BREAKING: WSM’s Bill Cody Passes

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Bill Cody. Photo: Grand Ole Opry, by Chris Hollo

WSM announcer Bill Cody passed away on June 9. He was 67.

Cody’s distinctive voice has resonated across international airwaves for more than five decades. For over 30 years, he served as host of WSM Radio’s flagship morning program, Coffee, Country & Cody, and became especially renowned for his longtime role as announcer and host of the Grand Ole Opry.

Inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 2008, Cody has earned multiple nominations from the CMA, ACM and Billboard. In 2024, he was honored with a star on the Music City Walk of Fame Park. He will also be posthumously inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame later this year.

A native of Lebanon, Kentucky, Cody grew up as a preacher’s son and was introduced to radio at an early age. He often accompanied his father to the local radio station to exchange tapes of Sunday worship services for broadcast. Those visits provided an early look inside the world of radio and led to opportunities to spend time at the station, where he learned more about the day-to-day work of broadcasting.

In 1971, he began his professional radio career at WLBN in his hometown of Lebanon. Six years later, he joined WVLK in Lexington, Kentucky, as an on-air personality at 17 years old. At WVLK is where his boss requested he drop his birth name, Trent Clutts, and adopted the name Bill Cody, inspired by his one of his childhood heroes, “Buffalo Bill” Cody. After two years there, he moved to WHAS in Louisville, continuing to build his career in broadcasting.

In 1985, he returned to country radio as a morning personality at WCII in Louisville before relocating to Orlando, Florida, to work with WHOO-FM. Two years later, he joined KKYX-AM in San Antonio, Texas.

In 1994, Cody moved to Nashville to join WSM Radio, beginning a chapter that would define much of his distinguished career. Joining WSM on April 25, 1994, with inaugural guest Charlie Daniels. He also eventually developed the series on the Circle Network.

Beyond radio, Cody’s work has spanned television, syndication, voice-over and film. His credits include American Saturday Night: Live from the Grand Ole Opry, GAC-TV’s Master Series, the television specials Tennessee’s Wildside and Ray Stevens’ Nashville, and appearances on The Nashville Network. He has also been heard on Bill Cody’s Classic Country Weekend, Pure American Country, Nashville Record Review, Country’s Most Wanted, programming for the Country Music Hall of Fame, Music City Walk of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Ryman Auditorium, as well as Willie’s Roadhouse on SiriusXM and United Airlines’ in-flight country music programming.

Cody married his high school sweetheart, Rebecca. The couple has three children and resided in Cross Plains, TN.

In the days ahead, WSM will honor Cody with a special marathon of moments from Coffee, Country & Cody. Saturday’s (June 13) Grand Ole Opry will be dedicated to Cody. Services have yet to be announced.

Industry Ink: Ashley McBryde, Dierks Bentley, Dylan Marlowe, Trey Lewis, Lee Greenwood

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Ashley McBryde Appears On CBS Saturday Sessions

Ashley McBryde.

Ashley McBryde recently appeared on CBS Saturday Sessions, performing “What If We Don’t,” “Bottle Tells Me So” and “Ten To Midnight.”All three tracks appear on her recently released project, Wild.

McBryde will launch her headlining “Into The Wild Tour” in September, after supporting Garth Brooks at BST Hyde Park and select dates with Chris Stapleton.

 

Dierks Bentley Unveils Hologram Experience At Nashville International Airport


Dierks Bentley has unveiled a life-sized hologram experience, launching Nashville International Airport.

Now until July 31, Bentley’s hologram will welcome visitors traveling to Nashville, share the story of ROW 94 and direct travelers toward sampling opportunities and drink specials at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor.

“As a former Commissioner and friend to the airport for many years, we’re excited to have Dierks Bentley’s ROW 94 hologram to welcome travelers this summer,” says Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. “This installation offers an authentic Nashville experience and supports our ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience from the moment they arrive.”

