Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Country music stars and industry members assembled at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 8) for the 57th CMA Awards.
Lainey Wilson was the night’s biggest winner, receiving her first Entertainer of the Year award along with four more. Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton and Jelly Roll were other top winners from the night.
Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning host The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Jelly Roll opened the show a cappella with “Need A Favor,” complete with a gospel choir and a surprise guest appearance from Wynonna Judd.
Hosts Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning officially opened the show with some banter, recognizing some of the night’s top nominees. The hosts kept it lighthearted, focusing on self-deprecating humor and soft jokes.
Combs took home the first televised win of the night with “Fast Car” winning Single of the Year.
“First and foremost, I want to thank Tracy Chapman for writing one of the best songs of all time,” Combs said. “I recorded it because I love this song. It’s meant so much to me my entire life. It was my first favorite song that I ever had, from the time I was four years old.” Producers Jonathan Singleton and Chip Matthews joined Combs onstage for the moment.
Following quickly behind were Bill Anderson and Sara Evans to present Song of the Year. The honor also went to Combs’ cover of “Fast Car.” Chapman was not in attendance, but sent in an acceptance message.
Luke Combs performs “Where the Wild Things Are” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
“It’s truly an honor for my song to be newly recognized after 35 years of its debut,” she wrote.
Craig Morgan, who was recognized for recently reenlisting in the military, introduced host Bryan’s performance of a medley of hits, including “Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day,” “One Margarita,” “That’s My Kind Of Night,” “Play It Again” and “Country Girl (Shake It For Me).”
Ashley McBryde, lit from antique lighting fixtures hanging above her head, sang her “Light On In The Kitchen.”
Cody Johnson performs “The Painter” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Cody Johnson kept the musical bar high with his rising single “The Painter,” while a black and white photo of Johnson’s wife came to vibrant life as colors filled her picture. When the camera turned on her at the end of the song, she was teary-eyed beaming up at her husband.
The next award to be presented was Duo of the Year, and it went to Brothers Osborne for the sixth time. The duo shared that they were fans of all of the other duos in the category, and that it shocks them every time they win.
“We are absolutely living out our dream. Thanks for letting us do that,” TJ Osborne said. “I was a nerd growing up,” John Osborne added. “I was a nerd growing up. I had a few friends, but not a lot of friends. I spent my whole life learning how to play music and write songs. Y’all make me feel like a cool kid every year. That means more to me than you could ever imagine.”
Brothers Osborne accept the award for Vocal Duo of the Year at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Morgan Wallen was the next to perform. Eric Church was his surprise special guest. The two sang “Man Made A Bar” from Wallen’s blockbuster One Thing At A Time album, which will be Wallen’s new single.
Combs took the stage next to perform his exceptional new single, “Where The Wild Things Are.” Stapleton kept the energy high with a hair-raising performance of “White Horse.” Jordan Davis was the next to perform his hit “Next Thing You Know” while cell phone lighters lit up the arena.
The next CMA Award went to Old Dominion for Vocal Group of the Year. Like Brothers Osborne, it was the group’s sixth win in the category.
Kelsea Ballerini performs “Leave Me Again” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
“This night has been an amazing reminder of the talent pool we have somehow waded into,” shared Old Dominion’s Matt Ramsey. “We got there by surrounding ourselves with the absolute best people.”
The night’s top nominee Wilson was next up to perform her new single, “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”
Dan + Shay sang their butts off on “Save Me The Trouble.” Kelsea Ballerini followed with an awesome acoustic performance of her tender “Leave Me Again.” The War And Treaty treated everyone to “That’s How Love Is Made.”
Jelly Roll accepts the award for New Artist of the Year at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
The next trophy went to Jelly Roll for New Artist of the Year. He took audience members straight to the “Whitsitt Chapel” in his acceptance speech.
“There is something poetic about a 39-year-old man winning New Artist of the Year. I don’t know where you’re at in your life, or what you’re going through, but I want to tell you to keep going, baby,” he said.
In a tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and Mac McAnally embodied his free spirit on “A Pirate Looks at Forty.” Zac Brown Band and Alan Jackson picked off where they left off, singing an “adios” to Buffett before transitioning into “Margaritaville.”
