Dierks Bentley Launches ‘Broken Branches Fund’

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Dierks Bentley.

Dierks Bentley has launched the “Broken Branches Fund,” a multi-year commitment to provide mental health resources to the creative and touring communities. The Broken Branches Fund will be administered in partnership with Music Health Alliance (MHA) and will provide mental health grants for qualified candidates and their families to cover outpatient counseling, as well as a plan for follow-up care.

“Making this album and prepping for the tour, I’ve never been more aware of the sacrifice that the people in this town make every day to keep country music playing,” says Bentley. “Whether you’re sitting in a room all day trying to write the perfect hook or leaving home on a bus for weeks at a time, it can be isolating and exhausting. This just felt like the right opportunity to make a bigger commitment on my part to supporting those folks and their families in a more direct and intentional way.”

Fans will have the opportunity to donate during Bentley’s “Broken Branches Tour” this summer or online here.

“Dierks was one of the first artists to believe in and support Music Health Alliance, and from day one, he’s led with both heart and action,” shares Tatum Allsep, Founder & CEO of Music Health Alliance. “Creating the Broken Branches Fund at MHA to support music’s mental health shows his deep commitment to the people who power our industry both on stage and off, and to their well-being for many years to come.”

Beyoncé, Post Malone, Morgan Wallen, Dan + Shay Named 2025 AMA Winners

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Pictured (clockwise): Beyoncé, Post Malone, Dan + Shay, Morgan Wallen

Last night (May 26), the American Music Awards took place in Las Vegas, hosted by Jennifer Lopez.

The award show featured five country awards. Beyoncé took home the award for Favorite Female Country Artist and Favorite Country Album with Cowboy Carter. Post Malone took home Favorite Male Country Artist and shared the award for Favorite Country Song with Morgan Wallen for “I Had Some Help.” The award for Favorite Country Duo or Group went to Dan + Shay.

Billie Eilish took home all seven categories she was nominated for, including Artist of the Year, the top honor of the night. Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars shared the awards for Favorite Music Video and collaboration of the year for “Die With a Smile” and each took home one of their own. SZA picked up two prizes for Favorite Female R&B Artist and Favorite R&B Song for “Saturn.”

A full list of winners is available here.

CeCe Winans Extends ‘More Than This Tour’

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Cece Winans. Photo: Terry Wyatt

CeCe Winans has added a stop in paradise to her sold-out “More Than This Tour.”

The 15-time Grammy winner will bring her live worship experience to Honolulu, Hawaii on Oct. 23 at the Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell. The “More Than This Tour” has already become the biggest of Winans’ career, and now, Hawaii fans will get the opportunity to experience this night of worship, inspiration and music under the stars.

“This tour has been such a powerful move of God night after night. I’m so thankful we get to keep it going,” says Winans. “The fact that I get to bring the tour to one of my favorite places in the world, Hawaii, is amazing. I cannot wait to worship together and lift high the name of Jesus with the island of Oahu and hopefully all of Hawaii.”

Tickets for the Honolulu show are on sale now at cecewinans.com.

Throughout her career Winans has been awarded 22 Dove Awards, 15 Stellar awards, has been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Nashville Music City Walk of Fame, has been named a Trailblazer of Soul by BMI, and garnered multiple NAACP Image Awards, Soul Train Awards, Essence Awards, and more. Winans’ most recent album, Believe For It has racked up over 325 million downloads and led to multiple award wins and her first solo tour in over 10 years.

