Robert Earl Keen & Kelly Thomas. Photo: Erika Goldring
When Kelly Thomas left behind a two-decade career in luxury fashion, she never imagined she’d find herself managing one of Texas music’s most beloved icons, Robert Earl Keen, or organizing a star-studded benefit concert in less than two weeks. But that’s exactly where life has taken her.
Thomas’ entry into the music industry came unexpectedly, but not without purpose. After years spent in the high-paced world of fashion as a buyer for major department and specialty stores in Dallas, she reached a turning point both personally and professionally.
“I had burned the candle at both ends for many years, both personally and professionally and needed a change,” she tells MusicRow. During her time in a recovery center, she met Keen.
Photo: Erika Goldring
“He needed some short-term help with a few events he had booked. And what was meant to be a temporary arrangement blossomed into a wonderful working relationship and point of change we both needed to step into the next chapter of our lives.”
Though she was new to artist management, Thomas found that her fashion career had equipped her with the tools she needed. “It’s another financial business built on and sprung from a creative process. So my skills translated very easily into my new role and industry.”
That perfect fit was put to the test this summer, when massive flooding devastated the Texas Hill Country just before Keen was scheduled to perform at Kerrville’s Fourth on the River celebration.
“Once we were able to digest the shocking news and shuddering morning phone call, we knew we had to act fast. People needed help, and Robert is the voice of the affected region of Texas.” From that urgency, the idea for the benefit concert “Applause for the Cause” was born.
Jon Randall Stewart, Miranda Lambert and Jack Ingram perform during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Starting the next day, Thomas sprang into action, juggling every moving part of the event. “I have never been on my phone more than in those weeks of planning the event,” she recalls. “I would have to switch gears from run of show creative planning, to livestream execution, to logistics and sound and light production, to charitable giving organizations.”
A key early challenge was selecting the right venue. While they had interest from large partners that could have filled a stadium, Thomas and Keen were focused on keeping the event rooted in the community. “We had to hold the event ‘in the Hill Country, and for the Hill Country,’’” she said. When Will Korioth of Whitewater Amphitheater in New Braunfels offered the space, it felt right.
The artist community responded immediately. “No one shows up for Texas, like Texans,” Thomas said. Within days, over 30 artists confirmed their participation, including some of the biggest names in music, including Tyler Childers, Miranda Lambert, Jamey Johnson and more.
One of the defining moments behind the scenes wasn’t just the music, but the atmosphere it created. “I overheard multiple artists saying it was the best event they had been to, and how it felt like ‘the best family reunion for Texas country music.’ Seeing artists shaking hands and hugging those who had not collaborated in years, or making new connections which might breed future partnerships was truly a beautiful thing.”
Tyler Childers performs during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Crucially, the event wasn’t just about music, it was about real help. Thomas and Keen chose the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country as the beneficiary due to their direct presence in the area and their ability to respond quickly. “That was our biggest desire, for the money to get to those who needed it, and fast.” The Foundation’s CEO, Austin Dickson, and his small team impressed Thomas with their efficiency and dedication.
Partnerships came together quickly thanks to longtime relationships. One pivotal call was to Buc-ee’s owner Beaver Aplin. “Robert made the call to his friend, who quickly and without hesitation jumped on board with enthusiasm. It started with their $1 million pledge and grew from there.”
Reflecting on the event, Thomas said the outpouring of support and the final results left her speechless. “It was pure gratitude. To see the results and feel the energy in that amphitheater on the day of the event from artists to patrons, I knew we had done something truly impactful and special no one who was there will forget.”
It’s clear that for Thomas, both her career change and the flood benefit were about more than just professional milestones. They were about showing up, for her artist, her community, and for the people of the Hill Country when they needed it most.
ARC Business Management Expands Through Strategic Partnership With Jason Moll, CPA
/by Lorie HollabaughTate Henshaw & Jason Moll. Photo: Hannah Drake
ARC Business Management, co-founded by Tate Henshaw and Lorne Clark, has formed a strategic partnership with Jason Moll CPA, a Nashville-based tax advisory practice serving entertainment, high-net-worth and small business clients.
