Flatland Cavalry Makes National Television Debut On ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’
Flatland Cavalry recently made their national television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show. The band performed their debut single to country radio “Never Comin’ Back” in support of their recently released fifth studio album, Work of Heart.
The band earned their third consecutive nomination for ACM Group of the Year. The six-piece will perform live at ACM Next Wave: Country’s Beach Bash at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on May 16.
Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum Updates Taylor Swift Education Center Display
Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently updated the Taylor Swift Education Center Display with new artifacts related to Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl album, which Swift released in October 2025.
The new artifacts include a Kelsey Randall custom-designed chainmail dress, a painted antique toy piano and a custom-made vintage, feathered headpiece, all used in Swift’s music video for “The Fate of Ophelia.” Joining these The Life of a Showgirl era artifacts are the Taylor 655ce 12-string guitar Swift played during the acoustic set on her “Fearless Tour” (2009–2010) and a Hatch Show Print poster from her first-ever headlining stadium show, held at Gillette Stadium on June 5, 2010.
North Chapel Records Enters Exclusive Distribution Agreement With Symphonic
North Chapel Records, the newly launched faith- centered imprint founded by industry veteran Benny Brown, has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Symphonic.
“Integrity and consistency are non-negotiables when you’re building something that matters,” says Benny Brown, founder of North Chapel Records. “Symphonic operates with both. There’s a shared vision and a steady hand in how Randall and his team lead, and that gives us tremendous confidence as we step into this next chapter together.”
“We are so excited to be working alongside Benny Brown and the great team at North Chapel Records in support of their inaugural release and the many releases to come,” adds Randall Foster, Chief Creative Officer at Symphonic. “The label group’s track record of success is self-evident, and we are proud that they have chosen Symphonic to be their distribution partner.”
“We’re honored to align with a partner like Symphonic at such a pivotal moment,” shares Wendy Buckner, Vice President of North Chapel Records. “They bring a level of precision, innovation and global reach that allows us to execute at the highest level from day one. This partnership gives our artists a powerful platform to be heard.”
MTSU’s Match Records To Host Annual Nashville Showcase To Cannery Hall
MTSU’s Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment will host its annual Nashville Showcase on April 16 at Cannery Hall. The lineup will include sav., Kyelen Arora, Caroline Bowling, Auburn and the mood swings.
“Playing in Nashville is a dream for so many artists,” shares Match Records Vice President Carlee Barnhouse. “Being able to bring our student artists to Cannery Hall gives them a meaningful, real-world experience while showcasing the depth of talent coming out of MTSU.”
Country Thunder Florida Moves To Clearwater For 2026
/by Lorie HollabaughCountry Thunder Florida 2026 has announced a move for 2026 and will now take place at Coachman Park in Clearwater May 8-10.
Located less than 20 miles from the originally announced site in St. Pete Beach, Coachman Park provides a waterfront venue built to host a festival of this scale. Across three days, Country Thunder Florida will transform Coachman Park into a bucket-list festival experience headlined by Zach Top, Gavin Adcock and Kane Brown, and featuring a stacked lineup that includes Randy Houser, Max McNown, Shaboozey, Dasha and many more.
Beyond the music, attendees can expect cowboy hat and apparel vendors, a wide range of food offerings, an additional stage spotlighting rising artists from the Sunshine State and a Songwriter Showcase featuring the writers behind the Main Stage’s biggest smashes. Curated sponsor activations bring added buzz throughout the grounds and surprise artist meet-and-greets can surface at any moment.
“This is about putting on the festival we came here to deliver,” says Country Thunder Executive Director Kim Blevins. “As we moved forward with planning for the festival, it became clear that Clearwater offered the infrastructure and community partnership needed to bring this event to life the right way. Coachman Park gives us the ability to execute our full vision and create an unforgettable experience for fans. We’re excited to be in a community that’s truly embracing what Country Thunder is all about, and we can’t wait for an incredible event.”
“We are excited to introduce country music fans to beautiful waterfront Coachman Park and to be the new location for Country Thunder. There’s a lot that goes into expediting event preparations and moving a festival 30 days before it is scheduled and we have been working around the clock with Country Thunder officials to ensure we deliver a great festival experience for ticket holders and the artists,” shares City Manager Jennifer Poirrier. “I’m excited to put on my boots and watch the sunset while listening to some great country music.”
