Oklahoma Declares July 8 Toby Keith Day

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Toby Keith

Toby Keith was posthumously honored on April 7 when Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt officially declared July 8, 2026 “Toby Keith Day” in the state.

Stitt presented the written proclamation to Keith’s daughter Krystal as part of an Oklahoma Film and Music Day 2026 event on April 7 at the state Capitol. Krystal opened the Film and Music Day by performing the national anthem before receiving the honor on behalf of her father. The proclamation honors Toby Keith for “rising from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful, influential, and recognizable country music artists in American history.”

Keith was also honored with the Special Director’s Award during the 65th annual Western Heritage Awards on Saturday (April 11) in Oklahoma City. Before “Toby Keith Day” arrives, UMe will release Keith’s 35 Biggest Hits on vinyl for the first time on May 22. The project was originally issued as a two-CD set in 2008.

Thomas Rhett Celebrates 25th Journey To The Top Of The Charts With ‘Ain’t A Bad Life’

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Thomas Rhett is celebrating his 25th career No. 1 as “Ain’t A Bad Life” ft. Jordan Davis tops the Mediabase/Country Aircheck chart this week.

“Ain’t A Bad Life” was penned by Rhett, Ashley Gorley, Blake Pendergrass, John Byron and Mark Trussell, and marks the third No. 1 from Rhett’s newest album, About A Woman (Deluxe), joining “Beautiful As You” and “After All The Bars Are Closed.” The 25-track project features collaborations with Lanie Gardner, Blake Shelton, Teddy Swims and Tucker Wetmore.

“Hitting 25 No. 1s is something I never could’ve dreamed up,” says Rhett. “’Ain’t A Bad Life’ is one of those songs that just makes you smile, and getting to share it with my buddy Jordan Davis made it even more special. I’m really grateful to the fans, country radio, and everyone who’s been on this ride with me—this one means a lot.”

Rhett will return to the road this summer on his 20+ city “Soundtrack To Life Tour,” which will feature two special stadium dates in July with longtime friend Niall Horan at GEODIS Park and Hersheypark Stadium. In addition to his headlining tour, Rhett is appearing with Morgan Wallen on his “Still The Problem Tour” and will return to the U.K. this summer for a three-night run at Wembley Stadium with Luke Combs.

Three Exit Black River Entertainment

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SVP Promotion Bill Macky, Midwest regional Joe Carroll and West Coast rep Jim Malito have exited Black River Entertainment, as first reported by Country Aircheck.

Macky first joined the company in 2012 as VP Promotion and took over as SVP in 2024. Prior to Black River, he spent time at Epic, Sony and MCA. Macky is currently seeking his next opportunity, and can be reached here.

Carroll joined Black River in 2008. His previous career stops include Category 5, Equity and Rust.

Malito joined the company in 2025. Previous career stops include Stone Country, BBR and Warner. Malito can be reached here.

“We are incredibly grateful for the work and service of these great people,” Black River CEO Gordon Kerr told Country Aircheck.

Industry Ink: Flatland Cavalry, CMHOFM, North Chapel Records, MTSU

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Flatland Cavalry Makes National Television Debut On ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’


Flatland Cavalry recently made their national television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show. The band performed their debut single to country radio “Never Comin’ Back” in support of their recently released fifth studio album, Work of Heart.

The band earned their third consecutive nomination for ACM Group of the Year. The six-piece will perform live at ACM Next Wave: Country’s Beach Bash at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on May 16.

 

Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum Updates Taylor Swift Education Center Display

Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently updated the Taylor Swift Education Center Display with new artifacts related to Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl album, which Swift released in October 2025.

The new artifacts include a Kelsey Randall custom-designed chainmail dress, a painted antique toy piano and a custom-made vintage, feathered headpiece, all used in Swift’s music video for “The Fate of Ophelia.” Joining these The Life of a Showgirl era artifacts are the Taylor 655ce 12-string guitar Swift played during the acoustic set on her “Fearless Tour” (2009–2010) and a Hatch Show Print poster from her first-ever headlining stadium show, held at Gillette Stadium on June 5, 2010.

 

North Chapel Records Enters Exclusive Distribution Agreement With Symphonic


North Chapel Records, the newly launched faith- centered imprint founded by industry veteran Benny Brown, has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Symphonic.