 

Dylan Marlowe Earns Platinum Certification

Dylan Marlowe at the Chevy Riverfront Stage at CMAFest. Photo: Austin Aguilar

Dylan Marlowe has earned a Platinum certification for his collaboration with Dylan Scott, “Boys Back Home.”

Written by Marlowe, Seth Ennis and Joe Fox, the song marked Marlowe’s first No. 1 at country radio and has amassed 209.1 million global streams.

 

Trey Lewis Earns RIAA Double-Platinum Certification

Pictured (L-R): CAA’s Andrew Dominijanni, Stem’s Alison Junker, Trey Lewis, Raised Rowdy’s Nick Tressler and Stem’s Courtney Daly. Photo: Mitch Wallis

Trey Lewis was surprised on stage during his CMA Fest performance with a plaque commemorating his RIAA Double-Platinum certification for “Dicked Down In Dallas.” The track has amassed 372 million global streams to date.

“To see this song continue to connect with fans is truly incredible,” shares Lewis. “Getting to celebrate this moment during CMA Fest, surrounded by the people who’ve supported me from the beginning, made it even more special.”

 

Lee Greenwood Relaunches Soldier Valley Spirits


Lee Greenwood is relaunching Soldier Valley Spirits to celebrate the United States 250th birthday. A portion of the proceeds from every bottle sold helps support veteran and first responder charities, including Helping a Hero, Tunnels to Towers Foundation and Folds of Honor.

“I’ve spent much of my career honoring the men and women who serve our country ever since my first USO tour in 1989 with Bob Hope,” says Greenwood. “Soldier Valley Spirits is another way to say thank you. These are premium, American-made spirits that celebrate our shared values while helping support organizations that serve veterans and first-responder families.”.

Blue Sky Studios Officially Launches In Historic Former Watershed Studios Space

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Blue Sky Studios. Photo: Courtesy of Blue Sky Studios

Blue Sky Studios has announced its official public opening following a soft opening back in December.

The boutique recording and production studio in Hermitage, Tennessee was founded by Eric Petrone (Co-Founder & Creative Director) and Myles Mancuso (Co-Founder, Producer & Engineer), and operates inside the former Watershed Studios, a historic Nashville recording space connected to sessions involving artists including Dolly Parton and Miranda Lambert.

Since its soft opening, Blue Sky Studios has already welcomed some of Nashville’s most respected musicians, producers, and songwriters, establishing itself as a premier boutique recording environment. Recent sessions have included Brent Mason, Billy Thomas, Scotty Sanders, and Mark and Wanda Burchfield.

Myles Mancuso (Co-Founder, Producer & Engineer). Photo: Milestone Collective

Inside the studio, artists have access to an extensive collection of premium recording equipment and instruments, including Chandler, API, and Neve preamps; Telefunken, Neumann, Beyerdynamic, and AKG microphones; Martin, Gretsch, Fender, and Gibson guitars and basses; Fender, Marshall, and Dumble-style amplifiers; and multiple DW drum and snare configurations designed to accommodate a wide range of sounds and production styles. In addition to traditional sessions, the studio has grown into a versatile creative hub for songwriting, scoring, production, and multimedia content creation.

“Blue Sky Studios was built to honor the legacy of great music creation while creating something new for the next generation of artists,” says Petrone.“To be able to continue that story inside the former Watershed Studios, where legends like Dolly Parton and Miranda Lambert once recorded, means a tremendous amount to us personally and creatively.”

“Blue Sky Studios represents more than just a recording space,” Mancuso adds. “It’s a place where musicians, songwriters, and creators can feel inspired the moment they walk through the door. We wanted to preserve the soul and history of this building while bringing world-class production, musicianship, and creative energy into a modern era.”

