Reba McEntire hosts the 59th ACM Awards.
The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards took place Thursday night (May 16) at The Star in Frisco, Texas.
Lainey Wilson was crowned ACM Entertainer of the Year, her first time receiving the honor. Chris Stapleton led the night in total wins with four awards, followed by Wilson with three wins, and Luke Combs and Jordan Davis with two wins.
Lainey Wilson performs at the 59th ACM Awards.
Music icon Reba McEntire hosted the two hour show that featured 18 performances from 19 artists, along with several collaborations. She kept things lighthearted and funny during her opening remarks, often highlighting the popularity of country music at the moment.
“From Mother Maybelle to Cowboy Carter, country music is so big in 2024 that there’s room for everybody,” she said. “We all love country [music] and we all are country. We’re keeping the circle unbroken, but growing it to even bigger and better.”
Wilson kicked off the night’s music with a cover of “God Blessed Texas” before transitioning into an exciting performance of her new single “Hang Tight Honey.” Jelly Roll continued the party with a performance of an unreleased song “Liar.”
Post Malone performs at the 59th ACM Awards.
The first award presentation, for Song of the Year, came swiftly. It went to Davis’ “Next Thing You Know,” co-written by Davis, Chase McGill, Greylan James and Josh Osborne.
Davis thanked the songwriting community for embracing him when he accepted. McGill and James stood grinning widely behind him, embracing each other. “I love songwriting because of songs that have won Song of the Year,” Davis said.
In one of the night’s best musical moments, Kelsea Ballerini was joined by folk-pop artist Noah Kahan for a mashup of her “Mountain With A View” and his “Stick Season.” It was the first of many successful collaborations throughout the show.
The next ACM Award went to Dan + Shay for Duo of the Year. The two thanked their families and teams and shared that despite their journey of highs and lows, “the one thing that has remained the same is the love and support from the country music community.”
Greylan James, Chase McGill and Jordan Davis win the award for Song of the Year at the 59th ACM Awards.
For the next award, Old Dominion took home their seventh consecutive win for ACM Group of the Year, tying Rascal Flatts for the most consecutive wins in the category.
Speaking of groups, sister duo Tigirlily Gold gave a warm performance of “I Tried A Ring On.” The sisters, who were crowned New Duo or Group winners earlier in the week, hugged each other with excitement after they wrapped up their ACM Awards debut.
After another musical highlight of the night, a performance of Cody Johnson‘s touching “Dirt Cheap,” viewers heard some new music. Thomas Rhett excited the crowd with his new song “Beautiful As You” and Miranda Lambert set the stage ablaze with the television premiere of her new single, “Wranglers.”
Noah Kahan and Kelsea Ballerini perform at the 59th ACM Awards.
Georgia native Kane Brown sang a soulful rendition of Ray Charles’ classic “Georgia on My Mind,” which Charles performed on the ACM Awards stage 40 years ago. Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani only had eyes for each other as they sang their latest duet “Purple Irises.”
About mid-way through the show, the party subdued for a tribute to the late, great Toby Keith. His close friend and fellow Okie Shelton spoke about the icon before introducing Jason Aldean to perform one of Keith’s biggest hits. Aldean did an excellent job with a reverent version of “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” with accompaniment from a small string section. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as pictures of Keith took over the screens.
Geoff Sprung, Brad Tursi, Matthew Ramsey and Trevor Rosen of Old Dominion win the award for Group of the Year at the 59th ACM Awards.
Stapleton was presented with Male Artist of the Year. Wilson got emotional as she accepted Female Artist of the Year. She thanked McEntire and all of the other women in country music who paved the road before her.
Another highlight of the night came when Stapleton and surprise guest Dua Lipa shocked the audience with an unexpected performance of “Think I’m In Love With You.” The exceptional singers, complete with Morgane Stapleton‘s signature harmonies, sounded perfect together on the funky song.
Wilson earned her next trophy alongside Jelly Roll for Music Event of the Year with “Save Me.” Jelly shared how important the song was to him and his “high school friend” David Ray Stevens who he wrote it with.
Chris Stapleton and Dua Lipa perform at the 59th ACM Awards.
Soon came Post Malone‘s highly-anticipated ACM Awards performance. The Texas-bred artist proved his country cred with a performance of “Never Love You Again” before thrilling the crowd with the history-making “I Had Some Help.”
