Blake Shelton To Headline The Smoke Show

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Blake Shelton. Photo: Robby Klein

Blake Shelton has been announced as headliner for The Smoke Show on Aug. 9 in Albuquerque.

Presale tickets for The Smoke Show begin May 29, with general on-sale starting May 30, and more information is available at abqsmokeshow.com.

The announcement comes on the heels of Luke Combs and Cody Johnson headlining the Boots In The Park Festival in Albuquerque last weekend. The two-day event drew tens of thousands of country fans to the sold-out festival featuring powerhouse performances by Combs, Johnson, Jon Pardi, Parker McCollum and many more.

“We were absolutely blown away by the support and excitement Albuquerque brought to Boots In The Park,” says Steve Thacher, CEO of Activated Events. “The response from fans exceeded all expectations, and we couldn’t wait to announce our return with The Smoke Show. Having Blake Shelton headline this new event is the perfect way to keep the country party going in New Mexico.”

Alan Jackson Retires From Touring; Announces Final Show In Nashville

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Alan Jackson. Photo: Ty Helbach

Alan Jackson officially wrapped his “Last Call: One More for the Road Tour” on Saturday (May 17), marking the final touring show of his career.

“It’s been a long, sweet ride. It started 40 years ago this September,” he recalled from stage. “I’ve really lived the American dream for sure – so blessed.”

During the set, Jackson announced plans to hold a final show in Nashville in summer 2026. Plans for the show will be revealed at a later date.

“We just felt like we had to end it all where it all started, and that’s in Nashville, Tennessee – Music City – where country music lives. I gotta do the last one there,” he said. “This is the last one out on the road for me.”

Jackson, who announced in 2019 that he’s living with a neurological disease called Charcot-Marie-Tooth, donated a portion of every ticket sale to the CMT Research Foundation. Over $2.25 million dollars were directly and indirectly raised by the tour through donations, matching contributions and efforts as well as other revenue inspired by Jackson and the tour.

“I just have to thank y’all for supporting my music all these years, coming to the shows, buying the records and having a good time with us,” Jackson says. “I’m so fortunate, so lucky.”

Avery Anna Visualizes Sophomore Album With Short Film

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Alongside the release of her sophomore album, Let Go Letters, last Friday (May 16), Avery Anna brought the album to life with a short film. The video blends together the music videos for “Cheerios,” “Danny Don’t,” “Depression,” “Grave” and “Skinny.”

Anna co-directed the film alongside Ben Humphrey, Kate Bowling and Tyler Shoemaker. The short film weaves together five thematically linked music videos to create a narrative that brings the album’s message to life. Between the videos, there are moments of Anna reading from her “Let Go Letters” series, an outlet she created where her listeners release painful experiences by writing them down and sending them in. These letters served as the foundation for both the songs and visual storytelling, exploring powerful subjects like body image, depression, suicide, addiction and domestic violence.

YouTube video

“I started asking people for their letters because I wanted to give them some kind of emotional outlet, but they ended up shifting my whole perspective on so many things in life,” says Anna. “After a while, it felt almost impossible not to write about the letters, and over time, this album became a way to thank everyone for being so vulnerable and sharing their lives with me.”

“This was a whole new world I stepped into for this album, trying to best portray the pains and struggles people have shared with me through their beautiful letters,” she continues. “I hope they feel seen when they watch this film.”

Anna’s sophomore album Let Go Letters features 14 tracks, with five solo-penned tracks by Anna and co-write credits on the rest. The project was produced with David Fanning and features fan favorite tracks “Mr. Predictable,” “Wish You Well,” “Danny Don’t,” “Grave” and more, as well as a collaboration with Maggie Antone on “Giddy Up!”

Industry Ink: Song Suffragettes, Spirit Music Group, Jimmy Capps, ‘Cold War Country’

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Song Suffragettes Partners With Musicana And Hispanic Entertainment Alliance

Pictured (L-R): Uriah Solis, Jackie Martinez Marushka (Founder, Hispanic Entertainment Alliance), Karina Daza (artist and Founder, Musicana), Mia Morris, Alyssia Dominguez, MŌRIAH, Kat Luna, Angie K (artist and Founder of Country Latin Association) and Todd Cassetty (Founder, Song Suffragettes). Photo: Rebecca Anne.

Song Suffragettes partnered with Musicana and Hispanic Entertainment Alliance for a night of music featuring Alyssia Dominguez, Angie K, Karina Daza, Kat Luna, MŌRIAH and Song Suffragettes’ multi-instrumentalist, Mia Morris. Over 200 people packed the Listening Room Café to hear each of the women in the round perform three of their own songs and finish with an “all sing” medley of Selena’s “Como La Flor,” “Baila Esta Cumbia” and “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” arranged by Dominguez.

