Chris Sligh has signed with Sony Music Publishing and Ace High Music.

Sligh has earned more than 200 cuts and multiple No. 1 singles with Rascal Flatts, Bailey Zimmerman, Nate Smith, Josh Ross, Austin Giorgio and more.

His credits include Rascal Flatts’ chart-topping, GRAMMY-nominated hit “Here Comes Goodbye,” Nate Smith’s Platinum-certified hit “Wreckage,” Bailey Zimmerman’s “Never Leave,” as well as his own single “Empty Me,” which won BMI’s Christian Song of the Year award in 2010. Most recently, Sligh collaborated on Austin Michael’s new record Lonestar, with tracks “Movin’ On” and “Least Of My Worries.”

“Ace High is the publishing company we as writers dream of – attentive and challenging; cheerleaders and critics when they need to be; friends and champions,” shares Sligh. “Travis, Poole & Abigail are all of the above. To partner with Sony and Ace High? Years ago, when I came back to music, my first dream publisher was Sony. I’m proud to call Ace High and Sony Music Publishing home!”

“Chris has built an incredible career by consistently creating songs that connect at the highest level. Beyond the accolades and hit records, what stands out most is his creative intuition, versatility and deep understanding of artists and songs. We’re honored to partner with someone of his caliber and excited for what’s ahead with Chris, Ace High and Sony Music Publishing,” adds Chris Poole, Ace High Music VP and Partner.

“Chris is a singular talent with a strong creative instinct that continues to rise above,” says Rusty Gaston, CEO, Sony Music Publishing Nashville. “We’re thrilled to welcome Chris to the SMP family alongside our partners at Ace High, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to support the next chapter of his already remarkable career.”

Rhett Akins was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry last night (June 28).

Akins has penned 36 No. 1 country hits for artists including Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett, Blake Shelton and more. In 2010, Rhett was named the No. 4 Billboard Country Songwriter. In 2011 and 2014, BMI named him Songwriter of the Year. Akins is a seven-time CMA Triple Play recipient and was named Songwriter of the Decade by the Academy of Country Music in 2019. He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2021.

Akins was surprised on stage with the invitation by Jon Pardi, who shared “Rhett has always been somebody who has always been a mentor and taught a lot to me about how to write songs, how to be a co-writer. He has over 30 No. 1’s.” Turning to Akins, he continued, “You’ve always been family to me, but I’m here to invite you to be part of a different family. Rhett Akins I am here to invite you to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.”

“All I do everyday is write words and I can’t think of any words right now except, ‘Thank you Lord Jesus.’ I have been listening to the Grand Ole Opry since I was a little kid with my grandparents,” Rhett shared from the stage. “Watching it when it used to be on TNN. Anytime they’d ask me to play, if I was in Alaska, I’d fly home immediately. I love country music with all my heart and all I ever wanted to do was meet Hank Jr.. Meet George Strait. I never dreamed I’d be in this circle right here with Bill Monroe, Minnie Pearl, Roy Acuff, Garth and Alan…and Jon Pardi. This is just unbelievable.”

After the show, Akins carried the celebration to a special post-show party with fans in Opry House Studio A.

“We’re going to be so pleased to welcome a fellow like Rhett who has made such an impact both as a recording artist and an often-recorded songwriter into the Opry family.” says Dan Rogers, Opry executive producer. “Rhett lauds the Opry’s traditions and is excited to help build its future as the show enters its second century. This is going to be a great marriage.”

Akins official induction ceremony will be announced at a later date.

TKO Artist Management has elevated three team members.

Megan Pavlovic has been promoted to Artist Manager, working with Jamey Johnson, Toby Keith, Clay Walker and The Bacon Brothers. A 2016 graduate of Saint Anselm College, Pavlovic has worked in Nashville’s entertainment industry for nine years.

Jordan Bernal has been elevated to Artist Manager, working with Colton Dawson, Jamey Johnson, Jackson Dean and Mac McAnally. He joined TKO in 2022 following his graduation from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

Ben Sojka is now Manager, Publishing & Internal Operations, following five years with the firm. Additionally, he is part of the management teams for The Bacon Brothers, Toby Keith, Chris LeDoux, Ned LeDoux, Mac McAnally and Clay Walker. Sojka graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in 2019 and has since supported the operations of the company’s staff and artists.

Lee Greenwood will receive the 2026 All-American Icon Award and perform his iconic anthem, “God Bless the U.S.A.,” during the Countdown 250 Ball on July 3 at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C.

