Grand Ole Opry To Mark 98th Birthday With Shows, Special Events

/by

The Grand Ole Opry is celebrating its 98th birthday with four nights of shows tributing the Women of Country on Oct. 4–7.

Opry member Lauren Alaina and Opry NextStage alum Lainey Wilson are among those set to kick off the week at the Wednesday Night Opry on Oct. 4. Crystal Gayle will serve as spotlight artist as Opry Country Classics celebrates the Queens of Country on Oct. 5.

The Opry’s birthday weekend is set to include a special performance and fan Q&A event in the Opry House’s Studio A featuring Chapel Hart saluting their female country music heroes Saturday at 1 p.m. The Birthday Week will conclude with Sara Evans’ official Opry induction and two shows Saturday evening.

Fans are also invited to the Opry Plaza for free live music and family-friendly activities to celebrate the Opry’s birthday on Friday evening (Oct. 6), and all-day Saturday (Oct. 7). Special 98th birthday packages for Oct. 7 are on sale now and include an Opry show ticket, Matinee Studio A Event: Acoustic Performance and Interview with Chapel Hart, Opry House Daytime Tour, Opry Picnic Lunch and an exclusive Opry Celebrates 98 poster.

Amanda Cates To Exit Maverick Nashville

/by

Amanda Cates

Maverick Nashville’s Head of Artist Services Amanda Cates is leaving her position at the company at the end of the month. She will be taking on consulting projects after her exit.

Cates joined Clarence Spalding’s artist management company, Spalding Entertainment, in 2009 to focus on building out the digital department, which has since become artist services. Now Maverick Nashville, the company’s roster includes Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, Darius Rucker, Rascal Flatts and more.

Cates reflects, “It’s been such a pleasure working with each of you over the years, and I consider myself the luckiest to have had the opportunity to be a part of all the amazing things we’ve done together for our artists. My near term plans are to take a little break from the management world and consult a bit, but know I’ll be cheering you all on from the sidelines.”

While at Maverick, Cates oversaw all marketing initiatives, new business development, DSP and record label functions, artist content creation, e-commerce, social and fan engagement for the company’s roster of high-profile country music clients.

Cates is a North Carolina native and an Appalachian State University graduate. She began her career in Raleigh, North Carolina at an artist management firm. She then made her way to a Seattle-based, venture-funded mobile entertainment startup before heading to Nashville as a digital marketing consultant in artist management.

In addition to being an ACM, CMA and Recording Academy member, Cates is a board member for Nashville Music Equality and a co-founder of the Digital Divas Nashville networking organization. She was honored with the Platinum Mentor Award by the Nashville Entrepreneur Center’s Project Music accelerator program in 2015, was named one of MusicRow Magazine’s Rising Women on the Row in 2016, is a member of Leadership Music’s Class of 2017 and has been named to multiple esteemed Billboard and Nashville Business Journal lists.

Cates can be reached at amanda.cates@gmail.com.

Dolly Parton Unveils New Doggy Parton Rock N’ Roll Collection

/by

Dolly Parton & her goddog Billy The Kid. Photo: Sebastian Smith

Dolly Parton has launched a new, limited time rock ‘n’ roll pet collection under her Doggy Parton brand at Petco.

The collection offers a range of apparel, accessories, and toys designed exclusively for our furry companions, and is available now at petco.com and at most Petco locations nationwide.

From glamourous, glittery gowns to moto jackets, cozy beds and plush toys, every piece is a tribute to Parton’s style, her god dog Billy The Kid and her love for animals. Products include a limousine toy inspired by her iconic “White Limozeen,” a sparkly pink collar for cats, fun variations of her classic wig with a butterfly hair accessory and a matching pink and silver dress and cowboy hat.

“I’ve always said that a little extra sparkle can make anyone’s day brighter, and that goes for our furry friends too! It’s a ‘ruff’ job, but someone’s gotta do it,” says Parton about the new collection.

In true Parton fashion, a portion of every purchase will help fund and support Willa B Farms, a rescue where displaced animals of all kinds find endless love and care.

Riley Thomas Named SiriusXM The Highway’s Newest ‘Highway Find’

/by

Riley Thomas. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine

Riley Thomas was recently named SiriusXM The Highway’s newest “Highway Find.”

The selection was announced on Friday (Aug. 25) at SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour live from Margaritaville in downtown Nashville. Ahead of the announcement, Thomas signed with DBLBLK Records/Elektra and released his major-label debut single, “I’ll Be Damned.”

The Florida native released “Cowboys Did Cocaine” independently last year and amassed more than 20 million streams. He has also scored cuts Kelsey Karter & The Heroines, Jelly Roll and more as a songwriter.

The “Highway Find” program is part of SiriusXM The Highway’s commitment to spotlighting new talent in the country space. Thomas nows joins a group of country stars, including Parker McCollum, Luke Combs, Griffen Palmer, Gabby Barrett, Maren Morris, Dan + Shay, Lauren Watkins and more.