Centricity Music Celebrates 20th Anniversary

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Centricity Music staff during the record label’s 20-year celebration. Photo: Courtesy of Centricity Music

Centricity Music recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

Formed in 2005 and establishing its headquarters in the Nashville area in 2006, Centricity Music and Centricity Publishing are now home to Andrew Peterson, Band Reeves, Bay Turner, Brandon Heath, Bryan McCleery, Centricity Worship, Chris Renzema, Gary Rea, Jason Gray, Jaye King, John Allan, Jordan Feliz, Katy Nichole, Kyle Williams, Mack Brock, Natalie Layne, Paul Duncan, Rachel Morley, Rachel Purcell, The Choir Room and Unspoken.

“Reaching this 20-year milestone is a testament to the hard work of our team, the trust of our artists and writers, and our commitment to continuous innovation that is grounded in our core values,” says Centricity Music CEO Caren Seidle. “While we are incredibly proud of what we have built over the last two decades, we are even more excited about the future. We remain dedicated to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional music to inspire every listener.”

Wheeler Walker Jr. Unveils Final Album & Tour

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Wheeler Walker Jr. has unveiled his final album and tour plans ahead of his retirement.

His album, Pullin’ Out, will be released on Sept. 25. The 11-track project is produced by Dave Cobb.

This fall, he will embark on the “Pullin’ Out: The Farewell Tour.” Kicking off on Oct. 15 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the tour will make stops in Los Angeles, Boston, Seattle, Austin, Detroit and many more. Wheeler’s final show will be at the Ryman on May 15, 2027.

Pullin’ Out: The Farewell Tour 2026/2027 Dates:
October 15, 2026 – Grand Rapids, MI – The Intersection
October 16, 2026 – Pittsburgh, PA – Roxian Theatre Presented by Citizens
October 17, 2026 – Beaver Dam, KY – Beaver Dam Amphitheater
October 19, 2026 – Madison, WI – The Sylvee
October 21, 2026 – Davenport, IA – Capitol Theatre
October 22, 2026 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit
October 23, 2026 – Cincinnati, OH – Bogart’s
October 24, 2026 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room at Old National Centre
November 5, 2026 – Jordan, NY – Kegs Canalside
November 6, 2026 – Huntington, NY – The Paramount in concert with Northwell
November 7, 2026 – New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place
November 8, 2026 – Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues
November 10, 2026 – Moncton, NB – Casino New Brunswick
November 12, 2026 – Montreal, QC – MTELUS
November 13, 2026 – Ottawa, ON – HISTORY
November 14, 2026 – London, ON – London Music Hall
November 15, 2026 – Toronto, ON – HISTORY
November 17, 2026 – Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom
November 19, 2026 – Columbus, OH – The Bluestone
November 20, 2026 – Cleveland, OH – The Agora
November 21, 2026 – Charles Town, WV – Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
February 24, 2027 – Milwaukee, WI – The Rave / Eagles Club
February 25, 2027 – St. Louis, MO – The Factory
February 26, 2027 – Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater
February 27, 2027 – Denver, CO – Summit Music Hall
February 28, 2027 – La Vista, NE – The Astro Theater
March 2, 2027 – Tulsa, OK – Cain’s Ballroom
March 4, 2027 – Austin, TX – ACL Live at the Moody Theater
March 5, 2027 – Dallas, TX – The Bomb Factory
March 6, 2027 – Houston, TX – House of Blues Houston
March 7, 2027 – Corpus Christi, TX – Brewster Street Icehouse
March 9, 2027 – Odessa, TX – Dos Amigos
March 11, 2027 – Albuquerque, NM – Revel
March 12, 2027 – Tempe, AZ – Marquee Theatre
March 13, 2027 – Del Mar, CA – The Sound
March 16, 2027 – Los Angeles, CA – Troubadour
March 18, 2027 – Napa, CA – Uptown Theatre
March 19, 2027 – Reno, NV – Grand Sierra Resort
March 20, 2027 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
March 21, 2027 – Boise, ID – Treefort Music Hall
March 23, 2027 – Eugene, OR – McDonald Theatre
March 25, 2027 – Portland, OR – Roseland Theater
March 26, 2027 – Seattle, WA – Showbox SoDo
March 27, 2027 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
March 30, 2026 – Kelowna, BC – Kelowna Community Theatre
April 1, 2027 – Calgary, AB – Event Centre @ Grey Eagle Resort & Casino
April 2, 2027 – Edmonton, AB – Midway Music Hall
April 3, 2027 – Saskatoon, SK – Coors Event Centre
April 5, 2027 – Winnipeg, MB – Burton Cummings Theatre
April 7, 2027 – Green Bay, WI – EPIC Event Center
April 8, 2027 – Minneapolis, MN – First Avenue
April 9, 2027 – West Des Moines, IA – Val Air Ballroom
April 10, 2027 – Rosemont, IL – Joe’s Live
April 22, 2027 – Richmond, VA – The National
April 23, 2027 – Raleigh, NC – Bowstring
April 24, 2027 – Atlanta, GA – The Eastern
May 15, 2027 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium

Wynonna Tells ‘The Hard Truth’ On New Album

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Wynonna will release her new album, The Hard Truth, on Oct. 2 via ANTI-Records. The lead single, “Kentucky Queen,” is available now.

“I’ve spent a lifetime singing about heartbreak, healing, faith and survival, but I’ve never made a record like this one,” she says. “These songs tell the truth about where I’ve been, what I’ve lost, what I’ve overcome, and who I’ve become. This album asked me to be brave enough to tell the truth—even when my voice shook. It challenged me to let go of perfectionism and embrace the beauty of honest emotion. My hope is that when you hear these songs, you feel what I was feeling while writing and recording them. If they help someone feel seen, understood, or a little less alone, then every hard truth was worth telling.”

The 10 track project features collaborations with Patterson Hood, The War and Treaty, and Iron & Wine. Cactus Moser serves as producer, with songwriter credits from Justin Weaver, Melissa Forette, Sarah Siskind and more.

“Being a part of this record, and helping bring these songs to life as its producer, has been the most important work I’ve known,” adds Moser. “We started with nothing but a feeling and emotion and ended up with an entire album that captures Wynonna’s story with a level of honesty she’s never experienced in her career. It’s the kind of record that makes a difference and reminds you why music exists in the first place.”

Wynonna will hit the road this summer on a co-headlining run with Melissa Etheridge and will return to her Kentucky roots with a mini tour of the state, including a show in her hometown of Ashland on album release day.

The Hard Truth Track List:
1. “Prelude (All Downhill From Ashland)”
2. “All Downhill From Ashland” (Cactus Moser, Melissa Forette, Wynonna Judd)
3. “Everything” (feat. Patterson Hood) (Patterson Hood, Cactus Moser, Wynonna Judd)
4. “Am I Missing Out” (Wyatt Moser)
5. “Broken And Blessed” (Sarah Siskind, Cactus Moser, Wynonna Judd)
6. “Hear Me Now” (feat. Iron & Wine) (Sam Beam, Cactus Moser, Wyonnna Judd)
7. “The Hopeful Lie” (feat. The War And Treaty) (Cactus Moser, Melissa Forette, LindseyWiler, Wynonna Judd)
8. “Kentucky Queen” (Sarah Siskind, Cactus Moser, Justin Weaver, Wynonna Judd)
9. “Girl Who Could Sing” (Cactus Moser, Clara Calloway, Brent Colella, Melissa Forette, Wynonna Judd)
10. “Drive” (Sarah Siskind, Cactus Moser, Wynonna Judd)
11. “Love Ain’t Got The Best Of Me” (Cactus Moser, RickyHuckabee, Wynonna Judd)

Anne Wilson Releases New Book

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Anne Wilson has released her new book, Rebel: Following Jesus When the World Walks the Other Way, via W Publishing, an imprint of Thomas Nelson.

