Ella Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Rising country star Ella Langley delivered her much-anticipated debut album on Friday (Aug. 2) via Columbia Records/SAWGOD. The 14-track effort titled Hungover proved to be a fantastic display of the young artist’s boldness and creative assuredness, featuring unique songs that show off Langley’s roots and vision.
Included on Hungover are the previously-released fan-favorites “Nicotine” and “Paint The Town Blue” as well as her and Riley Green‘s viral hit “You Look Like You Love Me.” It follows Langley’s debut EP, Excuse The Mess, which garnered the singer-songwriter early acclaim with tracks like “Country Boy’s Dream Girl,” “Could’ve Been Her” and the CMT Music Award-nominated “That’s Why We Fight” featuring Koe Wetzel.
Concurrently with her debut album, Langley is also turning heads with “Strangers,” her duet with Kameron Marlowe. The single recently earned 36 first-week adds during its impact week at country radio.
Prior to Hungover‘s release, she sat down with MusicRow to chat about the project. While she shared the backstories of some of the tunes, her skin was inked with a few more tattoos to mark the occasion.
“All my tattoos mark memories of certain things. I got a feather when my EP came out, and I got another one the first time I was published in the New York Times,” she shares as her tattoo artist begins prepping her skin for the new ink. To commemorate the release of her debut album, she’s chosen to get a small fractured heart on one arm and lyrics from “Broken In” on another.
It’s a good choice, as the tune is definitely a stand-out on the record. Written by Langley with Ian Christian and Jordan Fletcher, the song is about the value of going through trials, and is one of two acoustic tracks on the album.
“‘Broken In’ is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written,” Langley says. “I kept it acoustic because I couldn’t stop listening to the guitar/vocal from the write. I just love the acoustic tracks on the record. I’ll put acoustic tracks on every body work I ever put out.”
Langley’s assuredness has been critical to her success. After listening to the 25-year-old’s songs or hearing her talk about her vision, it’s clear that she sees boldly following her muse as the only way to be an artist, despite the risks of being too different.
On Hungover, Langley sings about love gained and love lost in a bar room, giving into the pull of an old flame, telling off a cheater, moving onto the next and more. There’s tunes about the demons we all face, the death of a loved one and even a mysterious story-song. Sonically, it’s country as cornbread. Her Alabama twang comes through strong, glittering with charm. Producer Will Bundy turns all the quintessential country knobs that complement Langley’s voice so well, but also leaves space for her to truly grab the listener with her lyrics.
“When I moved here, my goal was to write my tail off. That’s what I did,” she says. “This record was really written from ages 21 to 25. I was very precious with a lot of my songs, I wanted to make sure that I understood me as an artist before I tried to present myself to the world.
“My music is just raw and real,” she adds. “I write music that I want to listen to. I didn’t know my record was supposed to sound a certain way—it’s just real life.”
When asked how she has been able to stay true to herself in the industry, Langley recalls something she’s learned from a hero.
“Everyone’s journey is so different. There’s not a rule book, but I look up to people like Dolly Parton who has gotten every bit of what she’s ever wanted out of her career. It feels like it’s not for anyone other than herself. She obviously cares about her fans, but you can tell that she’s doing this because she’s always wanted to. Lainey Wilson is another one who has done that.”
Riley Green & Ella Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Langley’s boldness has already begun to pay off. Along with Green, she is enjoying the success of “You Look Like You Love Me,” a witty song with recitation in the verses that harkens back to the good ole days in country music. The track has garnered over 80 million streams and more than a billion plays on TikTok.
“I wrote that song with Aaron Raitiere. He asked me how my love life was going and I said, ‘Aaron, I’m at the point where if they look like they love me, I get the hell out of there.’ He said, ‘That’s a great title, but what if we wrote it a nice way?’
“A year later in a different write, I was wanting to write a funny song that I could play when no one is listening at Live Oak, so we brought that song back up. It was written as a joke. We laughed the whole time we wrote it.”
After a work tape was made for “You Look Like You Love Me,” Langley’s team member Mya Hansen caught on to its charm and potential.
“Mya kept trying to get me to put it in the Dropbox link to send it to the label. I said, ‘Mya, that song is a joke. I’m drunk and I’m ready to leave?‘” Langley sings the line with a laugh. “She sent it in the Dropbox link for the album anyway and everyone freaked out. Everyone loved the shitty work tape with the giggling and ridiculousness.”
