Old Dominion Celebrates Platinum At Ryman Residency

Old Dominion. Photo: Mason Allen
Old Dominion was presented with some plaques ahead of their second night of shows for their recent sold-out Ryman Auditorium residency. The new hardware touted the band’s RIAA certifications for their No. 1 single “One Man Band” (seven-times Platinum) and albums Old Dominion and Happy Endings (both Platinum).
Tucker Wetmore Surprised With Platinum Plaque During TV Debut

Tucker Wetmore on NBC’s TODAY with Jenna & Friends. Photo: Nathan Congleton / ©NBCUniversal
Tucker Wetmore made his national TV debut this week on NBC’s TODAY with Jenna & Friends, delivering a performance of his Platinum-certified No.1 single “Wind Up Missin’ You.” To cap off the bucket list moment, host Jenna Bush Hager and guest host Ana Gasteyer surprised Wetmore with a Platinum/No. 1 plaque commemorating the song that launched his meteoric rise less than one year ago.
He recently wrapped a jam-packed Super Bowl LIX weekend that included a special performance at EA SPORTS™ Presents Madden Bowl and announced of his next single, “3,2,1” is due out Feb. 2.
The Castellows Visit Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital

The Castellows. Photo: Angelea Yoder, VUMC
Country trio The Castellows visited Seacrest Studios located in Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville on Feb. 4. The three sisters’ in-studio interview and acoustic performance was broadcast solely throughout the hospital’s CCTV network. Along with the interview and performance, the girls met and posed for pictures with patients and their families.
‘BMI Buzz’ Returns At Bobby’s Idle Hour

Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Clay Bradley, BMI’s Jackson Kiger, Jack McKeon (BMI), Gloria Anderson (BMI), Aniston Pate (BMI), BMI’s Leslie Roberts and BMI’s MaryAnn Keen. Photo: Aubrey Wise for BMI
BMI revitalized its longstanding “BMI Buzz” showcase Feb. 3 at its new location, Bobby’s Idle Hour Tavern, featuring Gloria Anderson, Jack McKeon and Aniston Pate. The series highlights promising up-and-coming songwriters in three-song sets. Launched in 2008, the series continues BMI’s commitment to nurture and develop writers at the earliest stages of their careers and has previously hosted songwriters such as Hannah Blaylock (2009), Joey Hyde (2011), Kacey Musgraves (2009), Parker Welling (2010) and more.
The next “BMI Buzz” installment will be held April 7, with the lineup to be announced soon.
Eugene Ward Memorial Scholarship Established At Lincoln Memorial University

Eugene Ward. Photo: Courtesy of family
Lincoln Memorial University has announced the establishment of the Eugene Ward Memorial Scholarship, honoring the life and legacy of distinguished alumnus Gene Ward. The scholarship, which will be awarded annually, was initiated by a gift from his wife, Grand Ole Opry legend Jeannie Seely Ward, and will support LMU students who are working their way through school, carrying forward Ward’s legacy of service, leadership and academic excellence.
A 1956 graduate of LMU’s Business Administration program, Ward built a notable career in law and public service. Donations to the scholarship fund can be made online at LMUnet.edu/GeneWard or mailed to: Lincoln Memorial University, University Advancement Office, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN 37752.
Dan Killian Joins FBMM Ownership Team
/by LB CantrellDan Killian
Dan Killian has been named an owner and shareholder of FBMM, after nearly 15 years in the business and over a dozen at the entertainment business management firm.
“Becoming an owner of FBMM is more than sitting in an equity position,” shares FBMM Owner and Chairman Julie Boos. “We are true partners in every sense of the word and take this decision very seriously. Dan becoming an owner is a testament to the trust and mutual respect we all have for him. We are excited to have him alongside us in the trenches of overseeing the firm’s operations and setting the vision for its future.”
Killian started his career at FBMM in an entry-level position and worked his way up to business manager, the firm’s highest position, faster than anyone in company history. He is now the youngest owner in the firm’s 35-year history.
Killian works with FBMM’s teams in Nashville and Los Angeles, advising Grammy- and Emmy-award-winning headlining arena acts, spanning virtually every genre of music. He has also played a key role in spearheading internal initiatives, including creating a health and wellness program, leadership training and mentorship and business development.
