Ashley McBryde Announces ‘The Redemption Residency’ At Chief’s Neon Steeple

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Ashley McBryde. Photo: Katie Kauss

Ashley McBryde will take over Neon Steeple, Chief’s ticketed venue on Broadway, this fall for a four-show residency.

“The guys and I are so happy to be back in Nashville for four nights of ‘you had to be there’ moments to help close out this year” McBryde says. “We’ve been making our kind of church wherever we go for years; from dive bars to back porches, Dahlonega to Lindeville. It’s something special to bring it all to the only Steeple on Lower Broadway.”

Tickets for “The Redemption Residency” go on pre-sale exclusively to McBryde’s fan club (Trybe) members on Aug. 5. Members of the Eric Church’s Church Choir will have access on Aug. 6, with general on sale following on Aug. 8. Each night of the residency will feature a unique set list to create four different experiences.

McBryde recently announced her non-alcoholic forward Redemption bar, located on the fifth floor of Chief’s, which was inspired by her own path to sobriety. The venue features a small stage designed to showcase original music right in the heart of Broadway. The bar opens on Aug. 28.

“The Redemption Residency” Dates:
Tues. October 14
Weds. October 15
Thurs. December 11
Fri. December 12

BMI To Honor John Fogerty With 2025 Troubadour Award

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John Fogerty.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member John Fogerty will be honored with the 2025 BMI Troubadour Award.

This prestigious accolade recognizes a songwriter who has made a profound impact on the creative community and whose work continues to set the pace for generations to follow. The private invite-only event will be held at BMI’s Nashville office on September 8th.

“John Fogerty has written and recorded some of the most distinctive and beloved rock songs of the 20th century, and his music is unequivocally the sound of America, with timeless lyrics wrapped in unforgettable melodies that continue to resonate with generations of fans around the world,” says BMI Vice President, Creative, Nashville Clay Bradley. “We’re thrilled to honor John with the BMI Troubadour Award and celebrate his creative achievements and his songs, which have become the soundtrack of so many lives.”

Fogerty’s catelog spans nearly six decades and includes classics such as “Proud Mary,” “Fortunate Son,” “Born on the Bayou,” “Bad Moon Rising” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain.” As the leader of Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fogerty helped shape the sound of American music. He has received multiple awards and honors for his impact on the culture including an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a special honor for his song “Centerfield,” making him the only musician ever honored by the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Since his affiliation with BMI in 2005, Fogerty has been named a BMI Icon in 2010 and was presented with the BMI Board of Directors Award in 2023. He’s also received 13 BMI Million-Air certificates, recognizing his songs that have surpassed over one million radio airplays, which collectively have had over 64 million broadcast performances.

He recently performed headline sets at JazzFest, Glastonbury, the Hollywood Bowl and more, plus an induction at the American Music Honors and a collaboration with Eric Church for the new Nascar on Prime anthem. On August 22nd, Fogerty will release his new album Legacy, a 20-track collection of newly recorded versions of his biggest hits.

CMA Introduces Fourth Women’s Leadership Academy Class

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CMA Women’s Leadership Academy Class of 2025. Photo: Emily April Allen/CMA

The CMA has announced its newest class of participants for its 12-week Women’s Leadership Academy.

Now in its fourth year, the program officially kicks off today (Aug. 4) with CMA Board Chairman Jennie Smythe delivering opening remarks. The cohort-based program will guide 14 women through a journey of weekly group coaching, peer connection and hands-on leadership training, and in addition to learning alongside executive coaches and industry mentors, participants gain access to a growing network of program alumni who continue to support one another long after the program ends.

Academy participants will start by setting personal and professional goals, which will serve as a foundation throughout the program. Cohort members will take part in facilitated group sessions led by executive coaches Lisa Gamble of Gamble Coaching & Consulting LLC and Nicole Provonchee of Bright Blue Consulting. The curriculum is designed to build practical leadership skills while fostering personal growth, covering topics such as personal branding, career advancement, conflict management, negotiation, self-advocacy, influence and confidence, equipping participants to lead with greater clarity, impact and resilience.