Langley asked Green to write a verse and sing on it with her when she decided to cut the song. She says the acceptance of “You Look Like You Love Me” spurred her onward towards staying true to herself. “Now more than ever I’m trying to create things that are different not just for the fans, but for me,” she says. “I’m just trying to do stuff that people haven’t heard.”
Another stand-out on Hungover is “Cowboy Friends.” Written by Langley with Joybeth Taylor, Lydia Vaughan and Austin Goodloe, the song sounds like a tear-in-your-beer farewell at the start, but it turns into a shuffling good time as Langley sings, “I wont have no trouble rounding up the next one when this ends. I’ve got me more than a few cowboy friends.”
“We were in the middle of writing another song and were screwing around and talking. I said, ‘Joybeth, you know I’ve got a few cowboy friends.’ We immediately paused and wrote the ‘Cowboy Friends’ chorus.”
On another interesting track, “Girl Who Drank Wine,” Langley tells the tale of a mysterious maiden who wanders in, steals a cowboy’s heart and disappears. She says she was inspired to write the tune while traveling through Wyoming on the Jon Pardi tour.
“I woke up one morning and opened the window of the sprinter van and a black stallion was [running alongside us]. It was the most majestic shit I’ve ever seen,” Langley quips. “I was done writing for the album but I started humming that little melody and the story just popped in my head. I have a very vivid imagination—I was homeschooled for six years.
“I love story songs,” she adds. “It’s something that country music has somewhat gotten away from, but it’s such a pinnacle in country music. I want to bring it back.”
“Better Be Tough” is another highlight on the album. Written with Bundy, Brett James and Erik Dylan, it gives the phrase, “if you’re going to be dumb, you better be tough,” another meaning.
“I’ve heard that phrase my whole life. One of the girls that works with us broke her foot and I said it to her. All of a sudden it clicked in my brain that [we could write it] about a guy cheating. If you’re going to be stupid enough to do that to me, [you better watch out],” Langley says. “Plus, I don’t have a crazy-girl song and I had to have one for the first record I’m putting out as a female country artist.”
When it comes to the title track, Langley says she thinks it embodies Hungover in full.
“It represents the songs that I have been writing for the past four or five years, this era of my life from 21 to 25. How many different ways can you be hungover?” she sums. “It shows the artist I want to be, raw and real. This is a safe place to enjoy the one ride we get in this life.”
With her album out in the world and two fresh tattoos, Langley is now bringing her new tunes on the road. She opens for Morgan Wallen this weekend at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium before hitting a few fairs and festivals to finish out the summer, and is certain to make plenty more fans in her wake.
Ella Langley Shows Boldness & Authenticity On Debut Album ‘Hungover’ [Interview]
/by LB CantrellElla Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Rising country star Ella Langley delivered her much-anticipated debut album on Friday (Aug. 2) via Columbia Records/SAWGOD. The 14-track effort titled Hungover proved to be a fantastic display of the young artist’s boldness and creative assuredness, featuring unique songs that show off Langley’s roots and vision.
Included on Hungover are the previously-released fan-favorites “Nicotine” and “Paint The Town Blue” as well as her and Riley Green‘s viral hit “You Look Like You Love Me.” It follows Langley’s debut EP, Excuse The Mess, which garnered the singer-songwriter early acclaim with tracks like “Country Boy’s Dream Girl,” “Could’ve Been Her” and the CMT Music Award-nominated “That’s Why We Fight” featuring Koe Wetzel.
Concurrently with her debut album, Langley is also turning heads with “Strangers,” her duet with Kameron Marlowe. The single recently earned 36 first-week adds during its impact week at country radio.
Prior to Hungover‘s release, she sat down with MusicRow to chat about the project. While she shared the backstories of some of the tunes, her skin was inked with a few more tattoos to mark the occasion.
“All my tattoos mark memories of certain things. I got a feather when my EP came out, and I got another one the first time I was published in the New York Times,” she shares as her tattoo artist begins prepping her skin for the new ink. To commemorate the release of her debut album, she’s chosen to get a small fractured heart on one arm and lyrics from “Broken In” on another.
It’s a good choice, as the tune is definitely a stand-out on the record. Written by Langley with Ian Christian and Jordan Fletcher, the song is about the value of going through trials, and is one of two acoustic tracks on the album.
“‘Broken In’ is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written,” Langley says. “I kept it acoustic because I couldn’t stop listening to the guitar/vocal from the write. I just love the acoustic tracks on the record. I’ll put acoustic tracks on every body work I ever put out.”
