Luke Bryan Celebrates Epic 10th Year Of Crash My Playa

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Luke Bryan’s Crash My Playa 2025 Music Festival. Photo: Alive Coverage for Playa Luna Presents

Luke Bryan celebrated his 10th annual Crash My Playa event at the Moon Palace Cancún on Jan. 15-18 with a host of fellow superstars and four days packed with pool parties, nightly concerts and plenty of tropical fun. 

This year included two nights of headlining performances by Bryan, including a special finale night 10th anniversary “Luke Bryan & Friends” show featuring Bryan performing with Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Dustin Lynch, Dylan Scott, Bailey Zimmerman, Tucker Wetmore, Travis Denning and The Castellows’ Lilly Balkcom.

Additional highlights of the weekend included Dustin Lynch’s Pool Party, a set by Kane Brown and performances from Dasha, Jackson Dean, Elle King, Ella Langley, Kendell Marvell, Dylan Scott, Nate Smith and DJ Rock.

“The 10th Anniversary of Crash My Playa was a blast,” says Bryan. “The fans keep showing up year after year and I can’t thank them enough for the support. We could not have made 10 years of Playa possible without them. I want to say a huge thank you to all of my artist friends who come and perform each year—they are what makes this event so fun and special for these fans. We might even just have more fun than the fans doing this. What a way to kick off 2025!”

Walk Off Entertainment Inks Global Deal With Virgin Music Group

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Pictured (L-R): Jen Bontusa, Senior Vice President, Label Management, Virgin Music
Group; Jordon Isbell, Director of Marketing, Virgin Music Group; Chris Ruediger, Founder Walk Off Entertainment; Jacqueline Saturn, President, Virgin Music Group North America, and EVP of Global Artist Relations, Virgin Music Group and John Mayer, Senior Director, National Promotion and Streaming, Virgin Music Group. Photo: Jessie Rogers

Walk Off Entertainment, the Nashville-based company launched by former artist and social media executive Chris Ruediger, has signed a global deal with Virgin Music Group.

In addition to forming Walk Off Entertainment, Ruediger is also the founder of The 615 House, a creative community and promotional outlet for rising artists in Nashville. 615 House has more than 3 million followers on TikTok alone.

“Chris has a proven track record in breaking artists via 615 House,” says Jacqueline Saturn, President, Virgin Music Group North America, and EVP of Global Artist Relations. “We’re thrilled to welcome him and his growing roster of artists into the Virgin family.”

“I’m excited to bring everything I’ve learned as an artist and marketer together to back up-and-coming artists via Walk Off Entertainment,” says Ruediger. “We look at the artists on our roster as entrepreneurs in their own right, which makes Virgin Music Group a perfect partner for us at Walk Off. I’m looking forward to getting started with Jacqueline Saturn and her incredible team at Virgin.”

The first releases under the new deal are expected in the first quarter of 2025.

Morgan Wallen & Post Malone Lead iHeartRadio Award Nominations

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Post Malone & Morgan Wallen. Photo: Courtesy of Mercury Records/Republic/Big Loud Records

The 12th annual iHeartRadio Awards, taking place March 17 at The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, has revealed the full 2025 nominee list.

Morgan Wallen and Post Malone lead the pack in nominations this year, alongside Kendrick Lamar, Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift. Swift will be recognized with the Tour of the Century award for her 2023-24 “Eras Tour.”

Wallen notched nominations for Artist of the Year, Country Song of the Year (“Cowgirls”), Country Artist of the Year, Favorite Surprise Guest for bringing out Travis Kelce & Patrick Mahomes during his “One Night At A Time Tour” and Favorite Tour Tradition for his walk out song. Malone earned nominations for Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration (“Fortnight”), Best Lyrics (“Fortnight”) and Best Music Video (“Fortnight”).

Also lending to Wallen and Post’s nominations is their hit single “I Had Some Help,” which is up for Song of the Year, Best Collaboration, Country Song of the Year, Best Lyrics and Best Music Video.

Among those also nominated for this year’s iHeartRadio Music Awards are Shaboozey, Jelly Roll, Kane Brown, Ernest, Nate Smith, Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, Ashley Cooke, Dasha, George Birge, Tucker Wetmore, Julian Bunetta, Ashley Gorley and Amy Allen. The Twisters soundtrack, featuring many country artists, is also nominated for Favorite Soundtrack.

During the ceremony, the 2025 iHeartRadio Innovator Award will be given to Lady Gaga, and Mariah Carey will be honored with the 2025 iHeartRadio Icon Award.

