Rachel Guttman Launches Entertainment Law Firm Gutt Law, PLLC [Exclusive]

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Morgan Brasfield, Rachel Guttmann and Victoria Powell. Photo: Riley Gentry

Seasoned entertainment attorney Rachel Guttmann has launched Gutt Law, PLLC, a new Nashville-based legal firm tailored to the modern music industry.

Prior to launching Gutt Law, Guttmann garnered over a decade of legal experience. A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University and Tulane University Law School, she began her career clerking for the Honorable Dee D. Drell in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana before transitioning into litigation defense and entertainment law in New Orleans. In 2018, she returned to Nashville to focus exclusively on the music and entertainment industry.

Guttmann most recently served as a partner at Taylor Guttmann, PLLC, where she built a reputation for guiding artists, songwriters, and producers at all career stages through critical legal decisions.

Joining Guttmann is Victoria Powell, an entertainment attorney with a strong foundation in music publishing and artist relations. A graduate of Belmont University College of Law, Powell holds both a J.D. and a Certificate in Entertainment and Music Business Law. She was formerly an Associate Attorney at Taylor Guttmann.

“Victoria has become an invaluable part of both my team and my clients’ teams,” says Guttmann. “I’m excited to support her continued growth as an attorney and as a person.”

“I’m proud to join Rachel at Gutt Law, PLLC. Her mentorship has shaped the way I approach the practice of law—with creativity, empathy, and a deep respect for the clients we serve. This next chapter is an exciting opportunity and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”

Morgan Brasfield has also joined the firm as Head of Operations. A Belmont University alum and former executive at Kobalt Music and NSAI, Brasfield brings more than a decade of experience in songwriter advocacy, operational leadership and music industry development.

“When the opportunity to work alongside Rachel and Victoria came my way, I knew I couldn’t pass it up,” says Brasfield. “I’m honored to join a team with such integrity, purpose, and heart.”

“Adding Morgan to the firm has brought a fresh perspective and an operational strength that enhances how we serve our clients,” Guttmann shares. “I’m grateful every day to work with a team that’s as passionate about helping creatives succeed as I am.”

Sunny Sweeney Blends Sass & Soul On ‘Rhinestone Requiem’ Due In August

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Sunny Sweeney. Photo: Nash Nouveau

Lone Star indie artist Sunny Sweeney is set to release her latest album, Rhinestone Requiem, on Aug.t 1. The debut single from the project, “Diamonds and Divorce Decrees,” is out today.

An unapologetic return to her roots, the record is an exploration of resilience, heartbreak, and honky-tonk healing, crafted with Sweeney’s signature blend of raw honesty and wry wit. Co-produced by Sweeney with her longtime guitarist Harley Husbands, Rhinestone Requiem showcases a more vulnerable and defiant voice from Sweeney than ever before.

Drawing on her East Texas upbringing and years of cutting her teeth in the Nashville and Austin music scenes, the album meshes traditional country twang with hard-earned truths. Songs like “Diamonds and Divorce Decrees” and “Waiting for a Reason to Stay” reflect emotional growth, while “I Drink Well with Others” and “As Long as There’s a Honky Tonk” deliver playful defiance and honky-tonk swagger.

“I was moving out of my house in Austin, cause the rent got too high, and it was a sudden decision, but I called my mom and said, ‘hey, can I just store some of my stuff at y’all’s house for a little bit while I figure out what I wanna do?’ My mom is the best, so she said yes, and I moved all my stuff in and basically went on the road,” explains Sweeney of the inspiration behind “Diamonds and Divorce Decrees.”

“I was a gypsy for a couple years, but finally ended up buying a house and moving all my stuff into my new house—except my safe.  It’s like 2 cubic square feet. Very small. She kept saying, come get your stuff, it’s in our way. So after I jokingly told her to put a lamp on it and make it a table, I said, ‘all that’s in there anyway is grandma’s diamonds and my divorce decrees.’ My country songwriter brain kicked on, and I was like wait…what? I have to write that.”