Langley’s assuredness has been critical to her success. After listening to the 25-year-old’s songs or hearing her talk about her vision, it’s clear that she sees boldly following her muse as the only way to be an artist, despite the risks of being too different.
On Hungover, Langley sings about love gained and love lost in a bar room, giving into the pull of an old flame, telling off a cheater, moving onto the next and more. There’s tunes about the demons we all face, the death of a loved one and even a mysterious story-song. Sonically, it’s country as cornbread. Her Alabama twang comes through strong, glittering with charm. Producer Will Bundy turns all the quintessential country knobs that complement Langley’s voice so well, but also leaves space for her to truly grab the listener with her lyrics.
“When I moved here, my goal was to write my tail off. That’s what I did,” she says. “This record was really written from ages 21 to 25. I was very precious with a lot of my songs, I wanted to make sure that I understood me as an artist before I tried to present myself to the world.
“My music is just raw and real,” she adds. “I write music that I want to listen to. I didn’t know my record was supposed to sound a certain way—it’s just real life.”
When asked how she has been able to stay true to herself in the industry, Langley recalls something she’s learned from a hero.
“Everyone’s journey is so different. There’s not a rule book, but I look up to people like Dolly Parton who has gotten every bit of what she’s ever wanted out of her career. It feels like it’s not for anyone other than herself. She obviously cares about her fans, but you can tell that she’s doing this because she’s always wanted to. Lainey Wilson is another one who has done that.”
Riley Green & Ella Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Langley’s boldness has already begun to pay off. Along with Green, she is enjoying the success of “You Look Like You Love Me,” a witty song with recitation in the verses that harkens back to the good ole days in country music. The track has garnered over 80 million streams and more than a billion plays on TikTok.
“I wrote that song with Aaron Raitiere. He asked me how my love life was going and I said, ‘Aaron, I’m at the point where if they look like they love me, I get the hell out of there.’ He said, ‘That’s a great title, but what if we wrote it a nice way?’
“A year later in a different write, I was wanting to write a funny song that I could play when no one is listening at Live Oak, so we brought that song back up. It was written as a joke. We laughed the whole time we wrote it.”
After a work tape was made for “You Look Like You Love Me,” Langley’s team member Mya Hansen caught on to its charm and potential.
“Mya kept trying to get me to put it in the Dropbox link to send it to the label. I said, ‘Mya, that song is a joke. I’m drunk and I’m ready to leave?‘” Langley sings the line with a laugh. “She sent it in the Dropbox link for the album anyway and everyone freaked out. Everyone loved the shitty work tape with the giggling and ridiculousness.”
Langley asked Green to write a verse and sing on it with her when she decided to cut the song. She says the acceptance of “You Look Like You Love Me” spurred her onward towards staying true to herself. “Now more than ever I’m trying to create things that are different not just for the fans, but for me,” she says. “I’m just trying to do stuff that people haven’t heard.”
Another stand-out on Hungover is “Cowboy Friends.” Written by Langley with Joybeth Taylor, Lydia Vaughan and Austin Goodloe, the song sounds like a tear-in-your-beer farewell at the start, but it turns into a shuffling good time as Langley sings, “I wont have no trouble rounding up the next one when this ends. I’ve got me more than a few cowboy friends.”
“We were in the middle of writing another song and were screwing around and talking. I said, ‘Joybeth, you know I’ve got a few cowboy friends.’ We immediately paused and wrote the ‘Cowboy Friends’ chorus.”
On another interesting track, “Girl Who Drank Wine,” Langley tells the tale of a mysterious maiden who wanders in, steals a cowboy’s heart and disappears. She says she was inspired to write the tune while traveling through Wyoming on the Jon Pardi tour.
“I woke up one morning and opened the window of the sprinter van and a black stallion was [running alongside us]. It was the most majestic shit I’ve ever seen,” Langley quips. “I was done writing for the album but I started humming that little melody and the story just popped in my head. I have a very vivid imagination—I was homeschooled for six years.
“I love story songs,” she adds. “It’s something that country music has somewhat gotten away from, but it’s such a pinnacle in country music. I want to bring it back.”
“Better Be Tough” is another highlight on the album. Written with Bundy, Brett James and Erik Dylan, it gives the phrase, “if you’re going to be dumb, you better be tough,” another meaning.