Old Dominion and Megan Moroney perform “Can’t Break Up Now” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Old Dominion and Megan Moroney performed their new duet, “Can’t Break Up Now.”
The CMA Award for Album of the Year went to Wilson for Bell Bottom Country. She thanked her entire team. “My love for storytelling truly came from being from Baskin—a town of 200 people where there’s really not a whole lot to do. You sit around the kitchen table and tell the same old stories you’ve been hearing for years. The kind of stories that get better every single time you hear them,” she said. “That’s what we wanted to do with this record.”
Stapleton returned to the stage to sing with Carly Pearce on “We Don’t Fight Anymore.”
Martina McBride presented Wilson with Female Vocalist of the Year. “Us girls have been having to blaze trails from the beginning,” Wilson said. Thank you for letting me be a part of that.”
Hardy, Morgan Wallen and Post Malone perform at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Wallen and Hardy paid tribute to the late Joe Diffie with a fun performance of “John Deere Green.” Hip-hop sensation Post Malone joined the country brothers for “Pickup Man.”
Newly-inducted Country Music Hall of Famer Tanya Tucker performed her evergreen “Delta Dawn,” with support from Little Big Town.
Comedian Nate Bargatze presented Stapleton with the Male Vocalist of the Year honor. “Every one of these guys in this category deserves this award,” Stapleton said. “I’ve won a couple of these and I’m always shocked when I win one.” He dedicated the award to his late collaborators Mike Henderson and Eric Burrows.
Chris Stapleton accepts the award for Male Vocalist of the Year at The 57th Annual CMA Awards.
When it came time to reveal the night’s top honor, Entertainer of the Year, the arena erupted when Wilson’s name was called. With the title, she became the first woman in over a decade to clinch the title. Clearly shocked and emotional, Wilson tearfully shared her appreciation and love for country music.
“We’ve worked our butts off this year and so many years in between,” Wilson said. “I’ve been in this town for 12 and a half years and it finally feels like country music is starting to love me back.”
Once all awards had been handed out, Jelly Roll returned to close the show alongside first-time performer and multi-genre powerhouse K. Michelle, singing The Judds‘ “Love Can Build A Bridge.”
The 57th CMA Awards is available to watch now on Hulu.
The 57th CMA Awards Brings Great Music & Deserved Wins [Recap]
/by LB CantrellLainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Country music stars and industry members assembled at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 8) for the 57th CMA Awards.
Lainey Wilson was the night’s biggest winner, receiving her first Entertainer of the Year award along with four more. Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton and Jelly Roll were other top winners from the night.
Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning host The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Jelly Roll opened the show a cappella with “Need A Favor,” complete with a gospel choir and a surprise guest appearance from Wynonna Judd.
Hosts Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning officially opened the show with some banter, recognizing some of the night’s top nominees. The hosts kept it lighthearted, focusing on self-deprecating humor and soft jokes.
Combs took home the first televised win of the night with “Fast Car” winning Single of the Year.
“First and foremost, I want to thank Tracy Chapman for writing one of the best songs of all time,” Combs said. “I recorded it because I love this song. It’s meant so much to me my entire life. It was my first favorite song that I ever had, from the time I was four years old.” Producers Jonathan Singleton and Chip Matthews joined Combs onstage for the moment.
Following quickly behind were Bill Anderson and Sara Evans to present Song of the Year. The honor also went to Combs’ cover of “Fast Car.” Chapman was not in attendance, but sent in an acceptance message.
Luke Combs performs “Where the Wild Things Are” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
“It’s truly an honor for my song to be newly recognized after 35 years of its debut,” she wrote.
Craig Morgan, who was recognized for recently reenlisting in the military, introduced host Bryan’s performance of a medley of hits, including “Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day,” “One Margarita,” “That’s My Kind Of Night,” “Play It Again” and “Country Girl (Shake It For Me).”
Ashley McBryde, lit from antique lighting fixtures hanging above her head, sang her “Light On In The Kitchen.”
Cody Johnson performs “The Painter” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Cody Johnson kept the musical bar high with his rising single “The Painter,” while a black and white photo of Johnson’s wife came to vibrant life as colors filled her picture. When the camera turned on her at the end of the song, she was teary-eyed beaming up at her husband.