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In addition to her music, Sweeney is the host of SiriusXM’s Sunny Side Up (Willie’s Roadhouse) and Sunny Side of Life (Outlaw Country).

Rhinestone Requiem Track List:
1. “Find It Where I Can” (Douglas Van Arsdale/Micheal Clark)
2. “Diamonds and Divorce Decrees” (Sunny Sweeney/Buddy Owens/Galen Griffin)
3. “Traveling On” (Sunny Sweeney/Brennen Leigh)
4. “As Long as There’s a Honky Tonk” (Sunny Sweeney/Buddy Owens/Galen Griffin)
5. “Houston Belongs To Me” (Sunny Sweeney/Brennen Leigh)
6. “Last Hard Bible” (Kasey Chambers)
7. “Waiting for a Reason to Stay” (Sunny Sweeney/Brennen Leigh)
8. “Is Tonight the Night (I Make You a Memory)” (Sunny Sweeney/Erin Enderlin/Ben Chapman)
9. “I Drink Well with Others” (Sunny Sweeney/Erin Enderlin/Gary Nicholson)
10. “Half Lit in ¾ Time” (Sunny Sweeney/Buddy Owens/Monty Holmes)

Cooper Alan Adds Canadian Leg To His ‘To The Bar Tour’

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Cooper Alan. Photo: Matthew Berinato

Rising country artist Cooper Alan has unveiled a Western Canadian leg of his headlining “To The Bar Tour,” which will kick off on Oct. 8 in Winnipeg, MB.

During the first leg of the tour, Alan made stops in Chicago, Indianapolis, Anaheim and more, selling out 20 of the headlining shows. He’ll visit Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary and Edmonton on the new leg, which wraps Oct. 14.

He also released two singles, “Holy Ghost,” and “I Gotcha” which have become fan favorites. Alan is gearing up to release more new music this year and will perform at various festivals including CMA Fest, Country Jam, County Line Country Fest and more.

“To The Bar Tour” Added Dates:
October 8 – Winnipeg, MB – Burton Cummings Theatre for the Performing Arts
October 9 – Saskatoon, SK – Coors Event Centre
October 10 – Regina, SK – Conexus Arts Centre
October 12 – Calgary, AB – Grey Eagle Event Centre
October 14 – Edmonton, AB – Midway Music Hall

Big Loud Texas Opens Collaborative Space In Austin

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Pictured (L-R): Jolie Sikes, Miranda Lambert and Amie Sikes. Photo: Brayln Kelly Smith

Big Loud Texas, an imprint within the Big Loud conglomerate founded by Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall, has opened the Big Loud Texas House.

The space, designed for creative collaboration, features writers rooms, the “Rose Garden” bar and office spaces. Lambert tapped longtime collaborators Amie and Jolie Sikes from Junk Gypsy Co. (JG Co.) to help decorate with a goal of creating a welcoming, bold and uniquely Texan space.

Photo: Leigh for Junk Gypsy

Photo: Leigh for Junk Gypsy

Photo: Leigh for Junk Gypsy

Photo: Leigh for Junk Gypsy

Morgan Wade Readies New Album Due In August

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Morgan Wade will release her next album, The Party is Over (Recovered), on Aug. 1 via Sony Music Nashville. Alongside the announcement, Wade released the title track of the record today (May 28).

Throughout the 11 solo-written tracks, Wade continues intense self-reflection seen on her past projects. Some of the songs recorded for the album date back to before Wade signed her record deal and have been reimagined for this record.

Wade released the first single for the project, “East Coast,” earlier this year.

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The Party Is Over (Recovered) Track List:
1. “The Party Is Over” (Morgan Wade)
2. “Let Us Down” (Morgan Wade)
3. “East Coast” (Morgan Wade)
4. “Roses” (Morgan Wade)
5. “Left Me Behind” (Morgan Wade)
6. “Candy From Strangers” (Morgan Wade)
7. “Parking Garage” (Morgan Wade)
8. “Songs I Won’t Remember” (Morgan Wade)
9. “High In Your Apartment” (Morgan Wade)
10. “Stay” (Morgan Wade)
11. “Hardwood Floor” (Morgan Wade)

RESULTS GLOBAL Adds Digital & Social Media Team

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Pictured (clockwise): Katrina Maddox, Lindsey Parrish, Conner McEuen and Tess Schoonhoven.