The collaboration marks a significant expansion in ARC’s growth, establishing a physical presence in Nashville. The combination brings tax preparation and compliance services in-house for ARC, enhancing its capabilities alongside its business management and asset management offerings. Moll will join ARC as a senior leader with responsibilities spanning tax operations, client development, and cross-department collaboration.
“Jason has been a trusted partner for years, and this formal collaboration is a natural extension of that relationship,” says Henshaw, Co-Founder of ARC. “Bringing him onto the team not only strengthens our tax offering, but strategically positions us in Nashville — where our presence continues to grow.”
Moll brings over 15 years of experience delivering tax strategy and preparation to a wide range of clients, particularly within the entertainment sector. His deep relationships and specialized expertise further reinforce ARC’s commitment to serving creative professionals with tailored, high-touch advisory services.
“Joining ARC allows me to play a key role in establishing the firm’s presence in Nashville while continuing to expand my impact and service offering for local clients,” says Moll, CPA. “Tate and Lorne have built something truly special, and I’m excited to help drive its next chapter here in Nashville.”
Clients between the two companies include Ne-Yo, Billy Ray Cyrus, Blake Griffin, K Camp, Allman Betts Band, Secondhand Serenade, Bridgette Tatum and Danny Myrick, among others.
Steve Earle’s 11th Annual John Henry’s Friends Benefit Set For December
/by Lorie HollabaughSteve Earle will host his 11th annual John Henry’s Friends Benefit concert Dec. 12 at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, New York.
The evening will feature performances by Earle, Brandi Carlile, Margaret Glaspy, Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams in a classic guitar-pull format. Steve Earle’s son John Henry was diagnosed with autism at 19 months old, and for over a decade, Earle has drawn on his talent and lifelong musical friendships to host the annual, must-see concert.
Proceeds from the show benefit The Keswell School for children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder that provides educational, therapeutic and support services for children with ASD and their families. Pre-sale tickets for John Henry’s Friends Benefit concert are available now here (pw: SONGS4KESWELL). General on-sale begins this Friday (Oct. 3) here.
Past John Henry’s Friends Benefit concerts have featured Terry Allen, Jackson Browne, David Byrne, Rosanne Cash, Shawn Colvin, Emmylou Harris, Jason Isbell, John Mellencamp, Graham Nash, Josh Ritter, Amanda Shires, Bruce Springsteen, Lucinda Williams and many more.
Earle was recently honored with an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry and was officially inducted on Sept. 17.
MusiCares Shares Findings From 2025 Wellness In Music Survey
/by Lauryn SinkMusiCares has shared the results from its annual “Wellness In Music Survey.” This year’s findings from the nearly 3,200 responses were unpacked in a new op-ed by MusiCares Executive Director Theresa Wolters. Read the full article here.
According to the report, in 2025, 11.4% of WIM survey respondents reported suicidal ideation in the last year, representing an increase from 8% in the 2024 survey and more than double the U.S. general population. 15.4% of respondents lost a music industry colleague to suicide in the last year. 21.7% of those who tour frequently and 20.3% of those who lost a colleague to suicide also had suicidal thoughts.
20% of survey respondents knew a colleague who had been sexually harassed, and nearly 10% knew a colleague who had been sexually assaulted in the last year.
85% of survey respondents have health insurance, representing a slight decrease from 2024 and about 7-8% lower than coverage among the U.S. general population. Nearly half of respondents have their insurance through federal programs or the Affordable Care Act.
35% of survey respondents have a chronic disease, and nearly half of those with a chronic condition report that it impedes their ability to work in the music industry. Data from the survey shows that cancer screenings including mammograms, colonoscopies, cervical cancer screenings, and prostate cancer screenings are considerably lower among music professionals than the U.S. general population.
78% percent of survey respondents make less than $100,000 per year, and overwhelmingly report they cannot cover their expenses through music work alone. 40% of respondents attribute their anxiety to their finances and 32% attribute their depression to finances.
For more information on available resources for music industry professionals, click here.
Luke Combs To Release New Three-Song EP ‘The Prequel’
/by Lorie HollabaughLuke Combs is dropping a new three-song EP The Prequel, tomorrow (Oct. 3) via Sony Music Nashville.