Before he left the stage, McEntire joined him for a few acoustic verses of the Allman Brothers Band‘s “Ramblin’ Man,” in tribute to the band’s recently-passed Dickey Betts. Malone gushed at McEntire and the country music community’s acceptance of him, often bowing his head in gratitude and respect.
Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay win the Duo of the Year award at the 59th ACM Awards.
In another sweet moment, the son and widow of the late Country Music Hall of Famer Charley Pride appeared to present the ACM Album of the Year award. Rozene and Dion gave the honor to Stapleton for Higher.
With his co-producers wife Morgane and Dave Cobb behind him, he shared, “We do our best to make an album that’s a complete body of work. I hope that’s what this means.” Morgane added, “I am so proud every day to get to work with the love of my life… I feel like the luckiest girl in the world.”
Avril Lavigne and Nate Smith perform at the 59th ACM Awards.
After Parker McCollum performed his ACM Award-winning “Burn It Down,” the fire moved over to the big stage with a fun collaboration from New Male Artist of the Year winner Nate Smith and pop icon Avril Lavigne. The two traded verses and smirks on Smith’s “Bulletproof.”
The award of the night, Entertainer of the Year, went to Wilson. She was emotional when she accepted the trophy.
“I remember being a little girl and I would open my window, climb out on our roof and count the stars. I’d see the planes flying over my little town of 200 people. I would dream about being up there in one of those planes,” Wilson shared. “The funny thing is that I still feel like that little girl. I still climb out on the roof and look at the stars—but I feel more eye-level with them now.”
For the last performance of the night, McEntire set the stage on fire and brought the house down with her new single “I Can’t” backed by a 20-person choir. She revealed that she would be back to host the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards next year, which is sure to be a historic night.
WSM Radio Adds Two New Shows
/by Lorie HollabaughEryn Cooper & Lexi Carter
WSM Radio has added two new shows to its lineup, On Air with Eryn, hosted by Eryn Cooper, and Late Nights with Lexi, hosted by Lexi Carter. Both begin Monday (May 20).
On Air with Eryn will take the afternoon drive slot from 3 to 7 p.m. and keep listeners up to date with all things Nashville while serving up the best in country music, exclusive interviews and the latest entertainment from Music City. Cooper, who has spent the last six months as the producer for the WSM Radio flagship show, Coffee, Country & Cody, will also host The Opry Warm Up Show where WSM sets the stage for an unforgettable evening of history-making performances at the Opry, previewing the artists set to perform and honoring Opry Members past and present.
“I’m absolutely over the moon to take this next step with WSM,” says Cooper. “This is an opportunity to carry on the prestigious history of country music’s most famed platform and combine it with the stories of the genre’s newest faces. Country music is meant to make folks feel at home, and I intend to make you feel that way every day during On Air with Eryn.”
Cooper is succeeded on Coffee Country and Cody by Annie Ney, a recent addition to WSM Radio as a Digital Content Coordinator. Ney will assist in the day-to-day production of the morning show simulcast on Circle Country and content distribution across various digital platforms.
Late Nights With Lexi will keep listeners company overnight from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. with a nostalgic mix of classic country from the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s. Carter started at WSM Radio as a producer for Nashville Today, and quickly rose to host the afternoon drive show before serving as Music Director for WSM Radio, Opry Nashville and Route 650 in her current role.
“I’m thrilled to embark on this new chapter with WSM Radio,” shares Carter. “Late Nights with Lexi is not just a radio show; it is a platform for celebrating the rich tapestry of country music and the Grand Ole Opry while connecting with a new audience in the overnight hours.”
Listeners can tune in to both shows on WSM Radio starting May 20 both on-air at 650 AM and online via the WSM Radio website, the WSM Radio mobile app, iHeartRadio, TuneIn and more.
“It is an honor to oversee the expansion of the WSM On-Air team as more exciting announcements are on the horizon, coinciding with the 100-year celebration in 2025,” says WSM Radio General Manager Eric Marcum. “In a short time, Eryn has proven she can shine with the brightest stars in Nashville. Her talents, skills and work ethic are already proving successful both on air and in our digital outlets. Lexi is such a valued member of the WSM family, not only curating a music catalog synonymous with the sound of WSM but also providing a familiar and friendly voice on the air, with more programming opportunities on the way.”
Ryman Auditorium’s Annual Community Day Set For May 26
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Ryman Auditorium will host its annual Community Day on May 26. Tennessee residents are invited to enjoy the Ryman’s daytime tour experience free of charge from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. with a valid Tennessee state ID.