To view a recording of the show, click here.

 

Spirit Music Group And Champagne Breakfast Team To Host Nashville Sync Camp

Spirit Music Group team, Champagne Breakfast team and participating writers.

Spirit Music Group recently teamed up with Champagne Breakfast to host a Nashville Sync Camp at Spirit’s Nashville offices and recording studios. Over the course of three days, artists, writers and producers worked in writing sessions designed to inspire, connect, and provide a creative environment for collaboration through briefs given by music supervisors across media.

This year’s writers included Spirit Music Nashville’s Bobby Hamrick, Brock Westover, Cale Dodds, Jessica Cayne, Joy Williams, Justin Halpin and Mike Fiorentino as well as Champange Breakfast’s Anna Graceman, Beacon Light, Bryan Dawley, Christian Harger, Geoff Duncan, Levi Bennington, Que Parks, Teddy Boldt and Tyler Ewing.

Music supervision and production clients included Shelby Britten, Trailer Music Supervisor, Seismic Productions; Jon Moshier, Executive Music Producer at Doner Advertising; Aaron Mercer, Co-President, Premier Music Group; Ashley Young, Associate Music Supervisor, GrandSon Creative; and Anna Romanoff, Music Supervisor, Yay Team Inc.

 

Memorial Honoring Jimmy Capps To Be Unveiled June 1 At Spring Hill Cemetery

Jimmy Capps. Photo: Chris Hollo

A memorial honoring the late Jimmy Capps will be unveiled on the fifth anniversary of his passing (June 1) at Spring Hill Cemetery. The free public event will take place at 3 p.m. and will include live music, remarks from fellow musicians, Opry members, and family, and a blessing over the newly installed monument, which sits near other notable country music greats.

Known as “The Man in Back,” Capps left an indelible mark on countless recordings by legends like George Jones, Tammy Wynette and Alan Jackson, and served as a beloved fixture in the Grand Ole Opry band for over six decades. He was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame and the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.

 

‘Cold War Country’ Awarded Belmont Book Award

Cold War Country: How Nashville’s Music Row and the Pentagon Created the Sound of American Patriotism by Joseph M. Thompson has been dubbed 2025’s Top Country Music Book by Belmont Book Award.

The announcement was made by Don Cusic, Founder and Chair of the Belmont Book Award. The presentation will be made on May 30 at the annual International Country Music Conference at Belmont University.

For more information on the conference, click here.

Sheltered Music Publishing Partners With Crystal Pony Publishing; Signs Will Banister

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Pictured (L-R): Roger Springer, Dena Weaver (Crystal Pony Publishing), Will Banister & Darrell Franklin (Sr VP Sheltered Music).

Sheltered Music Publishing has began a new creative partnership with Roger Springer, Dena Weaver and Crystal Pony Publishing. The first signing for the joint venture is country singer-songwriter Will Banister.

“This partnership with Roger and Crystal Pony felt like a perfect fit from the first conversation,” says Darrell Franklin, Senior Vice President of Sheltered Music Publishing. “Roger’s passion for country music and his track record of nurturing talent is unmatched. We’re excited to work together to find and elevate artists who are carrying the torch for authentic country music.”

“Thank you Lance [Freed], Darrell, and Freeman [Wizer] for your passion and belief in what we’re building together,” adds Springer. “We’re honored to have your guidance and love for country music alongside us.”

New Mexico native Banister grew up on traditional country, and has curated a dedicated fanbase with his classic sound. Co-produced with Chuck Ainlay, his new EP will drop this spring with the first single “Forever” released last Friday (May 16). He also co-wrote Jake Worthington’s “It Ain’t The Whiskey” alongside Worthington, Jeff Hyde and Springer.

“When I first heard Will I was immediately struck by the tone and texture of his voice—it reminded me of Merle Haggard and Keith Whitley,” continues Franklin.

“It is such an honor to sign with Crystal Pony and Sheltered,” shares Banister. “I’m excited to be part of a team that truly believes in me and in the kind of country music I grew up loving.”

“Will Banister is one of the best artist-writers I’ve seen in a long time,” adds Springer. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to Crystal Pony and can’t wait to share what we’ve been working on.”

SongwritingWith:Soldiers Announces New Music Initiative To Share Vet-Created Songs

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SongwritingWith:Soldiers is introducing a new music initiative that will produce and release music written during retreats to help create a deeper understanding of the veteran experience and raise civilian awareness of the challenges the military community faces.

The first two new tracks from the program will be available on all streaming platforms on May 23. “The Man You Used To Know,” was written by veteran Bruce Anderson, his wife Lesley and songwriter/producer Trent Willmon, who performed the track.