“From celebrating successes to navigating ‘foxhole moments,’ I have seen FBMM’s owners consistently operate with the highest level of integrity,” says Killian. “I could not be more honored to take this next step and lock arms with each of them. To have worked my way to ownership from an entry-level position makes this an especially proud accomplishment for me.”
“I have had a front row seat to witness Dan’s growth into a first-class business manager and champion for both our employees and clients. I couldn’t be prouder of him and am grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside him,” shares Duane Clark, FBMM owner and president. “More than two decades ago, our founders put into place plans for FBMM to live well beyond any one owner by investing in future generations and providing a path for all of us. As we celebrate 35 years in business this year, we’re excited to see our founders’ vision continue to come to fruition by welcoming Dan to the table.”
Angie K Releases Personal, Reflective New Self-Titled EP
/by Lorie HollabaughRising singer-songwriter Angie K has released her self-titled EP.
Angie K is a co-writer on all six tracks of the independent release, which was produced by songwriter/producer Stephony Smith. The EP features two unreleased tracks “Games” and “I’m Going Under,” as well as recent releases “Stay,” “Death of Me” and “Red Dirt on Mars.”
“This is definitely one of the toughest projects I’ve ever made,” shares Angie K. “Not so much in the studio with the band but writing these songs and deciding on what made the cut. Purposely choosing the most vulnerable ones…that took a lot of emotional work. Putting something so personal out requires letting go of the way people might react to it, as an artist that’s hard to do.
“‘Red Dirt’ and ‘Death of Me’ are songs about deep grief,” she continues. “‘While ‘Games’ and ‘I’m Going Under’ have repressed anger and frustration coursing through them. ‘Stay’ and ‘Golden’ are both about me finding my way out of those darker feelings. This EP is a snapshot of my life when I wrote these songs. I’m so proud of it and excited for folks to go on this emotional journey.”
The release of the EP comes on the heels of a major personal life moment for the out, country artist as well, her engagement to longtime love Marissa Boucher. She is set to return to the Opry stage on Feb. 15 to celebrate the new EP.
Morgan Wade Shines On Ryman Auditorium Stage
/by Madison HahnenMorgan Wade. Photo: Erika Rock
Morgan Wade returned to the Ryman Auditorium stage on Friday night (Feb. 7) for a thrilling performance as part of her “Obsessed Tour.”
Amy Ray Band kicked off the evening with tunes such as “Sure Feels Good Anyway,” “Joy Train” and “Oyster And Pearl.” The nine-piece band also made a tribute to Duane Allman with their song of the same name, getting the crowd to sing along. They also set up the vibe of the night with “Cowboys And Pirates,” “Muscadine” and “Didn’t Know A Damn Thing.”
The anticipation was high as the lights dimmed and Wade stormed the stage to a classic rock n’ roll beat. Right from the start, her powerful energy and presence set the tone for an unforgettable night. She was singing with striking teal microphone stand, and the crowd went wild as she opened with the raw and gripping “Total Control.” The night only got better from there as she transitioned into “Time to Love, Time to Kill,” showcasing her emotional depth and rock prowess.
Morgan Wade. Photo: Erika Rock
The audience was swept up in every note, especially as Wade delivered “Last Cigarette,” sending waves of nostalgia through the crowd. The setlist was stacked with fan favorites as “Reckless” had everyone singing along, while “Losers Look Like Me” and “Matches and Metaphors” proved that Wade’s songwriting resonates deeply with her fans. The hauntingly beautiful “Juliet” brought a moment of reflection before diving into “When the Dirt All Settles.”
A special moment came with the slower, heart-wrenching “Don’t Cry,” allowing the crowd to catch their breath before Wade picked up the pace with the heavy rock beat of “Roses.” The energy was palpable as she surged into “Carry Me Home,” leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement. But it was the trumpet solo by one of her band members in “Mend” that got the crowd going and made the night feel uniquely special, offering a rare moment of instrumental flair in a rock-heavy set.