“More Than This Tour” Dates: 
June 17- Belfast, United Kingdom
June 19- Rotterdam, Netherlands
June 22- West Bromwich, United Kingdom
June 23- West Bromwich, United Kingdom
July 14- Whitby, ON
July 15- Pointe-Gatineau, QC
July 16- Longueuil, QC
July 23- Kettering, OH
July 24- Shipshewana, IN
July 31- Port Of Spain, Trinidad And Tobago
Aug. 1- Kingston, Jamaica
Aug. 7- Kansas City, MO
Aug. 19- Randburg, South Africa
Aug. 22- Cape Town, South Africa
Aug. 26- Harare, Zimbabwe
Aug. 28- Kampala, Uganda
Aug. 30- Nairobi, Kenya
Sept. 15- Longview, TX
Sept. 28- Highland, CA
Oct. 23- Honolulu, HI

Eric Church Ignites The Pinnacle For Two Unforgettable Nights

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Eric Church performs at The Pinnacle. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ABA

Over two nights at The Pinnacle this weekend (May 23 and 24), Eric Church delivered an epic, emotionally-charged celebration of his latest album, Evangeline Vs. The Machine, leaving fans on a high from the sheer power of his performance. Known for his live shows and uncompromising artistry, Church raised the bar even higher.

Eric Church performs at The Pinnacle. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ABA

As the house lights dimmed, a haunting clock chime echoed through the venue, creating an atmosphere thick with anticipation. All eyes turned toward the massive stage screen, where a live hand-drawn illustration of the Evangeline Vs. The Machine album cover began to appear in real time. The artwork ticked and shifted with mesmerizing precision, counting down the final moments before the show began.

“Chief! Chief! Chief!” the crowd chanted as Church stepped into the spotlight. Dressed in black, with his iconic sunglasses on, he was backed not only by his band but also a full choir and orchestra, signaling this was no ordinary show. Without a word, Church launched into “Hands of Time,” the opening track off the new album, immediately setting the emotional tone. He followed with “Bleed on Paper,” elevated by the choir’s powerful harmonies, wrapping the audience in an almost gospel-like trance.

Then came “Johnny” and “Storm in Their Blood,” two tracks that pushed the show’s energy forward, blending story-driven lyrics with soaring instrumental swells.

Eric Church performs at The Pinnacle. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ABA

The momentum only grew as the haunting “Darkest Hour,” which was written after Hurricane Helene in Church’s home state of North Carolina, seamlessly bled into “Evangeline.” Church didn’t need to cue the crowd, instinctively, they began clapping in sync, transforming the venue into one unified heartbeat. Then he blasted into the rollicking “Rocket’s White Lincoln.”

Church turned the energy up with a growling cover of Tom Waits’ “Clap Hands.” Then the crowd was treated to a string of hits including “Desperate Man,” “Give Me Back My Hometown” and “Homeboy.” Each song drew roars of recognition, memories bubbling to the surface. “Sinners Like Me” felt like a church sermon as fans sang every word with conviction. “Creepin’” followed, its stomping beat shaking the very floor.

Eric Church performs at The Pinnacle. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ABA

Between songs, Church took a moment to connect with the crowd. “My favorite times as a music fan was knowing that I was seeing something live,” he said. “Not on YouTube, not on TikTok, but live. Knowing I would never ever be in that moment again.”

He pushed forward with “Knives of New Orleans,” before launching into a mashup of “Smoke a Little Smoke,” “Take Me to the River” and “Sweet Leaf.” Then came “The Outsiders,” “Hell of a View” and “Mistress Named Music,” each louder than the last. Finally, the most anticipated moment arrived with “Springsteen,” with every single ticket holder locked in to the nostalgic hit.

But Church wasn’t finished. For the encore, he returned with “Holdin’ My Own,” followed by the reflective “Those I’ve Loved.” He closed with “Like Jesus Does,” stripping things down to quiet reverence.

The SteelDrivers Release New Album ‘Outrun’

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Amidst their 20th anniversary as a band, Grammy-winning quintet, The SteelDrivers, have released their new project, Outrun, via Sun Records. Outrun is an ode to the trials and tribulations of life itself and a tribute to late founding member Mike Henderson.

“Very early in the game, we were determined to do our own original music. And we stood by it, where now we’re reaping those rewards,” says SteelDrivers fiddler, Tammy Rogers. “The sound has been really unique, because nobody’s expected to play like somebody else—everybody has their own individual voice.”

The band will continue with its “The SteelDrivers 20th Anniversary Tour” through the fall.