“Stepping out of the bar to hear ‘I’ll Be Damned’ on the radio for the first time was one of those moments you live for,” shares Thomas. “I’m hugely grateful to Ania Hammar and the whole team at SiriuxXM The Highway for all of the love they have given to me and my music. Y’all keep listening, I’ll be damned.”

Trace Adkins, Ricky Skaggs, More Added To Ronnie Milsap Tribute Concert

/by

More artists have been added to the lineup for Ronnie Milsap‘s final Nashville concert. The special tribute event will take place Oct. 3 at Bridgestone Arena.

Newly-announced guest entertainers are Trace Adkins, Ricky Skaggs, Steven Curtis Chapman, Ray Stevens, Pam Tillis, The Gatlin Brothers, Hunter Hayes, Mark Wills, The McCrary Sisters, The Los Lonely Boys and Elizabeth Cook.

Previously announced artists that will tribute the Country Music Hall of Fame member include Kelly Clarkson, Little Big Town, Parker McCollum, Justin Moore, Scotty McCreery, Tracy Lawrence, Randy Houser, Sara Evans, Lorrie Morgan, Neal McCoy, Breland, Phil Vassar, Terri Clark, The Band of Heathens and Charlie McCoy. Sixwire will serve as the house band.

The evening will honor Milsap’s more than 50-year career, his celebrated catalog and his impact on country music.

“I’m so excited about my last show in Nashville at Bridgestone Arena and the amazing lineup of artists,” says Milsap. “I love Nashville and the amazing career my fans have given me. ‘I wouldn’t have missed it for the world!’ Please join me. It will be a very special night.”

Tickets are on-sale now via ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted and produced by Outback Presents and Conway Entertainment Group.

Nancy Jones Shares Story Of Life With George Jones In New Book

/by

Playin’ Possum: My Memories of George Jones, a new book due out in September, offers readers an intimate look at country legend George Jones through the eyes of Nancy, his wife of thirty years.

The book explores the force behind the country legend—a strong, feisty woman who not only saved his life from cocaine addiction, alcoholism and other self-destructive behaviors, but also was instrumental in saving his soul. Married for more than thirty years to the country star, Nancy knew George better than anyone else on earth—the good and the bad, the horrendous and the hilarious.

For the first time, in Playin’ Possum, Nancy reveals the true insider perspectives and little-known poignant as well as humorous stories about the country music legend, his battles with cocaine, alcohol, abusive behavior toward her and others, and his battles against the demons that sought to control him and ultimately destroy him. Nancy knew there was a good man inside George, and she felt strongly that God had given her the assignment to help him, even if he hurt her.

The new book will be published by Forefront Books on Sept. 12, which is George’s birthday.

Music Industry Honored At 16th Academy Of Country Music Honors

/by

CEO, Academy of Country Music, Damon Whiteside; Chair, Board of Directors, Academy of Country Music, Ebie McFarland; and VP, Board of Directors, Academy of Country Music, Randy Bernard at the 16th annual Academy of Country Music Honors. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for ACM

Industry members and musicians were celebrated at the 16th annual ACM Honors on Wednesday night (Aug. 23) at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Hosted by Carly Pearce, the Academy of Country Music lauded the winners of the ACM Industry Awards and Studio Recording Awards from the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards.

In the Special Awards group, Chris Stapleton received recognition for winning the prestigious ACM Triple Crown Award following his first win for ACM Entertainer of the Year at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards. Stapleton qualified for the Triple Crown Award after winning ACM New Male Vocalist of the Year, ACM Male Vocalist of the Year and ACM Entertainer of the Year throughout his career, an honor only eight other artists have been awarded.

Mike Dungan, winner of the ACM Icon Award, at the 16th annual Academy of Country Music Honors. Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for ACM

Mike Dungan and Tim McGraw were bestowed with the ACM Icon Award, honoring the contributions of Cliffie Stone, who was known for his producing work along with his country music career. This award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group or industry leader who, throughout their career, has advanced the popularity of the genre through their contributions in multiple facets of the industry, such as songwriting, recording, production, touring, film, television, literary works, philanthropic contributions and other goodwill efforts.

The ACM International Award went to Kane Brown. Inspired by Jim Reeves, the award goes to a country music artist, duo/group or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the growth of country music throughout the world.

Breland received the ACM Lift Every Voice Award, which is presented to a country music artist, duo/group, industry leader or affiliate/partner who plays a pivotal role in elevating underrepresented voices throughout the country music genre, transcending demographics and geography.

The ACM Lifting Lives Award went to Troy Vollhoffer. This award honors the contributions of Gary Haber, known as a business manager and past President of ACM Lifting Lives, and is given to a country music artist, duo/group, or industry professional who is devoted to improving lives through the power of music, has a generosity of spirit and is committed to serving others.

Clint Black, Mary Chapin Carpenter and the late K.T. Oslin were each honored with the ACM Poet’s Award. This award is presented to a country music songwriter for outstanding and longstanding musical and/or lyrical contributions throughout their career, with special consideration given to a song or songs’ impact on the culture of country music.