Guests will have the opportunity to experience the Ryman’s newest exhibit, “From Memphis to the Ryman,” which highlights the story of Elvis Presley’s one and only Grand Ole Opry performance through a series of recollections, photographs and artifact displays.
“This year’s Community Day is exciting because it will be the first time Tennesseans can see our new ‘From Memphis to the Ryman’ exhibit for free,” says Gary Levy, General Manager, Ryman Auditorium. “The Ryman is full of unique stories, and Elvis Presley’s Opry debut is one of the most talked-about moments in Ryman history. We are pleased to showcase this new experience to locals.”
As part of the Community Day festivities, the Ryman’s PNC Plaza will include on-site printmaking from Hatch Show Print, free live music, food trucks and games and activities for children like face painting, balloon animals and caricatures. Once visitors enter the Ryman, they will have access to the full daytime tour experience, which includes other exhibits like “Rock Hall at the Ryman” and the “Soul of Nashville” immersive theater as well as a souvenir photo on the stage. Guests will also have access to a new video experience, “Show Day at the Ryman,” which provides a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into putting on a show at the historic venue.
Other items unique to the Ryman’s daytime tour include a striped jumpsuit owned and worn by Diana Ross, an outfit worn by Luke Combs during his 2018 Ryman debut performance and a designer dress and shoes worn by Taylor Swift during the 2022 NSAI Awards.
Tickets can be reserved in advance. For more information, click here.
Amazon Music Names Nate Smith As Next Breakthrough Artist During ACM Awards
/by LB CantrellAmazon Music announced that Nate Smith would be the platform’s newest Breakthrough artist during the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards on Thursday night (May 16). Fellow Breakthrough alum Breland presented Smith with the honor.
Following the announcement, Smith and Avril Lavigne gave a performance of Smith’s single “Bulletproof.”
Amazon Music’s Breakthrough program aims to amplifying the best new talent and champion them at key moments early in their careers. As a part of this program, the platform will support Smith with a global marketing campaign, increased visibility across playlists and stations, an Amazon Music Original track and more.
“When it came time to select our next Breakthrough country artist, Nate Smith was the obvious choice. A generational voice and a true Nashville success story, it’s been a joy watching his rise and seeing country music fans discover his music over the last few years,” says Jenni Tay, artist relations for Amazon Music. “We’ve long championed his music, and with Nate joining the Breakthrough family, we’re excited to pull every lever and support Nate as he rises even further in country music and beyond.”
“Man, what a week it’s been and now this,” shares Smith. “I’m honestly so grateful to Amazon and the support they have always given me. Love getting to kick off this campaign with a performance with my friend Avril Lavigne. If this is just the start, I’m excited to see where it goes!”
Industry Ink: Musicians Hall Of Fame, MuttNation, PLA, More
/by Madison HahnenMusicians Hall Of Fame Launches Music Icons Exhibit
Pictured (L-R): Frank Allridge (Head of Special Projects Group, Geller & Head of Finance, Julien’s Auctions), David Goodman (CEO, Julien’s Auctions), Darren Julien (Co-Founder and Executive Director, Julien’s Auctions), Linda Chambers (CEO and Co-Founder, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum), Britt Chambers Hawker (Director of Museum & Artist Relations, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum), Martin Nolan (Co-Founder and Executive Director, Julien’s Auctions), Martin Geller (Founder and Chairman, Geller) and Cristy Barber (VP of Pop Culture & Business Development, Julien’s Auctions). Photo: Courtesy of Marushka Media
The Musicians Hall Of Fame has launched their new Music Icons guitar exhibit. The exhibit features Prince‘s Yellow Cloud 3 guitar, Bob Dylan and Robbie Robertson‘s stage-played 1965 Fender Telecaster, John Lennon’s lost 1965 Help! Framus 12-string Hootenanny, Steve Jones’ original Sex Pistols Gibson Les Paul, Randy Bachman’s 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard and Mark Knopfler’s 1987 Gibson Custom Shop Edition Chet Atkins Country Gentleman guitar.
The exhibit opened with a preview event on Tuesday (May 14) hosted by the hall of fame and Julien’s Auctions. The limited run exhibit will be open to the public until tomorrow (May 18).
MuttNation Foundation Awards $130,000 In Grants
Miranda Lambert. Photo: Courtesy of Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert‘s MuttNation Foundation has awarded $130,000 in “It Takes Balls” spay & neuter grants. The grants were given to 34 organizations in east Texas, north Texas and the Texas Panhandle. The grant program was launched in 2023 to spread awareness for the importance of spay and neuter and offers grants to qualifying low-cost programs.
