Autobus & Ryan Aviation Group Host Inaugural Hangar Party

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Pictured (L–R): Jeremy Maul, Nate Smith and Dan Ryan. Photo: Nicholas Tavares

Industry members gathered at a private hangar at Nashville International Airport to celebrate the official launch of Autobus, Jeremy Maul‘s new boutique tour bus venture in partnership with Prevost, and welcome Dan Ryan‘s Ryan Aviation Group to Music City.

X3-45 VIP Entertainer tour bus model. Photo: Nicholas Tavares

During the event, Maul presented a model of his luxury X3-45 VIP Entertainer tour bus, and Ryan’s team brought in a Gulfstream G-IV SP jet, one of the first to be fully equipped with the newest Starlink technology.

Guests were provided with craft cocktails and culinary treats courtesy of The Electric Jane and its new private membership club, which is currently expanding to include a cigar lounge. ACM New Male Artist of the Year winner and CMA New Artist of the Year nominee Nate Smith rounded out the night by performing his hits “World On Fire” and “Whiskey On You,” among other tunes.

“I am just blown away that all you people have showed up here today. This is insane,” expressed Ryan to attendees. “We’re not here to sell anything, just to put a vibe together, meet people and have a good time. We’re here to say thank you, thank you for welcoming us to Nashville. We strive to make people feel special. We put our heart into it. And we don’t care about all the stuff that goes into the lax and luxury—we pay attention to it, but if you’re not putting your heart in it and not making people feel special, then we’re not doing our job.”

Gulfstream G-IV SP jet. Photo: Nicholas Tavares

“This event stemmed from a little vision that Dan and I had on our morning runs of bringing two companies together in Nashville,” shared Maul. “Both of us moved here from California a few years ago and have synergies between us, and we want to bring good people together.”

Sam Barber’s Expansive Debut LP ‘Restless Mind’ Out Now

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Sam Barber. Photo: Outlaw Foundry

Singer-songwriter Sam Barber has released his debut album, Restless Mind, via Lockeland Springs/Atlantic Records.

Included on the 28-track set is Barber’s Platinum “Straight and Narrow,” the song that introduced his raw vocal growl in 2023. The album also features collaborations with Avery Anna and Lily Fitts, and plenty of stinging lyrical reflection. In October Barber released the dusky anthem “Thought of You,” a heartbroken tune co-written with chart-topping songwriter Amy Allen. Other early album releases include the plaintive “S.O.B.” and “Streetlight,” plus “Better Year” and a rollicking cover of Tyler Childers’ “Jersey Giant.”

YouTube video

“This album means so incredibly much to me. It’s a culmination of the past couple of years making music. I’ve spent almost every single day that I wasn’t on the road making this album. I wanted to be able to tie everything together, even down to the cover art, which is the outside of the building that I originally posted tons of my videos from,” explains Barber.

“The title track ‘Restless Mind’ is my favorite on the album, but ‘V’ is a really special song to me since it’s about my sister and me growing up. I was even able to surprise her and sing it to her for the first time at her wedding just a few days ago! My hope is that everyone can find at least one song that means something special to them. Thanks to everyone from the bottom of my heart for the crazy amount of support so far. Can’t wait to hear what you think.”

Barber’s “Restless Mind T0ur” is now underway, and he will continue crisscrossing the nation before wrapping the tour Dec. 7 at the Jefferson Theater in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Restless Mind Track List:
1. “Man You Raised”
2. “Cold, Dark Place”
3. “Thought of You”
4. “G-PA”
5. “Restless Mind (feat. Avery Anna)”
6. “Due Time”
7. “Better Year”
8. “Long Way To Go”
9. “Bet On My Ghost”
10. “Will You Be There”
11. “76”
12. “Jersey Giant”
13. “Down The Road”
14. “S.O.B.”
15. “Evil Place”
16. “Gambler”
17. “Morning Time”
18. “Indigo (feat. Avery Anna)”
19. “Different Kind of Pain”
20. “Streetlight”
21. “Never Mine”
22. “V”
23. “Stopped in Hell (feat. Lily Fitts)”
24. “Stay The Night”
25. “Straight and Narrow”
26. “Home Ain’t Far”
27. “Let Me Down”
28. “You Know I Know”

Ella Langley Crushes Two Sold-Out Nights At Exit/In

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Ella Langley performing at Exit/In in Nashville. Photo: Caylee Robillard

Fans packed into Exit/In on both Thursday (Oct. 31) and Friday (Nov. 1) night for two sold-out shows from breakout country star Ella Langley.

On Halloween evening, Langley was joined by Carter Faith and Madeline Edwards. Faith and Meg McRee supported her on Friday night.