“I’ve heard that phrase my whole life. One of the girls that works with us broke her foot and I said it to her. All of a sudden it clicked in my brain that [we could write it] about a guy cheating. If you’re going to be stupid enough to do that to me, [you better watch out],” Langley says. “Plus, I don’t have a crazy-girl song and I had to have one for the first record I’m putting out as a female country artist.”
When it comes to the title track, Langley says she thinks it embodies Hungover in full.
“It represents the songs that I have been writing for the past four or five years, this era of my life from 21 to 25. How many different ways can you be hungover?” she sums. “It shows the artist I want to be, raw and real. This is a safe place to enjoy the one ride we get in this life.”
With her album out in the world and two fresh tattoos, Langley is now bringing her new tunes on the road. She opens for Morgan Wallen this weekend at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium before hitting a few fairs and festivals to finish out the summer, and is certain to make plenty more fans in her wake.
Roger LeBlanc Joins Romeo Entertainment Group
/by Lorie HollabaughRoger LeBlanc. Photo: Courtesy of LeBlanc
Industry veteran Roger LeBlanc has joined Romeo Entertainment Group (REG) as Vice President of Sales Development.
LeBlanc founded and served as CEO of talent buying agency Madison Entertainment until its recent sale to ASM Global, at which point LeBlanc became Head of Talent Buying for the company. He brings over 35 years of experience in the live entertainment industry to REG. A Pollstar Talent Buyer of the Year, LeBlanc has producing live concert events with various acts, including Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters, Zac Brown Band, Aerosmith, P!nk and more.
“I have had the pleasure of knowing Roger LeBlanc for many years, and I can attest to both his exceptional skills as a talent buyer and his remarkable character as a person,” says R.J. Romeo, REG President & CEO. “We are beyond excited that he has chosen to join our team. Roger’s vast knowledge and his commitment to mentorship will not only enhance the capabilities of our sales team but also propel our growth and set new standards for excellence in our company and the broader industry.”
“I’m very excited to be joining the Romeo Entertainment Group family! The standard-setting level of service and quality that they have brought to the concert industry for 70 years is well-known and respected,” shares LeBlanc. “I’m looking forward to bringing my relationships, skills and experience to the team and helping to further expand and develop an already amazing organization.”
ACM Honors To Air On Dr. Phil’s Merit Street Network
/by Lorie HollabaughThe 17th Academy of Country Music Honors will air on Dr. Phil’s Merit Street network on Sept. 24, marking the first time the special will air on the network as part of a partnership between Merit Street Media and the Academy of Country Music.
In addition to ACM Honors this year the Academy and Merit Street will explore programming development opportunities around country performances, behind-the-scenes and lifestyle moments, documentaries, and other content.
“We’re excited to partner with Merit Street Media to bring one of my favorite nights of the year, ACM Honors, to households across North America through this growing network,” says Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. “With so many great performances honoring some of country music’s biggest stars, we can’t wait for fans to tune in to this event on Merit Street, and in the months ahead, we plan to bring even more content focused on country music to the Merit Street viewers.”
“For our first step into music programming, we can’t imagine a better marriage than Merit Street with ACM,” says Merit’s EVP/COO Joel Cheatwood. “To kick this off with such an amazing celebration as ACM Honors is exactly what we aspired to deliver to viewers, and we look forward to creating additional original country music content for fans everywhere.”
The ACM Honors will recognize several special honorees, including ACM Lifting Lives Award recipient Luke Bryan, ACM Poet’s Award recipient Alan Jackson, ACM Triple Crown recipient Lainey Wilson, ACM Icon Award recipient Trisha Yearwood and more. Carly Pearce and Jordan Davis will host the ceremony at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, which will feature performances from Eric Church, Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, Tyler Hubbard, Jamey Johnson, Ashley McBryde and Keith Urban. Additional performers, presenters and event details will be announced in the coming weeks.
2024 MusicRow Awards Category Profile: Female Artist Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 36th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Female Artist of the Year category. This category is voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers to honor outstanding achievements by a Nashville female artist during the eligibility period.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 9 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, becoming a MusicRow subscriber here.
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Kelsea Ballerini continues to make history year after year. When the Knoxville native released her debut album, The First Time, she became the only female country artist to hit No. 1 with the first three consecutive singles from a debut album. Since, she has garnered seven No. 1 hits and five consecutive top 10 entries on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. She has also won two ACM Awards, was nominated for four Grammy Awards and she was honored at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, among many other accolades. Ballerini hosted the 2024 CMT Music Awards for the fourth year, where she led in nominations. She has been inducted as a Grand Ole Opry member, and was recently named a new face of Covergirl. After the release of her latest project, Rolling Up The Welcome Mat, she made her Saturday Night Live debut, was nominated for Best Country Album at the Grammys, and was on the cover of TIME Magazine’s TIME100 Next issue. She recently released “Cowboys Cry Too” with Noah Kahan and is gearing up for the unveiling of her next album.