“Still working on my new album that’ll be out early next year, but 3 songs from it are ready now and I couldn’t wait to get y’all some new music, so I’m releasing them this Friday, October 3 as The Prequel,” says Combs. “Songs will be ‘Days Like These,’ ‘15 Minutes’ and ‘My Kinda Saturday Night,’ which next year’s tour will be named after. I’ll have more news on that very soon.”
Combs recently made history as the first country artist ever to headline both Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza. He is also set to headline Austin City Limits Music Festival and Country Calling later this month. Combs’ latest single, “Back in the Saddle” was released earlier this summer and is currently No. 8 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and rising.
1. “My Kinda Saturday Night” (Luke Combs, Randy Montana, Jonathan Singleton)
2. “15 Minutes” (Luke Combs, Trey Pendley, Rob Pennington, Grant Vogel)
3. “Days Like These” (Luke Combs, Brent Cobb, Aaron Raitiere)
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival Wraps 11th Annual Event
/by Lauryn SinkTurnpike Troubadours. Photo: Alive Coverage
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival wrapped its eleventh annual festival at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin over the weekend.
Kevin Griffin gifts Gibson Guitar to audience member. Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images
Headliners John Mayer, Kings of Leon, Turnpike Troubadours and Young the Giant brought high-energy sets to the stage. On Saturday, Avery Anna elicited cheers from the crowd when she rolled out to accompany Sam Barber for a duet on “Indigo.” Plus, Maggie Rose welcomed Grace Potter to join her for their collaboration “Poison In My Well.” That wasn’t the only surprise from Potter. She also welcomed Brittney Spencer for a performance of “Little Hitchhiker,” and Young the Giant on “My Body.”
Emerson Hart of Tonic and Kevin Martin of Candlebox took the stage to a roar of applause during Better Than Ezra’s Sunday set. Better Than Ezra frontman and Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival Co-Founder Kevin Griffin made the most of another annual fan favorite moment when he personally gifted 2025’s official Pilgrimage Festival Gibson Guitar to a lucky attendee in the crowd.
The festival will return to Franklin in 2026.
Grace Potter & Brittany Spencer. Photo: Alive Coverage
John Mayer. Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images
Sam Barber. Photo: Alive Coverage
White Sands, Wide Open Spaces Inspire Jamie O’Neal’s New Album ‘Gypsum’ Set For January
/by Lorie HollabaughJamie O’Neal is set to release her sixth studio album, Gypsum, via BFD/Audium Nashville on Jan. 23. The first single from the album, “Ole Heartache,” is out now.
“When I wrote ‘Ole’ Heartache with Shaye Smith and Ed Hill, I wanted to write something I could hear George Strait or Lee Ann Womack singing—a timeless country classic throwback that likens Heartache to almost being a friend, a sidekick who hangs around pointing out how love is doomed…again and again,” says O’Neal. “It’s one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written, and it’s got harmonica on it like ‘Arizona’ which was so great to have another song with that lonesome sound.”
The new 10-song collection includes tracks co-written by O’Neal along with Dean Dillon, Stephanie Bentley, Rob Crosby, Roxie Dean, Ava Suppelsa, Ilya Toshinskiy and more. A highlight of the project is “Flowers & Fireflies,” written by O’Neal’s late sister Samantha Murphy.
“Gypsum is named for the sand dunes in White Sands National Park, one of the most beautiful and serene, other worldly places I’ve ever been to,” said Jamie. “I have an affinity for the west—the mountains, red rocks, sand dunes, and wide open spaces inspired a lot of this album. I love being in the studio and hearing some of the most incredible musicians bring the songs to life, it’s so exciting to have a new original album finished and ready for everyone to hear!”
O”Neal will play a Music City show at the Neon Steeple at Chief’s on Broadway on Nov. 6.