In light of the venue change, Country Thunder ticket holders interested in a refund can do so at the original point of purchase. Designed to be both high-impact and accessible for fans, Country Thunder Florida offers weekend passes averaging just $100 per day when purchased at participating Walgreens locations to avoid service fees. Quantities are limited and more information can be found here. General admission tickets are $300 total for all three days, with a bundle of two single-day tickets available for $250 and can be purchased here.
Ella Langley, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, More Among American Music Awards Nominees
/by Lauryn SinkElla Langley, Morgan Wallen & Lainey Wilson.
Ella Langley, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson and many more are among this year’s American Music Awards nominees.
Taylor Swift leads the nominations for the 2026 AMAs with eight nods. Morgan Wallen earned seven nods including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Collaboration of the Year, Best Male Country Artist, Best Country Song and Best Country Album.
Ella Langley notched five nominations including New Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Song of the Summer, Best Female Country Artist and Best Country Song. Megan Moroney nabbed three nominations for Breakout Tour, Best Female Country Artist and Best Country Album. Shaboozey earned nominations for Collaboration of the Year, Best Male Country Artist and Best Country Song.
Among those also nominated this year are Kelsea Ballerini, Tucker Wetmore, Zach Top, Old Dominion, Sam Barber, Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, BigXthaPlug and more.
Fan voting is now open through May 8 with the exception of social song of the year and tour of the year, which will remain open through the first 30 minutes of the AMAs broadcast. The awards will take place on May 25 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
View the full list of nominees here.
BREAKING: Cindy Mabe Launches Joan Of Arc Music
/by LB CantrellCindy Mabe. Photo: Kevin Wimpy
Music industry veteran Cindy Mabe has launched Joan of Arc Music, a comprehensive entertainment company dedicated to preserving the legacy of country music while championing its future through artist development, label services, publishing, management, TV/film production, next generation technologies and philanthropic impact.
With her decades of proven success in developing country music’s biggest acts, Mabe has guided the careers of superstars including Carrie Underwood, Chris Stapleton, Luke Bryan, Darius Rucker, Brad Paisley, Kacey Musgraves, Keith Urban, and George Strait, among countless others.
“Country music is at a crossroads,” says Mabe, Founder and CEO of Joan of Arc Music. “We risk losing the very essence of what makes country music special—its authentic storytelling, its connection to people’s real lives, and its deep cultural roots. Joan of Arc Music exists to be warriors for creators and protect artistry.”
Joan of Arc Music includes the following four pillars: Joan of Arc Entertainment, which includes artist management, recorded music/label services, project development and marketing and publishing services; Joan of Arc Studio Works, focusing on multi-platform content creation including TV/film production, audio content and short-form monetization; Joan of Arc Ventures, offering strategic investments in innovative partnerships and equity-backed ventures; and Joan of Arc Music Preservation Foundation, a philanthropic division that protects the legacy of country music while championing its continued evolution. The company’s inaugural partnerships include the CMA Foundation, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Porter’s Call.
For distribution, Joan of Arc Music has partnered with Warner Records Nashville.
“This partnership with Cris Lacy and the team at Warner Records Nashville amplifies our mission,” shares Mabe. “Cris is a Nashville veteran whose commitment to the legacy of country music aligns with our vision of preserving the genre’s authentic storytelling while embracing innovative distribution and marketing strategies. Together, we’re creating a powerful platform for both emerging and established artists to reach global audiences.”
In addition to Mabe, Joan of Arc’s leadership team includes Lori Christian, Dawn Gates, Harper Grae, Leigh Morrison and Allison Winkler. Reach them at their emails below.
Cindy Mabe – cindy@joanofarcmusic.com
Lori Christian – lori@joanofarcmusic.com
Dawn Gates – dawn@joanofarcmusic.com
Harper Grae – harper@joanofarcmusic.com
Leigh Morrison – leigh@joanofarcmusic.com
Allison Winkler – allison@joanofarcmusic.com
Devin Dawson Climbs Into Top 20 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenDevin Dawson.
Devin Dawson has landed in the top 20 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. Ella Langley‘s “Loving Life Again” and Jordan Davis’ “Turn This Truck Around” put the songwriter at No. 19 this week.