When Langley hit the stage, she got the Friday crowd pumped with single “Paint The Town Blue” before thrilling them with “Country Boy’s Dream Girl” and “Nicotine.” It was clear she was ready to celebrate her first headlining tour stop in Nashville from her charming interactions with the crowd and the energy in her performance.

Meg McRee, Carter Faith, Ella Langley and Maggie Antone performing at Exit/In in Nashville. Photo: Caylee Robillard

“I’ve been dreaming of this shit my whole life,” Langley said at one point before she and her band took a shot out of a “drinking horn.”

Langley encouraged the room to get rowdy, covering Gretchen Wilson‘s “Here For The Party” with verve. She brought McRee back out to perform “I Blame The Bar” from her 2024 album Hungover, which the two co-wrote with Chris LaCorte and Joybeth Taylor.

The fans that gathered to see Langley completely bought-in to the Alabama native’s charisma, wit and talent. The gals in the crowd pumped their fists to “Better Be Tough,” pointing up at Langley while she sang “you ain’t seen crazy ’til you seen me all pissed off comin’ down your street.” They showed the same enthusiasm for “Girl Who Drank Wine,” a creative triumph from her Hungover record.

Langley took a few moments throughout the show to share her gratitude for the journey she’s been on since arriving in town in 2019. “I wouldn’t be here without the people who believed in me,” she said, encouraging any artists in the room to find their tribe. She then played “If You Have To,” her first breakout song, for her OG fans.

The singer-songwriter commanded the room with an acoustic guitar on “Cowgirl Don’t Cry” and “Girl You’re Taking Home.” She then brought McRee, Faith and Maggie Antone out for a spirited sing-along of “Cowboy Friends,” which made for one of the night’s highlights.

After the Exit/In audience showed Langley some love with their volume on her newly-released “Weren’t For The Wind,” they turned it up to 10 when it came time for her smash hit “You Look Like You Love Me,” which hit the top of the MusicRow Radio Chart that morning and is well on its way on Billboard and Mediabase charts.

Langley delivered both the sung and spoken parts of the tune like a pro, all through a glittering grin. A fun treat for attendees, she shared the original second verse of “You Look Like You Love Me” that was in place before Riley Green added his part to the hit.

With a smile and a wink, Langley left the stage only to return for an encore.

She will continue “The Hungover Tour,” all of which sold out in 24 hours, on Nov. 7 and 8 in Texas. She will also support Cody Johnson’s “Leather Tour” on Nov. 9 in Arlington, Texas.

Warner Chappell Music & Twelve6 Entertainment Sign Ben Wagner

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Pictured (L–R): Taylor Guttmann PLLC’s Rachel Guttmann, Twelve6’s Travis Myatt, Ben Wagner, Warner Chappell’s Benji Amaefule, Twelve6’s Alaina Maggart and Warner Chappell’s Sara Latimer

Warner Chappell Music and Twelve6 Entertainment have signed singer-songwriter Ben Wagner to a global publishing deal.

Wagner frequently collaborates with Wyatt Flores and has amassed 20 million streams with songs like “Running Out of Time,” “Life Lessons” and “Ain’t Proud.” His self-recorded tracks “Way You Move” and “Turn” have been featured in Netflix drama series Virgin River and drama film Ordinary Angels. Wagner, a triple Great American Song Contest winner, was honored with the Pamela Phillips Oland Excellence in the Art of Writing Lyrics Award this year. Additionally, he works with the Country Music Hall of Fame and CreatiVets, the nonprofit organization that provides support to veterans interested in songwriting.

“I’m excited to have Ben join the Warner Chappell family in partnership with Twelve6,” says Benji Amaefule, Manager, A&R, Warner Chappell Music Nashville. “His versatile skill set and connection with artists and writers in this community are key to success in this current musical climate. I’m looking forward to showcasing his songs to fans that will resonate with his unique storytelling that is already connecting around the country.”

“I am thrilled to welcome Ben Wagner into the Twelve6 alongside Warner Chappell and Benji,” adds Travis Myatt, President & General Manager, Twelve 6 Entertainment. “Ben’s ability to craft songs that push boundaries, while still hitting home, makes him a unique voice in today’s landscape. His work with artists like Wyatt Flores speaks for itself, and I can’t wait to see how his lyrically left-of-center approach will resonate with more artists across the industry.”

“I’m extremely grateful. It’s a dream come true to be working with Travis, Benji and the insanely talented teams at Twelve6 and Warner Chappell,” shares Wagner. “I thank God for my family, friends and co-writers who helped me get here. I know the amount of talent in this community, and I don’t take this opportunity lightly. Let’s keep ‘er moving!”

Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem Expands With Three Attorneys

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Photo: Courtesy of Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem, PLLC

Nashville-based entertainment law firm Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem, PLLC has added three attorneys to the firm.

J. Rush Hicks joins as Of Counsel and has practiced in Nashville’s entertainment space since 1983. He previously served as Chair of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business at Belmont University. Cheshire Rigler and Alyssa Johnson also join as associates, both having previously worked at other entertainment law offices in Nashville.

“As our clients’ needs continue to grow, we are committed to adding bandwidth and experience to broadly serve our clients in a timely, client-centered and detailed manner,” says Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem’s Jason Turner. “I could not be more honored to have Rush join our Firm. His years of experience and reputation are second to none.”

“I’ve known Jason and Jordan [Keller] for many years and I’m looking forward to being a part of one of Music Row’s most well-known entertainment law firms,” says Hicks.

Keller adds, “With the addition of Cheshire and Alyssa, we will continue to be able to offer in-depth IP counsel to our clients, now expanding into patent law as well.”

Keller Turner opened in 2011, representing clients in their entertainment, real estate, corporate, tax and estate planning matters worldwide. It continues to be on the forefront of the industry closing nearly one billion dollars in music catalog transactions in the past five years.

The newly-added attorneys can be reached at rush@ktaglaw.com, cheshire@ktaglaw.com and alyssa@ktaglaw.com.

Jamie MacDonald Signs With Capitol Christian Music Group

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Pictured (L–R): CCMG’s Becca Redl, Aaron Stearns, Garrett Davis, Hudson Plachy, Jamie MacDonald, CCMG’s Brad O’Donnell, Steven Cervenka, Karrie Dawley, Elizabeth Brock and Kenny Rodgers

Singer-songwriter Jamie MacDonald has signed with Capitol Christian Music Group (CCMG). Her debut single, “A Million Chances,” is set for release on Nov. 15.

The Michigan native has spent years in the studio contributing background vocals, choir parts and vocal production to other artists’ projects as well as writing music for film and television. MacDonald has collaborated with a variety of songwriters and producers, including Austin Davis, Jonathan Gamble, Molly Kate Kestner and Jordan Sapp. She has also worked in the sync space with her music appearing on Oprah Winfrey/OWN’s Queen Sugar, ABC’s The Rookie and the College Football Playoffs on EPSN.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jamie to CCMG,” share CCMG Co-Presidents Brad O’Donnell and Hudson Plachy. “The moment we heard her sing and her incredible story, it was clear what an extraordinary talent she is. We can’t wait to share her music and amazing voice with the world.”

Additionally, MacDonald has signed with RoundTable Management for management representation as well as UTA for booking representation.

“We’re honored to partner with Jamie MacDonald on her musical journey. We at RoundTable believe deeply in her artistry and purposeful message,” say RoundTable Management President Cam Pumphrey and Artist Manager Ashley Morgan. “Her gift brings a fresh sound to the industry, with songs that reach a broad audience. We’re excited for the future.”

“When we first encountered Jamie and heard her story, we immediately knew that she is an incredibly special person who is going to bring hope to a lot of people,” says UTA Agent Jonathan Roberts. “Jamie’s songs are thoughtful, honest and refreshing. She embodies a multi-hyphenate artist whose reach will go far beyond music and concerts, and we’re so thrilled to be her agency partner.”

Trace Adkins Celebrates Emmy Award For ‘Mayfield – Town Of Heroes’ Documentary

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Pictured (L-R): Greg Baker (Twang Management), Trace Adkins and Jason Fridenstine (Twang Management). Photo: Thomas Crabtree

Trace Adkins returned to Mayfield, Kentucky on Tuesday (Oct. 29) for the premiere of Mayfield – Town of Heroes, a documentary highlighting the community’s resilience following the devastating 2021 tornado. Narrated by Adkins, the film details the resilience of residents who faced the disaster and showcases their ongoing recovery efforts. The documentary, premiering at Princess Theaters, was honored with an Emmy Award for Outstanding Weather Short Form Content.

The event included two additional screenings and a Q&A session with Adkins, along with producers Greg Baker and Jason Fridenstine and executive producer Andrew Rozario. Mayor Kathy Stewart O’Nan also presented the documentary creators with an official proclamation from the governor, making them Kentucky Colonels, the highest title of honor state.

Adkins’ history with the town of Mayfield goes back to his “Somewhere In America: A Concert For Mayfield” event in June of 2023. Presented by KIOTI Tractor, the show took place at Mayfield High School’s CFSB War Memorial Stadium which was ground zero for the tornado that ripped across western Kentucky, taking 50 lives and displacing thousands. The artist even provided the soundtrack to the city, filming the “Somewhere In America” music video on site and prompting the making of the documentary.

