Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Fans flooded Nissan Stadium on Saturday (June 8), eagerly anticipating performances from Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominon, The War And Treaty and more during the third night of CMA Fest.
Terri Clark performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Audacy’s Katie Neal of Katie & Company welcomed the crowd and introduced Canadian Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member Terri Clark to kick off the show.
Clark stepped to the stage wearing her classic white cowboy hat, and reminisced on her first time attending CMA Fest in 1987, back when it was known as Fan Fair.
“Seeing how much Fan Fair has grown over the years makes my heart burst,” she said, beaming. She then proceeded to set the tone for the evening with throwback hits, “Better Things to Do,” “Girls Lie Too,” “I Just Wanna Be Mad” and “I Wanna Do It All,” the latter morphing into a version of Sheryl Crow’s hit, “All I Wanna Do.”
Next up, making their CMA debut, was The War And Treaty, who kept the energy up with “Yesterday’s Burn” and “Stealing a Kiss” before performing their newly released, “Called You By Your Name.” The husband-wife duo showed off their soulful vocals, powerful stage presence and infectious bond as they made their way off the stage to sing directly to the audience.
The War and Treaty performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“It’s our very first CMA Fest, and I can’t believe we are playing at Nissan Stadium,” marveled co-frontman Michael Trotter. “If you would have told me back in 2005, while I was in Iraq fighting for our country, that when I made it back this would happen… I would have called you a liar. No matter where we are from, love will always lead us back home”
It was then that the duo sang their final song, “Lead Me Home,” rounding out an incredible set.
Shortly after, fans turned their attention to the Platform Stage where newcomer Tanner Adell, contributor to Beyoncé’s recent Cowboy Carter album, performed tracks “Buckle Bunny” and “Whiskey Blues.”
Back on the main stage, CMA’s 2023 Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion, stepped up to the plate. “We are on a mission to make sure Saturday night is the loudest night of all of CMA Fest,” declared lead vocalist Matthew Ramsey. “We’ve only got a short time, but we’re going to make the most of it.”
Old Dominion performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
And make the most of it they did, kicking off the performance with their high-energy hit, “I Was On a Boat That Day,” prompting the crowd to hop to their feet and join in. The group then reminded the fans why they have received ACM’s Group of the Year seven consecutive times as they played back-to-back hits, “Snapback,” “Hotel Key” and “One Man Band,” before closing with “Memory Lane.”
Back on the platform stage, singer-songwriter Dylan Marlowe, joined by two band members, performed his unreleased track “Heaven Sakes,” and noted excitedly that his next song, “Boys Back Home,” was his, “first ever song at country radio.”
Next, Wilson took to the stage to deliver a set worthy only of the reigning ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year. She began with her own hit, “Hang Tight Honey,” before inviting Clark back to the stage for an unforgettable performance of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me,” with Wilson assisting in percussion and Clark strumming her guitar.
Lainey Wilson and Terri Clark perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Before continuing, Wilson took a page from Clark’s book and shared CMA memories of her own, reminiscing on her perfect CMA Fest attendance since she was 14 years old, and encouraging fellow girls in the crowd to follow their dreams.
Wilson’s energy never died down. She flawlessly worked every inch of the stage as she delivered hit after hit including “Heart Like a Truck,” “Watermelon Moonshine” and “Country’s Cool Again,” before closing out with her most recent No. 1 “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”
In between main stage sets, newcomer Brittney Spencer brought the groove, performing “I Got Time,” fresh off of her new, debut album My Stupid Life.
Taking the energy up a notch, country icon Urban was up next. He began with “Straight Line” and “Messed up As Me” before inviting Wilson back on stage to join him in delivering an incredible performance of “Go Home W U.”
Keith Urban performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Urban took his performance to the next level as he hoisted up his mic stand and toted it down from the main stage and into the audience singing, “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” “Better Life” and “Long Hot Summer.” Adding to the fun during his fan-frenzied escapade, Urban snagged an audience member’s hat and adorned it during the final verses of his closing song, further firing up the crowd.