Marketing agency RESULTS GLOBAL has launched its new Digital & Social Media team.

The new division will be helmed by Katrina Maddox, serving as Head of Digital & Social. As a Nashville native, Maddox began her career at the Grand Ole Opry, where she spent her time building the venue’s social media presence from the start. During her 16 years with the Opry Entertainment company, Maddox also led digital marketing initiatives for Ole Red and the Ryman Auditorium. She joins RESULTS GLOBAL from her most recent position as Head of Digital for The HQ where she led social and digital campaigns for Carrie Underwood and Underwood’s fitness app fit52.

“As we continue to build a best-in-class team to serve our clients, we are excited to establish our Digital & Social team. Division leader Katrina Maddox brings nearly 20 years of digital marketing and social media experience to RESULTS GLOBAL. The stellar team she has built will ensure our clients are super-served in all areas of the digital landscape,” RESULTS GLOBAL agency Co-Heads John Zarling and Jackie Campbell said in a joint statement.

Lindsey Parrish and Tess Schoonhoven will both join the team as Social Media Manager. Parrish first started in the industry with various internships at Capitol CMG, The Recording Academy and Big Yellow Dog Music. She graduated from Belmont University in 2017 with a Music Business degree before landing her most recent role as Digital Marketing Manager at MV2 Entertainment.

Schoonhoven started her career as as a freelance music journalist, with publications in American Songwriter and No Country For New Nashville. Afterwards, she joined independent digital publication Streaming Dept. where she served as Editor-In-Chief. Outside of that role, she spent time with local artists serving as a creative manager, photographer and social media manager. In 2023, Schoonhoven joined Venture Music as Social Manager.

Conner McEuen will serve as Paid Media Manager. During his 10 years in the industry, McEuen has held roles at Insomniac Events, Red Light Management and Live Nation. During his time, he has worked to scale media campaigns, grow ticket sales and drive fan engagement.

Recording Academy Hosts Annual Nashville Chapter Block Party

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MŌRIAH performs at the Recording Academy Nashville Chapter Block Party. Photo: Ed Rode, Courtesy of the Recording Academy

The Recording Academy hosted its 24th annual Nashville Chapter Block Party last week (May 21). Voting and Professional members enjoyed food, drinks and lively performances by Nashville Chapter members 2’Live Bre, Jon Pardi, MŌRIAH and Stephen Day.

Pictured (L-R): Stephen Day, MŌRIAH, 2’Live Bre and Recording Academy Nashville Chapter Senior Executive Director Alicia Warwick. Photo: Ed Rode, Courtesy of the Recording Academy

Jon Pardi. Photo: Ed Rode, Courtesy of the Recording Academy

Ashley Crawford and 2’Live Bre. Photo: Ed Rode, Courtesy of the Recording Academy

Stephen Day. Photo: Ed Rode, Courtesy of the Recording Academy

Jon Pardi and Recording Academy Nashville Chapter Senior Executive Director Alicia Warwick. Photo: Ed Rode, Courtesy of the Recording Academy

Recording Academy Nashville Chapter President Armand Hutton, MŌRIAH and Nashville Chapter Senior Executive Director Alicia Warwick. Photo: Ed Rode, Courtesy of the Recording Academy

Kid Rock To Open New Restaurant, Releases Documentary

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Kid Rock

Kid Rock will officially open his new restaurant, The Detroit Cowboy, at an invite-only grand opening event on June 3 in Nashville.

The new spot at 500 11th Ave N, brings together big flavor, bold design and the kind of unfiltered vibe you’d expect from Rock. The venture is a collab with Joe Vicari, who resuscitated the iconic Joe Muer Seafood in 2011 and decided bring it to Music City. Originally founded in 1929 by the late Joe Muer, the restaurant became a benchmark for fine dining in Detroit. Vicari brought the name back to prominence across Michigan before expanding into Music City in 2023, with The Detroit Cowboy now representing a bold next chapter in 2025.