“When something like this happens, we put our differences aside, and we love each other,” says Adkins.

Adkins is currently on his “Somewhere In America Tour” through the end of the year.

Steven Curtis Chapman Becomes Grand Ole Opry Member

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Lady A and Steven Curtis Chapman. Photo: Chris Hollo

Steven Curtis Chapman officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry family on Nov. 1. He was inducted during his special night by Opry members Lady A.

Along with Lady A, Chapman personally requested Opry members Ricky Skaggs, (who invited Chapman to become an Opry member this summer,) Carly Pearce, Russell Dickerson and rock band Colony House, which featured Chapman’s two sons, front man Caleb Chapman and drummer Will Franklin Chapman, be a part of his special night. For the special occasion, Chapman wore a custom suit designed by Manuel Cuevas’ son Manny Jr.

Herb Chapman Sr., Steven Curtis Chapman and Herb Chapman Jr. Photo: Chris Hollo

Chapman kicked off his performance with “Cinderella” and “He Stopped Loving Her Today” after telling the story about forgetting the words to that song during his Opry debut when he was a teenager performing at Opryland Theme Park. He was then joined by his father and brother to perform “My Redeemer Is Faithful and True,” offering his dad a lifelong dream to sing on the Opry stage. Lady A then joined him to welcome him into the Opry family with words about his life and music.

“More than we can ask or imagine, God has promised,” says Chapman. “I know it doesn’t always look like this moment, but I do believe God has so much more for us. And sometimes we get to see it in very tangible and real ways. Like standing in this circle on stage tonight. As I look down, there is an actual light that glows all the way around it. A full circle, an unbroken circle. God is in front and back and side to side, he has us surrounded.”

Chapman then performed a song he wrote specifically for the occasion, “Grand Ole Opry Stage,” and closed with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” with members of his family, performers from the night’s show and a handful of Opry members who attended the show.

Chapman and the Opry kicked off National Adoption Month by donating $5 from each ticket sold to benefit Show Hope, the nonprofit founded by Chapman and his wife Mary Beth that provides ongoing care and support to orphaned children and families impacted by adoption and foster care.

With 50 No. 1 hits, Chapman is the most-awarded artist in Christian music history. He made his Opry debut 42 years ago at age 19 when he was a performer at the Opryland USA theme park. Chapman is also scheduled to perform on this season’s Opry Country Christmas and will be the Spotlight Artist on Dec. 22.

Riley Green Jumps To No. 1 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Riley Green. Photo: Jeremy Cowart

Riley Green has claimed the top spot on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart this week. “Damn Good Day To Leave,” “Don’t Mind If I Do” and “Worst Way” from his recently-released album, as well his duet with Ella Langley “You Look Like You Love Me,” all pushed the singer-songwriter to No. 1.

Zach Bryan sits at No. 2 this week with “28,” “American Nights” and “Pink Skies.” Chris Stapleton remains in the No. 3 spot with “Think I’m In Love With You.” Ashley Gorley (No. 4) and Jessie Jo Dillon (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.

The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

The Lede Company Establishes Music Division In Nashville

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Cara Hutchison & Jess Anderson (Photo: Brayln Kelly Smith)

Global full-service strategy, communications, integrated marketing and social impact consulting firm The Lede Company has established a Music division in Nashville.

The division, which represents Sabrina Carpenter, Post Malone, Rihanna, Pharrell Williams, Rosalía, Shakira, A$AP Rocky and more, will be led by newly-appointed Head of Music Cara Hutchison.

Additionally, Jess Anderson has joined the new division. Reporting to Hutchison and Co-Founder & Co-CEO Amanda Silverman, she intends to help the firm expand its presence in the music space.

Anderson most recently served as Senior Director of Media at Big Loud Records, founding and building the label’s in-house Publicity department, and currently serves on PR Task Forces for both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association. Her previous career stops include Sweet Talk Publicity, The Press House and Big Machine Label Group.

“Nashville has earned its place at the center of the conversation across entertainment because of the quality of talent and authentic sense of community that’s rooted here,” says Anderson. “The opportunity to help introduce a powerhouse agency like Lede to our town is a true thrill. Storytelling is the heartbeat of Nashville, and Lede crafts campaigns that elevate and highlight artistry in all of its forms. There’s no limit to what we’ll be able to accomplish with this partnership, and I’m honored to step into this role.”

“With Nashville at the heart of the music industry, we are incredibly excited to be launching this division,” shares Hutchison. “We’re thrilled to have Jess, a savvy music publicist with deep roots in Nashville, join us for this next chapter. We look forward to leveraging Lede’s relationships, storytelling, and communications expertise to help amplify the careers of such outstanding artists in this community.”