The Countdown 250 Ball serves as a major Independence Eve celebration, bringing together veterans, military families, community leaders, entertainers, immersive attractions, innovators, and guests from across the country.

For more than four decades, Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” has become one of America’s most recognizable patriotic songs, serving as a soundtrack for military tributes, national celebrations, and moments of unity. His appearance will be part of an evening honoring individuals whose contributions have helped shape American culture, service, leadership, and achievement.

“Lee Greenwood’s music has inspired generations of Americans,” says Mike Harrigan, Founder and Executive Producer of Countdown 250. “As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we are honored to recognize his extraordinary contributions to American culture and to welcome him as part of this historic celebration.”

In addition to Greenwood’s appearance, the evening will also feature performances and appearances by Celeste Kellogg, Gerardo J. Velez, Julian Awari, Scott Page, Captain Luis Avila and other entertainers and special guests. The Countdown 250 Ball will also feature America’s Freedom Bell, the All-American Hero and Icon Awards, immersive exhibits, interactive experiences, and the historic “1,000 Bells of Freedom” midnight ceremony marking America’s 250th anniversary.

Other award recipients and honorees to be recognized at the Countdown 250 Ball include Tony Orlando, Bob Anderson, Scott Page, Elizabeth Dole, Mike Moyer, Sally Roberts, Captain Luis Avila, Claudia Avila, LTC (Ret.) Deborah Snyder, Captain Eugene “Red” McDaniel and The Honorable Rob Wilkins, among others.

The event benefits Operation Renewed Hope Foundation and its mission to provide housing and support services for veterans and their families. Tickets, VIP experiences, reserved tables, and more are available here.

SOLID Raises $13,800 For Nonprofits At 2026 Music Row Madness Fundraiser

The Society of Leaders in Development (SOLID) recently raised $13,800 at Music Row Madness benefitting The L.O.V.E. Academy, Family Alliance in Music (FAM), Healing In The Margins, The Nashville Food Project, and The Aloe Family.

Teams representing Amazon Music, Citrin Cooperman, Curb Records, Endurance Music Group, FBMM, Ground Control Business Management, Reliant Talent Agency, The Orchard, UTA, and Warner Chappell Music competed throughout the evening while supporting the fundraising efforts. Ground Control was crowned the 2026 Music Row Madness winner.

 

CRB Releases New CRS360 Webinar ‘Country Coalition: Family Reunion or Family Feud?’

Country Radio Broadcasters has released the latest installment of its CRS360 webinar series, “”Country Coalition: Family Reunion or Family Feud?,” which reveals some myth-busting data about how country music fans perceive songs and artists from different eras while examining the growing intersection between country and pop music, specifically through the recent proliferation of artist collaborations.

Moderated by Justin Chase, Chief Content Officer for Beasley Media Group, and RJ Curtis, Executive Director of CRB, the session explores key findings from the study and offers practical recommendations for achieving the ideal balance of music eras and styles in today’s country radio environment.

 

Steve Wariner Celebrates Opening Of Solo Art Exhibit At Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center

Steve Wariner recently celebrated the opening of his new exhibit, “The Flip Side: Paintings by Steve Wariner.” The exhibit, which runs June 21-July 26, features Wariner’s works in oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media, spanning more than 30 years.

“For me, painting has always been a kind of therapy,” says Wariner. “It’s my sanctuary and escape. I’ve been drawing and painting for as long as I’ve been making music. They both go back to the beginning.”

 

Country With Heart Event Donates To St. Jude for 12th Year

The 12th annual Country With Heart for St. Jude benefit raised $30,000, taking the total monies raised over the 12-year run to more than $200,000.

“The miles these friends travel, both fans and stars, and their generosity is truly the heart of this event,” shares Founder/Organizer and Host, Bobby Marquez. “They come every year swapping hugs and enjoying dinner and photos together, cheering for the music and spreading the word, helping anyway they can. It is so humbling and just a remarkable night of goodwill we know is saving children thanks to the remarkable work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.”

 

Landon Barker Inks With Big Loud Rock

Landon Barker has inked with Big Loud Rock. He makes his label debut today (June 26) with the release of his first new music in two years, “If I Ever Talk To God.”

“Landon represents everything we love about the next generation of artists,” says Big Loud Co-Founder and President of Big Loud Rock Joey Moi. “He’s confident, hardworking, and committed to forging his own path. We believe this music is going to introduce listeners to a whole new side of him, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome him to Big Loud Rock.”

“It feels good to be starting this next chapter with Big Loud Rock,” adds Barker. “They really believe in what I’m building, and having a team that understands my vision makes me excited for everything that’s coming next.”