“I’m so happy to announce that our ‘It Takes Balls’ program has just awarded the first grants in my home state of Texas, to 34 organizations in the East, North and Panhandle regions, and we expect to open the application process up to other parts of Texas soon, too,” shares Lambert. “Please remember to spay or neuter your pets—it’s the best way to help reduce pet homelessness and keep animals out of the overcrowded shelters.”
Ben McKee Joins PLA Media
Ben McKee. Photo: Courtesy of PLA Media
Ben McKee has joined PLA Media as a Publicist. Prior to the new role, McKee held stints at 117 Entertainment and Big Machine Label Group. McKee has worked on campaigns for Clay Walker, Emily Ann Roberts, Jackson Dean, Shane Proffitt and more. He graduated from Trevecca Nazarene University with a bachelors degree in Music Business.
“Ben brings an intelligence and fresh enthusiasm to PLA,” says PLA Media President Pamela L. Lewis. “I am delighted to welcome him to our firm.”
North American Contingency Association (NACA) Holds Conference
Gallagher Global Entertainment celebration. Photo: John Fiorentino
Industry guests gathered on the BMI rooftop to celebrate Gallagher Global Entertainment during the North American Contingency Conference. BMI’s Mason Hunter and Gallagher Global Entertainment’s Brent Daughrity welcomed the guests before The Warren Brothers gave a special performance of covers including “Highway Don’t Care,” “Red Solo Cup” and more.
Liv Greene Signs With Free Dirt Records
Liv Greene. Photo: Joseph Ross Smith
Nashville artist Liv Greene has signed a record deal with Washington D.C. label Free Dirt Records. To celebrate the deal, she has released her latest single “Wild Geese.” Greene will also be supporting Sarah Jarosz on tour this month.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Liv,” shares Free Dirt’s Jonathan Newton. “We’ve been fans since her 2020 debut, Every Bright Penny, which we heard about from our friend Isa Burke who also produced the record. We were drawn in by its laid back melancholy, effortless singing, and old-soul songwriting. Liv’s also a hometown hero originally from the DC area, where Free Dirt is based. She’s a perfect fit for the Free Dirt family of artists and we can’t wait to share new music from this impressive talent!”
Music Business Association Concludes Music Biz 2024
/by Madison HahnenKeynote Conversation With John Josephson, CEO, SESAC Music Group. Photo: Jason Mallory
The Music Business Association wrapped the Music Biz 2024 Conference yesterday (May 16) at the JW Marriott Nashville.
The fourth and final day of programing included panels featuring industry executives from SESAC, Downtown Music Holdings, Warner Music Group and more. Attendees also finished out their week long learning in topic focused tracks “Past, Publish, Future,” “Backstage 2.0,” “Disrupting The Norm” and more. They also hosted “Women in the Room: Music Biz Leadership Roundtables.”
Robert Levine of Billboard hosted a keynote conversation with SESAC Music Group CEO John Josephson. During the session, Josephson spoke about licensing, rights management and future trends in the publishing space.
Presented by the Music Business Association and the National Museum of African American Music, the “Are We Supporting Our Most Important Resource?” panel spoke on the increase of post-pandemic DEI initiatives and why the industry should continue to foster well-being in the workplace by supporting the needs of their people. Panelists included Sandye Taylor of BMI, Natoya Brown of Universal Music Group and Ryan Butler of The Recording Academy.
Ryan Butler (The Recording Academy) and Natoya Brown (UMG) in the “Are We Supporting Our Most Important Resource?” panel. Photo: Jason Mallory
Female executives from Symphonic Distribution, Vevo, Universal Music Group, Spotify, BMI and more shared their stories to help create an inclusive environments for women and other marginalized groups within the music industry during the “Women In The Room: Music Biz Leadership Roundtables.”
“Women In The Room: Music Biz Leadership Roundtables.” Photo: Jason Mallory.
The “Syncing Soundscapes: Exploring Music’s Role in Gaming Evolution” panel explored new ways music is integrated and licensed across various game formats, as well as how the usage of music is impacting the gaming industry. Tom Riley of Songtradr, Bradley Patter of Kobalt Music, Alex Malcolm of Warner Music Group and Melissa Rassas Bortnick of Epic Games all took part in the conversation.