Groundbreaking singer-songwriter Miranda Lambert has earned accolades as an artist, entertainer, entrepreneur, advocate and businesswoman. In addition to being the most-awarded artist in ACM history, the Texas native has won three Grammy awards, 14 CMA Awards and is a TIME100 honoree. Her discography includes seven No. 1 solo albums, 10 No. 1 radio singles and countless Gold, Platinum and multi-Platinum certifications. She held her twice-extended Las Vegas residency “Velvet Rodeo,” and has collaborated with Leon Bridges, Enrique Iglesias, the B-52s, Loretta Lynn, Sheryl Crow and Elle King. Lambert is a New York Times best-selling author and the first female bar owner on lower Broadway. She recently launched her Wanda June Home collection, exclusive to Walmart, and her ldyllwind clothing and boot line available at Boot Barn. Her nonprofit, MuttNation Foundation, has raised over $10 million to date. She was featured on the Twisters soundtrack and is getting ready to release her next album.
After bursting onto the scene with her smash hit “Tennessee Orange,” Megan Moroney continues to showcase her true to-life storytelling, identifiable vocals and strong-minded yet fiercely-sensitive point of view. The double-Platinum tune became Moroney’s first No. 1 at country radio and notched her first CMT Music Award for Breakthrough Female Video of the Year. The Georgia native got her start singing covers with her dad and brother. The release of her powerhouse debut album, Lucky, led Moroney to massive commercial and critical success. With the lived-in intimacy and electrifying impact of her songwriting, the record also led to her ACM New Female Artist of the Year win, along with award nominations from CMA, iHeart, and Billboard. With over one billion streams to date, Moroney recently released her sophomore album, Am I Okay? The project features exceptional singles “No Caller ID,” “28th of June,” “Indifferent” and “Man on the Moon.”
Kacey Musgraves continues to put out impactful music with each album she releases. The Texas native unveiled her sixth studio album, Deeper Well, earlier this year, which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Top County Albums and Folk Albums charts, and No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart. With focus tracks such as “Deeper Well,” “Too Good To Be True,” “Cardinal” and “The Architect,” Musgraves continued to show off her mastery of songwriting and artistry. She also returned to the Saturday Night Live stage following the album’s release. Musgraves appeared on a host of collaborations this year, including “She Calls Me Back” with Noah Kahan, “Overtime” with Rainbow Kitten Surprise and “I Remember Everything” with Zach Bryan. The latter single went on to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and was nominated for two Grammy Awards, winning Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Musgraves also spent some time executive producing the competition show My Kinda Country with Reese Witherspoon.
Since leaving her Kentucky hometown at 16, Carly Pearce has had no reason to look back. With a sound that is fiercely rooted in the classics, yet embraces the genre’s forward progression, Pearce has won a Grammy Award, four ACM Awards, two CMA Awards, a CMT Music Award and has been inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame. Pearce was first introduced with Platinum certified “Every Little Thing” and triple-Platinum duet “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” with Lee Brice. Her third studio album, 29, includes hits “Never Wanted To Be That Girl” with Ashley McBryde and “What He Didn’t Do.” The duet with McBryde became the third duet between two solo women to top Billboard‘s Country Airplay chart. Her recently-released Hummingbird album continues to show off her honest lyrics and timeless musicality. The project features her top five radio smash “We Don’t Fight Anymore” with Chris Stapleton, and her newest single, “Truck On Fire.”
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Lainey Wilson has become a force in the music industry. As the reigning ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year, her unique sound and spirit has led her to earn numerous accolades and develop a diehard fan base. Nearly 10 years after leaving her small town in Louisiana, she earned her first Platinum No. 1 hit with “Things A Man Oughta Know.” She’s built on that success, scoring six more No. 1 smashes and becoming the lead female artist with the most No. 1 hits this decade. Wilson has earned two Grammy nominations, nine ACM Awards, seven CMA Awards and became an official member of the Grand Ole Opry. Thus far, her music has taken her worldwide. Wilson also made her acting debut in season five of Paramount’s smash hit series Yellowstone. She is currently gearing up for the release of her next album, Whirlwind, containing previously-released tracks “Country’s Cool Again,” “4x4xU” and top-15-and-rising single “Hang Tight Honey.” Wilson is also in the middle of her “Country’s Cool Again Tour” across North America.