Closing up the night was CMA’s 2023 New Artist of the Year, Jelly Roll, The Nashville native’s performance was a special one. He was teary-eyed looking into the audience after singing, “The Lost,” and taking in the full-circle moment.
“Everyone make some noise for the juvenile detention center behind me. I know they can hear us, because I was once one of them, in and out of jail, but tonight I am here headlining CMA Fest in my hometown,” he said, covering his face with his cap.
Jelly Roll performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll took those heavy emotions and turned it into excitement and energy. He recalled listening to country music with his mother, but only ever hearing ’90s hip-hop from his brother’s room. In tribute, he began a medley of classic hits including “Boyz n the Hood,” “Lose Yourself,” “Ms. Jackson” and “Just a Friend,” sprawling out on the floor in awe as the lit-up crowd sang sang the latter back to him.
Jelly Roll continued to sing his hits such as his recent No. 1 hit “Halfway to Hell,” followed by “Son of a Sinner,” “I Am Not Okay,” “Wild Ones” and “Need A Favor.” He welcomed Wilson back to center stage to close out the unforgettable night with, “Save Me,” marking a triumphant end to night three.
Kelsea Ballerini Debuts New Limited Edition Coffee Flavor With The Original Donut Shop
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Original Donut Shop Coffee and Kelsea Ballerini host brunch to celebrate new Ballerini Blend. Photo: Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images for The Original Donut Shop Coffee
Just in time for National Donut Day on Friday (June 7), Kelsea Ballerini and The Original Donut Shop Coffee developed and debuted a co-branded new limited edition flavor, the Ballerini Blend.
The Ballerini Blend was made just for fans and is a limited-edition medium roast swirling with a buttery, creamy vanilla flavor. Fans got first access to the new brew at a special brunch event in Nashville during CMA Fest on Friday where they enjoyed a live performance from the singer.
“Coffee is such a constant in my life, so it is really special to release this blend with The Original Donut Shop,” says Ballerini. “The Ballerini Blend is my crave-able comfort, my morning must-have, and a mug full of vanilla-flavored goodness. It’s my taste of home when I’m on the road and my absolute favorite way to treat myself. And now, it’s yours to enjoy too!”
“This National Donut Day, we worked to bring forth a playful blend that channeled Ballerini’s flavorful passion points,” says Becky Opdyke, Senior Vice President, Coffee Marketing at Keurig Dr Pepper. “We’re thrilled to take this partnership one step further with the release of the exclusive Ballerini Blend and are looking forward to continuing to treat the taste buds of our consumers!”
The Ballerini Blend is available for purchase exclusively on Keurig.com, while supplies last. For every purchase of the Ballerini Blend, at-home coffee drinkers will also get 50% off any additional box of The Original Donut Shop® K-cup pods only on the website. The coffee collaboration is the latest in a series of collaborations between Ballerini and the brand, which recently launched its “Brew Some Ooh” campaign starring Ballerini.
Toby Keith’s ’35 Biggest Hits’ Passes 150 Weeks On Billboard’s Top 200
/by Lorie HollabaughToby Keith‘s 35 Biggest Hits collection has set a new milestone for longevity on Billboard‘s all-genre Top 200, now at 151 weeks and counting.
The release is also one of three Keith albums to hit triple digits on the Top 200, which also include his Greatest Hits 2 at 106 weeks, and Unleashed, which spent 104 weeks on the chart – exactly two years.
The late icon is not only still setting records with his music, but is also being tributted by his fellow artists. Most recently, the former Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year was remembered with a stirring performance of his “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” by Jason Aldean at last month’s 59th ACM Awards. Last month, Keith was posthumously awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma.
A Stagecoach Festival performance of “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” by Jelly Roll and T-Pain has also been released for purchase via Amazon Music, with proceeds benefiting the Toby Keith Foundation which funds OK Kids Korral, the cost-free home for families of children dealing with critical illnesses.
