field at Mile High w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
May 30- Denver, Colo.- Empower Field at Mile High w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
June 5- Pittsburgh, Penn.- Acrisure Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
June 6- Pittsburgh, Penn.- Acrisure Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
June 19- Chicago, Ill.- Soldier Field w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
June 20- Chicago, Ill.- Soldier Field w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
July 17- Baltimore, Md.- M&T Bank Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Jason Scott & The High Heat
July 18- Baltimore, Md.- M&T Bank Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Jason Scott & The High Heat
July 24- Ann Arbor, Mich.- Michigan Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten
July 25- Ann Arbor, Mich.- Michigan Stadium w/ HARDY, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten
July 31- Philadelphia, Penn.- Lincoln Financial Field w/ ​​Brooks & Dunn, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten
August 1- Philadelphia, Penn.- Lincoln Financial Field w/ Ella Langley, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten

Carrie Underwood Becomes Highest RIAA Certified Female Country Artist

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Pictured (L-R): Robert Femia (COO & EVP Business & Legal Affairs, MCA), Jackie Jones (SVP Artist & Industry Relations, RIAA), Carrie Underwood, Mike Harris (President & CEO, MCA) Katie McCartney (EVP / General Manager, MCA) and Stephanie Wright (EVP / Head of A&R, MCA).

Carrie Underwood has been named the highest RIAA certified female country artist of all time. She has sold 95 million units (22.5 million albums and 72.5 million singles) in the US alone across solo titles and collaborations.

“Accomplishments like this are more than I would have ever dared to dream of when I was starting out,” says Underwood. “I owe everything to the fans, who have literally voted for me from the beginning of my career and have showed up and given me so much love for over 20 years. I feel truly blessed.”

“This monumental achievement solidifies Carrie Underwood’s legacy as a generational talent and a true titan of the music industry. Becoming the highest RIAA certified female country artist of all time is a testament to the unparalleled connection Carrie shares with fans and the enduring power of her artistry,” adds Mike Harris, President & CEO, MCA.

The MCA team presented Underwood with a plaque following her performance at the Grand Ole Opry last week to celebrate the accomplishment. Her highest RIAA certifications include her 9x Platinum debut album Some Hearts, singles “Before He Cheats” (11x Platinum), “Blown Away” (5x Platinum), “Cowboy Casanova” (4x Platinum), “All-American Girl” (3x Platinum), “Church Bells” (3x Platinum) and platinum and multi-platinum collaborations, including her most recent, “I’m Gonna Love You” with Cody Johnson (Platinum).

Additionally, Underwood’s original holiday song from her 2021 holiday album, My Gift (Special Edition), “Favorite Time Of Year,” has been certified Gold.

On The Row: Ashland Craft Brings Songs & Stories To MusicRow

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Ashland Craft. Photo: Easton Jay

Ashland Craft recently stopped by the MusicRow office to share a few songs and stories.

The Piedmont, South Carolina native began playing in bars at 17 years old, before first making a name for herself as a contestant on The Voice, finishing the show in the top 10. She moved to Nashville one year later, and after another seven, the Leo33 artist released her second album, Dive Bar Beauty Queen, earlier this year.

Craft kicked off with the sassy “Yard Sale” and “Happy Drunk.” She ended her time with her current radio single, “Kick Rocks Cowboy,” which she wrote alongside Jonathan Singleton and Shane Minor.

MusicRow’s Lauryn Sink and Madison Hahnen, Ashland Craft, MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson, LB Cantrell and John Nix Arledge.

“I think the ultimate thing about the cowboy way of life is the manners and the way you treat people. So many things that are so basic people seem to have forgotten. I’d be a lot more forgiving of the cowboy hats if the attitude matched,” she joked.

Inspired by the sounds of George Jones, Shania Twain, Chris Stapleton and more, Craft co-penned ten of the album’s 11-tracks alongside Trannie Anderson, Kasey Tyndall and Erik Dylan, among others. The album, produced by Craft, Jess Grommet and Lee Starr, explores themes of life’s highs and lows.

As for what she hopes fans will take from her music, Craft says, “The same thing I grew up connecting to music over, which is that you are not alone. You are not the only one who has experienced a lot of what you have experienced in life. There are other people who want to show up and connect with you.

Craft will wrap her “Dive Bar Beauty Queen Tour” this weekend. She is set to join next year’s lineups at Gulf Coast Jam and Lakes Jam 2026, along with additional appearances to be announced.

 

@musicrowmag MusicRow’s Q&A with @Ashland Craft ♬ Morning Person – Ashland Craft

Peter Daniel Newman Signs With Sony Music Publishing Nashville & Showbiz Ro Music

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(L-R, back row): Chelsea Kent (SMP), Cam Caldwell (SMP), Scott Safford (Attorney) and Rusty Gaston (SMP). (L-R, front row): Ronna Reeves (Showbiz Ro), Peter Daniel Newman and Liz Morin (Showbiz Ro).

Juno-nominated songwriter and producer Peter Daniel Newman has inked a worldwide publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville, in partnership with Showbiz Ro Music.

“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Sony Music Publishing and Showbiz Ro Music,” says Newman. “From my very first conversation with Rusty [Gaston], I knew this would be the right fit—his passion for music is both inspiring and contagious. Newfoundland, where I grew up, has a rich history of songwriting and Irish folk music. I am proud that those Newfoundland roots have carried me all the way to Music Row. I am deeply grateful to Rusty, Liz [Morin], and Ronna [Reeves] for their support and belief in me, and I look forward to the opportunities ahead.”

Newman works with Canadian and Nashville-based artists, and overseas. In the early 2000s, Newman worked with Clint Black and Blacktop Music Group, launching his career. Also notably, Newman worked on Megan Moroney’s “Georgia Girl” and Parmalee’s “Cowgirl.” He also has cuts with Tyler Booth, Austin and Colin, David Guetta, Todd Tilghman, High Valley, Meghan Patrick, Nathan Carter and Damien McGinty. He has also produced for The Secrets, Jason Greeley and Kellie Loder, among others.

“We began working with Peter in 2022, his versatility as a writer and producer caught our attention and has been a game changer for our partnership ever since,” shares Showbiz Ro Music Co-Founders Liz Morin and Ronna Reeves. “We have celebrated multiple cuts together including Megan Moroney’s “Georgia Girl” and Parmalee single “Cowgirl.”  Thanks to Rusty Gaston, we have been given the amazing opportunity to partner with the whole Sony Music Publishing team, and we know that this new venture together will be an incredible journey for all.”

“Peter is driven, determined, and destined for a long and successful career on Music Row,” adds Gaston, Sony Music Publishing Nashville CEO. “It’s incredible to be celebrating his first Top 10 country single already. He’s built a strong foundation alongside Liz and Ronna, and I have no doubt the three of them will continue to make magic.”