Solon Holt Inks With UTA [Exclusive]
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R): Brian Hill, Solon Holt, Taylor Krebs and Audrey Moentmann
Singer-songwriter Solon Holt has signed with UTA and will be represented by Brian Hill.
The Texas native got his start by performing locally, and moved to Nashville following his freshman year at the University of Mississippi. Blending his passion for bluegrass with the soulful spirit of gospel, Holt hopes to continue to bring his intense and unreserved sound to the world of country and Americana music.
Having recently signed an exclusive global publishing agreement with UMPG Nashville, he has collaborated with an established roster of talent. Holt looks forward to releasing new music and touring in the near future.
“Solon Holt is a musical old soul with contemporary ambition and an unshakable countenance,” says Hill. “I knew he was special when I first met him, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes him.”
The MLC & Beatdapp Team Up For Streaming Fraud Detection Services
/by Madison HahnenThe MLC has teamed up with independent fraud detection company Beatdapp to enrich and boost The MLC’s current streaming fraud detection capabilities.
Offered by Beatdapp, the new services will complement The MLC’s existing internal process. The collaboration is in tone with The MLC’s commitment to protecting its members, and supports its mission of ensuring songwriters, composers, lyricists and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time.
“The MLC is uniquely positioned within the music industry to contribute significantly to addressing streaming fraud,” says Andrew Mitchell, Chief Analytics and Automation Officer, The MLC. “Building on our ongoing efforts, we are proud to be working with Beatdapp to further amplify the many ways The MLC serves its 43,000+ Members.”
“The MLC plays a vital role in the music industry and we’re proud to collaborate with them and enhance their continuous efforts to combat streaming fraud,” adds Morgan Hayduk and Andrew Batey, Co-CEOs, Beatdapp. “Beatdapp has built its technology by learning from the best trust and safety solutions serving other online verticals and tailoring our technology to the unique attributes of music, to provide an unbiased, independent fraud detection solution capable of grappling with the persistent and ever-changing nature of fraud.”
Gibson Gives & Music Forward Foundation Partner For LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards
/by Lorie HollabaughGibson Gives, the nonprofit division of music instrument brand Gibson, is partnering with Music Forward Foundation to present the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards for 2024.
This new partnership allows LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards to continue to champion diverse voices from all backgrounds and communities. 10 honorees ages 18-24 will be selected based on the strength and breadth of their musical work, their artistic vision and their articulation of their career goals. Gibson Gives will donate over $43,000 to the program for 2024, including $33,000 in cash grants and $10,000 in Gibson retail for an instrument. Music Forward develops and administers the grant awards from selection to distribution, and Music Forward and the Gibson team collectively develop and execute mentorship programs. The program is designed to help nurture artists’ growth and progress, expand their social capital, and to reduce barriers, both external and internal, that may come between them and achieving their greatest artistic potential.
The 10 U.S.-based artists will each receive a $3,000 grant, $1,000 Gibson retail for an instrument, performance opportunities that include the Gibson Garage Nashville, Gibson showrooms and other venues, quarterly mentorship with established musicians as well as the Gibson and Music Forward teams. Applications are open now until Aug. 18. Application review and selection will take place Aug. 19–Sept. 27, and the recipients will be notified on Sept. 30 before the official announcement on Oct. 2. The virtual awards show will follow later in October. For more information, click here.
Singer-songwriter and record producer Butch Walker, one of the musician mentors for 2024, says, “Hey all! I’m excited to be supporting the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Award, and to celebrate the amazing talent and diversity within the community. This award not only recognizes artistic excellence, but also empowers emerging voices to inspire and create needed change.”
“Gibson Gives is proud to partner with Music Forward to support the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards,” says Erica Krusen, Global Executive Director, Gibson Gives. “We believe in the power of individual voices and strive to break down barriers, promoting a more inclusive music industry. These awards support often-marginalized artists, nurturing their growth and helping them achieve their greatest artistic potential.”
“At Music Forward, we work towards inspiring young artists and providing resources to drive their careers forward while making the industry more inclusive for all voices,” adds Nurit Siegel Smith, Executive Director, Music Forward Foundation.”The LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards is a staple of our programs, and we are excited for our partnership with Gibson Gives to continue to empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ musicians.”