“Integrity and consistency are non-negotiables when you’re building something that matters,” says Benny Brown, founder of North Chapel Records. “Symphonic operates with both. There’s a shared vision and a steady hand in how Randall and his team lead, and that gives us tremendous confidence as we step into this next chapter together.”

“We are so excited to be working alongside Benny Brown and the great team at North Chapel Records in support of their inaugural release and the many releases to come,” adds Randall Foster, Chief Creative Officer at Symphonic. “The label group’s track record of success is self-evident, and we are proud that they have chosen Symphonic to be their distribution partner.”

“We’re honored to align with a partner like Symphonic at such a pivotal moment,” shares Wendy Buckner, Vice President of North Chapel Records. “They bring a level of precision, innovation and global reach that allows us to execute at the highest level from day one. This partnership gives our artists a powerful platform to be heard.”

 

MTSU’s Match Records To Host Annual Nashville Showcase To Cannery Hall


MTSU’s Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment will host its annual Nashville Showcase on April 16 at Cannery Hall. The lineup will include sav., Kyelen Arora, Caroline Bowling, Auburn and the mood swings.

“Playing in Nashville is a dream for so many artists,” shares Match Records Vice President Carlee Barnhouse. “Being able to bring our student artists to Cannery Hall gives them a meaningful, real-world experience while showcasing the depth of talent coming out of MTSU.”

Morgan Wallen Kicks Off ‘Still The Problem Tour’

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Morgan Wallen debuts his “Still The Problem Tour” at U.S. Bank Stadium on April 10, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Photo: David Sherman Photography/David A. Sherman

Morgan Wallen kicked off his 2026 “Still The Problem Tour” over the weekend with two sold-out nights at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Wallen brought back his famous walk out tradition for this run, joined by NFL Hall of Famer Jared Allen. Before the walk out, Theo Von joined him for a tour-opening video. He opened his 28 song set with current country radio single “Don’t We.”

“We took a few months off after tour last year. Whenever I walk out and there’s a welcome like that, I always ask ‘Why did I take so many months off?’ But it’s been good for me, good for my band, good for my team,” Wallen shared from stage. “I feel like we’re ready to do it again this year. I appreciate y’all for being the first night on the Still The Problem Tour. We’re gonna sing quite a few songs tonight. I tried to switch up the setlist a little bit this year – I hope y’all enjoy.”

Morgan Wallen debuts his “Still The Problem Tour” at U.S. Bank Stadium on April 10, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Photo: David Sherman Photography/David A. Sherman

Throughout the night, Wallen performed a string of hits and fan favorites, including “I Wrote The Book,” “Cover Me Up,” “I’m A Little Crazy,” “Wasted On You,” “Chasin’ You,” “7 Summers,” “Sand In My Boots,” “Last Night,” and “Whiskey Glasses.”

Opening acts Vincent Mason and Gavin Adcock also joined the stage during Wallen’s set for his breakout hit “Up Down.” Afterwards, Thomas Rhett came out for “Cowgirls.”

The “Still The Problem Tour” will continue this Saturday (April 18) in Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium, and will make stops at Clemson’s Memorial Stadium, Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Michigan’s Michigan Stadium and more throughout the run. Rotating support among the dates include Brooks & Dunn, HARDY, Ella Langley, Rhett, Adcock, Hudson Westbrook, Flatland Cavalry, Jason Scott & The High Heat, Zach John King, Mason and Blake Whiten.

A portion of every ticket sold will benefit the Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF), which supports programs for youth in the areas of sports and music.

ACM Reveals Studio Recording & Industry Awards Nominations For 61st ACM Awards

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The Academy of Country Music has announced the Studio Recording Awards and Industry Awards nominations for the upcoming 61st Academy of Country Music Awards.

The winners will be announced in the coming weeks and trophies will be presented to recipients at the 19th Academy of Country Music Honors event, held annually in August in Nashville. More details including additional honorees for this year’s show will be announced in the coming months.