Outrun Track List:
1. “Outrun” (Tammy Rogers, Leslie Satcher)
2. “The River Knows” (Tammy Rogers, Tom Douglas, Daniel Ethridge)
3. “Booze And Cigarettes” (Tammy Rogers, Verlon Thompson)
4. “Cut You Down” (Tammy Rogers, Thomm Jutz, Eli Wheeler)
5. “Prisoner’s Tears” (Mike Henderson, Wally Wilson, Mark Irwin)
6. “Rosanna” (Tammy Rogers, Liz Hengber, Matt Dame)
7. “When The Last Teardrop Falls” (Tammy Rogers, Daniel Ethridge)
8. “Painted And Poison” (Mike Henderson, Ronnie McCoury)
9. “Traveling Trouble Blues” (Tammy Rogers, Thomm Jutz)
10. “You Should See The Other Guy” (Tammy Rogers, Liz Hengber, Thomm Jutz)
11. “Emma Lee” ( Matt Dame, Gary Baker, William Barnhill)
12. “On My Way” (Matt Dame, Gary Baker, William Barnhill)

Industry Ink: Kane Brown, Dylan Scott, Dasha, FireAid Mental Health Grants

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Kane Brown Collaborates With Monster Jam

Kane Brown recently launched his collaboration with Monster Jam, which includes a brand new, customized toy truck designed by Kane himself called the 1:64 Kane Brown K-Rex – Series 41, which has sold out since its release.

Dylan Scott Receives Platinum Certification; Partners With Ford Trucks

Dylan Scott, Curb Records, KP Entertainment and OH Creative celebrate Scott’s recent RIAA certifications

On Wednesday (May 21), Curb Records artist Dylan Scott hosted an exclusive industry and media only album release party for his upcoming third studio album Easy Does It, due May 30. At the event, Scott’s team surprised him with with a plaque celebrating the success of his previous album, Livin’ My Best Life (Still), which is now certified RIAA Platinum. The plaque also celebrates the RIAA Platinum certifications of current radio single, “What He’ll Never Have,” No.1 hit “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us,” No. 1 song “Can’t Have Mine,” and chart-topper “Nobody,” as well as the the RIAA Gold certification of “Good Times Go By Too Fast,” No. 1 track “New Truck,” No. 1 collaboration “Boys Back Home” with Dylan Marlowe and “Nothing To Do Town.”

Scott also announced his partnership with Ford Trucks during the release party.

“I bought my first Ford when I was a senior in high school,” Scott said. “At first, I loved them because my dad loved them, but as I got older, it was for the dependability and craftsmanship. I think for the most part, we all grew up the same way – driving back roads, hunting, going out on dates and talking to buddies. A lot of life happens in the truck.”

Dasha Performs On ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’

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On Thursday (May 22), Dasha performed her newest single “Not At This Party” on the The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. She also released a David Guetta remix of the song via Warner Records today (May 23).

Music Health Alliance Shares FireAid Mental Health Grants

The Music Industry Mental Health Fund at Music Health Alliance is offering support for the outpatient mental health needs of music professionals and their immediate family members who have been personally impacted by the LA Wildfires through its FireAid Grants.

The program provides a full spectrum of mental health resources, plans for care, follow-up care, and wrap-around healthcare resources for those directly impacted by the LA fires. For more information and to access the grant application, click here.

Garrett Bradford Releases ‘Honkiest of Tonkers – Act II’

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Texas artist Garrett Bradford has released Honkiest of Tonkers – Act II, the second installment of his two-part album, today (May 23) via H.O.T. Records.

Raised on a ranch in Weatherford, Texas, Bradford’s upbringing in the rodeo and ranching world shapes every line he sings. The project showcases his signature blend of raw Texas grit, traditional country and heartfelt storytelling and is a continuation of the sound that’s earned him growing acclaim.

The new collection includes a fresh radio version of Bradford’s breakout track “This Way of Life,” the song featured on Yellowstone that helped catapult Bradford onto the national stage, and the updated version is a nod to the song’s impact on his career. Honkiest of Tonkers – Act II also features fan favorites like “She Loves Horses,” the boot-stomping “One Two Step,” and emotional standouts like “Give Dad A Call” and “Just A Little.”