Lakeview’s Self-Titled Debut Album Set For September
/by Lorie HollabaughLakeview
Country-rock duo Lakeview will release their self-titled, debut album on Sept. 13 in partnership with Gravel Road. The duo will debut a new track from the project, “What I Know Now,” this Friday (Aug. 9.)
Lakeview’s Jesse Denaro and Luke Healy made the impromptu announcement while live on-air during an appearance on SiriusXM’s The Highway. The 18-track project has been years in the making for Denaro and Healy, who first connected over their blue-collar jobs and metal-core roots. The album features diverse musical influences, with the duo writing on every track.
In addition to previously released, fan-favorite singles, the album includes betrayal ballad “Here Lies a Girl,” the reflective “Before I Die,” “Bad Day to Be a Beer,” the head-banging “W.H.Y” and the stripped down “I Don’t Call,” which showcases a vulnerable side of the duo lyrically. The project follows the streaming success of singles like “Home Team” and “Loser,” which have amassed more than 30 million streams.
“This album has been a long time in the making,” says Denaro. “It represents who we are as artists and as individuals, this project IS Lakeview and we put everything we had into making this.”
“We couldn’t have done this without the support of the Home Team,” adds Healy of the duo’s fanbase. “Thank you for supporting us for so many years, on the road. Whether you bought a ticket to a show, streamed our singles or picked up a shirt at the merch table, your support has meant the world to us.”
Lakeview’s country core and foundation in rock caught the eye of Breaking Benjamin’s Ben Burley, who is taking the band on the road nationwide. The duo is represented by UTA for booking, Gravel Road for label and management and Ace High for publishing.
Lakeview Track List:
1. “Home Team” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Cody Quistad, Quint Collins)
2. “Dying Breed” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Kellen McGregor)
3. “Wrong Side of the Track” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Cody Quistad, Quint Collins, Jake Saghi)
4. “See Me in a Suit” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Cody Quistad, Quint Collins)
5. “What I Know Now” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Dan Pellarin, Andrew Baylis)
6. “Son of A” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Quint Collins)
7. “Bad Day To Be a Beer” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Quint Collins)
8. “Rock Bottom” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Quint Collins)
9. “I Don’t Call” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Quint Collins)
10. “By Now” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Quint Collins)
11. “Here Lies a Girl” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Cole Miracle, Eddie Eberle)
12. “Long Time Listener” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Quint Collins)
13. “Money Where Your Mouth Is” (featuring Gideon) (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Cody Quistad)
14. “W.H.Y” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Elijah Borders)
15. “Say It First” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Quint Collins, Cody Quistad)
16. “Neon Nightmare” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro, Jacob Hackworth)
17. “Drunk Prayer” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro)
18. “Before I Die” (Luke Healy, Jesse Denaro)
Jelly Roll To Head To The Hamptons With SiriusXM For Exclusive Fan Event
/by Liza AndersonJelly Roll will head to the Hamptons with SiriusXM for an exclusive fan event on Aug. 17 at Stephen Talkhouse.
The country star will perform music from his forthcoming project, including new single “I Am Not Okay,” as well songs from his record-breaking 2023 album, Whitsitt Chapel, for SiriusXM subscribers. The show is also set air on SiriusXM’s The Highway and will be available on the SiriusXM app. This marks the latest in a series of special concerts SiriusXM has presented at Stephen Talkhouse. After the performance, fans will get the opportunity to spend time with Jelly Roll during a special cookout.
“We are thrilled to be back at a truly iconic venue, this time presenting a country sensation. SiriusXM has been a champion of Jelly Roll and his music from the start, and we are excited to bring him to Stephen Talkhouse for what is sure to be an unforgettable show and cookout,” says Scott Greenstein, SiriusXM President & Chief Content Officer. “Only SiriusXM brings fans this close to the artists they love, giving them an opportunity to share good music and good times with one of the hottest artists in the genre today.”
SiriusXM subscribers can enter for a chance to attend the event now. For more information, click here.
2024 MusicRow Awards Category Profile: Breakthrough Artist Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 36th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Breakthrough Artist of the Year category. This category is voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers to honor a Nashville artist who achieved significant career progress for the first time.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 9 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, becoming a MusicRow subscriber here.