BREAKING: Jon Loba Further Expands Role At BMG
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R, front row): JoJamie Hahr, Jon Loba, Dan Gill and Tim Reid; (L-R, back row): Cyndi Lynott, Shane Cosme, Sean Heydorn, Jecoure Lamothe and Zarah Ortiz. Photo: Sonny Alvarez
Less than six months after being promoted to President of Frontline Recordings for North America, BMG has upped Jon Loba again to President of Frontline Recordings for The Americas. The Nashville-based industry veteran will lead a team of executives across the United States, including Los Angeles, Miami and Nashville, as well as Canada, Mexico and Brazil.
The news comes as part of BMG’s efforts to refresh the organizational structure. The label group will be responsible for overseeing new music releases across a wide range of genres including pop, rock, R&B/hip-hop, country and Latin.
JoJamie Hahr, Executive Vice President of Recorded Music at BMG Nashville, will oversee all day-to-day management of Nashville powerhouse BBR Music Group and its imprints. She joined BMG in 2017 following the acquisition of BBR Music Group and will continue to report to Loba.
Based in Los Angeles, Dan Gill, Executive Vice President of Recorded Music West Coast, will oversee BMG’s recorded music genre leads for pop, rock, R&B/hip-hop and international outbound repertoire. He reports directly to Loba.
Based in Los Angeles, Cyndi Lynott, Senior Vice President of Marketing, will lead BMG’s recorded frontline pop strategy with a roster of artists. Los Angeles-based Sean Heydorn, Senior Vice President of Rise Records, will now lead recorded frontline rock, including pioneering metal and hard rock label Rise Records. Based in Nashville, Tim Reid, Senior Vice President of Repertoire & Marketing, is responsible for leading the development and focus of R&B/hip-hop, and oversees L.A.-based hip-hop/rap label RBC Records. Los Angeles-based Shane Cosme, Senior Vice President of International Marketing, will serve as the point person responsible for all marketing efforts of outbound global releases from the US-based repertoire to BMG’s international territories. All directly report to Gill.
Jecoure Lamothe, Vice President of A&R and Marketing, oversees the day-to-day operations for hip-hop/rap label RBC Records. Based in Los Angeles, he reports to Reid.
Based in Miami, Zarah Ortiz, Vice President of Repertoire & Campaign Management, will now oversee the developing LATAM repertoire strategy in Mexico and Brazil. In Canada, Bryan Columbus now joins BMG as its newly appointed VP, Recorded Music tasked with leading the company’s frontline recording efforts from its office in Toronto. Both report to Loba.
CMA Fest Night 4: Hardy, Megan Moroney & More Close Out CMA Fest 2024
/by Madison HahnenHardy performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Eager fans flocked to Nissan Stadium on Sunday night (June 9) for the fourth and final night of CMA Fest 2024. The sun sat perfectly behind the stage as the finale night of music was kicking off.
First up was Josh Turner, who graced stage in a simple black button up and jeans. With guitar in hand, Turner got the party started with “Firecracker,” immediately engaging the crowd. “I hope everyone’s been having a good time at CMA Fest this week,” Turner exclaimed before singing “Heatin’ Things Up” off his upcoming record. The track got the crowd clapping along, and he kept the enthusiasm going with smash hit “Your Man.” To end the set, eerie train noises rang through the stadium, and everyone rose to their feet for “Long Black Train.”
Josh Turner performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. HARDY performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
With the sun fully set, it was time for the next performer, Megan Moroney. Strutting onto the stage in a dark blue dress and white cowgirl boots, Moroney kicked off her set with “Lucky” before grabbing her bedazzled guitar for her current radio single “I’m Not Pretty.” With the crowd buzzing, she played her newly released “Man On The Moon,” which will be on her forthcoming new album Am I Okay?
“CMA Fest is a really special time of year for me,” Moroney shared. “Two years ago, I was playing the small shows for less than a hundred people. I had my brother come up [from Georgia] and play guitar for me because I didn’t have a band. Last year, we got invited to play on the platform stage [at Nissan Stadium].”