“The Women’s Leadership Academy has grown into a powerful reflection of the women who make this industry stronger every day,” says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Senior Vice President, Industry Relations & Philanthropy. “It’s not just about 12 weeks of programming; it’s about lifelong impact. I’m incredibly proud of the energy and intention behind this program and can’t wait to see how this new class builds on the momentum of the women who came before them. Together, they’re shaping the future of our business.”

CMA’s Women’s Leadership Academy Class Members: 

Jackie Augustus (Lead, Country & Folk, Artist Partnerships, Spotify)
Shaina Botwin (Vice President, Boom Music Group | Co-Manager, Sasha Alex Sloan)
Sara Foster (TV and Live Event Producer)
Melissa Goldberg (Vice President, Digital & Social, CMT)
Morgan Kenney (Country Music Agent, WME)
Anna Kolander (Senior Manager & Head of A&R, Activist Artists Management)
Olivia Laster (Head of Artist & Label Relations, Sticks Management)
Rakiyah Marshall (Founder & CEO, Back Blocks Music)
Morgan Mills (Chief Marketing Officer, CmdShft)
Courtney Pender (Vice President, People Experience, Sony Music Publishing)
Karen Schillinger (Agent, Creative Artists Agency)
Chandler Nicole Sherrill (Senior Director, Creative, Electric Feel Entertainment)
Shana Melissa Saunders (Product Manager, Business Development, Music Corporation of America)
Christina Wiltshire (Senior Director, A&R, Warner Chappell Music)

Brandon Wisham Inks With The Core Records & Capitol Music Group

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Pictured (L-R): Chief Zaruk, CEO & Co-Founder, The Core Entertainment; Brittani Johnson, Manager, The Core Entertainment; Tracy Martin, President, The Core Entertainment; Brandon Wisham; Dan Dymtrow, GM, The Core Entertainment; Jamie Younger, VP of Artist Development, The Core Records and Simon Tikhman, CEO & Co-Founder, The Core Entertainment.

Brandon Wisham has signed a record deal with Capitol Music Group in partnership with The Core Records.

“The way I’m feeling about this step is beyond what words can describe,” says Wisham. “Grateful to have found a team that is as passionate about my music as I am. Can’t wait to experience this journey alongside the best of the best!”

Wisham began writing songs at 19 with his first track “Pain Won’t Last,” a tribute to his father who passed due to Covid-19. The track was later cut by Bailey Zimmerman on his Religiously. The Album. Wisham shortly after released his own debut single “Back Together,” followed by “Better Than The Day.” The latter was featured on SiriusXM’s The Highway, eventually leading the 22 year-old South Carolina native to be named a SiriusXM The Highway’s Highway Find.

Wisham has previously opened up on the road for Zimmerman, as well as Josh Ross. He will join Tyler Hubbard, Lakeview and Austin Snell on select dates this fall. He also made his CMA Fest debut this past June. Additionally, his new single “She’s Good” will release this Friday (August 8).

“We’re thrilled to welcome Brandon to the Capitol Records family,” shares Tom March, Chairman and CEO of Capitol Music Group. “He’s a truly gifted songwriter with the kind of talent, drive, and unstoppable passion that make for an extraordinary career in country music. We’re beyond proud to join forces with Brandon as he moves forward into his most exciting chapter yet.”

“Brandon has been part of The Core family from the start, and we’ve believed in his talent and potential every step of the way,” add Chief Zaruk and Simon Tikhman, Co-founders and Co-CEOs of The Core Entertainment. “Watching him grow and gain real momentum as an artist has been incredible, and signing him to The Core Records is a natural evolution of that journey. He’s got something truly special, and we’re excited to take this next step with him and help bring his vision to the world.”

The Neal Agency Elevates Four

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Pictured (clockwise): Kelly Littlefield, Clark Wilson, Simone Chretien and Juliette Edwards. Photo: Courtesy of TNA

The Neal Agency has elevated three agents. Additionally, Kelly Littlefield has been upped to President of Operations for both TNA and Sticks Management.