Reigning CMT Music Awards Breakthrough Female Video of the Year winner Ashley Cooke is known for her skillfully-crafted lyrics, a knack for unforgettable performances, effortless vocal beauty, a bold sense of internal grit and a passion for capturing the magic between heartbeats. The Florida native has already been streamed over 270 million times globally, with hits such as “Never Til’ Now” with Brett Young and her first country radio No. 1 “Your Place.” The singer-songwriter has been on tour with Luke Bryan, Jordan Davis, Cole Swindell and Brett Young and made appearances on some of music’s most iconic stages such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. With the release of her debut album, Shot In The Dark, Cooke shared her sun-kissed blend of two-lane pop country in the project’s 24 tracks, inspired by true tales of love, heartbreak and all the moments in between. Cooke has also already seen her first ACM nomination for New Female Artist of the Year.
Having been immersed in the world of country, folk and Americana music from an early age, Dasha is bringing her introspection and allure to the genre in a big way. The San Luis Obispo, California native is equipped with a passion for sharing her true story, evident in the release of her debut country album, What Happens Now? The eight-track collection is defined by its authenticity, raw emotion and relatability, mirroring her genuine self-expression. Featured on the project, her viral hit “Austin” has amassed over 10 billion views on TikTok, with its accompanying signature line dance. Dasha recently released her new single “Didn’t I,” which she debuted on the Platform Stage at CMA Fest. She will also make appearances at Country Concert, Lollapalooza, The Long Road Festival and more as well as support Parker McCollum and embark on her first headlining tour this fall.
With a voice that hits like thunder, Kameron Marlowe‘s sound is instantly recognizable. The Kannapolis, North Carolina native began singing in church choirs and high school bands. After gaining some attention through his online videos, he made the move to music city. His viral hit “Giving Up On You” propelled Marlowe into the spot light. He followed the single with his debut album, We Were Cowboys, which contained two Gold-certified tracks. His recently-released sophomore album, Keepin’ The Lights On, uses his scope and maturity to establish him as a true force. He is a triple-threat singer, songwriter and performer blazing his own path, marked by his distinctively soulful and resonant vocals. Marlowe uses his vulnerability to share themes of mental health, battling feelings of inadequacy and the relentless pursuit of success. He has shared the stage with Thomas Rhett, Riley Green, Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson as well as performed over 200 headlining shows. He will hit the road again this fall on his own tour.
Platinum singer-songwriter Bryan Martin uses his tales of past struggles to tell a compelling story of survival. Martin began singing in church in his hometown of Logansport, Louisiana, giving him the influence of hymns, while later discovering a passion for country music. Before moving to Music City, he faced personal challenges, including drugs and a suicide attempt at 19. After sustaining a brain injury from a near-fatal car accident, he used music to address his struggles and started to unapologetically embrace his scars. Now, with over 700 million streams, Martin has shared the stage with Morgan Wallen and Jason Aldean, and has made his Grand Ole Opry debut. In 2023, Martin released his sophomore album Poets & Old Souls, which includes his smash hit “We Ride.” He recently released his newest track, “Wishbone,” which dives into his battle against the allure of stardom and the rigors of touring life. Despite the challenges, Martin’s indomitable spirit perseveres, infusing his music with raw emotion and seeking refuge in art.
Multi-genre artist Shaboozey is paving his own path in the alternative country and hip-hop space. The Woodbridge, Virginia native grew up on everything from classic hip-hop and R&B to country and blues icons like Johnny Cash, Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks and Lead Belly, to master lyricists such as Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. He was featured on Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter album and later released his debut album, Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going. The project debuted in the top five on the Billboard 200 chart. The standout single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” is certified double-Platinum and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Shaboozey, along with Beyonce, became the first Black artist to score consecutive No. 1 hits in the Billboard Hot Country Song chart’s 66-year history. He will embark on his headlining tour later this year and is on the bill for Outside Lands, among other festivals.
Nashville native Conner Smith has always had songwriting in his bones. The singer spent 15 years matching his honeyed vocal to propulsive hints of bluegrass and the warmth of ’90s country. Now, Smith’s mix of prime-of-life passion with old soul perspective can be heard on his debut album, Smoky Mountains. Featuring his Gold-certified “Take It Slow,” viral hit “I Hate Alabama” and radio smashes “Creek Will Rise” and “Roulette On The Heart” featuring Hailey Whitters, the 12-track project lays an artistic foundation for Smith to root himself in the depths of the industry. Named a part of the CRS New Faces Class of 2024, Smith has already earned an ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year. His fans resonate with his authentic storytelling and rich, soulful voice while on tour with Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell, Chase Rice and Jordan Davis. Smith is set to embark on his own headlining tour this fall, while also joining Luke Bryan on the road.