To signify the full circle moment of getting to play on the main stage, Moroney brought out her brother to play guitar on “No Caller ID.” She then grabbed her electric guitar for “Indifferent,” before wrapping her set with breakout hit “Tennessee Orange.”
Megan Moroney performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. HARDY performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
In between then main stage set change, fans turned their attention to the platform stage where newcomer Zach Top had the crowd singing along to “Sounds Like The Radio” and his country ballad “Use Me.”
As blue lights grazed the main stage, Brothers Osborne emerged playing “Break Mine,” immediately capturing the crowd. The duo then performed their version of “I Won’t Back Down” from the upcoming Tom Petty tribute album. With their sensational guitar playing and vocal abilities, the brothers had every single person in the stadium up on their feet by the time they played “I’m Not For Everyone.”
Keeping the energy on 10, the brothers went into their hit “Stay A Little Longer,” and ran down the stairs to bring the performance closer to the fans. After confirming that the crowd was still hyped, they got everyone clapping on “It Ain’t My Fault” before closing their set with a cover of Don Williams’ “Tulsa Time.”
Brothers Osborne performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. HARDY performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Back on the platform stage Wyatt Flores captivated the crowd as he played “Please Don’t Go” and “Holes.” Overcome with emotion, the singer made sure to soak the moment in.
With no signs of slowing down, the show continued when Carly Pearce graced the main stage. She started her set with “Rock Paper Scissors” off her newly released album Hummingbird. With her signature country sound taking over the venue, Pearce then gave some advice through “Next Girl.” She then slowed it down for one of her own personal favorites, “What He Didn’t Do,” where she also sang face to face with a few audience members near the stage.
Notching the party back up, Pearce shared another track from her new album, “Truck On Fire,” which had the audience dancing along. The singer then showed off her powerful vocals with her current radio single “We Don’t Fight Anymore.”
Before closing her set, Pearce shared, “I moved [to Nashville] 15 years ago this year. Growing up, I only thought about country music. The only thing I did was dream and pray that I would be up here one day.” She left the audience with her hit “I Hope You’re Happy Now.”
Carly Pearce performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. HARDY performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Just a few minutes later, Jackson Dean appeared in the middle of the stadium sporting his signature look and treated the crowd to a special, intimate performance of “Fearless.”
The anticipation in Nissan Stadium was buzzing for the next performer. As they announced his name, the crowd roared as Bailey Zimmerman appeared on stage. In his white t-shirt that said “lover,” Zimmerman opened his electrifying set with “Religiously.” He then grabbed his guitar to play his favorite song “Fix’n To Break,” before going into his newest radio single “Holy Smokes.”
With the crowd the palm of his hand, Zimmerman stood on the edge of the stage and encouraged everyone to get loud for his two-week No. 1 single, “Where It Ends.” As the singer stood in the center of the stage and took in the crowd, he started to get emotional.
Bailey Zimmerman performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. HARDY performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“In 2020, I was building gas lines,” Zimmerman recalled. “I had never sang, never picked up a guitar and didn’t know how to write songs. When I moved to town, CMA Fest was the thing everyone talked about—it’s a dream to be playing here right now. I am proof that if you work hard and believe in yourself, anything can happen.” He then wrapped his set with his big hit “Rock And A Hard Place,” complete with a dazzling cell phone light display from the audience.
As the last performance of CMA Fest 2024 was on the horizon, the country music crowd was ready. Before he even hit the stage, the crowd was chanting “Hardy!” over and over. The star ran onto the stage with his custom Crow hockey jersey underneath the dark blue lights, and opened his set with “Rockstar” and “Jack,” immediately sending the energy in the stadium into a frenzy. Hardy then went into “Psycho” off his upcoming album Quit!! During the song, he sat on the steps leading down to the pit, creating a special moment for the crowd.