“Syncing Soundscapes: Exploring Music’s Role in Gaming Evolution” panel. Photo: Jason Mallory
Music Biz 2025 will take place May 12-15, 2025 at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.
Hardy Drops New Track ‘Psycho’ From Upcoming Album ‘Quit!!’
/by Lorie HollabaughHardy. Photo: Robby Klein
Hardy continues to crank out new music, debuting latest track “Psycho” today (May 17). The song will be featured on his upcoming album, Quit!!, out July 12 via Big Loud Rock.
Hardy’s “Truck Bed” recently hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay and Mediabase Country charts—marking his first solo Billboard Country Airplay and Mediabase Country No. 1, fifth No. 1 as an artist and 14th chart-topper as a songwriter.
He performed at Stagecoach last month, and is set to make more festival appearances this summer. Hardy will also kick off his headlining “Quit!! Tour,” which includes two back-to-back nights at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and a return to his home state of Mississippi for his first-ever stadium show.
Cody Johnson Tops MusicRow Radio Chart With ‘Dirt Cheap’
/by LB CantrellCody Johnson has nabbed his fifth No. 1 on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart with his moving ballad “Dirt Cheap.”
The tune, written solely by Josh Phillips, appears on Johnson’s 2023 album Leather. The singer performed the touching tune on the ACM Awards on Thursday night (May 16).
“Dirt Cheap” currently sits at No. 16 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 13 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
The 59th ACM Awards Focuses On Fun Collaborations & Cultural Moments [Recap]
/by LB CantrellReba McEntire hosts the 59th ACM Awards.
The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards took place Thursday night (May 16) at The Star in Frisco, Texas.
Lainey Wilson was crowned ACM Entertainer of the Year, her first time receiving the honor. Chris Stapleton led the night in total wins with four awards, followed by Wilson with three wins, and Luke Combs and Jordan Davis with two wins.
Lainey Wilson performs at the 59th ACM Awards.
Music icon Reba McEntire hosted the two hour show that featured 18 performances from 19 artists, along with several collaborations. She kept things lighthearted and funny during her opening remarks, often highlighting the popularity of country music at the moment.
“From Mother Maybelle to Cowboy Carter, country music is so big in 2024 that there’s room for everybody,” she said. “We all love country [music] and we all are country. We’re keeping the circle unbroken, but growing it to even bigger and better.”
Wilson kicked off the night’s music with a cover of “God Blessed Texas” before transitioning into an exciting performance of her new single “Hang Tight Honey.” Jelly Roll continued the party with a performance of an unreleased song “Liar.”
Post Malone performs at the 59th ACM Awards.
The first award presentation, for Song of the Year, came swiftly. It went to Davis’ “Next Thing You Know,” co-written by Davis, Chase McGill, Greylan James and Josh Osborne.
Davis thanked the songwriting community for embracing him when he accepted. McGill and James stood grinning widely behind him, embracing each other. “I love songwriting because of songs that have won Song of the Year,” Davis said.
In one of the night’s best musical moments, Kelsea Ballerini was joined by folk-pop artist Noah Kahan for a mashup of her “Mountain With A View” and his “Stick Season.” It was the first of many successful collaborations throughout the show.
The next ACM Award went to Dan + Shay for Duo of the Year. The two thanked their families and teams and shared that despite their journey of highs and lows, “the one thing that has remained the same is the love and support from the country music community.”
Greylan James, Chase McGill and Jordan Davis win the award for Song of the Year at the 59th ACM Awards.
For the next award, Old Dominion took home their seventh consecutive win for ACM Group of the Year, tying Rascal Flatts for the most consecutive wins in the category.
Speaking of groups, sister duo Tigirlily Gold gave a warm performance of “I Tried A Ring On.” The sisters, who were crowned New Duo or Group winners earlier in the week, hugged each other with excitement after they wrapped up their ACM Awards debut.
After another musical highlight of the night, a performance of Cody Johnson‘s touching “Dirt Cheap,” viewers heard some new music. Thomas Rhett excited the crowd with his new song “Beautiful As You” and Miranda Lambert set the stage ablaze with the television premiere of her new single, “Wranglers.”
Noah Kahan and Kelsea Ballerini perform at the 59th ACM Awards.
Georgia native Kane Brown sang a soulful rendition of Ray Charles’ classic “Georgia on My Mind,” which Charles performed on the ACM Awards stage 40 years ago. Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani only had eyes for each other as they sang their latest duet “Purple Irises.”