The awards will honor the most-played artists and songs across iHeartRadio stations and the iHeartRadio app in 2024, while also giving a sneak peek at the biggest hits of 2025. The show will also include live performances, surprise guest appearances, collaborations and will highlight the journey of the winning artists as they reached No. 1. This year will also honor the resilience of Los Angeles and offer resources to help rebuild its communities amid the L.A. wildfires.

Fan voting will determine this year’s winners for Favorite Soundtrack, Favorite Broadway Debut, Favorite K-pop Dance Challenge, Favorite Surprise Guest, Favorite Tour Tradition, Best Lyrics, Best Music Video, Favorite Tour Style, Favorite Tour Photographer and Favorite On Screen. Voting is open now and ends on March 10 at 11:59 p.m. PT for all categories. Votes can be cast here.

The 2025 iHeartRadio Awards will take place March 17 on FOX at 8 p.m. ET and will broadcast on iHeartRadio stations nationwide and on the free iHeartRadio app. For a full list of nominations, click here.

Sound Talent Group Elevates Kate Vastano To Director Of HR

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Kate Vastano

Sound Talent Group partners Matt Andersen, Tim Borror and Dave Shapiro have announced that Kate Vastano has joined the company’s senior management team as Director of HR.

Vastano’s expertise in recruiting, employee engagement, employee benefits and love of music have made her an important part of Sound Talent Group’s team and a great asset to the artists and staff. Prior to joining Sound Talent Group, she served as Director of HR at The Agency Group, followed by roles at United Talent Agency where she worked as an HR Business Partner and later as a People Operations Manager.

“Kate has been an incredible addition to our team. Her knowledge and expertise has been invaluable and the energy that she brings to work each day can’t be matched. We are lucky to have her here,” says Andersen.

Reflecting on her time at the company, Vastano adds, “My first year at STG has been the most rewarding of my career, and I’m excited to help grow the company in a thoughtful, impactful way in future years now working as a part of our management team. As we say here, ‘We get to do cool sh_t with our friends’—and I could not agree more.”

Eric Church & Luke Combs To Be Honored With 2025 CRS Artist Humanitarian Award

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Eric Church and Luke Combs have been announced as co-recipients of the CRS 2025 Artist Humanitarian Award.

The honor will be presented on Friday, Feb. 21 during the annual Country Radio Seminar in Nashville, and recognizes the unparalleled efforts of Church and Combs, who raised over $24 million in under a month, driven by an Oct. 26 stadium concert in Charlotte that drew a record-breaking 82,000 fans. This massive event, which typically requires over a year of planning, was remarkably mobilized by their collective teams in just 28 days.

Church, through his nonprofit Chief Cares, announced plans to build 100 homes for hurricane victims, starting in Avery County, providing critical shelter to families affected by the devastating storms while also committing to helping address longer-term needs like creating jobs, rebuilding schools and supporting local businesses. In addition, he signed over all publishing royalties from his latest single, “Darkest Hour,” to the people of North Carolina.

Meanwhile, Combs and his team are working directly with North Carolina-based relief efforts to ensure funds are distributed where they are needed most. Their contributions support organizations including Samaritan’s Purse, Manna Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina.

“Eric Church and Luke Combs’ love for their home state has been nothing short of inspiring,” says CRB Awards Committee Chair Beverlee Brannigan. “Their dedication to helping North Carolina recover after Hurricane Helene and their ongoing efforts show just how much they care. This award is a heartfelt recognition of their commitment, hard work, and genuine compassion for the people of North Carolina. Eric and Luke, we’re proud to honor you.”

The CRB Artist Humanitarian Award was established in 1990 to recognize country artists whose philanthropic efforts have significantly improved the effectiveness and impact of the causes they support. Past recipients include Kane Brown, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood and more.

Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson To Headline Kentucky’s Railbird Music Festival

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Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson

Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson are set to headline the 2025 Railbird Music Festival, taking place May 31 and June 1 at The Infield at Red Mile in Lexington.

The two-day festival will bring together over 30 artists across three stages including Riley Green, Bailey Zimmerman, The Red Clay Strays, Shaboozey, Cody Jinks, Ryan Bingham & The Texas Gentlemen, Sierra Ferrell, Treaty Oak Revival, Wyatt Flores, Blackberry Smoke, Luke Grimes, Gavin Adcock and more to the grounds of the historic horse race track for performances and curated bourbon experiences, celebrating the spirit of Kentucky.

One-day and two-day GA, GA+, VIP and Platinum Tickets will be available during the presale beginning Jan. 24. A general on-sale will follow for any remaining tickets.

CMA Invests $600k In Music Industry Mental Health Organizations

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The Country Music Association has unveiled a $600,000 investment to aid six music industry-affiliated mental health organizations including Amber Health, Backline, ECCHO Live, Music Health Alliance, MusiCares and Porter’s Call. Each organization will receive a $100,000 investment to help meet growing demand for mental health resources.