Hardy and Big & Rich perform at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. HARDY performs at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 9 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
In front of the stage, Hardy grabbed his guitar and slowed the night down with “Six Feet Under,” a song he wrote for his wife Caleigh. As the single spotlight shined down, the crowd was charmed by his vocals and vulnerable lyrics. Keeping the night going, he brought out Big & Rich to celebrate the 20th year of “Save A Horse (Ride A Cowboy).”
The collaboration had the audience roaring, eagerly awaiting what was next. In another surprise, Lauren Alaina joined Hardy on stage and the two sang his first country radio No. 1, “One Beer.” As the stadium quieted, the slow opening music for “Wait In The Truck” began, instantly exciting everyone in the room. Hardy started singing the award-winning hit and then was joined on stage by Pearce for Lainey Wilson’s part. For the “last song of CMA Fest,” Hardy polished off the night with another smash hit “Truck Bed.”
CMA Fest 2025 is scheduled for June 5-8, 2025.
Dr. Herbert C. Gabhart & Bob Mulloy Honored With Cecil Scaife Visionary Award
/by Lorie HollabaughLaRawn Scaife Rhea & Brittany Schaffer
The Cecil Scaife Visionary Award was presented posthumously to Dr. Herbert C. Gabhart and Bob Mulloy at a private reception preceding Belmont’s Best of the Best concert at The Curb Event Center on the Belmont University Campus on what would have been Cecil Scaife’s 97th birthday, April 13.
Nashville Record Producer Joe Scaife and his sister, LaRawn Scaife Rhea, created the award to honor their dad’s contributions to the Music Business Program at Belmont and to celebrate those whose lives and work have made it possible for future generations to realize careers in the music industry.
Along with the award, The Cecil Scaife Endowed Scholarship was created, and each year, a rising junior or senior in the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business is awarded a scholarship.
“Without Dr. Gabhart and Bob Mulloy’s belief in Dad’s vision for this program, it would not have been possible. It is an honor and privilege to present this award posthumously to Dr. Gabhart and Bob Mulloy on behalf of my brother and his wife, Danielle, their children, Jaela and Tristan, and my husband Richard and me,” says LaRawn Scaife Rhea. “Mike Curb was the first recipient of this award in 2008, and he and his wife Linda have brought this program to where it is today.”
Brittany Schaffer, Dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business, accepted the award. The beautiful Kosta Boda black and clear crystal award will be showcased on campus to remind students of the men whose shoulders they stand on.
Past Visionary Award recipients celebrated for their contributions, in addition to the inaugural recipient Mike Curb, include Brenda Lee, Ray Stevens, Amy Grant, Tony Brown, Wynonna Judd, David Briggs, Norbert Putnam, Jo Walker-Meador, Senator Marsha Blackburn, “Sunshine” Sonny Payne and Harold Bradley.
Danielle Bradbery Set To Release First Independent Album In September
/by Lorie HollabaughDanielle Bradbery
Danielle Bradbery announced to fans during her set at Spotify House at CMA Fest last week that she’s releasing a brand new album, Danielle, her first independent project.
Danielle will be her first album in over six years, and is due out Sept. 6. The deeply personal project will take listeners on an emotional journey of heartbreak and healing as Bradbery explores a season of heartache, recounting the trials of a broken relationship and channeling the emotion of being let down time and time again and pushed to the brink, then coming out on the other side stronger than before.
“I’ve learned a lot the last several years, and with Danielle I am truly representing the woman I’ve become,” says Bradbery. “During the recording process, it was important to not only share my story, but also my love for the ranging styles of music that raised me and have continued to inspire me my whole life.
“This album takes listeners on a journey that is at times heartbreaking and angry, but at its core embodies the creative freedom that anchors the entire work. I’m so proud of this album—my first in almost seven years. I hope it makes you laugh and cry and if you happen to see a piece of yourself somewhere in this; I hope you feel seen and empowered.”