Wade continued to impress with “Take Me Away.” During a guitar solo, she stood on an amp, turning the performance into an interactive moment as the crowd took over, singing along to the powerful track. The rawness continued as Wade’s band stepped off stage for “Obsessed,” “Department Store” and “Moth To A Flame” for a stark moment of vulnerability. Then, the band returned for a slower, reflective performance of “2AM in London,” creating a poignant contrast to the high-energy songs earlier in the set.
Morgan Wade. Photo: Erika Rock
The night culminated with “Met You” and “The Night,” which boasted a big musical intro that had the crowd on the edge of their seats before Morgan disappeared offstage. The encore was nothing short of spectacular, as she returned to cover The Outfield’s “Your Love” and Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl,” energizing the crowd for a final burst of adrenaline. The closer, “Wilder Days,” brought the night to an epic end, leaving everyone with a sense of exhilaration and fulfillment.
Wade’s “Obsessed Tour” will head to the west coast this weekend for stops in Portland, Seattle, San Francisco and more.
Mtheory Expands Team
/by LB CantrellBranden Bosler & Carine Abraham
Manager and artist services company Mtheory has welcomed two new team members to its Nashville office.
Branden Bosler joins as Vice President of Artist Services and Business Development. Previously the Director of Strategic Partnerships for Stand Together Music, he brings a wealth of experience from past roles at BMI and Warner Music Nashville. In his new position, Bosler will focus on strategic campaign marketing and label services within Mtheory’s Artist Services Division.
Carine Abraham has been appointed as the company’s first day-to-day manager, overseeing the career of four-time Grammy-nominated artist Mickey Guyton. She previously served as a Project Manager at UMG Nashville and as a Personal Assistant to Grammy-winning artist Mandisa.
Both Bosler and Abraham are based in Mtheory’s Nashville office and can be reached at branden@mtheory.com and carine@mtheory.com, respectively.
Industry Ink: Old Dominion, Tucker Wetmore, The Castellows, BMI, Eugene Ward
/by Lorie HollabaughOld Dominion Celebrates Platinum At Ryman Residency
Old Dominion. Photo: Mason Allen
Old Dominion was presented with some plaques ahead of their second night of shows for their recent sold-out Ryman Auditorium residency. The new hardware touted the band’s RIAA certifications for their No. 1 single “One Man Band” (seven-times Platinum) and albums Old Dominion and Happy Endings (both Platinum).
Tucker Wetmore Surprised With Platinum Plaque During TV Debut
Tucker Wetmore on NBC’s TODAY with Jenna & Friends. Photo: Nathan Congleton / ©NBCUniversal
Tucker Wetmore made his national TV debut this week on NBC’s TODAY with Jenna & Friends, delivering a performance of his Platinum-certified No.1 single “Wind Up Missin’ You.” To cap off the bucket list moment, host Jenna Bush Hager and guest host Ana Gasteyer surprised Wetmore with a Platinum/No. 1 plaque commemorating the song that launched his meteoric rise less than one year ago.
He recently wrapped a jam-packed Super Bowl LIX weekend that included a special performance at EA SPORTS™ Presents Madden Bowl and announced of his next single, “3,2,1” is due out Feb. 2.
The Castellows Visit Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital
The Castellows. Photo: Angelea Yoder, VUMC
Country trio The Castellows visited Seacrest Studios located in Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville on Feb. 4. The three sisters’ in-studio interview and acoustic performance was broadcast solely throughout the hospital’s CCTV network. Along with the interview and performance, the girls met and posed for pictures with patients and their families.
‘BMI Buzz’ Returns At Bobby’s Idle Hour
Pictured (L-R): BMI’s Clay Bradley, BMI’s Jackson Kiger, Jack McKeon (BMI), Gloria Anderson (BMI), Aniston Pate (BMI), BMI’s Leslie Roberts and BMI’s MaryAnn Keen. Photo: Aubrey Wise for BMI
BMI revitalized its longstanding “BMI Buzz” showcase Feb. 3 at its new location, Bobby’s Idle Hour Tavern, featuring Gloria Anderson, Jack McKeon and Aniston Pate. The series highlights promising up-and-coming songwriters in three-song sets. Launched in 2008, the series continues BMI’s commitment to nurture and develop writers at the earliest stages of their careers and has previously hosted songwriters such as Hannah Blaylock (2009), Joey Hyde (2011), Kacey Musgraves (2009), Parker Welling (2010) and more.
