Messina Touring Group Elevates Six

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Pictured (clockwise): Nick Ayoub, Kara Smoak, Meesha Kosciolek, Madison Machen, Lucy Freeman and Alvin Abshire.

Live entertainment promoter Messina Touring Group has promoted six of its team members across various departments.

“It thrills me to see our MTG team grow as each of these individuals are incredible at what they do,” says CEO Louis Messina. “Watching them achieve new heights makes me so happy. The success of the entire team and everything they touch is my proudest accomplishment.”

Nick Ayoub has been elevated to Head of Digital Strategy and Operations, where he will lead the companies digital operations, streamlining internal processes and data strategies. Recognized as the youngest honoree on Billboard’s 2024 40 Under 40 list and a recipient of Pollstar’s 2024 Impact: NextGen award, Ayoub has been critical in creating digital strategy for some of the biggest stadium acts, including Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, The Lumineers and Phoebe Bridgers. In his new role, he will oversee the company’s technology, data infrastructure and cross-functional operations, giving artists access to their touring data, and how to utilize it.

Kara Smoak has been promoted to Director of Digital Marketing. In the new role, she will continue to lead digital marketing and creative strategy for the companies’ country roster, including George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, Blake Shelton, Old Dominion and Zac Brown Band. She has been key in 100+ stadium shows, including Strait’s record-breaking “The King at Kyle Field” (with 110,905 in attendance), and has been recognized as a 2023 Nashville Briefing 30 Under 30 honoree. Smoak works on digital partnerships, content creation, paid media and data-driven insights across all stages of the tour life cycle.

Meesha Kosciolek has been upped to Director of Production, MTG Nashville. In his five years with the organization, he has worked on major tours for Strait, Shelton and Church, among others as a production promoter representative. In his new role, Kosciolek will continue to oversee smooth production execution and grow production capabilities across the artist roster.

Alvin Abshire has been elevated to Digital Operations Manager. He has been key in developing the creative strategy and digital operations for tours by Strait, Chesney, Swift, Sheeran, The Lumineers and more. In his new position, he will develop the company’s digital initiatives, streamline cross-functional processes and bring forth digital innovation.

Lucy Freeman has been promoted to Digital Marketing Manager, where she will foster innovative digital strategies for Sheeran, Strait, and Kenny Chesney, among others. She joined Messina Touring Group in 2022, and has been key in marketing over 450 shows, driving paid and organic media campaigns, providing data-driven insights and lead creative project management.

Madison Machen has been upped to Manager, Partnerships and Branding, where she will lead partnership strategies for pop and country tours including Shelton, Sheeran, Strait, Chesney, The Lumineers and more. Machen has spent eight years in the industry honing her skills in tour marketing and working with streaming platforms, content creators and influencers to boost live event visibility.

Ian Munsick Proves Authenticity Is Key With New Album & Nashville Show

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Ian Munsick. Photo: Hulli

Ian Munsick celebrated the release of his third studio album Eagle Feather on Thursday night (April 17) with a packed show at The Pinnacle in Nashville, offering fans and industry partners a live preview of what might be his most personal and fully realized work to date.

Ian Munsick and Lainey Wilson. Photo: Hulli

The Wyoming native has built his brand around a clear mission: bringing the West to the rest. With Eagle Feather, Munsick leans all the way in. Released at 11 p.m. CT during the event, the album bookends itself with three Prairie Laments, short vignettes that ground the project in the vastness and emotional pull of his home state. It’s a thematic through line that adds depth to the new collection and reinforces the legacy he’s looking to build.

The inspiration behind the album traces back to Munsick’s sold-out debut at Red Rocks in 2023, when he was unexpectedly adopted by the Crow Tribe during a moment that deeply impacted him. Among the gifts they presented was an eagle feather—now a permanent fixture in his signature hat and the inspiration behind both the project’s title and creative direction.

At The Pinnacle, Munsick performed several standout tracks from the new album, including “Cheyenne,” “Caroline” and the radio-ready “Horses Not Hearts”—one of the few outside songs he’s cut. The evening also spotlighted several of Eagle Feather’s collaborators. Flatland Cavalry’s Cleto Cordero joined Munsick for “God Bless The West,” Stephen Wilson Jr. appeared for the title track and Lainey Wilson lent her vocals to the tender “Feather In My Hat,” which the two developed while on the road together last year.

Ian Munsick and Stephen Wilson Jr. Photo: Hulli

In addition to the new material, Munsick delivered fan favorites like “I See Country,” “Barn Burner,” “Long Live Cowgirls,” “Me Against The Mountain,” “Horses Are Faster,” “White Buffalo” and “More Than Me.” His trademark energy and stage presence were on full display, punctuated by moments of gratitude and humility. He also made a point to highlight his talented band, particularly a standout fiddle player, and treated the crowd to a few unexpected pop covers that added a playful touch to the night.