In conjunction with the album announcement, Bradbery has also released her latest track “Broken Boy,” which revisits an old flame and the distorted expectations we are taught about love, eventually learning to embrace the brokenness we all carry. “Broken Boy” appears on Danielle and follows the recently released track “Wedding or a Funeral.”
Danielle Track List:
1. “Wake Me Up” (Kendall Greyson Brower Goodman, Fran Litterski, Anna Kline, Daniel Emilio Perez)
2. “Windows” (Michael McEachern, Kendall Grayson Brower Goodman, Tyler Spry)
3. “Broken Boy” (Emily Weisband, Jordan Reynolds)
4. “You Could” (Danielle Bradbery, Emily Weisband, Sam Sumser, Sean Small)
5. “Wedding or a Funeral” (Emily Weisband, Michael Ollin Lotten, Josh Miller)
6. “Real Ones” (Paige Blue, Jordan Keim)
7. “That’s Why (You Love Me)” (Alysa Vanderheym, Andre Davidson, Emily Weisband, Michelle Buzz, Ariowa Irosogie, Philip John Plested, Sean Davidson)
Tracy Lawrence Celebrates CMA Fest With Sold-Out Ascend Amphitheater Show
/by Lorie HollabaughTracy Lawrence celebrates one billion streams. Photo: Marisa Taylor
Tracy Lawrence fans had plenty to be happy about during his star-studded, sold-out CMA Fest show, “Tracy Lawrence and Friends,” on Saturday night (June 8) at Ascend Amphitheater.
The night featured performances and collaborations by Lawrence, Riley Green, Chris Young, Maddie & Tae, Priscilla Block, RaeLynn, Charles Esten, opener Kasey Tyndall and surprise guests Randy Houser and Lee Greenwood.
Mid-way through the show, Houser surprised Lawrence with a giant plaque commemorating one billion career streams, driven by some of his biggest hits including “Paint Me A Birmingham,” “Time Marches On,” “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” “Sticks and Stones” and more. The massive achievement and sold-out show comes just one day after the release of Lawrence’s new EP Out Here In It, his first new album in three years.
BREAKING: Warner Chappell Promotes Jessi Vaughn Stevenson
/by LB CantrellJessi Vaughn Stevenson. Photo: Nathan Chapman
Warner Chappell Music has elevated seasoned A&R executive Jessi Vaughn Stevenson to Vice President, A&R and Digital.
Stevenson has worked with some of country music’s most influential songwriters, including Jessi Alexander, Rhett Akins, Parker McCollum, Riley Green, Hailey Whitters, Morgan Wallen, Randy Montana, Little Big Town and more. She will continue reporting to Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville, as she strategizes around new and innovative opportunities for writers.
“The past eight years at Warner Chappell have been extremely educational and rewarding,” Stevenson says. “I feel blessed to continue to learn from the best in the business—from Admin and A&R teams to our world-class roster of songwriters and artists. Getting to fight for songs from inception to reception is my favorite part of publishing, and I look forward to finding new ways to develop and support our roster and their songs.”
Vaughn shares, “Jessi has always shown commitment to songwriters, helping them with their craft and careers. She is always thinking of new ways to support songwriters and is a wonderful team player. We’re happy to announce her promotion.”
The Nolensville, Tennessee native earned her Bachelor’s degree in music business at Belmont University. Prior to joining Warner Chappell, she worked across various facets of the industry in both Nashville and Los Angeles including stints at CMT, Warner Brothers Records, Bill Silva Entertainment and SoundExchange. In 2015, she formed JV Writer Management where she provided creative support for award-winning songwriters Alexander and Jon Randall, among others.
CMA Fest Day 3: Country Music Fans Beat The Heat
/by LB CantrellLily Rose performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Saturday (June 8) brought more fans to downtown Nashville for CMA Fest day three.
Pictured (L-R): Mark Wystrach, Jon Pardi, Cameron Duddy, Koe Wetzel and Jess Carson visit Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 – Day 3. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
The day kicked off at the Chevy Riverfront Stage with Priscilla Block. Following her were The War And Treaty, Chayce Beckham, Ingrid Andress, Restless Road, Lily Rose and more. The Chevy Vibes stage was graced by Dasha, Dylan Schneider, Kassi Ashton, Mark Wills and others.