“I appreciate anybody who serves our country,” says Willmon. “They are the folks that keep us free. So many times we forget that. We kind of take them for granted. Sometimes they sacrifice everything. So it’s a wonderful opportunity for somebody like me who didn’t serve, to give back and try to honor and better understand the experiences of that community.”

“At Ease,” was written at a retreat by veterans Chadrick Allen, Rhonda Chavez, Sally Griffiths, Justin Lilley, Benjamin Liotta, Carlos Gomez Perez, Robert Heathe Shumate and Tristan Wimmer along with songwriters James House, Will Kimbrough, Mark Nesler and Terry Radigan.

“‘At Ease’ is a gentle, soulful tribute to the fallen: those who succumbed to their wounds on the battlefield; those who succumbed to the wounds no one could see back home,” shares Kimbrough. “It is a true collaboration between our veterans and songwriters.”

Since 2012, SW:S has offered retreats, alumni programs and music-based initiatives, and the process invites participants to express what often goes unsaid through a creative partnership that honors their words and experiences. Every song is co-written with full consent and intention and with participant permission, many of these songs are shared through performances, playlists and public platforms to build understanding, strengthen community and amplify the voices of those who serve.

CMHOFM Celebrates Opening Of ‘Dolly Parton: Journey Of A Seeker’

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Dolly Parton at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrated the life and legacy of Dolly Parton last night (May 19) at the opening of its newest exhibit, “Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker.”

Dolly Parton attends the opening of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s new exhibit ‘Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker.’ Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images

The evening included special tribute performances of Parton’s songs “Coat of Many Colors” and “The Seeker” by Alison Krauss & Union Station, and Parton concluded the evening with remarks of her own.

The new exhibit, open until September 2026, focuses on turning points throughout Parton’s more than 60-year career where she overcame obstacles and ignored naysayers to become one of the most beloved and widely recognized celebrities across the world. “Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker” includes clothing, awards, handwritten lyrics, instruments, photos, exclusive interview footage and more, including Parton’s first draft of handwritten lyrics to her No. 1 hit “Jolene,” a cowgirl outfit Parton wore in the 1980 Hollywood film 9 to 5, the Kennedy Center Honors medallion Parton was presented in 2006, a custom-built Gibson banjo with a white metallic finish, rhinestones, and butterflies used by Parton in 1992 and on her “Halos & Horns Tour” in 2002, and more.

A view of the exhibit on display at the opening of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s new exhibit ‘Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker.’ Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images

An additional display that celebrates Parton’s community of literacy, created through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, is presented in the museum’s Taylor Swift Education Center. An illustrated companion book to the exhibit supplementing the gallery presentation featuring photos and artifacts is now available to purchase here or in the museum’s store, and will also be available in bookstores and online outlets through a partnership with the University of Illinois Press.

Access to the “Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker” exhibit is included with museum admission and a limited number of timed tickets for the exhibit are available each day. Advance reservations are encouraged and ticket availability can be found on the museum’s website.

Maggie Rose To Headline Inaugural Nashbash At Miami Art Week

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Nashbash Miami

Nashbash will bring Maggie Rose, Moon Taxi, Paul McDonald & the Mourning Doves and Jack Harris to Miami to kick off Art Week at the Miami Beach Bandshell. Tickets are on sale now.

“We are incredibly proud to support Nashbash as part of our commitment to connecting cultures and communities through unforgettable experiences,” says Ignacio Borbolla, Delta’s Regional Manager. “Delta and LATAM are dedicated to strengthening the bond between Miami and Latin America, and what better way to celebrate that connection than through the universal language of music? We’re thrilled to help bring Nashville’s iconic sounds to the heart of Miami Beach for Art Week.”

“As a 305 kid now calling Nashville home, launching ‘Nashbash’ to kick off Miami Art Week is a dream come true,” adds Jamie Rodriguez, Founder of Jrodconcerts Media and Creator of Nashbash. “We’re bringing the heart of Music City to Miami Beach, showcasing the incredible talent that makes Nashville so special. From Maggie Rose’s powerhouse vocals to Moon Taxi’s electrifying energy, Paul McDonald’s soulful storytelling and Jack Harris’s captivating stage presence, this lineup is a testament to the vibrant music scene we’re cultivating. We’re inviting all of South Florida to join us for the start of what we hope will be a cherished new tradition, where art and music collide in the most spectacular way.”

Peermusic Nashville Adds One; Promotes Two

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Jennifer Hall, Matt Michiels & Cameron Stutts.

Jennifer Hall has joined the Peermusic Nashville team as Senior Creative Director. Additionally, the company has elevated Matt Michiels to Vice President, Creative and Cameron Stutts to Senior Creative Coordinator.