Gypsum Track List:
1. “Over New Mexico” – Jamie O’Neal/Shaye Smith/Lisa Drew
2. “Ole Heartache” – Jamie O’Neal/Shaye Smith/Ed Hill
3. “Slippery Slope” – Jamie O’Neal/Robin Lee/Roxie Dean
4. “John Deere Letter” – Jamie O’Neal/Shaye Smith/Tammy Hyler/Ilya Toshinskiy
5. “Just Whiskey” – Jamie O’Neal/Stephanie Bentley/Rob Crosby
6. “Flowers & Fireflies” – Samantha Murphy
7. “All The Same” – Scotty Emerick/Dean Dillon
8. “My Midnights” – Jamie O’Neal/Ava Suppelsa/Bailey Hefley
9. “Change It Now” – Kevin Doherty/Bob Regan
10. “Liberty” – Josia Eden
Tour News: Read Southall, Evan Honer, All Them Witches
/by Lauryn SinkRead Southall Set For Fall Solo Acoustic Tour
Read Southall, frontman and namesake of Rural Rock and Roll band Southall, will embark on a solo acoustic headline tour this fall. The “Read Southall Acoustic Tour 2025” will canvas Texas throughout December, visiting five cities. The run kicks off Dec. 4 in Lubbock at Blue Light, rolls through various markets, and concludes on Dec. 12 in Huntsville at Jolly Fox. Tickets go on sale at 10am local time this Friday, October 3.
Additionally, the Southall band will headline Billy Bob’s Texas on Feb. 6, 2026.
“Read Southall Acoustic Tour 2025” Dates:
Dec. 4 | Lubbock, TX – Blue Light*
Dec. 5 | San Angelo, TX – Blaine’s Pub*
Dec. 6 | College Station, TX – The Tap*
Dec. 11 | New Braunfels, TX – Gruene Hall*
Dec. 12 | Huntsville, TX – Jolly Fox*
Evan Honer Announces 2026 “It’s A Long Road Tour”
Evan Honer has announced his 2026 headline “It’s A Long Road Tour” across North America. The announcement comes on the heels of his third studio album Everything I Wanted via Cloverdale Records. Nicholas Jamerson, harf., Michal Leah, Sam Burchfield and Timmy Skelly will join on select dates as support. Tickets will be available here on Oct. 3.
The run will stop in 30 cities including Atlanta, Seattle, Dallas and many more throughout March and April of next year. One dollar for every ticket sold benefits the Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance.
“It’s A Long Road Tour” Dates
3/2 – WORKPLAY – Birmingham, AL *
3/3 – Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA *
3/5 – Ponte Vedra Concert Hall – Ponte Vedra Beach, FL *
3/6 – Charleston Music Hall – Charleston, SC *
3/7 – The Orange Peel – Asheville, NC &
3/9 – 9:30 Club – Washington, DC &
3/10 – Union Transfer – Philadelphia, PA &
3/11 – Mr. Smalls Theatre – Millvale, PA &
3/13 – Webster Hall – New York, NY &
3/14 – Royale – Boston, MA &
3/16 – The Danforth Music Hall – Toronto, ON @
3/17 – Bronson Centre – Ottawa, ON @
3/19 – Majestic Theatre – Detroit, MI @
3/20 – Vic Theatre – Chicago, IL @
3/21 – First Avenue – Minneapolis, MN @
3/26 – The Complex – Salt Lake City, UT ^
3/27-28 – Treefort Music Fest – Boise, ID
3/28 – The ELM – Bozeman, MT ^
3/30 – Commodore Ballroom – Vancouver, BC ^
3/31 – Showbox – Seattle, WA ^
4/1 – Crystal Ballroom – Portland, OR ^
4/3 – The Fillmore – San Francisco, CA ^
4/4 – El Rey Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
4/5 – The Observatory North Park – San Diego, CA #
4/7 – Orpheum Theater – Flagstaff, AZ #
4/10 – La Rosa – Tucson, AZ #
4/11 – The Van Buren – Phoenix, AZ #
4/15 – Cain’s Ballroom – Tulsa, OK #
4/16 – The Echo Lounge & Music Hall – Dallas, TX #
4/18 – Two Step Inn – Georgetown, TX
* harf. supporting
& Nicholas Jamerson supporting
@ Michal Leah supporting
^ Sam Burchfield supporting
# Timmy Skelly supporting
All Them Witches Announce Second Leg Of “House Of Mirrors” Tour
All Them Witches.
All Them Witches, the Nashville-based hard rock quartet, has announced the second leg of their North American headline tour. The band, made up of Ben McLeod (guitarist), Charles Michael Parks Jr. (bass/vocals), Christian Powers (drums), and Allan Van Cleave (keys) have confirmed 18 additional dates to their previously announced 29-date “House of Mirrors” tour across the EU, UK, and North America. The band will perform in cities including LA, Seattle, Denver, Austin and more. Tickets for the new dates will go on sale on Friday (Oct. 3). King Buffalo will join as support for this leg of the tour.