The next award to be presented was Duo of the Year, and it went to Brothers Osborne for the sixth time. The duo shared that they were fans of all of the other duos in the category, and that it shocks them every time they win.
“We are absolutely living out our dream. Thanks for letting us do that,” TJ Osborne said. “I was a nerd growing up,” John Osborne added. “I was a nerd growing up. I had a few friends, but not a lot of friends. I spent my whole life learning how to play music and write songs. Y’all make me feel like a cool kid every year. That means more to me than you could ever imagine.”
Brothers Osborne accept the award for Vocal Duo of the Year at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Morgan Wallen was the next to perform. Eric Church was his surprise special guest. The two sang “Man Made A Bar” from Wallen’s blockbuster One Thing At A Time album, which will be Wallen’s new single.
Combs took the stage next to perform his exceptional new single, “Where The Wild Things Are.” Stapleton kept the energy high with a hair-raising performance of “White Horse.” Jordan Davis was the next to perform his hit “Next Thing You Know” while cell phone lighters lit up the arena.
The next CMA Award went to Old Dominion for Vocal Group of the Year. Like Brothers Osborne, it was the group’s sixth win in the category.
Kelsea Ballerini performs “Leave Me Again” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
“This night has been an amazing reminder of the talent pool we have somehow waded into,” shared Old Dominion’s Matt Ramsey. “We got there by surrounding ourselves with the absolute best people.”
The night’s top nominee Wilson was next up to perform her new single, “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”
Dan + Shay sang their butts off on “Save Me The Trouble.” Kelsea Ballerini followed with an awesome acoustic performance of her tender “Leave Me Again.” The War And Treaty treated everyone to “That’s How Love Is Made.”
Jelly Roll accepts the award for New Artist of the Year at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
The next trophy went to Jelly Roll for New Artist of the Year. He took audience members straight to the “Whitsitt Chapel” in his acceptance speech.
“There is something poetic about a 39-year-old man winning New Artist of the Year. I don’t know where you’re at in your life, or what you’re going through, but I want to tell you to keep going, baby,” he said.
In a tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and Mac McAnally embodied his free spirit on “A Pirate Looks at Forty.” Zac Brown Band and Alan Jackson picked off where they left off, singing an “adios” to Buffett before transitioning into “Margaritaville.”
Old Dominion and Megan Moroney perform “Can’t Break Up Now” at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Old Dominion and Megan Moroney performed their new duet, “Can’t Break Up Now.”
The CMA Award for Album of the Year went to Wilson for Bell Bottom Country. She thanked her entire team. “My love for storytelling truly came from being from Baskin—a town of 200 people where there’s really not a whole lot to do. You sit around the kitchen table and tell the same old stories you’ve been hearing for years. The kind of stories that get better every single time you hear them,” she said. “That’s what we wanted to do with this record.”
Stapleton returned to the stage to sing with Carly Pearce on “We Don’t Fight Anymore.”
Martina McBride presented Wilson with Female Vocalist of the Year. “Us girls have been having to blaze trails from the beginning,” Wilson said. Thank you for letting me be a part of that.”
Hardy, Morgan Wallen and Post Malone perform at The 57th annual CMA Awards.
Wallen and Hardy paid tribute to the late Joe Diffie with a fun performance of “John Deere Green.” Hip-hop sensation Post Malone joined the country brothers for “Pickup Man.”
Newly-inducted Country Music Hall of Famer Tanya Tucker performed her evergreen “Delta Dawn,” with support from Little Big Town.
Comedian Nate Bargatze presented Stapleton with the Male Vocalist of the Year honor. “Every one of these guys in this category deserves this award,” Stapleton said. “I’ve won a couple of these and I’m always shocked when I win one.” He dedicated the award to his late collaborators Mike Henderson and Eric Burrows.
Chris Stapleton accepts the award for Male Vocalist of the Year at The 57th Annual CMA Awards.
When it came time to reveal the night’s top honor, Entertainer of the Year, the arena erupted when Wilson’s name was called. With the title, she became the first woman in over a decade to clinch the title. Clearly shocked and emotional, Wilson tearfully shared her appreciation and love for country music.