Studio Recording Award Nominees:

BASS PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
Eli Beaird
Tony Lucido
Steve Mackey
Mike Rinne
Jimmie Lee Sloas

DRUMMER OF THE YEAR:
Fred Eltringham
Evan Hutchings
Chris McHugh
Nir Z
Jerry Roe

ACOUSTIC GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
Kris Donegan
Todd Lombardo
Devin Malone
Bryan Sutton
Ilya Toshinskiy

PIANO/KEYBOARD PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
Dave Cohen
David Dorn
Charlie Judge
Billy Justineau
Gordon Mote

SPECIALTY INSTRUMENT PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
Eleonore Denig
Stuart Duncan
Mike Johnson
Scotty Sanders
Justin Schipper

ELECTRIC GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
Kris Donegan
Nathan Keeterle
Rob McNelley
Sol Philcox-Littlefield
Derek Wells

AUDIO ENGINEER OF THE YEAR:
Dave Clauss
Jim Cooley
Eric Masse
Buckley Miller
Justin Niebank

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR:
Will Bundy
Carson Chamberlain
Dann Huff
Chris LaCorte
Ben West

Industry Award Nominees:

CASINO OF THE YEAR – THEATER:
Choctaw Grand Theater – Durant, OK
Golden Nugget Lake Charles – Lake Charles, LA
Hard Rock Live (in Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood) – Davie, FL
Resorts World Theatre at Resorts World Las Vegas – Las Vegas, NV
The Venue at Thunder Valley at Thunder Valley Casino – Lincoln, CA

CASINO OF THE YEAR – ARENA:
BECU Live at Northern Quest Casino – Airway Heights, WA
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena – Atlantic City, NJ
Mohegan Sun Arena – Uncasville, CT
Soaring Eagle – Mount Pleasant, MI
Stir Concert Cove – Council Bluffs, IA

FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR:
C2C: Country to Country Festival – London, England
CMC Rocks – Ipswich, Queensland
Stagecoach – Indio, CA
Tortuga Music Festival – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Two Step In – Georgetown, TX

FAIR/RODEO OF THE YEAR:
Calgary Stampede – Calgary, Alberta
California Mid-State Fair – Paso Robles, CA
Cheyenne Frontier Days – Cheyenne, WY
Florida Strawberry Festival – Plant City, FL
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo – San Antonio, TX

CLUB OF THE YEAR:
Billy Bob’s Texas – Fort Worth, TX
Brooklyn Bowl – Nashville, TN
Cain’s Ballroom – Tulsa, OK
Joe’s Live – Rosemont, IL
The Pinnacle – Nashville, TN

THEATER OF THE YEAR:
Blue Gate Theatre – Shipshewana, IN
Grand Ole Opry House – Nashville, TN
State Theatre – Portland, ME
The Franklin Theatre – Franklin, TN
Ryman Auditorium – Nashville, TN

OUTDOOR VENUE OF THE YEAR:
CMAC – Canandaigua, NY
Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre – Denver, CO
Floores Country Store – Helotes, TX
The Orion Amphitheater – Huntsville, AL
Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO
Walmart AMP (Arkansas Music Pavilion) – Rogers, AR

ARENA OF THE YEAR:
BOK Center – Tulsa, OK
Bridgestone Arena – Nashville, TN
Dickies Arena – Ft. Worth, TX
Paycom Center – Oklahoma City, OK
T-Mobile Center – Kansas City, MO

DON ROMEO TALENT BUYER OF THE YEAR:
Andrew Fortin – Neste Live!
Susan Heymann – Frontier Touring
Stacy Vee – Goldenvoice
Ed Warm – Joe’s Concerts
Del Williams – Danny Wimmer Presents

PROMOTER OF THE YEAR:
Patrick McDill – Live Nation
Brian O’Connell – Live Nation
Bob Roux – Live Nation
Rich Schaefer – AEG Presents
Adam Weiser – AEG Presents

Dierks Bentley Honored With CMA Foundation Humanitarian Award

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Sarah Trahern and Dierks Bentley. Photo: Natasha Moustache/CMA

Dierks Bentley was recently honored with the CMA Foundation Humanitarian Award during a CMA Songwriters Series performance at Racket NYC in New York City.

Presented by CMA CEO Sarah Trahern, the award honors an individual who has demonstrated humanitarian leadership through community involvement, financial support, personal volunteerism and advocacy. The honoree has shown a strong commitment to meaningful causes that are important to the Country Music Association and the Country Music community.