“I couldn’t be happier to welcome Jenny to our creative team and to recognize the hard work of Matt and Cameron with these well-deserved promotions,” says Michael Knox, President, Peermusic Nashville. “Jenny is a perfect fit for our team—she is smart, energetic and a leader. I have watched her career from afar and I’m excited to bring her energy to the office. Matt is a talented and proven creative executive that knows how to lead a staff and develop careers for songwriters and artists. He has always been someone that I can count on. Cameron has been firing on all cylinders in her short time here. Her position takes a lot of creativity and strategy, and I’m proud of the hard work she does for us. Our Peermusic Nashville team continues to go from strength to strength and we’ve dialed in the ideal team to offer our writers the very best support.”

Hall joins Peermusic Nashville from Porchlight Music where she served as Senior Creative Director. During her time there, she signed new talent and assisted the roster with pitching songs to labels, producers, managers and artists. Her previous stops also include Sheltered Music and Given Entertainment. An Indiana native, Hall graduated from Middle Tennessee State University’s music business program. She was also featured in MusicRow‘s 2025 Next Big Thing directory.

In her new role, Hall will help curate new talent, assist in the day-to-day operations for the company roster, and create opportunities and song placements for the writers. 

“I am thrilled to be joining the Peermusic Nashville team,” shares Hall. “It’s an honor not only to work for a company with such a rich, historic legacy, but alongside an incredible creative team and exceptional roster. I’m deeply grateful to Michael Knox and the Peermusic team for this opportunity and I look forward to diving in.”

Michiels joined Peermusic Nashville in 2018 and has been elevated from his former position as Senior Creative Director. At the company, he assists in the day-to-day company leadership, as well as writer management and artist development. He also oversees the back catalog and song placements, alongside creative support. Prior to joining Peermusic Nashville, Michiels held roles at Gallimore Productions & Song Garden Publishing and Warner Chappell Nashville. He holds a B.A. in Music from The University of Alabama and is a Meridian, Mississippi native. 

“I am so proud to champion the incredibly talented songwriters at peermusic Nashville,” says Michiels. “The team here and around the world are second to none. Thank you to Michael Knox, Mary Megan Peer [CEO, peermusic], and Ralph Peer [Executive Chair, peermusic] for the continued opportunity at such an amazing and historic music company!”

Stutts joined Peermusic Nashville in 2023 as Creative Coordinator, and collaborate with the creative teams to develop marketing strategy, creative design and social media campaigns. Before joining Peermusic, Stutts was Marketing Brand Ambassador at EMILY Revolutionary Marketing Group. Stutts is a native of Prosperity, South Carolina and holds a B.S. in Business Administration with a Management/Marketing emphasis from Lander University.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to take on this new chapter and build on the creative momentum that has been established,” adds Stutts. “The passion and collaborative spirit of the peermusic team make it such a rewarding place to be a part of, and I’m especially thankful to Michael Knox and the peermusic team for this opportunity. I look forward to continuing to support our Nashville roster while contributing to their success through creativity and dedication!”

Warner Music Nashville Adds Paige Elliott; Elevates Kayla Burnett

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Paige Elliott & Kayla Burnett.

Warner Music Nashville has added radio promotion veteran Paige Elliott to the team as National Director for the WEA Radio Promotion Team. Additionally, the company has also promoted Kayla Burnett to Manager, Radio for the WMN team.

“It is my extreme pleasure to announce that the Warner Music Nashville radio promotion team has hired one and recently promoted another,” says Senior Vice President of Radio & Commercial Partnerships, Kristen Williams. “We are thrilled to welcome Paige Elliott to Warner Music Nashville. Paige joins us today as the National Director for the WEA Radio Promotion Team, a role formerly held by Stephanie Hagerty. Paige is a consummate professional, having spent the last 7.5 years at Columbia Nashville, and is one of the most respected promotion executives in town. She has built an exceptional reputation and her relationships with radio partners and artists are unparalleled. My confidence in her ability to lead this team is unwavering.”

Elliot joins the role previously coming from Sony Music Nashville where she served as Columbia Dir., Promotion since 2017. Before then, she was Director of Regional Promotion, West Coast for Capitol Records Nashville from 2010-2017. In 2007, she started her career as Director of Regional Promotion, Northwest at Capitol Music Group.

“In addition, Kayla Burnett has been promoted to Manager, Radio and will be handling regional promotion for the Western Region for Team WMN,” continues Williams. “Kayla joined Warner Music Nashville as a Coordinator in November of 2020 and has shown a commitment to excellence and an extreme dedication to our artists from day one on the job. During her tenure, she has played a key role in building promotion plans, executing radio strategy and delivering results. I am excited to watch her grow in her new role!”

Elliott can be reached at Paige.Elliott@wmg.com, and Burnett at Kayla.Burnett@wmg.com