“We’ve worked our butts off this year and so many years in between,” Wilson said. “I’ve been in this town for 12 and a half years and it finally feels like country music is starting to love me back.”
Once all awards had been handed out, Jelly Roll returned to close the show alongside first-time performer and multi-genre powerhouse K. Michelle, singing The Judds‘ “Love Can Build A Bridge.”
The 57th CMA Awards is available to watch now on Hulu.
Bob Squance Named Creative Director At Lady Luck Songs
/by Lorie HollabaughBob Squance & Kim Penz
Bob Squance has joined Lady Luck Songs as Creative Director.
A 2011 graduate of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), Squance most recently served as Senior Director, A&R at Round Hill Music, where he worked closely with the company’s roster of writers including Kevin Griffin, Zach Crowell, Renee Blair, Marti Frederiksen, Valerie Broussard and Adam Sanders, among others. Squance also previously held positions at Big Yellow Dog Music and Ten Ten Music Group.
“Bob comes to Lady Luck with energy and knowledge,” says Kim Penz. “He has hit the ground running and is ready to grow and develop our talented roster of songwriters. We are lucky to have Bob onboard!”
“I’m thrilled to work with Kim Penz and the amazing team at Lady Luck,” says Squance. “The company’s passion for songwriters is unmatched and I look forward to achieving many great things together.”
Squance can be reached at bob@ladylucksongs.com.
2023 CMA Awards Winners [Full List]
/by LB CantrellThe 57th annual CMA Awards took over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Wednesday night (Nov. 8), celebrating some of country music’s biggest stars.
Early Wednesday morning, Hardy and Lainey Wilson were awarded with two early trophies for their CMA Musical Event of the Year nomination, “Wait In The Truck,” produced by Hardy, Joey Moi, Jordan Schmidt and Derek Wells as well as for CMA Music Video of the Year, directed by Justin Clough.
Wilson was the most-nominated artist at this year’s CMA Awards with nine nods. She was also the night’s top winner, taking home the Entertainer of the Year trophy, becoming the first woman in over a decade to clinch the title. Wilson was also awarded with Female Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year for Bell Bottom Country.
Chris Stapleton took home Male Vocalist of the Year. Luke Combs was awarded Single and Song of the Year for his cover of Tracy Chapman‘s “Fast Car.”
Jelly Roll took home New Artist of the Year. Old Dominion and Brothers Osborne returned as winners in the Group and Duo categories, respectively.
Click here to read MusicRow‘s full recap of the 2023 CMA Awards.
A full list of CMA Awards honorees is below (winners in RED):
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
– Luke Combs
– Chris Stapleton
– Carrie Underwood
– Morgan Wallen
– Lainey Wilson – WINNER
SINGLE OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artist(s), Producer(s) and Mix Engineer(s)
– “Fast Car” – Luke Combs – WINNER
Producers: Luke Combs, Chip Matthews, Jonathan Singleton
Mix Engineer: Chip Matthews
– “Heart Like A Truck” – Lainey Wilson
Producer: Jay Joyce
Mix Engineers: Jason Hall, Jay Joyce
– “Need A Favor” – Jelly Roll
Producer: Austin Nivarel
Mix Engineer: Jeff Braun
– “Next Thing You Know” – Jordan Davis
Producer: Paul DiGiovanni
Mix Engineer: Jim Cooley
– “Wait In The Truck” – Hardy (feat. Lainey Wilson)
Producers: Hardy, Joey Moi, Jordan Schmidt, Derek Wells
Mix Engineer: Joey Moi
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artist, Producer(s) and Mix Engineer(s)
– Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville – Ashley McBryde
Producers: John Osborne, John Peets
Mix Engineers: Gena Johnson, John Osborne
– Bell Bottom Country – Lainey Wilson – WINNER
Producer: Jay Joyce
Mix Engineers: Jason Hall, Jay Joyce
– Gettin’ Old – Luke Combs
Producers: Luke Combs, Chip Matthews, Jonathan Singleton
Mix Engineers: Michael H. Brauer, Jim Cooley, Chip Matthews
– One Thing At A Time – Morgan Wallen
Producers: Jacob Durrett, Charlie Handsome, Joey Moi, Cameron Montgomery