Randy Montana takes the No. 1 spot with “Change My Mind,” “Make A Liar,” “Sleepless In A Hotel Room” and “Time’s Ticking.” Ty Myers moves to No. 2 with his solo-penned tracks “Ends Of The Earth” and “Message To You.”
Langley (No. 3), Blake Pendergrass (No. 4) and Luke Combs (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.
Eric Church To Return To Red Rocks Amphitheatre & Lake Tahoe
/by Lauryn SinkEric Church. Photo: Robby Klein
Eric Church will return to Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Lake Tahoe this July.
Church will spend three nights in Morrison, Colorado at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on July 6-8 with special guests Corey Kent, 49 Winchester and The Creekers. Tickets for all shows go on sale on April 17.
He will then be joined by ERNEST for two nights at Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre on July 15-16. Tickets go on sale on April 24.
These newly announced dates celebrate 20 years of Church’s catalog and will feature different set lists at each show.
Eric Church Summer Shows:
Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, Colo.
Premium Church Choir presale Wednesday, April 15 at 10 a.m. MT
Public on sale Friday, April 17 at 10 a.m. MT
July 6 – with special guest Corey Kent
July 7 – with special guest 49 Winchester
July 8 – with special guest The Creekers
Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic – Stateline, Nev.
Premium Church Choir presale Tuesday, April 21 at 10 a.m. PT
Fan presale Wednesday, April 22 at 10 a.m. PT
Public on sale Friday, April 24 at 10 a.m. PT
July 15 – with special guest ERNEST
July 16 – with special guest ERNEST
The Listening Room Taps Chase Armstrong As Director Of Sales & Marketing
/by Lauryn SinkChase Armstrong. Photo: Lisa Field Armstrong BRND House.
Chase Armstrong has returned to The Listening Room as Director of Sales & Marketing.
In this role, Armstrong will serve on the leadership team overseeing sales and marketing efforts.
“I’m excited to return to The Listening Room and step into this new role,” says Armstrong. “This iconic venue has always been special to me, not only for the music, but for the invaluable connections it creates between songwriters and audiences from around the world. I’m looking forward to building upon the venue’s foundation, growing our reach, and continuing to make The Listening Room a place where great songs and great experiences come together.”
“Welcoming Chase back feels like a homecoming,” shares Chris Blair, Owner and Founder of The Listening Room. “From his first days as an intern, he’s always gone above and beyond, not only in his work but also in building relationships. He’s family. I’m excited for him to lead our sales and marketing team where he will not only oversee our music booking and private events, but also spearhead the expansion of our TLR on-the-road series, develop new sponsorship partnerships, grow our Stories Behind the Songs podcast and more. With Chase leading these initiatives, I’m confident we’re opening exciting new opportunities for our partners and audience alike. He embodies our vision and culture so well and It’s great to have him back home!”
Armstrong can be reached here.
Oklahoma Declares July 8 Toby Keith Day
/by Lorie HollabaughToby Keith
Toby Keith was posthumously honored on April 7 when Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt officially declared July 8, 2026 “Toby Keith Day” in the state.
Stitt presented the written proclamation to Keith’s daughter Krystal as part of an Oklahoma Film and Music Day 2026 event on April 7 at the state Capitol. Krystal opened the Film and Music Day by performing the national anthem before receiving the honor on behalf of her father. The proclamation honors Toby Keith for “rising from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful, influential, and recognizable country music artists in American history.”
Keith was also honored with the Special Director’s Award during the 65th annual Western Heritage Awards on Saturday (April 11) in Oklahoma City. Before “Toby Keith Day” arrives, UMe will release Keith’s 35 Biggest Hits on vinyl for the first time on May 22. The project was originally issued as a two-CD set in 2008.
Thomas Rhett Celebrates 25th Journey To The Top Of The Charts With ‘Ain’t A Bad Life’
/by Lorie HollabaughThomas Rhett is celebrating his 25th career No. 1 as “Ain’t A Bad Life” ft. Jordan Davis tops the Mediabase/Country Aircheck chart this week.