To close, Munsick performed “Long Haul” before bringing Ryan Charles to the stage for their high-energy duet “Cowboy Killer,” and wrapped the show with “Cowshit in the Morning” and “Mountain Time”—thanking the crowd for ringing in Eagle Feather’s release alongside him.

As his audience and catalog continue to grow, Munsick’s unwavering commitment to authenticity and the culture of the American West is clearly resonating. With Eagle Feather, he adds a compelling new chapter to his discography, positioning himself as both a creative and commercial force on the road ahead.

Dylan Scott Slates ‘Easy Does It’ Tour For Fall

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Dylan Scott. Photo: Eric Ryan Anderson

Dylan Scott will hit the road on his “Easy Does It Tour” this September.

The tour kicks off Sept. 25 in Atlanta and includes stops in Nashville, Charleston and more. Special guests George Birge, Josh Ross and Zach John King are set to join select dates. Presale starts this Wednesday (April 22) at 10 a.m. local time with public on-sale beginning this Friday, April 25 at 10 a.m. local time at dylanscottcountry.com.

Scott is currently on his headlining “Country Till I Die Tour,” and recently celebrated his first headline arena show. His new album, Easy Does It, will release May 30 with themes of heartbreak, committed love and nods to the small town that raised him. Easy Does It features Scott’s most recent No. 1 single “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us,” his second chart-topper of 2025 and sixth overall, and his new single “What He’ll Never Have,” which impacted country radio Monday (April 21).

“Easy Does It Tour” Dates:
September 25, 2025 – Atlanta, Ga. at Coca-Cola Roxy +^
September 26, 2025 – Nashville, Tenn. at The Pinnacle at Nashville Yards +^
September 27, 2025 – New Haven, Ky. at The Amp at Log Still +^
October 2, 2025 – Salem, Va. at Salem Civic Center *^
October 3, 2025 – Moon Township, Pa. at UPMC Event Center *^
October 4, 2025 – Schenectady, N.Y. at Proctors Theatre *^
October 9, 2025 – Kalamazoo, Mich. at Wings Event Center +^
October 10, 2025 – Waukee, Iowa at Vibrant Music Hall +^
October 11, 2025 – Lawrenceburg, Ind. at Hollywood Casino – Lawrenceburg Event Center
October 16, 2025 – Columbia, S.C. at Township Auditorium
October 17, 2025 – Washington, D.C. at Plaza Stage at Nationals Park
October 18, 2025 – Charleston, S.C. at The Refinery Charleston
October 23, 2025 – Springfield, Mo. at Shrine Auditorium *^
October 24, 2025 – Mankato, Minn. at Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center – Grand Hall *^
October 25, 2025 – Fargo, N.D. at Scheels Arena *^

Josh Ross*
George Birge+
Zach John King^

Ampersand Studios & Perk PR To Host ‘The Power Of Independent’ Panel & Networking Event

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Ampersand Studios and PERK PR + Creative Agency will present “The Power of Independent,” an exclusive evening designed to uplift and empower the independent artist community on May 13 at Ampersand Studios in Nashville.

Featuring four industry leaders including Morgan Mills, Halie Hampton Mosley, Blair Miller and Kyra Tillotson, the panel and networking event will bring together music industry execs to explore the tools, strategies and mindset required to thrive as an independent artist in today’s ever-evolving landscape. “The Power of Independent” invites artists, creatives and change-makers to join a conversation about creative freedom, modern career-building and the importance of crafting your own path, without waiting for permission.

Mills is the Chief Marketing Officer at CmdShft, a digital distribution, technology and label services company. With a 20+ year career spanning NY, L.A. and Nashville, she has worked in marketing, publishing and media, including segment production and interviewing notable figures across music and politics. Prior to CmdShft, she ran her own firm and worked in publishing, offering artist development, songwriter placement and marketing services.

Mosley is the Vice President of Roster Operations at WHY&HOW, where she defines artist strategy and internal initiatives. She has led efforts to expand company policies, including parental leave and works closely on strategy for artists like Tyler Braden, Chase Rice and Kelleigh Bannen. Previously, Mosley spent seven years in artist management at Maverick Nashville, and later managed Florida Georgia Line at Hit Farm Management in partnership with Full Stop Management, led by Irving and Jeffrey Azoff.

Miller is the Founder of Chaos Creators, and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. Formerly the Creative Director at Jonas Group Media, Blair has spearheaded marketing campaigns for Kassi Ashton, Dasha, Franklin Jonas, PUBLIC and Melanie Pfirrman featuring Pitbull. She’s worked with major influencers like Charli D’Amelio and Bella Poarch, produced content for Kroger and led brand strategies for Nellie’s Southern Kitchen, Country Radio Seminar,and more. Miller got her start through powerhouse internships at SB Projects, Atlantic Records and UMG.