Rebel marks Wilson’s third book and follows the success of her debut book, My Jesus, and her K-LOVE Fan Award-winning Hey Girl 40-Day Devotional, and continues to expand the faith-forward storytelling that has resonated across her music, writing and live shows.

Rebel explores what it means to live as a true follower of Jesus. Blending personal stories with biblical insight, Wilson offers a fresh perspective on living a life of purpose and conviction, even when it means looking like a rebel to the rest of the world. Inspired by Wilson’s 16-track album REBEL, the book further extends the message of the uncompromising faith that has become central to her artistry. Providing practical applications and chapter-ending prayers, the book inspires a bold, countercultural commitment to Christ.

“Jesus changed my life when He showed me that following Him isn’t about fitting in, it’s about standing out for His kingdom,” shares Wilson. “Rebel is an invitation to live with that kind of bold faith. My hope is that readers walk away inspired to trust God more deeply, love Him more fully and courageously follow Him wherever He leads.”

The release arrives on the heels of Wilson recently taking home the Book Impact Award at the 2026 K-LOVE Fan Awards for her Hey Girl 40-Day Devotional. Wilson recently extended her 2026 nationwide “The Stars Tour” into the fall with 24 additional dates across the U.S.

JUST IN: Florida Georgia Line Signs With CAA

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Pictured (L-R): Howie Nuchow (CAA) , Jeff Krones (CAA) , Chief Zaruk (The CORE), Brian Kelley, Rick Roskin (CAA), Simon Tikhman (The CORE), Tyler Hubbard and Tracy Martin (The CORE).

Florida Georgia Line has signed with CAA for representation.

Comprised of Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley, Florida Georgia Line became one of the most successful acts in modern country music. Known for blending country with other musical styles, the duo rose from Nashville newcomers to international stars and helped shape a new era of country music. After more than a decade of success and several years spent pursuing individual projects, Hubbard and Kelley are reuniting four years later to bring Florida Georgia Line back to the fans. The duo’s made their first appearance back over the weekend at CMA Fest.

The duo released five successful studio albums and delivered major hits such as “This Is How We Roll,” “H.O.L.Y.,” “May We All,” “Simple,” and “Meant to Be.” Florida Georgia Line spent a record 50 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. They have sold more than 40 million tracks and 4.7 million albums worldwide.

Their breakthrough hit, “Cruise,” became the best-selling digital country song of all time and earned Diamond certification from the RIAA. Over the course of their career, the duo also achieved 19 No. 1 singles across the Billboard Hot Country Songs, Country Airplay, and Canada Country charts.

FGL is managed by Simon Tikhman and Chief Zaruk at The Core Entertainment.

Ian Munsick Unveils ‘The Mountain Goat’ Due In August

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Ian Munsick will release his fourth album, The Mountain Goat, on Aug. 21. The project marks Munsick’s first full-length project released via WEST TO THE REST RECORDS/Triple Tigers Records.

Co-produced by Munsick with Jeremy Spillman and Mike Robinson, the album’s 15 tracks were written alongside Devin Dawson, Tucker Beathard, Jared Conrad and others. Munsick also played an extensive role in the instrumentation heard on the record. In total, he is credited with playing nine different instruments including acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, mandolin, banjo, harmonica, piano, bouzouki and kazoo, as well as lending background vocals and programming.

“‘Way up high in isolation, where most men dare not go…’ Since the very start of my musical journey I’ve always aspired to be an innovator. My voice has always been different so naturally, my music should be a little different too,” he shares. “When we started making this album, the relationship between my voice and the musical production was always at the forefront of the creative process. You’ll hear modern sounds rooted in folky textures, soaked with steel guitar and, of course, plenty of fiddle. Melodies that will, hopefully, haunt you till the end of your days and lyrics that will take you to the place that inspires me most; the west. These songs are dedicated to the land and the folks that live with it, not on it,” he adds. “Lord knows we need more of those in country music today. This album will take you horseback through pastures, prairies, up to the foothills, past the timberline and up to the summit… The Mountain Goat is waiting for you.”