Mix Engineers: Josh Ditty, Joey Moi, Eivind Nordland
– Rolling Up the Welcome Mat – Kelsea Ballerini
Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Alysa Vanderheym
Mix Engineers: Dan Grech-Marguerat, Alysa Vanderheym
SONG OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Songwriter(s)
– “Fast Car” – WINNER
Songwriter: Tracy Chapman
– “Heart Like A Truck”
Songwriters: Trannie Anderson, Dallas Wilson, Lainey Wilson
– “Next Thing You Know”
Songwriters: Jordan Davis, Greylan James, Chase McGill, Josh Osborne
– “Tennessee Orange”
Songwriters: David Fanning, Paul Jenkins, Megan Moroney, Ben Williams
– “Wait In The Truck”
Songwriters: Renee Blair, Michael Hardy, Hunter Phelps, Jordan Schmidt
FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR
– Kelsea Ballerini
– Miranda Lambert
– Ashley McBryde
– Carly Pearce
– Lainey Wilson – WINNER
MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR
– Luke Combs
– Jelly Roll
– Cody Johnson
– Chris Stapleton – WINNER
– Morgan Wallen
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
– Lady A
– Little Big Town
– Midland
– Old Dominion – WINNER
– Zac Brown Band
VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR
– Brooks & Dunn
– Brothers Osborne – WINNER
– Dan + Shay
– Maddie & Tae
– The War And Treaty
MUSICAL EVENT OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artists and Producer(s)
– “Save Me” – Jelly Roll (with Lainey Wilson)
Producers: Zach Crowell, David Ray Stevens
– “She Had Me At Heads Carolina (Remix)” – Cole Swindell & Jo Dee Messina
Producer: Zach Crowell
– “Thank God” – Kane Brown (with Katelyn Brown)
Producer: Dann Huff
– “Wait In The Truck” – Hardy (feat. Lainey Wilson) – WINNER
Producers: Hardy, Joey Moi, Jordan Schmidt, Derek Wells
– “We Don’t Fight Anymore” – Carly Pearce (featuring Chris Stapleton)
Producers: Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne, Carly Pearce
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR
– Jenee Fleenor – WINNER
– Paul Franklin
– Rob McNelley
– Derek Wells
– Charlie Worsham
MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artist(s) and Director(s)
– “Light On In The Kitchen” – Ashley McBryde
Director: Reid Long
– “Memory Lane” – Old Dominion
Directors: Mason Allen, Nicki Fletcher
– “Need A Favor” – Jelly Roll
Director: Patrick Tohill
– “Next Thing You Know” – Jordan Davis
Director: Running Bear
– “Wait In The Truck” – Hardy (feat. Lainey Wilson) – WINNER
Director: Justin Clough
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR
– Zach Bryan
– Jelly Roll – WINNER
– Parker McCollum
– Megan Moroney
– Hailey Whitters
Ryman Hospitality Properties To ‘Wind Down’ Joint Venture Ownership In Circle
/by LB CantrellIn its third-quarter financial report released Monday (Nov. 6), Ryman Hospitality Properties shared that it will “wind down” its joint venture ownership in the country lifestyle television network Circle Network.
The report says, “In September 2023, we determined to pivot from television network ownership in favor of a distribution approach. Therefore, we and our joint venture partner agreed to wind down the Circle joint venture, with operations expected to cease December 31, 2023. As a result, we incurred a loss related to Circle of approximately $10.6 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023.”
Circle Network was launched in early 2020. Its programming includes a weekly broadcast of the Grand Ole Opry, hosted by Bobby Bones, as well as a broadcast of WSM’s Coffee, Country & Cody morning show and other country lifestyle programs.
“The Circle brand isn’t going away. The linear TV network will wind down at the end of the year along with the joint venture. Programming like Opry Live and Coffee, Country & Cody will continue to be produced and made available digitally on FAST, streaming and other digital distribution platforms. We also expect Opry Live to air on network television, just not on a dedicated Circle network. Opry Live will also air on Sky Arts in the U.K.,” a Ryman Hospitality spokesperson shared with Country Aircheck.