Tillotson serves as the Director of Communications & Operations at Fort Nash and Walk Off Entertainment, both founded by Chris Ruediger. A graduate of the University of Washington, Tillotson moved to Nashville to pursue a career in music and artist development. Her work helped build The 615 House, a breakout digital platform championing rising country talent.

The panel will be moderated by Trevor Perkins, CEO of PERK PR + Creative Agency, and space for the event is limited with an RSVP required here.

Phil Vassar To Celebrate 25 Years Of Hits On ’25 Years of Paradise’ Tour

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Hitmaker Phil Vassar will celebrate a special milestone with fans across the country on his upcoming “25 Years of Paradise” tour, which kicks off May 30.

The new trek marks the 25th anniversary of Vassar’s era-defining smash “Just Another Day in Paradise.” The Platinum-selling single was not only a No. 1 hit, but also became an anthem for everyday love and family life.

“I can’t believe it’s been 25 years since ‘Paradise,’” Vassar says. “It’s the song that started everything for me as a solo artist, and I still love playing it night after night. This tour is about celebrating the fans who have been with me from the start — and making some new memories along the way.”

Vassar, who has written 10 No. 1s, will bring fans a night of nostalgia and energy filled with chart-topping hits, fan favorites, and dynamic covers of musical icons like Billy Joel and Elton John on the new tour, changing the setlist each night. The dates will include stops in Milwaukee, Hot Springs, Indianapolis and more and will run through Oct. 26.

The new tour is also a celebration for Vassar in another way, as he is roaring back following a life-altering heart attack and stroke in 2023 that nearly claimed his life and reshaped his outlook. “You can’t outrun your genetics, but you can take care of yourself,” he reflects. “I’m way calmer now than I used to be. I’ve learned to enjoy the moment. I just want to keep doing what I love, enjoying the ride, and leaving behind songs that people can hold onto.”

Tickets are on sale now here, with exclusive fan club and VIP packages available.

“25 Years Of Paradise” Tour Dates:
May 30 – Freedom, WI – Freedom Country Fest
June 10 – Fall Creek, WI – Nashville North USA
June 27 – Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee Summerfest
July 3 – Coralville, IA – Coralville 4thFest
July 5 – Rich Hill, MO – Rich Hill July 4th Festival
July 19 – Watertown, MN – B’s On The River (Rib Fest)
July 25 – Seward, NE – Seward County Fair
July 30 – Gallipolis, OH – Gallia County Fair
Aug. 2 – Elkhorn, WI – Neon Nights Wisconsin
Aug. 9 – Hot Springs, AR – Timberwood Amphitheater
Aug. 14 – Indianapolis, IN – Indiana State Fair
Aug. 20 – Petoskey, MI – Emmet-Charlevoix County Fair
Aug. 30 – Independence, MO – SantaCaliGon Days Festival
Oct. 25 – Nashua, NH – Nashua Center for the Arts
Oct. 26 – Alexandria, VA – The Birchmere

Chris Tomlin’s Ninth Annual ‘Good Friday Nashville’ Sells Out Bridgestone Arena

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Chris Tomlin. Photo: Scott Parker

Chris Tomlin’s ninth annual “Good Friday Nashville” benefit show sold out Bridgestone Arena again on April 18, becoming the largest ticketed Christian concert ever at the venue. The show benefits the foster care and adoption crisis through For Others, a nonprofit organization created by Tomlin and his wife, Lauren.

Chris Tomlin and Luke Bryan. Photo: Scott Parker

This year’s event featured Luke Bryan, multi-Dove Award winner Phil Wickham, Jenn Johnson of Bethel Music, Platinum-selling Brooke Ligertwood and best-selling author Max Lucado.

“I’m so grateful for what God is doing through Good Friday Nashville. It’s hard to believe next year will be year 10,” says Tomlin. “This has always been about the Church coming together as one, and over the years it has been incredible to see and experience what has been built together. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for year 10!”

Ahead of the show, Tomlin released “You Are My King (Amazing Love)” as part of Spotify’s First Easter Singles Campaign, alongside a collaboration with Jelly Roll and Brandon Lake.

During the show, Tomlin announced that tickets for the 2026 “Good Friday Nashville” show are available now. Since the announcement, over 60 percent of tickets have been sold.

Ty Myers Extends Headline Tour

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Ty Myers. Photo: Emily Vinson

Ty Myers has extended his sold-out “The Select Tour” with 20 new dates.

With over 442 million streams to date, the 17-year-old Texas native sold out the original 45-date tour in minutes. The extended run of “The Select Tour” will kick off on July 31 at the Egyptian Room at Old National Centre in Indianapolis and visit cities across America, including Denver, Dallas and Nashville, before wrapping on Nov. 8 in Michigan.