Bradford is set to perform as part of the “Turn It Up! Texas” lineup on June 4 at Category 10 in Nashville.

Honkiest of Tonkers – Act II Track List:
1. “This Way of Life” (Garrett Bradford)
2. “Comanche Moon” (Garrett Bradford)
3. “Firefly” (Garrett Bradford, Greg Manuel Sr.)
4. “One Two Step” (Garrett Bradford, Greg Manuel Sr.)
5. “She Loves Horses” (Garrett Bradford, Tammy Hyler)
6. “Just A Little” (Garrett Bradford, Tanner Hill)
7. “Trouble In The Pines” (Garrett Bradford)
8. “Give Dad A Call” (Garrett Bradford)
9. “This Way of Life – Radio Version” (Garrett Bradford)

Sam Stoane Gives A Nod To Her Western Roots On Debut Project ‘Tales Of The Dark West’

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Rising artist Sam Stoane has released her debut album Tales of the Dark West via Cloverdale Records today (May 23).

Stoane draws from her western heritage and California roots for the new collection, creating a project that is personal and universal. Each track on Tales of the Dark West serves as a steady, heartfelt exploration of the places, histories and experiences that have shaped her journey. From the sun-bleached ranch lands of her upbringing to the rugged landscapes of her modern-day life in the saddle, Stoane blends her history into songs that showcase who she is.

“This record is the perfect depiction of who I am and what my music is about,” says Stoane. “It’s a tribute to where I come from, the stories that have been passed down to me, and the moments that continue to shape my life today.”

Tales of the Dark West Track List:
1. “Intro” (Patrick Lyons)
2. “Coyote Cries” (Samantha Stoane, Austin Plaine)
3. “Back In The Saddle Again” (Gene Autry, Ray Whitley)
4. “Diesel” (Samantha Stoane, Chris Rafetto, Jessica Cayne, Kelly Sheehan)
5. “Tehachapi” (Samantha Stoane, Maddie Lenhart, Austin Plaine)
6. “Even Cowgirls Get The Blues” (Rodney Crowell)
7. “Cologne” (Samantha Stoane, Davis Corley)
8. “Close To You” (Samantha Stoane)
9. “A Good Horse And A Good Dog” (Samantha Stoane, Maddie Lenhart, Austin Plaine)
10. “Calico Coal” (Samantha Stoane, Maddie Lenhart, Colin Healy)
11. “Pretty Poppies” (Samantha Stoane, Chris Rafetto, Jessica Cayne, Amie Miriello)
12. “Dead Man’s Alley” (Samantha Stoane, Will Pattat, Savannah Kasay)
13. “When My Time Comes” (Samantha Stoane, Patrick Lyons, Colin Healy)

MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)

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This week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is packed with career moves, legislative advocacy and exciting new partnerships shaping the future of country music and its creators. Click here to see the full edition.

Big Loud Records promoted Tyler Waugh to Senior Vice President of Radio Promotion, recognizing his nearly decade-long impact on the label’s chart-topping success. Waugh has played an instrumental role in 30 No. 1 singles and recently made history with Post Malone and Morgan Wallen’s “I Had Some Help,” which debuted with 167 first-week adds on country radio, a record-setting feat.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum honored Dolly Parton with the opening of its new exhibit, “Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker.” Monday’s event (May 19) featured performances from Alison Krauss & Union Station and an address by Parton herself, paying tribute to her remarkable journey and enduring influence.

On Capitol Hill, country icon Martina McBride lent her voice in support of the bipartisan NO FAKES Act during a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing on May 21. Introduced by Senators Marsha Blackburn, Amy Klobuchar, Chris Coons and Thom Tillis, the bill seeks to protect individuals from AI-generated deepfakes by establishing federal rights over voice and likeness. The legislation has received widespread support from nearly 400 artists and performers.

In touring news, Alan Jackson gave a bittersweet farewell to the road as he wrapped his “Last Call: One More for the Road Tour” on May 17. During the show, Jackson announced a final concert scheduled for summer 2026 in Nashville, a city integral to his storied career.