The next “BMI Buzz” installment will be held April 7, with the lineup to be announced soon.
Eugene Ward Memorial Scholarship Established At Lincoln Memorial University
Eugene Ward. Photo: Courtesy of family
Lincoln Memorial University has announced the establishment of the Eugene Ward Memorial Scholarship, honoring the life and legacy of distinguished alumnus Gene Ward. The scholarship, which will be awarded annually, was initiated by a gift from his wife, Grand Ole Opry legend Jeannie Seely Ward, and will support LMU students who are working their way through school, carrying forward Ward’s legacy of service, leadership and academic excellence.
A 1956 graduate of LMU’s Business Administration program, Ward built a notable career in law and public service. Donations to the scholarship fund can be made online at LMUnet.edu/GeneWard or mailed to: Lincoln Memorial University, University Advancement Office, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN 37752.
Lainey Wilson, Riley Green, More Set To Play Milwaukee’s Summerfest
/by Lorie HollabaughNate Smith, Lainey Wilson and Riley Green
Lainey Wilson, Riley Green and Nate Smith are among the huge lineup of artists set to perform at this year’s Summerfest in Milwaukee on June 19-21, June 26-28 and July 3-5.
Jo Dee Messina, Whiskey Myers, Phil Vassar, Billy Currington, The Lumineers, Hozier, The Killers, Megan Thee Stallion, Benson Boone, Def Leppard, James Taylor, The Avett Brothers, Japanese Breakfast, The Fray, Richard Marx, Gary Clark Jr. and many more are also set to appear during the festival, which will feature hundreds of performances across 12 stages throughout the 75-acre festival grounds along Lake Michigan. Tickets are on sale now at Summerfest.com.
“As an independent music festival, Summerfest delivers a one-of-a-kind experience, bringing fans together from all backgrounds to enjoy incredible performances and Milwaukee’s vibrant energy,” says Sarah Pancheri, President and CEO, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “Today is an exciting day as we unveil this year’s lineup with over 160 artists spanning all genres of music.”
Cole Goodwin Signs With Concord Music Publishing
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R, front row): Concord’s Brad Kennard; Cole Goodwin; Concord’s Courtney Allen. (L-R, back row): Concord’s Melissa Spillman and Matt Turner. Photo: Audrey Spillman
Singer-songwriter Cole Goodwin has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Concord Music Publishing.
Hailing from Pooler, Georgia, Goodwin released his self-produced EP Soon Enough in 2023. The 24-year-old has since toured the Southeast, opening for artists including Austin Snell, Conner Smith and Zach Top. In 2024, he released the tracks “When You Get Home” and “Catchin’ On,” which quickly became fan favorites. Goodwin released his latest single, “Fast Track Back,” an upbeat, light-hearted tune that expresses the feeling of getting back to loved ones after being on the road in January.
This spring, Goodwin will be opening for Top on his “Cold Beer & Country Music Tour,” as well as some dates on Dylan Marlowe and Conner Smith’s “Did We Just Become Best Friends? Tour.” He’ll also join Luke Bryan this summer on select dates on his 30+ city “Country Song Came On Tour.”
“The first time I met Cole, I knew he was something special,” says Courtney Allen, Sr. Director, A&R at Concord Music Publishing Nashville. “He blew me away with his magnetic personality and self-confidence and especially, with the songs he had penned solo. He is proof that traditional country music is alive and well in the next generation of hitmakers and I am thrilled that he has chosen Concord as his publishing home.”
“Courtney was one of the first publishers I met in town, and I instantly fell in love with her personality, and her love of good songs,” adds Goodwin. “Courtney has been so encouraging and supportive of me since our first meeting, and I am so thrilled to be able to work with her and the rest of the Concord team!”
CRS Reveals Lineup For ‘Team UMG At The Ryman’
/by John Nix ArledgeCountry Radio Seminar (CRS) has unveiled the lineup for the 2025 “Team UMG at the Ryman” luncheon. Performers include Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Luke Bryan, Crowe Boys, Jordan Davis, Eric Church, Carter Faith, Belle Frantz, Vince Gill, Tyler Hubbard, Bryce Leatherwood, Vincent Mason, Parker McCollum, Brad Paisley, Jon Pardi, Josh Ross and Tucker Wetmore.