On the Dr. Pepper Amp Stage, fans were treated to sets from David Nail, Catie Offerman, Alexandra Kay and more. The Good Molecules Stage featured Harper Grace, David J, John Morgan, RVSHVD and others.
Spotify’s final day of programming featured Ashley McBryde, Avery Anna, Brett Young, Carter Faith, Jon Pardi, Karley Scott Collins, Kassi Ashton, Koe Wetzel, Lauren Watkins, Mason Ramsey, Midland, Owen Riegling, Shaboozey, Tucker Wetmore and Wyatt Flores on the mainstage as well as Alexandra Kay, HunterGirl, Mike Parker, Jenna Paulette, Kashus Culpepper and Waylon Wyatt on the Fresh Finds stage powered by Samsung Galaxy.
Mickey Guyton performs at the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck. Photo: Chris Hollo
For day three of the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck, capacity crowds watched sets from Anne Wilson, Josh Turner, Maddie & Tae and Mickey Guyton. Newly signed artists Vincent Mason and Carter Faith hit the stage, and Louie TheSinger wrapped up the day with a fiery performance.
SiriusXM’s The Highway had Lainey Wilson, Lauren Watkins, Alana Springsteen, Riley Green, Austin Snell and more out for their special Music Row Happy Hour live event at Margaritaville on Saturday.
Lainey Wilson at SiriusXM The Highway’s Music Row Happy Hour on Saturday (June 8). Photo: Getty Images for SiriusXM
Ashley McBryde performs onstage at Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 – Day 3. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
David J performs at the Good Molecules Reverb Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
RVSHVD performs at the Good Molecules Reverb Stage on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll performs onstage at Spotify House at CMA Fest 2024 – Day 3. Photo: Rick Kern/Getty Images for Spotify
Pictured (L-R): Mary Catherine Rebrovick (VP Publicity, Warner Music Nashville), Emma Singleton (Crush South), Clark Tedesco (VP Artist Development, Warner Music Nashville), Ben Kline (Co-Chair/Co-President, Warner Music Nashville), Ingrid Andress, Rohan Kohli (VP A&R, Warner Music Nashville), Patrick Sabatini (SVP Legal & Business Affairs, Warner Music Nashville), Jake Turner (Crush South), Mike Dupree (SVP Creative Director, Warner Music Nashville). Photo: Courtesy of WMN
Josh Turner performs at the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck. Photo: Chris Hollo
CMA Fest Night 3: Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson & More Light Up The Night
/by John Nix ArledgeJelly Roll and Lainey Wilson perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Fans flooded Nissan Stadium on Saturday (June 8), eagerly anticipating performances from Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominon, The War And Treaty and more during the third night of CMA Fest.
Terri Clark performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Audacy’s Katie Neal of Katie & Company welcomed the crowd and introduced Canadian Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member Terri Clark to kick off the show.
Clark stepped to the stage wearing her classic white cowboy hat, and reminisced on her first time attending CMA Fest in 1987, back when it was known as Fan Fair.
“Seeing how much Fan Fair has grown over the years makes my heart burst,” she said, beaming. She then proceeded to set the tone for the evening with throwback hits, “Better Things to Do,” “Girls Lie Too,” “I Just Wanna Be Mad” and “I Wanna Do It All,” the latter morphing into a version of Sheryl Crow’s hit, “All I Wanna Do.”
Next up, making their CMA debut, was The War And Treaty, who kept the energy up with “Yesterday’s Burn” and “Stealing a Kiss” before performing their newly released, “Called You By Your Name.” The husband-wife duo showed off their soulful vocals, powerful stage presence and infectious bond as they made their way off the stage to sing directly to the audience.