All Them Witches New “House of Mirrors” Tour Dates:
Feb 13: Birmingham, AL – Iron City+
Feb 14: Baton Rouge, LA – Chelsea’s Live+
Feb 15: Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall+
Feb 18: Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren+
Feb 19: San Diego, CA – The Observatory North Park+
Feb 20: Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern+
Feb 21: Berkeley, CA – UC Theatre+
Feb 23: Vancouver, BC – The Vogue+
Feb 24: Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom+
Feb 25: Seattle, WA – Showbox SoDo+
Feb 26: Boise, ID – Shrine Ballroom+
Feb 28: Boulder, CO – Boulder Theatre+
Mar 1: Denver, CO – Ogden Theatre+
Mar 3: Omaha, NE – Slowdown+
Mar 4: Lawrence, KS – Liberty Hall+
Mar 5: Oklahoma City, OK – Tower Theatre+
Mar 6: Austin, TX – Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheatre+
Mar 7: Dallas, TX – House of Blues+
* with support from King Buffalo
Chris Janson To Kick Off ‘Wild Horses Untamed Tour’ In October
/by Lorie HollabaughChris Janson
Chris Janson has announced dates for his new “Wild Horses Untamed Tour,” which kicks off Oct. 3 in Laramie, Wyoming.
The tour will visit Huntsville, Seattle, Montgomery, Ocala and more, with a Nashville stop set for January 29. The tour announcement comes on the heels of Janson’s latest album, Wild Horses, which was released on August 1. From high-energy romps like “Hung Up On” to emotional ballads that cut to the core, the project is a full-spectrum ride through Janson’s life, loves, and lessons and is a reflection of Janson’s journey: bold, wild, and untamed.
The leadoff single from the album, “Me and a Beer,” a breezy, feel-good anthem that invites listeners to let loose and celebrate the moment, is nearing the Top 30 at country radio and climbing.
“Wild Horses Untamed Tour” Dates:
10.3.25 I Laramie, WY
10.4.25 I Greenfield, MO
10.9.15 I Bethlehem, PA
10.10.25 I Shipshewana, IN
10.11.25 I Wisconsin Dells, WI
10.18.25 I Hobbs, NM
10.24.25 I Mount Vernon, KY
10.25.25 I Odessa, MO
11.11.25 I Huntsville, AL
11.15.25 I Seattle, WA
1.16.26 I Montgomery, AL
1.29.26 I Nashville, TN
1.30.26 I Effingham, IL
1.31.26 I Hiawassee, GA
2.6.26 I Ocala, FL
2.26.26 I New London, CT
2.28.26 I Woonsocket, RI
How Kelly Thomas Brought The Hill Country Flood Benefit To Life [Interview]
/by Madison HahnenRobert Earl Keen & Kelly Thomas. Photo: Erika Goldring
When Kelly Thomas left behind a two-decade career in luxury fashion, she never imagined she’d find herself managing one of Texas music’s most beloved icons, Robert Earl Keen, or organizing a star-studded benefit concert in less than two weeks. But that’s exactly where life has taken her.
Thomas’ entry into the music industry came unexpectedly, but not without purpose. After years spent in the high-paced world of fashion as a buyer for major department and specialty stores in Dallas, she reached a turning point both personally and professionally.
“I had burned the candle at both ends for many years, both personally and professionally and needed a change,” she tells MusicRow. During her time in a recovery center, she met Keen.
Photo: Erika Goldring
“He needed some short-term help with a few events he had booked. And what was meant to be a temporary arrangement blossomed into a wonderful working relationship and point of change we both needed to step into the next chapter of our lives.”
Though she was new to artist management, Thomas found that her fashion career had equipped her with the tools she needed. “It’s another financial business built on and sprung from a creative process. So my skills translated very easily into my new role and industry.”
That perfect fit was put to the test this summer, when massive flooding devastated the Texas Hill Country just before Keen was scheduled to perform at Kerrville’s Fourth on the River celebration.