His single “Love Is Blind” is currently climbing the radio charts. He will release the next album preview, “World War III,” on Friday (June 12).

As part of his “The Road to The Mountain Goat” shows, Munsick will host an official album release show at Deer Valley Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater in Park City, Utah on Aug. 22 as part of the Deer Valley Concert Series. The run of shows will also include stops in Nevada, Colorado, Texas, New Mexico and South Dakota. More information on these shows can be found here.

Munsick is also partnering with The Landmark Hotel & Casino to open the Ian Munsick Cowboy Bar & Western Grill this fall.

The Mountain Goat Tracklist:
1. Mountain Goat (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Ross Holmes)
2. Geronimo (Ian Munsick, Devin Dawson, Mike Robinson)
3. My Montana (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman)
4. Legends of the Fall Interlude
5. Made Me A Man (Ian Munsick, Mike Robinson, Tucker Beathard)
6. Blue Roan (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Ryan Beaver)
7. Love Is Blind (Ian Munsick, Ryan Tyndell, Jeremy Spillman)
8. Medicine Man (Ian Munsick, Mike Robinson, Jeremy Spillman, Ryan Beaver)
9. Cutthroat World (Ian Munsick, Wynn Varble, Jay Knowles)
10. Mountain Goat Reprise (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Ross Holmes)
11. Palomino Eyes (Ian Munsick, Phil O’Donnell)
12. Earn Your Spurs (Ian Munsick, Adam James, Jared Conrad)
13. The Girl I Left Behind
14. World War III (Ian Munsick, Mike Robinson, Jeremy Spillman)
15. Winter In Wyoming (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Phil O’Donnell)

Christian Stalnecker Inks With Curb | Word Music Publishing

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Pictured (L-R, top row): Curb’s Trevor Mathiesen; Jonathan Mason; Joseph Prielozny; Bryan Stewart; AIMWIDE’s Damien Wong-Ken and Curb’s Benson Curb. (L-R, bottom row): Frascogna Law Group’s Maggie Mabury; Christian Stalnecker and Curb’s John Nemoy.

GRAMMY nominated songwriter and producer Christian Stalnecker has signed with Curb | Word Music Publishing.

Stalnecker began his music career performing Southern Gospel and Christian music with his family’s revival band, traveling and playing shows across the country. As a teenager, he launched a pop career under the name Christian Davis, opening for major acts including Destiny’s Child, Christina Aguilera and the Backstreet Boys.

After moving to Los Angeles, he signed a publishing deal with Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins and Sony/ATV, writing and producing for artists such as El DeBarge, Lil Wayne, Dreezy and Day26. He has also worked with Boyz II Men, Warren G and others.

Later relocating to Nashville, Stalnecker became a successful country songwriter, co-writing several No. 1 hits, including “Different Man” (Kane Brown featuring Blake Shelton), “Rescue Me” (Chris Young), and the multi-platinum hit “Thank God” (Kane Brown and Katelyn Brown). The song topped the Country Airplay chart, crossed into multiple mainstream formats, and was named SESAC Nashville Song of the Year.

Known for his cross-genre songwriting and production, Stalnecker’s credits also include work with NKOTB, T-Pain, Rick Ross, Wale, Ludacris, 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg.

“Christian’s melody-first approach and ability to write hits that transcend genres make him a perfect fit for Curb | Word Music Publishing,” shares VP A&R and Publishing, Jonathan Mason. “We’re excited to support his next chapter as both a songwriter and artist.”

“After all my years, the most important thing in my career is to be around people who truly believe in me and really want to work hard alongside me,” adds Stalnecker. “I take my music career very personally, and Curb feels like a family.”