“Ain’t A Bad Life” was penned by Rhett, Ashley Gorley, Blake Pendergrass, John Byron and Mark Trussell, and marks the third No. 1 from Rhett’s newest album, About A Woman (Deluxe), joining “Beautiful As You” and “After All The Bars Are Closed.” The 25-track project features collaborations with Lanie Gardner, Blake Shelton, Teddy Swims and Tucker Wetmore.
“Hitting 25 No. 1s is something I never could’ve dreamed up,” says Rhett. “’Ain’t A Bad Life’ is one of those songs that just makes you smile, and getting to share it with my buddy Jordan Davis made it even more special. I’m really grateful to the fans, country radio, and everyone who’s been on this ride with me—this one means a lot.”
Rhett will return to the road this summer on his 20+ city “Soundtrack To Life Tour,” which will feature two special stadium dates in July with longtime friend Niall Horan at GEODIS Park and Hersheypark Stadium. In addition to his headlining tour, Rhett is appearing with Morgan Wallen on his “Still The Problem Tour” and will return to the U.K. this summer for a three-night run at Wembley Stadium with Luke Combs.
Three Exit Black River Entertainment
/by Madison HahnenMacky first joined the company in 2012 as VP Promotion and took over as SVP in 2024. Prior to Black River, he spent time at Epic, Sony and MCA. Macky is currently seeking his next opportunity, and can be reached here.
Carroll joined Black River in 2008. His previous career stops include Category 5, Equity and Rust.
Malito joined the company in 2025. Previous career stops include Stone Country, BBR and Warner. Malito can be reached here.
“We are incredibly grateful for the work and service of these great people,” Black River CEO Gordon Kerr told Country Aircheck.
Industry Ink: Flatland Cavalry, CMHOFM, North Chapel Records, MTSU
/by Lauryn SinkFlatland Cavalry Makes National Television Debut On ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’
Flatland Cavalry recently made their national television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show. The band performed their debut single to country radio “Never Comin’ Back” in support of their recently released fifth studio album, Work of Heart.
The band earned their third consecutive nomination for ACM Group of the Year. The six-piece will perform live at ACM Next Wave: Country’s Beach Bash at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on May 16.
Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum Updates Taylor Swift Education Center Display
Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently updated the Taylor Swift Education Center Display with new artifacts related to Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl album, which Swift released in October 2025.
The new artifacts include a Kelsey Randall custom-designed chainmail dress, a painted antique toy piano and a custom-made vintage, feathered headpiece, all used in Swift’s music video for “The Fate of Ophelia.” Joining these The Life of a Showgirl era artifacts are the Taylor 655ce 12-string guitar Swift played during the acoustic set on her “Fearless Tour” (2009–2010) and a Hatch Show Print poster from her first-ever headlining stadium show, held at Gillette Stadium on June 5, 2010.
North Chapel Records Enters Exclusive Distribution Agreement With Symphonic
North Chapel Records, the newly launched faith- centered imprint founded by industry veteran Benny Brown, has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Symphonic.
“Integrity and consistency are non-negotiables when you’re building something that matters,” says Benny Brown, founder of North Chapel Records. “Symphonic operates with both. There’s a shared vision and a steady hand in how Randall and his team lead, and that gives us tremendous confidence as we step into this next chapter together.”
“We are so excited to be working alongside Benny Brown and the great team at North Chapel Records in support of their inaugural release and the many releases to come,” adds Randall Foster, Chief Creative Officer at Symphonic. “The label group’s track record of success is self-evident, and we are proud that they have chosen Symphonic to be their distribution partner.”
“We’re honored to align with a partner like Symphonic at such a pivotal moment,” shares Wendy Buckner, Vice President of North Chapel Records. “They bring a level of precision, innovation and global reach that allows us to execute at the highest level from day one. This partnership gives our artists a powerful platform to be heard.”
MTSU’s Match Records To Host Annual Nashville Showcase To Cannery Hall
MTSU’s Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment will host its annual Nashville Showcase on April 16 at Cannery Hall. The lineup will include sav., Kyelen Arora, Caroline Bowling, Auburn and the mood swings.
“Playing in Nashville is a dream for so many artists,” shares Match Records Vice President Carlee Barnhouse. “Being able to bring our student artists to Cannery Hall gives them a meaningful, real-world experience while showcasing the depth of talent coming out of MTSU.”