About mid-way through the show, the party subdued for a tribute to the late, great Toby Keith. His close friend and fellow Okie Shelton spoke about the icon before introducing Jason Aldean to perform one of Keith’s biggest hits. Aldean did an excellent job with a reverent version of “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” with accompaniment from a small string section. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as pictures of Keith took over the screens.
Geoff Sprung, Brad Tursi, Matthew Ramsey and Trevor Rosen of Old Dominion win the award for Group of the Year at the 59th ACM Awards.
Stapleton was presented with Male Artist of the Year. Wilson got emotional as she accepted Female Artist of the Year. She thanked McEntire and all of the other women in country music who paved the road before her.
Another highlight of the night came when Stapleton and surprise guest Dua Lipa shocked the audience with an unexpected performance of “Think I’m In Love With You.” The exceptional singers, complete with Morgane Stapleton‘s signature harmonies, sounded perfect together on the funky song.
Wilson earned her next trophy alongside Jelly Roll for Music Event of the Year with “Save Me.” Jelly shared how important the song was to him and his “high school friend” David Ray Stevens who he wrote it with.
Chris Stapleton and Dua Lipa perform at the 59th ACM Awards.
Soon came Post Malone‘s highly-anticipated ACM Awards performance. The Texas-bred artist proved his country cred with a performance of “Never Love You Again” before thrilling the crowd with the history-making “I Had Some Help.”
Before he left the stage, McEntire joined him for a few acoustic verses of the Allman Brothers Band‘s “Ramblin’ Man,” in tribute to the band’s recently-passed Dickey Betts. Malone gushed at McEntire and the country music community’s acceptance of him, often bowing his head in gratitude and respect.
Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay win the Duo of the Year award at the 59th ACM Awards.
In another sweet moment, the son and widow of the late Country Music Hall of Famer Charley Pride appeared to present the ACM Album of the Year award. Rozene and Dion gave the honor to Stapleton for Higher.
With his co-producers wife Morgane and Dave Cobb behind him, he shared, “We do our best to make an album that’s a complete body of work. I hope that’s what this means.” Morgane added, “I am so proud every day to get to work with the love of my life… I feel like the luckiest girl in the world.”
Avril Lavigne and Nate Smith perform at the 59th ACM Awards.
After Parker McCollum performed his ACM Award-winning “Burn It Down,” the fire moved over to the big stage with a fun collaboration from New Male Artist of the Year winner Nate Smith and pop icon Avril Lavigne. The two traded verses and smirks on Smith’s “Bulletproof.”
The award of the night, Entertainer of the Year, went to Wilson. She was emotional when she accepted the trophy.
“I remember being a little girl and I would open my window, climb out on our roof and count the stars. I’d see the planes flying over my little town of 200 people. I would dream about being up there in one of those planes,” Wilson shared. “The funny thing is that I still feel like that little girl. I still climb out on the roof and look at the stars—but I feel more eye-level with them now.”
For the last performance of the night, McEntire set the stage on fire and brought the house down with her new single “I Can’t” backed by a 20-person choir. She revealed that she would be back to host the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards next year, which is sure to be a historic night.
BREAKING: The MLC Sues Spotify
/by LB CantrellThe Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) has taken legal action against Spotify in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. The action seeks recovery of unpaid royalties due under the compulsory mechanical blanket license obtained by Spotify to reproduce and distribute musical works in the United States via its consumer music streaming platform.
The action states that, beginning in March 2024, Spotify asserted that its Premium Individual, Duo and Family subscription streaming plans were now Bundled Subscription Offerings because those plans included access to audiobooks. According to The MLC’s suit, applying the rate formula applicable to Bundled Subscription Offerings results in a reduction of the Service Provider Revenue that Spotify reports, which results in an underpayment of royalties.
The MLC believes that Spotify’s position does not comply with applicable law and regulations. The company has statutory authority to address Spotify’s noncompliance with its royalty payment obligations. The MLC is taking legal action to enforce these obligations and ensure that Spotify pays all royalties due from its use of songs on Premium plans.
“The MLC was designated by the Register of Copyrights to administer the blanket license and is the only entity with the statutory mandate to collect and distribute blanket license royalties and take legal action to enforce royalty payment obligations,” says Kris Ahrend, The MLC CEO. “The MLC takes seriously its legal responsibility to take action on behalf of our members when we believe usage reporting and royalty payments are materially incorrect.”
Click here to see a copy of the complaint.