Clark Wilson has been elevated from Agent Assistant to Agent, Fairs & Festivals. Simone Chretien has been elevated from Booking Coordinator to Agent, Southeast Territory. Juliette Edwards has been elevated from Booking Coordinator to Agent, West Coast Territory.

“From the start, one of my top goals in building The Neal Agency was to create a culture where we could grow and promote talent from within,” says Austin Neal, Co-Head and Founder of TNA. “I’m incredibly proud to see that vision come to life with the promotions of Juliette, Simone and Clark to agents.”

“Kelly has been an integral part of developing the culture of the company since the very beginning,” Neal continues. “I’m very excited to be able to elevate her to a leadership position at both TNA and Sticks.”

Littlefield received a degree in Business and Arts Management from the College of Charleston and furthered her education with an MBA in Music Business from Belmont University. She began her career in HR at WME. In 2022, Littlefield moved to ONErpm, where she established and led the HR department as the Global HR Manager. Later the same year, Littlefield joined TNA, assuming the position of Director of HR & Operations. In 2024, Kelly assumed the role of Director of HR & Operations for Sticks Management as well. She was also selected to join the 2024 CMA Women’s Leadership Academy Cohort.

Wilson was born and raised in Nashville and graduated from Belmont University in 2019. Prior to joining TNA three years ago, he held positions at Warner Music Nashville and Red Light Management. Wilson began his career at TNA as an Agent Assistant to Adi Sharma and Spencer Foote. Wilson will now be moving into the role of Agent in the fairs and festivals department, continuing his previous work to build and expand the division.

Chretien hails from Silver Spring, Maryland. Chretien received her bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University with a minor in marketing in 2019. Following graduation, Chretien started working at Average Joes Entertainment (AJE) as a Digital Marketing Coordinator. Soon after, she also began work with AJE’s in-house management company, Arcade Management, as an Artist Management Assistant and Digital Marketing Coordinator for Sister Hazel. In October 2022, she started at TNA as an Agent Assistant, working under Evan Kantor and Haley Teske in the Northeast and West territories of the United States in the hard ticket space. She also worked in the Fairs and Festivals department and spent time on Responsible Agent responsibilities. In October of 2024, she started working under co-head Austin Neal, honing in on Responsible Agent responsibilities. Now, Chretien is the Southeast Territorial Agent for The Neal Agency, representing Cody Lohden and Rhys Rutherford, alongside co-head Adi Sharma.

Edwards, a Santa Clarita, California native, graduated from The University of Alabama in 2019 with a degree in Telecommunication and Film. Before relocating to Nashville, she worked The Kelly Clarkson Show. In 2022, Edwards joined TNA as Executive Assistant and Coordinator to Neal. She later transitioned into the role of Booking Coordinator for Evan Kantor, managing the Northeast territory. Now, Edwards steps into her new position as West Coast Territorial Agent, along with representing Ole 60, Rob Langdon and Scott Wolverton.

BREAKING: Hannah Galluzzi Joins MCA As Vice President, A&R

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Hannah Galluzzi. Photo: Sam Kelly

MCA has appointed Hannah Galluzzi as Vice President, A&R. In her new role, she will helm the creative development of MCA artists, both new and established, working on their artistic growth and strategic career development.

“I am thrilled to join MCA,” shares Galluzzi. “It feels like both a return and a new beginning. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented roster and contribute to the label’s innovative future. I’m looking forward to collaborating with the team and continuing to elevate MCA as a leading force in country music.”

Galluzzi is a graduate of Belmont University with an established background in A&R. She began her journey at Universal Music Group Nashville as an A&R assistant, where she eventually become Manager of A&R and worked with Luke Grimes, Sam Hunt, Parker McCollum, Priscilla Block and Jordan Davis. She also spearheaded the signing of Josh Ross in partnership with Universal Music Canada.