The War and Treaty performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“It’s our very first CMA Fest, and I can’t believe we are playing at Nissan Stadium,” marveled co-frontman Michael Trotter. “If you would have told me back in 2005, while I was in Iraq fighting for our country, that when I made it back this would happen… I would have called you a liar. No matter where we are from, love will always lead us back home”
It was then that the duo sang their final song, “Lead Me Home,” rounding out an incredible set.
Shortly after, fans turned their attention to the Platform Stage where newcomer Tanner Adell, contributor to Beyoncé’s recent Cowboy Carter album, performed tracks “Buckle Bunny” and “Whiskey Blues.”
Back on the main stage, CMA’s 2023 Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion, stepped up to the plate. “We are on a mission to make sure Saturday night is the loudest night of all of CMA Fest,” declared lead vocalist Matthew Ramsey. “We’ve only got a short time, but we’re going to make the most of it.”
Old Dominion performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
And make the most of it they did, kicking off the performance with their high-energy hit, “I Was On a Boat That Day,” prompting the crowd to hop to their feet and join in. The group then reminded the fans why they have received ACM’s Group of the Year seven consecutive times as they played back-to-back hits, “Snapback,” “Hotel Key” and “One Man Band,” before closing with “Memory Lane.”
Back on the platform stage, singer-songwriter Dylan Marlowe, joined by two band members, performed his unreleased track “Heaven Sakes,” and noted excitedly that his next song, “Boys Back Home,” was his, “first ever song at country radio.”
Next, Wilson took to the stage to deliver a set worthy only of the reigning ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year. She began with her own hit, “Hang Tight Honey,” before inviting Clark back to the stage for an unforgettable performance of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me,” with Wilson assisting in percussion and Clark strumming her guitar.
Lainey Wilson and Terri Clark perform at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Before continuing, Wilson took a page from Clark’s book and shared CMA memories of her own, reminiscing on her perfect CMA Fest attendance since she was 14 years old, and encouraging fellow girls in the crowd to follow their dreams.
Wilson’s energy never died down. She flawlessly worked every inch of the stage as she delivered hit after hit including “Heart Like a Truck,” “Watermelon Moonshine” and “Country’s Cool Again,” before closing out with her most recent No. 1 “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”
In between main stage sets, newcomer Brittney Spencer brought the groove, performing “I Got Time,” fresh off of her new, debut album My Stupid Life.
Taking the energy up a notch, country icon Urban was up next. He began with “Straight Line” and “Messed up As Me” before inviting Wilson back on stage to join him in delivering an incredible performance of “Go Home W U.”
Keith Urban performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Urban took his performance to the next level as he hoisted up his mic stand and toted it down from the main stage and into the audience singing, “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” “Better Life” and “Long Hot Summer.” Adding to the fun during his fan-frenzied escapade, Urban snagged an audience member’s hat and adorned it during the final verses of his closing song, further firing up the crowd.
Closing up the night was CMA’s 2023 New Artist of the Year, Jelly Roll, The Nashville native’s performance was a special one. He was teary-eyed looking into the audience after singing, “The Lost,” and taking in the full-circle moment.
“Everyone make some noise for the juvenile detention center behind me. I know they can hear us, because I was once one of them, in and out of jail, but tonight I am here headlining CMA Fest in my hometown,” he said, covering his face with his cap.
Jelly Roll performs at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, June 8 during CMA Fest 2024 in downtown Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll took those heavy emotions and turned it into excitement and energy. He recalled listening to country music with his mother, but only ever hearing ’90s hip-hop from his brother’s room. In tribute, he began a medley of classic hits including “Boyz n the Hood,” “Lose Yourself,” “Ms. Jackson” and “Just a Friend,” sprawling out on the floor in awe as the lit-up crowd sang sang the latter back to him.
Jelly Roll continued to sing his hits such as his recent No. 1 hit “Halfway to Hell,” followed by “Son of a Sinner,” “I Am Not Okay,” “Wild Ones” and “Need A Favor.” He welcomed Wilson back to center stage to close out the unforgettable night with, “Save Me,” marking a triumphant end to night three.