Jo Dee Messina Extends ‘Heads Carolina, Tails California Tour’ Into 2024
/by Lorie HollabaughThe second leg of Jo Dee Messina‘s “Heads Carolina, Tails California Tour” is set to kick off in early 2024.
The tour launches on Feb. 3 in Key West, Florida and will visit Chicago, Cleveland, North Myrtle Beach, Santa Rosa and more, with a Nashville date at the Ryman Auditorium on April 27.
The Massachusetts native will return home to New England on May 31 for a six-date, region-wide homecoming celebration during the 27-show trek. Another round of dates are in the works as well, which will extend the tour through the end of 2024.
Messina has had a busy year this year, and received a nomination at tonight’s CMA Awards for Musical Event of the Year with Cole Swindell for the chart-topping hit, “She Had Me at Heads Carolina.” The song was also nominated for Musical Event of the Year at the ACM Awards earlier this year. She recently released a brand-new single for fans, “Just to Be Loved.”
ASCAP Hosts ‘AI Comes To The Writer’s Room’ Symposium
/by Lorie HollabaughASCAP CEO Beth Matthews and ASCAP Chief Strategy & Digital Officer Nick Lehman. Photo: Ed Rode
ASCAP wrapped its Music City AI Symposium on Nov. 7 at the Twelve Thirty Club exploring the topic of AI, what songwriters need to know about it and how writers can use it to their advantage in the writers’ room.
Anna Gressel, Daniel Schnapp, Carletta Higginson, Kevin Madigan, Emily Chapius and Nick Lehman. Photo: Ed Rode
ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams, Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Matthews and Chief Digital and Strategy Officer Nick Lehman kicked off the morning with opening remarks on ASCAP’s dedication to protecting its members rights in the age of AI before the day moved into panel programming.
The first panel, “Navigating AI: Evolving Legal and Policy Frameworks,” was moderated by Lehman and featured leading attorneys Kevin Madigan (Copyright Alliance), Emily Chapius (Deputy General Counsel for the US copyright office), Dan Schnapp (Sheppard Mullin), Anna Gressel (Paul, Weiss), and Warner Music Group Chief Digital Officer Carletta Higginson. The conversation delved into the complex legal implications of AI, protecting creators’ rights, and the evolving landscape of copyright policies. They urged a proactive approach to protecting one’s work in the AI age.
“The big question we are looking at is authorship,” said Chapuis. “Does it have to be created by a human author or is it from machines? It needs to be created by a human, not just generated by an AI system. We are looking for enough human input, enough human creation.”
Curtiss King, Anna Vaus and Chris DeStefano. Photo: Ed Rode
The second session, “Melody, Lyrics & Algorithm: Music Creators in the Age of AI,” featured AI-fluent music creators Curtiss King and Anna Vaus, who shared their experiences and insights into using AI as a tool to enhance their creative process. Singer-songwriter Chris DeStefano moderated the panel, and attendees were left with information about the creative potential and benefits of AI.
Both panels concluded with interactive Q&A sessions, where attendees got to ask ASCAP leaders and the panel speakers alike about their AI expertise.
Walker Montgomery Signs With CAA & Preps For Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R): CAA’s Kylen Sharpe, Walker Montgomery, Range Media Partners’ Jenni Tackett and CAA’s Sabrina Butera. Photo: Courtesy of CAA
Walker Montgomery has signed with CAA for exclusive booking representation. He is also set to make his Grand Ole Opry debut on Dec. 1.
The Kentucky native’s family legacy is deeply planted in the roots of country music. Son of artist John Michael Montgomery and nephew of Montgomery Gentry‘s Eddie Montgomery, Walker is ready to play to the Opry audience, many of whom are no doubt fans of the boot-stomping, generational country he grew up on while watching his dad play on that very same stage.
The young entertainer has already achieved plenty of milestones in his own career over the last few years, such as releasing his EP Work To Do, but stepping into the circle is definitely high on his list of goals.
“Country music has been my life for as long as I can remember,” he shares. “The fact that I get to play the Opry is an absolutely surreal feeling and truly an honor.”