Tickets for added dates are available via an exclusive fan presale beginning Wednesday (April 23) at 10 a.m. local time and continuing through Thursday (April 24) at 10 p.m. local time. The public on-sale begins Friday (April 25) at 10 a.m. local time. To purchase tickets, visit tymyersmusic.com.

“The Select Tour” Additional Dates:
July 31 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room at Old National Centre
Aug. 1 – Louisville, KY – Fourth Street Live!
Aug. 14 – Denver, CO – Mission Ballroom
Sept. 5 – Madison, WI – The Sylvee
Sept. 6 – St. Paul, MN – Myth Live
Sept. 20 – Abilene, TX – Potosi Live
Sept. 26 – Dallas, TX – The Bomb Factory
Oct. 2 – Columbia, MO – Rose Park
Oct. 3 – Wichita, KS – WAVE
Oct. 16 – Athens, GA – Georgia Theatre
Oct. 17 – Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle
Oct. 23 – Gainesville, FL – Heartwood Soundstage
Oct. 24 – Fort Myers, FL – The Ranch
Oct. 25 – Tallahassee, FL – The Moon
Oct. 30 – Norfolk, VA – The NorVa
Oct. 31 – Richmond, VA – The National
Nov. 1 – Washington, D.C. – The Anthem
Nov. 6 – Columbus, OH – KEMBA Live!
Nov. 7 – Cleveland, OH – The Agora
Nov. 8 – Royal Oak, MI – Royal Oak Music Theatre

Parker McCollum & Cody Jinks To Headline Inaugural Tanglefoot Music & BBQ Festival

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Parker McCollum and Cody Jinks have been announced as the headliners for the new Tanglefoot Music & BBQ Festival, taking place Sept. 12-13 at the MLK Festival Grounds in Temple, Texas.

Other artists on the bill for the inaugural festival this fall include Robert Earl Keen, Randy Rogers Band, Mark Chesnutt, Jack Ingram, The Droptines, Corey Kent, The Wilder Blue and more.

In addition to the artist performances, attendees can explore over a dozen authentic BBQ joints from some of the country’s most popular pitmasters, who will travel to Temple for a rare weekend pop-up to cook up different BBQ cuisine from across the country in the Texas, Kansas City, Memphis and Carolina styles.

Two-day general admission and VIP tickets for Tanglefoot go on sale to the general public starting this Friday (April 25) here.

Eric Church Teams Up With 100 Record Stores For Album Release Celebrations

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Eric Church. Photo: Robby Klein

Eric Church has teamed up with over 100 independent record stores to celebrate the release of his highly anticipated album, Evangeline vs. The Machine, during the weekend of May 2-4.

Fans attending the listening events will hear the new project in full, an experience Church places heavy importance on when creating, and all attendees will have the chance to enter a special grand prize giveaway. The first fans in each store will be treated to a limited-edition Eric Church poster. Full details, including participating locations, can be found here.

“An album is a snapshot in time that lasts for all time,” Church shares. “I believe in that time-tested tradition of making records that live and breathe as one piece of art – I think it’s important.

“I’ve always let creativity be the muse. It’s been a compass for me,” he adds. “The people that I look up to in my career and the kind of musicians I gravitate to never did what I thought they were going to do next – and I love them for it. I never want our fans to get an album and go, ‘Oh, that’s like Chief or that’s like this.’ Painstakingly, I lose sleep at night to try to make sure that whatever we do creatively, they go, ‘Wow, that’s not what I thought.’ I think that’s my job as an artist.”

The lead single from the album, “Hands Of Time,” earned Church a new personal record for its first-week impact with 135 stations. The full-length record, which will be released May 2, is available for pre-order now.

Church will also bring the new music and his esteemed catalog to life onstage later this spring and summer with a run of high-profile shows, kicking off with two “To Beat The Devil” residency shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall on May 16-17 before a sold-out, two-night takeover of Nashville’s The Pinnacle May 23–24 for “Evangeline vs. The Machine Live.” In July, he heads west to Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where fans can expect a unique set each evening across three sold-out shows: “Eric Church vs. The Machine,” “Eric Church vs. The ECB” and “Eric Church vs. The Guitar.”

John Morgan Scores First No. 1 At Country Radio

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John Morgan. Photo: Matthew Berinato

John Morgan has scored his first No. 1 hit as an artist at country radio this week with “Friends Like That” featuring Jason Aldean.

Morgan penned the track with Brent Anderson, Will Bundy and Lydia Vaughan. This is Morgan’s third No. 1 as a writer and comes just before his debut album, Carolina Blue, which is slated to be released Friday (April 25). The North Carolina native will also make his Stagecoach Festival debut this Friday (April 25), before hitting the road to open for Kane Brown, Old Dominion and Riley Green on select dates this summer.