After six years at UMG Nashville, she joined EMPIRE as Director of A&R. While at the independent label, publisher and distributor, she oversaw release strategies and guided the creative direction for Shaboozey, Jake Banfield, CeCe, Niko Moon, Sophia Scott, Don Louis, JORDY and Randy Houser.

“We are thrilled to welcome Hannah to the MCA team,” says Mike Harris, President & CEO of MCA. “Her strong A&R skills, combined with her passion for nurturing artist relationships will be invaluable as we continue to develop the MCA roster. Hannah’s energy, work ethic, and vision for the future of the industry align perfectly with MCA’s mission to foster both innovative and timeless artistry.”

Diffie Classic Golf Tournament Set For September 10-11

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Joe Diffie‘s children, Kara and Parker Diffie, have revealed that the Inaugural Diffie Classic, a two-day golf and music tribute to Joe will take place September 10-11 at the Hermitage Golf Course in Old Hickory, Tennessee.

The Diffie Classic will include two 18-hole course events including the Presidents Reserve Course, which will feature teams paired with an artist, athlete or influencer for $2500, and the Generals Retreat, which will see four-person teams playing a traditional best-ball scramble at $1000 per team. A concert will also take place on Sept. 11, with the location to be announced in the coming weeks. Registration includes access to the two-day event, golf, cart, meals and more, and can be made here.

Hosted by Plus 3 Golf, a nonprofit supporting mental health in sports, music, and service communities, the event proceeds will benefit Plus 3 Golf programs and Next Response Foundation, continuing Diffie’s spirit of connection and compassion.

“This is a celebration of our father’s life, music, love of golf and enduring impact,” says Kara and Parker. “We’re excited to see friends, fans, and fellow artists gather for this unique blend of golf and live music, honoring Dad’s legacy with the joy, energy, and heart that defined him.”

Tyler Hubbard Notches Fourth Solo No. 1

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Tyler Hubbard. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine

Tyler Hubbard has notched his fourth No. 1 as a solo artist with “Park,” holding the top spot on both the Mediabase Country and Billboard Country Airplay charts. “Park” marks Hubbard’s 23rd career No. 1 hit and follows his solo No. 1 songs “5 Foot 9,” “Dancin’ In The Country” and “Back Then Right Now.”

Hubbard wrote the song alongside Ashley Gorley, Jesse Frasure and Canaan Smith and the track was featured on his 2024 album Strong. The former Florida Georgia Line member is the first male artist in the genre to come from a successful group or duo to achieve four consecutive solo No. 1 singles.

“It’s such an incredible feeling to have my fourth number one in a row — I’m truly blown away,” says Hubbard. “I never take these moments for granted, and I’m so thankful to country radio, my team and the fans for the continued support. After my buddies Canaan, Ashley, Jesse and I wrote this song, we knew it felt special, and seeing fans sing it back every night on tour has been one of the biggest highlights of my year. I’m beyond grateful to everyone who made this possible — this one feels extra special. It takes a village, and I have the best. Thanks everyone.”

Hubbard is currently on the road for a run of headline and festival dates. He will join Luke Bryan for select “Farm Tour” dates this fall.

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Bailey Zimmerman Reveals Track List For Upcoming LP

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Bailey Zimmerman has announced the track list for his upcoming sophomore album Different Night Same Rodeo, which drops on Aug. 8 via Atlantic Records/Warner Music Nashville. He has also surprised fans with the release of a new single “Chevy Silverado.”

Along with the surprise drop, a limited Silverado Edition Galaxy White Vinyl of Different Night Same Rodeo is out now. The album features previously released superstar collaboration “Backup Plan” featuring Luke Combs as well as top 10 Platinum single “Holy Smokes,” in addition to “New To Country,” “Hell or High Water,” “Holding On,” “Comin’ In Cold” and “Ashes” with Diplo.

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Zimmerman is currently on the road for his summer 2025 “New To Country Tour,” and will visit New York, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Oklahoma, Virginia, Nevada and Iowa.