Marcus K. Dowling Receives CMA Media Achievement Award
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): K. Michelle, Marcus K. Dowling and Jelly Roll. Photo: Josh Brasted/CMA
Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean’s country music reporter in Nashville, was recognized with the 2023 CMA Media Achievement Award on Monday (Nov. 6).
Jelly Roll & Marcus K. Dowling. Photo: Josh Brasted/CMA
The CMA Media Achievement Award recognizes the outstanding achievements of print and internet journalists, columnists, authors, editors, television writers, producers, bookers and syndicated radio reporters in the media as they relate to country music. The award is voted on by publicist members of the Country Music Association.
Dowling was surprised with news of his win backstage at Bridgestone Arena during rehearsals for The 57th Annual CMA Awards by five-time CMA Awards nominee Jelly Roll and first-time performer K. Michelle. Both artists will take the CMA Awards stage tonight (Nov. 8) to perform “Love Can Build a Bridge” during the awards telecast.
Dowling has had a front row seat reporting on country music’s rapid expansion and growing popularity since joining The Tennessean in 2021. The award-winning journalist is also a screenwriter, whose credits include projects with Viacom, A&E Networks and more.
BMI Country Awards Toast To 2023 Winners, Honor Matraca Berg With Icon Award
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): BMI President & CEO, Mike O’Neill, Matraca Berg and BMI Vice President, Creative, Nashville, Clay Bradley. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
The last of the PRO awards ceremonies took place last night (Nov. 7) at BMI’s Nashville headquarters on Music Row.
Pictured (L-R): BMI Vice President, Creative, Nashville, Clay Bradley, Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs and BMI President & CEO, Mike O’Neill onstage during the 2023 BMI Country Awards. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
Hosted by BMI’s President & CEO Mike O’Neill and Nashville’s VP of Creative Clay Bradley, the 71st annual BMI Country Awards celebrated the top songwriters and music publishers behind this past year’s 50 most-performed songs in country music, with special awards being given out to the Country Songwriter, Song and Publisher of the Year. The awards also honored the unparalleled career of BMI Icon Award recipient Matraca Berg.
After plenty of schmoozing had been done by the songwriters, artists and industry members in attendance, a dinner of steak, potatoes and sautéed vegetables was served. We were all seated at immaculate tables with beautiful flowers and candlelight, but no one stayed in their seat for long. It was an evening of communion for the hundreds in attendance.
Pictured (L-R): BMI Executive Vice President, Chief Revenue & Creative Officer, Mike Steinberg, BMI President & CEO, Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Nashville, Clay Bradley pose with Warner Chappell team. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
During the ceremony, BMI saluted the songwriters and publishers of the 50 most-performed country songs of the previous year. Calling up the writers and industry champions behind each hit, audience members cheered them on as they hugged and took photos on stage.
With both of them co-writing four of BMI’s most-performed songs, Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen tied for the coveted BMI Songwriter of the Year award. Combs co-wrote his three consecutive No. 1 singles “Doin’ This,” “Going, Going, Gone” and “The Kind of Love We Make” as well as Zac Brown Band’s “Out in the Middle.” Wallen co-wrote Keith Urban’s “Brown Eyes Baby,” Corey Kent’s No. 1 hit “Wild as Her” as well as his record-breaking songs “Thought You Should Know” and “You Proof.”
Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs perform onstage during the 2023 BMI Country Awards. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for BMI
“I moved to town in 2014 and people ask me all the time, ‘When did you know that you made it?’ The answer is when I could pay my rent and have food in the fridge doing music,” Combs said. “To be up here now in a room with people I’ve looked up to for 15 years is unbelievable.”
Wallen shared, “Since the moment I heard ‘Old Rugged Cross’ at my parents’ church when I was about three years old, I knew music was going to part of my life somehow.” He added, “[Music] has been there for me through some really dark places. God, music and my family have meant the entire world to me.”
Lainey Wilson performs onstage during the 2023 BMI Country Awards. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for BMI
In one of the night’s most memorable moments, the two country superstars gave acoustic performances of each other’s songs, with Combs performing “Thought You Should Know” and Wallen covering “Going, Going, Gone.”