The National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) is set to honor two songwriting powerhouses at its annual meeting on June 11. Kacey Musgraves will receive the prestigious Songwriter Icon Award, while Rhett Akins will be recognized with the Non-Performing Songwriter Icon Award. The event will be held at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall.

Several major music companies announced key personnel moves and new signings this week. Warner Music Nashville welcomed Paige Elliott as National Director for the WEA Radio Promotion Team and promoted Kayla Burnett to Manager, Radio. At BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Allan Geiger and Haley Wirthele received promotions within the Content & Creative department. Meanwhile, Big Machine Music signed rising Island Records artist Will Linley to a publishing deal.

Peermusic Nashville expanded its leadership team with Jennifer Hall joining as Senior Creative Director. The company also promoted Matt Michiels to Vice President, Creative, and Cameron Stutts to Senior Creative Coordinator. Sheltered Music Publishing launched a new creative partnership with Roger Springer, Dena Weaver and Crystal Pony Publishing, signing Will Banister as the first artist under the joint venture.

In the songwriting and publishing world, Katie Cecil joined Electric Feel Entertainment’s Nashville roster, while singer-songwriter Jordyn Shellhart also signed a global publishing deal with Kobalt.

Finally, Country Radio Broadcasters announced the leadership team for the 2025-2026 Country Radio Seminar Agenda Committee. Shelley Hargis and Krista Hayes-Pruitt return as Chair and Co-Vice Chair respectively, joined by newcomer Kevin Callahan in a Co-Vice Chair role.

This week’s MusicRow Weekly also features a conversation with FBMM’s Dan Killian.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Riley Green maintains his No. 1 spot for the fourth consecutive week with “Worst Way.” Explore more chart data here.

The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.

Max McNown Slates Deluxe Album For July 18

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Max McNown is set to release the deluxe edition of his sophomore album, Night Diving (The Cost of Growing Up), on July 18 via Fugitive Recordings/The Orchard/Columbia Records. Produced by Jamie Kenney, the deluxe album features 11 new tracks, including his newest single, “The Cost Of Growing Up.”

“To me, the cost of growing up is an acceptance that difficult things are going to happen—from minor inconveniences to devastating loss, it’s all a part of life,” says McNown. “But there’s also beauty in that because, without those hard moments, you wouldn’t be able to truly love.”

McNown will continue on his sold-out headline tour through June and is slated to play Boston Calling Festival, CMA Fest and Lollapalooza. Additionally, he will perform on Today on May 29.

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Night Diving (The Cost of Growing Up) Track List:
1. “Forever Ain’t Long Enough” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Driver Williams)
2. “Better Me For You (Brown Eyes)” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Ava Suppelsa, Trenton Kelly Dabbs)
3. “St. Helens Alpenglow” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Jason Nix)
4. “The Cost of Growing Up” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Erin McCarley)
5. “Same Questions” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Summer Overstreet)
6. “Call Me If You Miss Me” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Phil Barton)
7. “This Side of Heaven” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Trenton Kelly Dabbs)
8. “Marley” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Trenton Kelly Dabbs)
9. “Wherever I’m Going” (Max McNown, AJ Pruis, Brent Truit)
10. “Where to Start” (Max McNown, Brett Tyler, AJ Pruis)
11. “Night Diving (Special Feature)” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Erin McCarley)
12. “It’s Not Your Fault” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Aaron Raitiere)
13. “Take This Plane” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Phil Barton)
14. “Hotel Bible” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Driver Williams)
15. “Roses and Wolves” (feat. Hailey Whitters) (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney)
16. “Won’t Let Me Go” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Liz Rose)
17. “Azalea Place” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Driver Williams)
18. “Love I Couldn’t Mend” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Zach Dyer)
19. “Freezing in November” (Revisited) (Max McNown)
20. “Night Diving” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Erin McCarley)
21. “Hindsight & Photographs” (Max McNown, Jamie Kenney, Jason Nix, Lauren McClamb)