A 2019 study conducted by Amber Health, in which over 1,400 touring professionals were surveyed, revealed significant mental health challenges within the industry. Among respondents, 34% reported suffering from clinical levels of depression, compared to just 7% in the general population. Touring was cited as a major strain on personal relationships, with 74% acknowledging its impact. Alarmingly, 26% reported serious suicidal ideation, including past suicide attempts or recent considerations. Additionally, 58% had lost a tour colleague to suicide, highlighting the industry’s emotional toll. While 45% reported drinking alcohol regularly, only 17% attended therapy at least monthly, underscoring a gap in access to or utilization of mental health resources.

“We strongly believe in supporting the heart of our industry—our people,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “This investment demonstrates CMA’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for mental health resources within our business, whether that means counseling, healthcare advocacy, financial guidance, substance abuse care, disaster relief or even basic living needs. We’ve seen firsthand the devastation and emotional impact caused by the recent Los Angeles wildfires and the catastrophic flooding brought on by hurricanes in parts of North Carolina, Tennessee and Florida a few months ago.The organizations we’ve partnered with are on the front lines of all aspects of mental health, and by partnering with each of them, we’re doing our part to support the vital work they do every day.”

Trahern adds, “Our hope is that this not only provides meaningful support but also sparks broader awareness and action around sustaining mental health resources in our format. Together, we are shaping an industry that prioritizes health, humanity, and creativity, ensuring that the business can continue to flourish without compromising the well-being of its people.”

In an industry that thrives on emotional expression, touring and creating, CMA recognizes that mental health resources are no longer optional, but essential. With these investments, the organization hopes to build a more sustainable and supportive future for the people at the heart of country music. CMA’s initiative looks to reaffirm its role as not only a leader in the genre’s artistry, but in safeguarding the individuals who make it thrive.

Additionally, today (Jan. 22), CMA launched its mental health hub at CMAmember.com/mentalhealth, serving as a portal for industry members that offers information on accessing mental health and wellness support through its partnered organizations. Visit the hub to find tailored mental health and wellness resources.

Industry Ink: Kenny Chesney, Drew Green, MuttNation, Collin Citron, Soles4Souls

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Kenny Chesney Talks Sphere Shows With Jimmy Fallon

Kenny Chesney joined NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon as lead panel guest. Photo: Todd Owyoung/NBC

Kenny Chesney recently stopped by The Tonight Show to chat about what made him take on the challenge of being the first country artist to play the Sphere and more. Chesney made the Sphere announcement at the start of TODAY’s 8:30 a.m. half hour, and tickets for the Sphere shows go on sale to the general public on Jan. 31.

“The great thing about Jimmy [Fallon],” says Chesney, “is he’s so musically curious, he always takes the conversation places you don’t see coming. That’s the reason when we made the decision to go into this new dimension with our live experience, and I knew I wanted to dig into it with Jimmy Fallon. He not only wanted to understand what the work was to create something that required being built from the ground up, he wanted to know what it feels like to be at one of our shows.”

 

Drew Green Celebrates Gold, New Single With Friends, Family

Pictured (L-R): Nate Lowery, Mark Trussell, Lee Starr, Drew Green, Brett James, Josh Miller and Chris Owen. Photo: Courtesy of RECORDS Nashville

Drew Green recently joined industry members, friends and family in Nashville to celebrate the release of his latest single, “Comin’ In Country.” During the get together, Green and his co-writers were surprised with plaques for their song “Good Ol’ Man,” which was recently certified RIAA Gold.

 

Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation & Norman’s Rare Guitars Team To Help L.A. Animals

Miranda Lambert pictured during a recent animal shelter visit. Photo: Bralyn Kelly

Miranda Lambert‘s MuttNation has partnered with legendary guitar dealer Norm Harris of Norman’s Rare Guitars to help Los Angeles-area animal shelters with wildfire recovery. Harris is as widely known for his compassion and generosity as he is for his knowledge of guitars, which is on display in the Netflix documentary Norman’s Rare Guitars. He and a close friend have each donated a one-of-a-kind Gibson R9 1959 Les Paul Reissue Custom Shop Murphy Lab guitar for auction to benefit animals. The auction is live here through Jan. 25 at 5 p.m. CT. One hundred percent of the funds raised from the auction will benefit L.A. area animal shelters.

“Although I haven’t met Norm, I’ve heard about him and his guitar store for years and the next time I’m in L.A., it will be my first stop,” says Lambert. “There’s nothing better than finding another like-minded music and mutt-loving person and I’m really honored that he chose to partner with MuttNation.”