“Once we were able to digest the shocking news and shuddering morning phone call, we knew we had to act fast. People needed help, and Robert is the voice of the affected region of Texas.” From that urgency, the idea for the benefit concert “Applause for the Cause” was born.
Jon Randall Stewart, Miranda Lambert and Jack Ingram perform during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Starting the next day, Thomas sprang into action, juggling every moving part of the event. “I have never been on my phone more than in those weeks of planning the event,” she recalls. “I would have to switch gears from run of show creative planning, to livestream execution, to logistics and sound and light production, to charitable giving organizations.”
A key early challenge was selecting the right venue. While they had interest from large partners that could have filled a stadium, Thomas and Keen were focused on keeping the event rooted in the community. “We had to hold the event ‘in the Hill Country, and for the Hill Country,’’” she said. When Will Korioth of Whitewater Amphitheater in New Braunfels offered the space, it felt right.
The artist community responded immediately. “No one shows up for Texas, like Texans,” Thomas said. Within days, over 30 artists confirmed their participation, including some of the biggest names in music, including Tyler Childers, Miranda Lambert, Jamey Johnson and more.
One of the defining moments behind the scenes wasn’t just the music, but the atmosphere it created. “I overheard multiple artists saying it was the best event they had been to, and how it felt like ‘the best family reunion for Texas country music.’ Seeing artists shaking hands and hugging those who had not collaborated in years, or making new connections which might breed future partnerships was truly a beautiful thing.”
Tyler Childers performs during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Crucially, the event wasn’t just about music, it was about real help. Thomas and Keen chose the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country as the beneficiary due to their direct presence in the area and their ability to respond quickly. “That was our biggest desire, for the money to get to those who needed it, and fast.” The Foundation’s CEO, Austin Dickson, and his small team impressed Thomas with their efficiency and dedication.
Partnerships came together quickly thanks to longtime relationships. One pivotal call was to Buc-ee’s owner Beaver Aplin. “Robert made the call to his friend, who quickly and without hesitation jumped on board with enthusiasm. It started with their $1 million pledge and grew from there.”
Reflecting on the event, Thomas said the outpouring of support and the final results left her speechless. “It was pure gratitude. To see the results and feel the energy in that amphitheater on the day of the event from artists to patrons, I knew we had done something truly impactful and special no one who was there will forget.”
It’s clear that for Thomas, both her career change and the flood benefit were about more than just professional milestones. They were about showing up, for her artist, her community, and for the people of the Hill Country when they needed it most.
Warren Denney To Retire From CMHOFM
/by Lauryn SinkWarren Denney.
Warren Denney will retire from his position as Vice President of Creative at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum at the end of the year after more than 18 years of service to the organization.
“Throughout his tenure, Warren grew the museum’s video, design and digital content efforts into an award-winning creative arm, forging an artistic vision for the museum that will resonate well into the future,” shares Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. “Beyond his talents as a visual artist and writer, he has a deep understanding and passion for this music and our museum’s educational mission that is felt in nearly everything we do.”
Denney joined the museum in 2007 as a Creative Manager and Senior Production Manager. He began leading the creative department in 2009 and became a key partner in the creation of exhibitions in partnership with the museum services team, producing primary exhibit looks, contributing writing and original content, and aided in directing and producing exhibit-related programs.
Denney co-directed Big Night (At the Museum), a 90-minute feature film in 2020, which earned a Silver Muse Award from the American Association of Museums for best video production and multiple Telly Awards. He also led art direction for From Where I Stand: The Black Experience in Country Music, an expanded box set by the museum and Warner Music Nashville released in 2024.
In his current role, Denney oversees artistic direction and design support for all exhibitions, education and marketing initiatives, as well as books published by the museum’s CMF Press and records produced by CMF Records. He also supervises the museum’s video production, photography and digital content creation, including for the museum’s public programs and other events.
In addition to writing for the museum, the Nashville native is a journalist and feature writer, primarily contributing to the Nashville Musician and the Nashvillian. He’s also written for the Tennessean, Guitar Player, Metro Music Monthly and Bone Music Magazine. Before joining the museum, Denney worked as a Managing Editor for Athlon sports publications. He has a master of fine arts degree in creative writing from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an undergraduate degree in journalism. He is also a fiction writer, poet and songwriter.