Bentley will kick off his “OFF THE MAP TOUR” this summer, beginning June 12 at Walmart AMP in Rogers, Arkansas. The tour follows run of stadium dates on Luke Combs’ “My Kinda Saturday Night Tour.” Bentley will also make festival appearances this year at San Antonio Rodeo, Extra Innings, Winstock and more.

Zac Brown Band’s ‘Free’ Featured As Final Wake-Up Song For Artemis II Astronauts

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Zac Brown Band. Photo: Tyler Lord

The Zac Brown Band‘s hit “Free” made history on Friday (April 10), serving as the final wake-up song for the crew of NASA’s Artemis II mission.

Brown also sent a personal message to the astronauts: “Good morning Reed, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy. Zac from Zac Brown Band here, checking in from the USA. We hope that piece of our song, ‘Free,’ helps start your day with the right kind of lift. We just want to say how proud we are of you. It takes courage, grit, and freedom to chase the unknown. It’s the purest kind of American spirit. Millions back home are looking up and feeling more inspired because of you. Keep flying strong. Keep flying safe. We can’t wait to welcome you home. Come see us on the road.”

The band will bring that same spirit to fans across the country on their upcoming “Love & Fear Tour,” which will kick off July 17 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In December 2025 and January 2026, ZBB unveiled their “Love & Fear” limited engagement at Sphere in Las Vegas, making history as the first country band to perform at the iconic venue. The residency coincided with their eighth studio album Love & Fear, a 13-track collection featuring collaborations with Dolly Parton, Snoop Dogg and Marcus King.

Drew Baldridge’s Fourth Annual The Big Baldridge And Bonfire Festival Set For September

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Drew Baldridge. Photo: Riley Mays

Drew Baldridge is returning to his hometown of Patoka, Illinois on Sept. 19 for the fourth annual The BIG Baldridge and Bonfire Festival, celebrating more than 300 stops of his grassroots “Baldridge and Bonfires Tour.”

The homegrown event rooted in Baldridge’s core themes of farm, faith and family launched in 2022 with three consecutive shows, and returns in 2026 after a one-year hiatus. Baldridge will headline the festival, performing his hits including his No. 1 “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” the top 10 single “Tough People” and his current radio single “Rebel,” among others. Adam Sanders is also set to join the lineup with additional acts to be announced, and tickets are available here.

“I’m so excited to bring this festival back to Patoka for its fourth year,” says Baldridge. “It means so much to give back to the people who have supported me from the very beginning. It’s truly an honor to continue this tradition and celebrate in September on the farm with my friends and family!”

The event arrives amid continued momentum for Baldridge, whose recent releases include “Deserve Her,” “Get Me Gone” featuring Emily Ann Roberts, and a new rendition of “Scars” with I AM THEY. He’s racked up more than two billion streams and impressions to date, and recently completed international runs opening for Jelly Roll across Australia and New Zealand, followed by his first headlining tour in the U.K. and Europe. Baldridge will play dates with Cody Johnson this spring and Luke Bryan this summer, and is currently working on new music set for release later this year.

Maggie Rose Puts On Her ‘Red Shoes’ To Gear Up For New Album ‘Half Moon’

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Maggie Rose‘s new album, Half Moon, is set for release Aug. 14 on One Riot. The first single from the album, “Red Shoes” kicks off the new chapter for the singer-songwriter.

“Red Shoes” marks a striking evolution in Rose’s sound, and the groove-driven track blends her signature soul-infused vocals with a fierce spirit of independence. On the infectious track written by Rose, Lawrence Rothman, and Daniel Tashian, Rose’s vocals take on a joyful ferocity as she delivers an anthem of unapologetic pleasure. She immersed herself in the making of her new album with reckless abandon, and Half Moon took shape through a fluid process that began with the three musicians meeting up every few weeks to write in Tashian’s home studio.

“The sound is orchestral and wide-ranging because I was trying to capture and portray the duality within the album,” says Rose. “Like the moon, the whole of us is always there but revealed differently depending on the light.”

Rose scored back-to-back Grammy nominations for her lauded 2024 LP No One Gets Out Alive and 2025 single “Poison In My Well” and earned an Emerging Act Of The Year nod from the Americana Music Association in 2025.