Different Night Same Rodeo Track List:
1. “Comin’ In Cold” (Jaron Boyer, Matt Gorman, Jake Puliti, Kaylin Roberson)
2. “Ashes” (Diplo & Bailey Zimmerman) * (Austin Shawn, Bailey Zimmerman, Josh Serrato, Thomas Wesley, Josh Miller, Jimmy Robbins, Chris Tompkins)
3. “Chevy Silverado” (Tucker Beathard, Ilsey Juber, Gavin Lucas, Heath Warren, Bailey Zimmerman)
4. “Yours For The Breaking” (Bart Butler, Jacob Davis, Drew Fulk, Austin Shawn)
5. “Lost” (feat. The Kid LAROI) (Rodney Clawson, Ryan Hurd, Michael Lotten, The Kid Laroi, Billy Walsh, Bailey Zimmerman, Austin Shawn)
6. “Holy Smokes” (Austin Shawn, Bailey Zimmerman, Ben Stennis, Michael Tyler, Lauren Hungate)
7. “When It Was” (Kelly Archer, Ben Goldsmith, Carson Wallace, Ben Williams)
8. “It’s All Good” (Tucker Beathard, David Dorn, Ryan Tyndell)
9. “Backup Plan” (feat. Luke Combs) (Tucker Beathard, Jimi Bell, Jon Sherwood)
10. “New To Country” (Austin Shawn, Jacob Hackworth, Heath Warren, Tim Galloway, Bailey Zimmerman)
11. “At The Same Time” (Jaxson Free, Aldae, Ben Johnson)
12. “Hell or High Water” (Ashley Gorley, Austin Shawn)
13. “These Nights” (Nora Collins, Randall Fowler, Mary Kutter, Brad Wagner)
14. “Everything But Up” (Devin Dawson, Jacob Hackworth, Sam Martinez, Heath Warren)
15. “Before You” (Bailey Zimmerman, Randall Fowler, Brian Alexander, Frank Romano, Austin Shawn, Marty James)
16. “Holding On” (Austin Shawn, Blake Whiten)
17. “Dare You To Try It” (Austin Shawn, Bailey Zimmerman, Tucker Beathard, Gavin Lucas, Sam Martinez, Heath Warren)
18. “Happy Ever After Me” (Tucker Beathard, Jimi Bell)

All songs produced by Austin Shawn
* Additional production by Diplo, Josh Serrato

Tangerine Records To Reissue Ray Charles Classics In New Master Series

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Tangerine Records has announced its new Ray Charles Remaster Series with the release of 1974’s Come Live With Me.

Remastered by Grammy-winning engineer Michael Graves and vinyl mastering engineer Jeff Powell, the reissue marks the album’s first appearance on vinyl in over 50 years, with vinyl and streaming arriving Aug. 22, and CDs available Sept. 26.

Come Live With Me showcases Charles in full ’70s crossover mode, featuring string-laden arrangements, country-tinged ballads and soulful soft rock. Side A, arranged by longtime collaborator and conductor Sid Feller, highlights Charles’s emotive vocals on lush, orchestrated ballads such as “Till There Was You” and the title track, the latter of which was a Top 20 AC favorite. Side B shifts to a more upbeat, R&B flavor with tracks like “Somebody” and “Problems, Problems.”

The Tangerine Master Series reissues will highlight Charles’ best-known music alongside classic records long out of print. Each album in the series has been restored and remastered under the direct supervision of The Ray Charles Foundation, painting a vivid new portrait of an artist and icon whose impact continues to expand and inspire. The series will see reissues of classics like 1963’s Ingredients In A Recipe For Soul, which reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and featured the Grammy-winning, top five hit, “Busted,” 1970’s Love Country Style. and No One Does It Like…Ray Charles! which offers a rare glimpse into a prolific and creatively explosive period in Charles’ multi-decade career.

Come Live With Me Track List:
1. “Till There Was You”
2. “If You Go Away”
3. “It Takes So Little Time”
4. “Come Live With Me”
5. “Somebody”
6. “Problems, Problems”
7. “Where Was He”
8. “Louise”
9. “Everybody Sing”