The luncheon will take place on Thursday, Feb. 20 at the Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville and kicks off at noon. Shuttle buses between the Omni Nashville Hotel and the Ryman Auditorium will be available from 11:00 a.m. to 1:50 p.m.
“Team UMG at the Ryman” offers attendees a chance to see some of the biggest names in country music perform at one of country music’s most iconic venues. The full agenda, speaker bios, artist lineups, session details and more are now available via the official CRS 2025 mobile app.
Advance registration for CRS 2025 is now closed. On-site registration will be available starting Wednesday, Feb. 19, at the rate of $799.
Bobby Bones’ Live Broadcast Event To Air In Movie Theaters
/by Madison HahnenBobby Bones‘ “Music Night: Live From Nashville!” will air in select movie theaters in March.
The program will feature hit songwriters Brett James, Kelly Archer and Matt Jenkins sharing the stories behind the songs. There have been 40 No. 1 songs between the three writers, including chart toppers from Carrie Underwood, Jelly Roll, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Kelly Clarkson, Martina McBride, Kenny Chesney, Old Dominion, Jordan Davis, Brett Young, Faith Hill and more.
The live broadcast will air on March 8 at 7 p.m. CT, with an encore presentation on March 11 at 7 p.m. local time.
“Music Night” will be broadcast live from The Analog, one of Nashville’s most intimate and coveted live music venues, offering a listening room-like atmosphere. The event is presented in collaboration with Fathom Entertainment, a distributor of specialty content to theaters around the world. Viewers will get an exclusive front-row experience of an authentic, stripped-back musical performance streamed directly to theaters near them.
“There’s something truly special about getting to hear the stories behind the songs we all know and love,” shares Bones. “Songwriters are the heart of the music industry, and this event is a chance to shine a light on their incredible talent. I’m thrilled to bring the magic of Nashville’s songwriting tradition to audiences in theaters across the country in a way that’s never been done before.”
“For more than twenty years, Fathom has delivered the ultimate ‘best seat in the house’ experience to music fans, showcasing an incredible range of talent on the big screen,” adds Ray Nutt, Chief Executive Officer of Fathom Entertainment. “With ‘Music Night,’ we are doing something truly unique – putting the songwriters themselves in the spotlight. Fans of Nashville’s dynamic live music scene, the music business, and the art of songwriting will not want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates the heart and soul behind the music like never before.”
“I had been in and out of Nashville for years, but it wasn’t until I moved here that I discovered the city’s most prized possession: the songwriters,” says Executive Producer Dean Sell. “Nashville is a very special place, but not everyone can get here. So we’re bringing a little piece of Music City to the world.”
Tickets for the movie theater broadcasts can be purchased here.
Brandi Carlile Among Oscar Nominees Celebrated In Songwriters Hall Of Fame Virtual Event
/by Lorie HollabaughBrandi Carlile is among this year’s Oscar-nominated songwriters who will be celebrated during The Songwriters Hall of Fame’s exclusive all-star virtual event, “A Conversation with 2025 Oscar-Nominated Songwriters for Best Original Song,” viewable free at songhall.org from Feb. 10- March 3.
This is the Songwriters Hall of Fame’s ninth annual program that exclusively shines a spotlight on leading songwriters nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Original Song category. The event is co-hosted and moderated by legendary songwriters and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees Nile Rodgers, (who currently serves as Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman), and Paul Williams, a SHOF Johnny Mercer Award honoree and 1977 Academy Award winner for Best Original Song for “Evergreen.”
The star-studded panel features Oscar-nominated songwriters including Abraham Alexander and Adrian Quesada (“Like A Bird” from Sing Sing), Carlile (“Never Too Late” from Elton John: Never Too Late), Clément Ducol and Camille (“El Mal” and “Mi Camino” from Emilia Pérez) and Diane Warren (“The Journey” from The Six Triple Eight). The nominees engage in a discussion about how they got involved with the films, their influences, writing process and collaborations and much more.