“The Detroit Cowboy isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a culinary ride like no other, where like-minded folks who love this country can dine in style,” says Rock. “Whether you wear a bow tie, a bolo tie, or no tie—it’s all good. I re-designed this place to share some of my favorite milestones and personal artifacts, cool gifts and mementos from legends like Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, Eminem, Bob Seger, and Motown to name a few, plus a few wild stories of my own as well as nods to musical heroes like Aretha, Stevie and both Hanks of course. The Detroit Cowboy is the only place on earth where Detroit grit and Nashville swagger collide for the finest dining hangout. To put it simply, I am here to take the foo-foo out of fine dining.”

“We’ve built our name on quality, consistency, and hospitality—and now, with Kid Rock, we’re expanding our footprint,” says Vicari. “Under the culinary brilliance of Chef Marino Bianchi, guests will experience a culinary journey that celebrates two great American cities.”

Open for lunch, happy hour and dinner to start, The Detroit Cowboy seeks to combine high-quality eats with a high-energy edge. The menu will include prime steaks, sustainable seafood and a wine list curated by Napa Valley native and sommelier Scott Herrmann, along with a robust lineup of craft cocktails and beer.

In other Kid Rock news, he has released a new documentary Rock The Country, chronicling the journey of the Rock The Country festival built by Rock and Peachtree Entertainment.

The documentary available on Rock’s YouTube channel offers a behind-the-scenes look at the passion, energy and community spirit that makes Rock The Country more than just a concert experience. Featuring exclusive interviews, never-before-seen footage and unforgettable performances, the film captures the raw energy that fuels every show. The film also includes special appearances from country powerhouses Miranda Lambert, Jason Aldean, Koe Wetzel, Gretchen Wilson, Deejay Silver and more.

Industry Ink: Daniel Tashian, Brad Paisley, Maddie & Tae, Natalie Hemby, More

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Daniel Tashian Honored At BMI Pop Awards

Daniel Tashian.

Earlier this month, Daniel Tashian earned an award for his work as a co-writer and co-producer of the Jonas Brothers’ 2023 single “Waffle House.”

“It was an honor to be among only a few Nashville folks at the BMI Pop Awards this year, and I wouldn’t have been there were it not for Jon Bellion, Ido Zmishlany, Gregory Hein, Johnny Simpson, Pete Nappi and the Jonas Brothers,” says Tashian. “It’s lovely to be recognized by the community and I don’t take it lightly. Thank you BMI for looking after my songs.”

Over the past few years, Tashian has produced Grammy-nominated albums Kacey Musgraves‘ Deeper Well and Sarah Jarosz’s Polaroid Lovers, Brittney Spencer’s My Stupid Life, Rainbow Kitten Surprise’s Love Hate Music Box, Leon Bridges’ Leon and more.

Brad Paisley Kicks Off ‘Truck Still Works World Tour’; Makes Red Rocks Debut

Brad Paisley. Photo: Sean O’Halloran

Last week, Brad Paisley kicked off his “Truck Still Works World Tour” with three sold-out shows, including his debut at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado. The first leg of the tour is slated to run through August with Walker Hayes as the special guest along with Avery Anna, Mae Estes and Alexandra Kay sharing the opening slot.

Maddie & Tae Perform On ‘Today’

Maddie & Tae. Photo: Marisa Taylor

Yesterday (May 27), Maddie & Tae performed “Chasing Babies And Raising Dreams” on Today. The track is from their recently released album, Love & Light.

Natalie Hemby Performs At CMHOFM For ‘Poets And Prophets’

Natalie Hemby. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

This weekend, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum hosted a program with songwriter Natalie Hemby for its in-depth interview series Poets and Prophets. The series highlights songwriters who made significant contributions to country music. The event was moderated by museum writer-editor Allison Moorer and featured a performance from Hemby. The program was filmed and will premiere at a later date as part of the museum’s Live at the Hall digital programs series, available to stream on the museum’s website.