In response to the legal action, NMPA President & CEO David Israelite shares, “We applaud The MLC for standing up for songwriters and not letting Spotify get away with its latest trick to underpay creators. The MLC is tasked with challenging services who falsely report royalties, and we commend their swift action.
“The lawsuit sends a clear message that platforms cannot improperly manipulate usage—in this case unilaterally redefining services as a bundle—in order to devalue music. We strongly support the MLC and will continue to pursue justice.”
NSAI Executive Director Bart Herbison shares, “The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) believes that the lawsuit the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) filed against Spotify for underpaying mechanical royalties to songwriters is based on a correct interpretation of the streaming service eliminating standalone music subscriptions and only offering ‘bundles’ that pair music and books. Because bundles pay less to American songwriters, the loophole will result in Spotify reducing compensation to them by $150 million each year as founder Daniel Ek cashed in a reported $180 million in stocks over recent months—$118 million in proximity to the bundling move.”
He adds, “This scheme could set songwriters back to a situation worse than before the Copyright Royalty Board trial that resulted in a record percentage increase from streaming companies. Spotify’s history speaks for itself when it comes to failing to value the creators whose creations are the foundation of their product.”
In a statement, Spotify says, “The lawsuit concerns terms that publishers and streaming services agreed to and celebrated years ago under the Phono IV agreement. Bundles were a critical component of that settlement, and multiple DSPs include bundles as part of their mix of subscription offerings. Spotify paid a record amount to publishers and societies in 2023 and is on track to pay out an even larger amount in 2024. We look forward to a swift resolution of this matter.”
This is a developing story.
BREAKING: 2024 ACM Award Winners Unveiled [Full List]
/by Liza AndersonCountry music artists, songwriters, industry professionals and fans came together in Frisco, Texas for the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards on Thursday night (May 16).
Lainey Wilson was the night’s big winner. The superstar was named Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year and earned Music Event of the Year alongside Jelly Roll for their collaboration “Save Me.” Chris Stapleton was honored as Male Artist of the Year in addition to Artist-Songwriter of the Year, which he won prior to the ceremony, and awarded Album of the Year for Higher.
Dan + Shay took home Duo of the Year, and Old Dominion claimed their seventh consecutive Group of the Year title. The Song of the Year honor went to Jordan Davis‘ “New Thing You Know,” and Luke Combs‘ rendition of “Fast Car” was recognized as Single of the Year.
Ahead of the special event, the New Artist of the Year winners were revealed. Megan Moroney was crowned New Female Artist of the Year, Nate Smith was awarded New Male Artist of the Year, and Tigirlily Gold was named New Duo or Group of the Year. Additionally, Jessie Jo Dillon scored the Songwriter of the Year title, and Parker McCollum‘s “Burn It Down” music video won Visual Media of the Year.
The full list of winners for the 59th annual ACM Awards is below:
MAIN AWARDS:
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Kane Brown
Luke Combs
Jelly Roll
Cody Johnson
Chris Stapleton
Morgan Wallen
Lainey Wilson — WINNER
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Kelsea Ballerini
Ashley McBryde
Megan Moroney
Kacey Musgraves
Lainey Wilson — WINNER
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Luke Combs
Jelly Roll
Cody Johnson
Chris Stapleton — WINNER
Morgan Wallen
DUO OF THE YEAR
Brooks & Dunn
Brothers Osborne
Dan + Shay — WINNER
Maddie & Tae
The War And Treaty
GROUP OF THE YEAR
Flatland Cavalry
Lady A
Little Big Town
Old Dominion — WINNER
Zac Brown Band
NEW FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Kassi Ashton
Ashley Cooke
Hannah Ellis
Kylie Morgan
Megan Moroney — WINNER
NEW MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Ernest
Kameron Marlowe
Dylan Scott
Conner Smith
Nate Smith — WINNER
NEW DUO OR GROUP OF THE YEAR
Neon Union
Restless Road
Tigirlily Gold — WINNER