 

Collin Citron Joins 2b Entertainment Team

Collin Citron. Photo: Aric Van Halen

Publicist Collin Citron has joined 2b Entertainment on Bobbie Gale and Luke Burland’s team based in Los Angeles. Most recently, Citron was a Senior Director of Publicity at Elektra Records, a role he held since 2018. There, he led national publicity campaigns for artists including Bailey Zimmerman, Panic! At The Disco, All Time Low, Needtobreathe and Fitz and The Tantrums among others. The move serves as a homecoming for Citron, who began his career in 2014 with BB GUN Press – which merged with MixedMediaWorks in 2023 to form 2b Entertainment.

“I’m thrilled to reunite with Bobbie and Luke, both of whom I consider mentors and friends,” shares Citron. “I’ve been so impressed with how they’ve grown 2b Entertainment, navigated the endlessly evolving media landscape, and gone above and beyond for their first-in-class roster. I’m grateful to join this talented team and look forward to helping to tell the stories of their incredible clients.”

 

Listening Room Hosts Soles4Souls Benefit

Pictured (L-R): Vincent Williams, Wyatt Durrette, Tim Nichols and James Otto. Photo: Courtesy of The Listening Room

The Listening Room Cafe’ hosted Soles4Souls featuring D. Vincent Williams, Wyatt Durrette, Tim Nichols and James Otto on Jan. 14 as part of the venue’s monthly Sound Good, Do Good initiative where they partner with one 501c3 organization each month and 100% of the ticket sales go to the organization at the end of the show.

SmithField To Showcase Love On Valentine’s Day EP

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Country duo SmithField will release their new EP, Love You To The Moon, on Feb. 14.

Comprised of lifelong friends Jenn Fielder and Trey Smith, the pair’s four track project will feature tracks crafted for their own weddings, along with new renditions of beloved fan favorites. SmithField hopes these songs become a meaningful part of even more fans’ special moments. With this album, they invite listeners to celebrate love through music that is sure to resonate deeply.

“‘If It Ain’t You’ and ‘We’ll Figure It Out’ have been a part of thousands of weddings,” they share. “Whether it be the first dance song, a bride walking down the aisle, or us getting hired to play for the big special day. We are excited to give them actual ‘wedding versions’ of those beloved songs, plus two that were from our own weddings. We hope with this music we get to celebrate together and be a part of even more wedding days in the future with this special project.”

Produced by Smith, Love You To The Moon is a heartfelt celebration of love in all its forms. This EP takes listeners on an intimate journey through the moments and emotions that have shaped the duo’s most personal relationships. From the lyrics in tracks like “Never Gonna Get Married” and to the melodies in “To The Moon,” the EP works to encapsulate the essence of love and connection for a global audience.

It also includes newly crafted wedding versions of fan-favorite songs “If It Ain’t You” and “We’ll Figure It Out.” Over the past two weeks, “If It Ain’t You” has amassed 2.5 million views on Instagram and TikTok, while the original version has racked up over 15 million streams across platforms. “We’ll Figure It Out” has garnered 20 million streams, 100 million views, and 600,000 shares across TikTok and Instagram, alongside more than 10,000 pieces of user-generated content.

Love You To The Moon Track List:
1. “To the Moon”
2. “If It Ain’t You – Wedding Version”
3. “Never Gonna Get Married”
4. “We’ll Figure It Out – Wedding Version”

Zach Top, Red Clay Strays, More To Play Georgia & Auburn Rodeos

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Pictured (clockwise): Zach Top, Maggie Antone and The Red Clay Strays

The Red Clay Strays, Zach Top, Cameron Whitcomb, Maggie Antone and Gabriella Rose are set to perform at the 2025 Georgia Rodeo and Auburn Rodeo this spring.

The Georgia Rodeo kicks off on April 11 at the Athens Fairgrounds in Winterville, Georgia, followed by The Auburn Rodeo on April 12 at Sistrunk Farms in Auburn, Alabama. Tickets are on sale now at theauburnrodeo.com and atthegeorgiarodeo.com.

“We are so excited that the Georgia Rodeo is returning to Athens this spring,” says Hannah Smith, Director of Marketing & Communications for Visit Athens. “We saw so much engagement last year from fans from the Athens area and throughout the region and can’t wait to welcome them back. Athens and its storied music heritage are a great fit for such a marquee live music event.”

“We are beyond excited to return to both Auburn and Athens with such a strong lineup,” says Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment and Shane Quick, Partner and President of Live Events. “These events are tailored to the fans who make them special year after year, and we’re proud to bring this incredible mix of music and rodeo action to these vibrant communities.”