Wallen’s “You Proof” was named 2023 BMI Country Song of the Year. Written by Wallen, Ernest and Charlie Handsome, the tune was BMI’s most-performed country song of the year. It became the first radio single in country music history to spend 10 weeks at the top spot on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart.
Pictured (L-R): Troy Tomlinson, BMI President & CEO, Mike O’Neill, Ernest Keith Smith and Morgan Wallen. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
Warner Chappell was named BMI’s 2023 Country Publisher of the Year. The powerhouse published 25 of the 50 most-performed songs of the year, including mega-hits like Tyler Hubbard’s “5 Foot 9,” Maren Morris’ “Circles Around This Town,” Thomas Rhett’s “Slow Down Summer,” Zach Bryan’s “Something In The Orange” and Bailey Zimmerman’s “Rock and A Hard Place.”
Click here for a complete list of the 2023 BMI Country Awards winners.
Throughout the night, BMI turned its attention to its 2023 Icon Award recipient Berg, who joined the ranks of other Icon Award recipients Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, Kris Kristofferson, Loretta Lynn, Hank Williams, Jr., Toby Keith and others.
BMI Country Awards first time family photo. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
In between awards, video tributes would appear on screen, with words about Berg being shared by Dean Dillon, Pat Higdon, Chris Farren, Deana Carter, Patty Loveless, Aimee Mayo, Bobby Braddock and Trisha Yearwood.
Almost all who spoke about Berg talked about her innate gift of song, as she garnered her first hit when she was only 18 with “Faking Love.” Respect was also piled on the trailblazer for helping to smash the glass ceiling for female songwriters. Berg was the first woman to have five No. 1 hits in a single calendar year.
When the camera would turn on Berg as she was being honored, she was captured beaming up to the stage, often bringing her gloved hands to her face in humbling joy. The author behind such hits as “Strawberry Wine,” “Wild Angels,” “XXX’s and OOO’s” and “I’m That Kind of Girl” soaked up the love in the room.
Berg was also treated to some awesome performances celebrating her work. Lainey Wilson took on the titanic “Strawberry Wine,” and Ashley McBryde brought the party for “Wrong Side of Memphis.” Kenny Chesney and Grace Potter closed out the tribute as they reunited for a powerhouse duet of their triple-Platinum “You and Tequila.”
When she spoke, Berg thanked BMI, her publishers and co-writers. “All I ever wanted to be was a songwriter,” she said when she tearfully accepted her Icon Award. Cheers and standing ovations abounded for the songwriter, perfectly exemplying the mood of the night.
With all three 2023 PRO awards in the books, the 57th CMA Awards will take place tonight (Nov. 8) at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
LoCash To Shed Light On Life Of Ranchers Through New 44 Farms Partnership
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Chris Lucas (LoCash), Bob Mcclaren (44 Farms – 4th-Generation Rancher & President), Preston Brust (LoCash). Photo: Tadd Myers
LoCash has formed a partnership with 44 Farms, one of the largest registered Black Angus cattle operations in America.
The relationship between the ranchers and the duo sparked after a concert that took place in a red barn on the 44 Farms ranch in Cameron, Texas. LoCash penned an exclusive song for 44 Farms called “44 Strong,” and featured the picturesque location in a clip featuring 4th-generation rancher and President of 44 Farms, Bob McClaren.
“We fell in love with the place the moment we drove onto the ranch. We became old friends with everyone at 44 Farms the minute we shook hands,” shares LoCash’s Preston Brust.
The duo’s Chris Lucas agrees, “We’re storytellers and 44 Farms is a story that needs to be told. America needs to know what ranchers do, day in and day out.”
44 Farms’ McClaren adds, “Ranching is not a job, it’s a lifestyle. The men and women in the cattle industry are honored to work 365 days a year. Rain, snow, or shine. From the moment we met Chris and Preston, we knew they had the passion and voices to sing this story. The song is named ‘44 Strong,’ but it’s not just about 44 Farms, it’s about every American rancher that came before us and will come after us. I want this effort to sing the praises of all ranchers in this industry.”
The duo will travel coast-to-coast in 2024 their “44 Strong” wrapped tour bus, as they perform their hits and share their appreciation for the ranchers dedicated to putting beef on America’s tables.