ALBUM OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
– Gettin’ Old – Luke Combs
Producer: Chip Matthews, Jonathan Singleton, Luke Combs
Record Company-Label: River House Artists / Columbia Nashville
– Higher – Chris Stapleton — WINNER
Producer: Chris Stapleton, Dave Cobb, Morgane Stapleton
Record Company-Label: Mercury Nashville
– Leather – Cody Johnson
Producers: Trent Willmon
Record Company-Label: CoJo Music LLC / Warner Music Nashville LLC
– One Thing At A Time – Morgan Wallen
Producers: Joey Moi, Cameron Montgomery, Charlie Handsome, Jacob Durrett
Record Company-Label: Big Loud Records / Republic Records / Mercury Records
– Rolling Up the Welcome Mat (For Good) – Kelsea Ballerini
Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Alysa Vanderheym
Record Company-Label: Black River Entertainment
SINGLE OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
– “Burn It Down” – Parker McCollum
Producer: Jon Randall
Record Company-Label: MCA Nashville
– “Fast Car” – Luke Combs — WINNER
Producers: Luke Combs, Chip Matthews, Jonathan Singleton
Record Company-Label: River House Artists / Columbia Nashville
– “Last Night” – Morgan Wallen
Producer: Joey Moi, Charlie Handsome
Record Company-Label: Big Loud Records / Republic Records / Mercury Records
– “Need A Favor” – Jelly Roll
Producer: Austin Nivarel
Record Company-Label: Stoney Creek Records / BMG Nashville
– “Next Thing You Know” – Jordan Davis
Producer: Paul DiGiovanni
Record Company-Label: MCA Nashville
SONG OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Songwriter(s)/Publisher(s)/Artist(s)]
– “Fast Car” – Luke Combs
Songwriters: Tracy Chapman
Publishers: Purple Rabbit
– “Heart Like A Truck” – Lainey Wilson
Songwriters: Dallas Wilson, Lainey Wilson, Trannie Anderson
Publishers: Sony / ATV Countryside; Songs of Riser House; Songs of Wild Cat Well Music
– “Next Thing You Know” – Jordan Davis — WINNER
Songwriters: Chase McGill, Greylan James, Jordan Davis, Josh Osborne
Publishers: Family Farm Songs; Hold On Can I Get A Number 1 Music; Songs of Universal Inc.; Anthem Music Publishing
– “The Painter” – Cody Johnson
Songwriters: Benjy Davis, Kat Higgins, Ryan Larkins
Publishers: Big Music Machine; BMG Platinum Songs US; Nashblonde Music; Pompano Run Music; Songs for Ellie May; Sony / ATV Tree Publishing; Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Group; Well That Was Awkward Music
– “Tennessee Orange” – Megan Moroney
Songwriters: Ben Williams, David Fanning, Megan Moroney, Paul Jenkins
Publishers: 33 Creative; Bone Bone Creative; Sony / ATV Tree Publishing
MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)]
– “Can’t Break Up Now” – Old Dominion, Megan Moroney
Producers: Brad Tursi, Geoff Sprung, Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Whit Sellers, Ross Copperman, Kristian Bush
Record Company-Label: Three Up Three Down, LLC / Columbia Nashville
– “Different ‘Round Here” – Riley Green (feat. Luke Combs)
Producer: Dann Huff
Record Company-Label: Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
– “I Remember Everything” – Zach Bryan (feat. Kacey Musgraves)
Producer: Zach Bryan
Record Company-Label: Belting Bronco Records / Warner Records, Inc
– “Man Made A Bar” – Morgan Wallen (feat. Eric Church)
Producer: Joey Moi
Record Company-Label: Big Loud Records / Mercury Records / Republic Records
– “Save Me” – Jelly Roll (with Lainey Wilson) — WINNER
Producers: Zach Crowell, David Ray Stevens
Record Company-Label: Stoney Creek Records / BMG Nashville
VISUAL MEDIA OF THE YEAR [Awarded to Producer(s)/Director(s)/Artist(s)]
– “Burn It Down” – Parker McCollum — WINNER
Producers: Christen Pinkston & Wesley Stebbins-Perry
Director: Dustin Haney
– “Human” – Cody Johnson
Producer: Christen Pinkston &Wesley Stebbins-Perry
Director: Dustin Haney
– “In Your Love” – Tyler Childers
Producer: Kacie Barton, Whitney Wolanin, Nicholas Robespierre, Ian Thorton, Silas House
Director: Bryan Schlam
– “Next Thing You Know” – Jordan Davis
Producer: Jamie Stratakis
Director: Running Bear (Stephen Kinigopoulos, Alexa Stone)
– “Tennessee Orange” – Megan Moroney
Producer: Lauren Starr, Saul Levitz, Laura Burhenn
Director: Jason Lester
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Jessie Jo Dillon — WINNER
Ashley Gorley
Hillary Lindsey
Chase McGill
Josh Thompson
ARTIST-SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Zach Bryan
Ernest
Hardy
Chris Stapleton — WINNER
Morgan Wallen