Hemby has cataloged hundreds of songs, including Labrinth’s “Jealous”; Lady Gaga’s “I’ll Never Love Again” and “Always Remember Us This Way,” both from the 2018 film A Star Is Born; Little Big Town’s “Pontoon” and “Tornado”; Miranda Lambert’s “Automatic,” “Bluebird” and “White Liar”; Justin Moore’s “You Look Like I Need a Drink” and Kacey Musgraves’s “Rainbow.” Hemby is a member of the Highwomen, and has released two solo records.

CalledOut Music Inks With Integrity Music

Integrity Music Europe (L to R): Beth Chaney, Steve Harding, CalledOut Music, Mark Bowater, Ellie Page, Gabriel Bernard

British-Nigerian artist, songwriter and producer based in Birmingham, England, Samuel Nwachukwu, who goes by CalledOut Music has inked with Integrity Music. Born in Nigeria, he relocated to the UK at age 12 and launched his solo career in 2016 with the debut single “Working on Me.”

“CalledOut brings a unique and much-needed voice to today’s landscape,” shares Gilbert Nanlohy, A&R, Integrity Music. “His heart for Afrocentric pop and devotional music resonates across cultures. His clear sense of mission excites us most: to create music that draws people closer to God. He’s a gifted songwriter, producer, artist and collaborator at heart, with a vision to contribute meaningfully to the Church and artists worldwide. As a global team based in the UK and US, we believe his music and message will deeply connect with audiences in the U.S. and beyond, and we’re thrilled to partner with him in this next chapter.”

“This partnership with Integrity Music is an exciting opportunity to be part of the incredible work God is already doing through music around the world,” adds CalledOut. “I’m especially passionate about future collaborations, partnerships and the chance to serve as a bridge between Africa and the rest of the world—sharing stories, sounds and songs that inspire worship and unity across many different cultures.”

CDX Records Signs Chuck Thomas To Distribution Deal

Pictured (L-R): Joe Kelly (President, CDX Records) and Chuck Thomas

Chuck Thomas has signed an exclusive distribution deal with CDX Records.

“As soon as we heard Chuck Thomas, we knew he was something special,” says Joe Kelly, President of CDX Records. “He’s got that rare combination of authenticity, grit, and heart that defines real country music. We’re beyond excited to welcome him to the CDX family and can’t wait to show the world what’s coming. The future looks incredibly bright for Chuck—and for CDX Records.”

“It’s official! I’ve teamed up with the incredible promotion and distribution crew to bring “Working On a Good Night” to the world,” states Thomas. “Huge thanks to Southern Latitude Music Publishing, CDX Nashville and the amazing Joe Kelly for believing in the music and making this possible. I can’t wait to see what all we can accomplish.”

3rd & Lindsley Looks To 35th Anniversary With New Lease Extension

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Longtime Nashville fixture 3rd & Lindsley has signed a new lease extension, with owner Ron Brice reaffirming his commitment to the Nashville community with the new agreement.

Since opening its doors over 30 years ago, 3rd & Lindsley has been a cornerstone of the city’s independent music scene. The venue has nurtured emerging talent and served as a platform to countless artists who have gone on to global acclaim and has also provided jobs for numerous local hospitality workers and a welcoming home for fans of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Nashville’s most beloved cultural institutions.

“This place is more than a venue—it’s an integral piece of Nashville’s live music ecosystem, providing a home for artists, fans, and our amazing team. We want the community to know we’re not going anywhere, we’re doubling down on what it means to be an independent venue in today’s Nashville,” says Brice. “This lease is a promise—to our incredible musician family, to the fans who’ve created countless memories in our room, and to the next generation coming up.”

As 3rd & Lindsley looks toward the future, February 2026 will mark its 35th anniversary and celebrate by paying homage to its history and future with a series of special anniversary shows that will be announced soon. In Addition, 3rd & Lindsley is expanding their successful daytime family programming, and will host a new Thursday afternoon Bluegrass on 3rd series kicking off July 3rd at 12:30 p.m.