The ACM Service Award went to Charlie Cook and Bill Mayne. Honoring the contributions of songwriter Mae Boren Axton and her service to the Academy, the award is presented to an outstanding country music artist, duo/group, or industry leader in recognition of years of dedication and service to the Academy of Country Music.

Finally, the ACM Spirit Award went to the late Charlie Daniels. This award honors the contributions of Merle Haggard, who received 20 ACM Awards in his career. It is presented to a singer-songwriter who is continuing Haggard’s legacy by following their own path, crafting great songs and epitomizing Haggard’s spirit through genuine performances and great storytelling.

In addition to the Special Awards, trophies were also given out to the Studio Recording Awards winners from this year’s ACM Awards. Reigning ACM New Female Artist of the Year winner Hailey Whitters presented the honors during the pre-show ceremony.

The winners of the 58th ACM Industry and Studio Recording Awards are listed below.

2023 ACM Industry Award Winners:
Casino of the Year – Theater: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Hollywood, Florida
Casino of the Year – Arena: Harveys Lake Tahoe – Stateline, Nevada
Festival of the Year: Country Thunder – Bristol, Tennessee
Fair/Rodeo of the Year: Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo – Houston, Texas
Club of the Year: Joe’s on Weed St. – Chicago, Illinois
Theater of the Year: Grand Ole Opry House – Nashville, Tennessee
Outdoor Venue of the Year: Bank of NH Pavilion – Gilford, New Hampshire
Arena of the Year: Moody Center – Austin, Texas
Don Romeo Talent Buyer of the Year: Troy Vollhoffer – Premier Global Production
Promoter of the Year: Ed Warm – Joe’s Live

2023 ACM Studio Recording Award Winners:
Bass Player of the Year: Mark Hill
Drummer of the Year: Aaron Sterling
Acoustic Guitar Player of the Year: Tim Galloway
Electric Guitar Player of the Year: Derek Wells
Piano/Keyboards Player of the Year: Dave Cohen
Specialty Instrument(s) Player of the Year: Jenee Fleenor
Audio Engineer of the Year: Justin Niebank
Producer of the Year: Jay Joyce

Reba McEntire Unveils New Tune From Forthcoming Album ‘Not That Fancy’

/by

Reba McEntire has released the acoustic version of her hit “Till You Love Me” from her forthcoming album Not That Fancy. The project, due out Oct. 6, is now available for digital preorder.

McEntire joined forces with Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb to record stripped-down versions of some of her most celebrated songs. The 14-track collection will also feature new single “Seven Minutes In Heaven.”

The album will be released in conjunction with her upcoming book Not That Fancy: Simple Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting Off Your Boots. On sale Oct. 10, the book is filled with funny, poignant and personal stories, never-before-seen photos, lifestyle tips and over 50 family recipes from McEntire.

Fans can order a limited edition Not That Fancy box set that includes a copy of both the book and album, a special apron and stationary in a custom-made box. A limited edition Not That Fancy vinyl is also available for purchase at Barnes & Noble.

Not That Fancy Track Listing:
1. “The Fear of Being Alone (Acoustic Version)”
2. “Consider Me Gone (Acoustic Version)”
3. “Somebody Should Leave (Acoustic Version)”
4. “How Blue (Acoustic Version)”
5. “If You See Him, If You See Her (with Brooks & Dunn) (Acoustic Version)”
6. “Till You Love Me (Acoustic Version)”
7. “Seven Minutes In Heaven”
8. “The Night The Lights Went Out In Georgia (Acoustic Version)”
9. “Does He Love You (with Dolly Parton) (Acoustic Version)”
10. “One Promise Too Late (Acoustic Version)”
11. “The Last One To Know (Acoustic Version)”
12. “New Fool At An Old Game (Acoustic Version)”
13. “I’m A Survivor (Acoustic Version)”
14. “Fancy (Acoustic Version)”

Robyn Ottolini Delves Into Growing Pains On New EP

/by

Robyn Ottolini is gearing up for the release of her new EP, Growing Up To Do, Oct. 27 via Empire.

The six-track EP includes the playful single, “All My Friends Are Hot,” available for streaming now. Growing Up To Do was produced by Cameron Jaymes, and encapsulates the rollercoaster of emotions that come with navigating life and growing up.

YouTube video

“Even though I’m technically an adult now and I have my own place, a dog, a career — I still feel like I have a lot of growing up to do,” says Ottolini. “I’m still in therapy and I’m still trying to figure out who the heck I am. So even though I go through so many emotions and experiences in this EP, at the end of it, I still have growing up to do.”

Growing Up To Do Tracklist:
1. “Heartless” (Robyn Ottolini, Emily Reid)
2. “All My Friends Are Hot” (Robyn Ottolini, Emily Reid)
3. “Midas” (Robyn Ottolini, Claire Douglas, Jarrod Ingram, Blake Hubbard)
4. “I Kissed Your Boyfriend” (Emily Reid, Jacob Durrett)
5. “Sick Of Sex” (Robyn Ottolini, Emily Reid)
6. “House I Grew Up In” (Robyn Ottolini, Jimmy Robbins, Nicole Galyon)

Blackberry Smoke Releases New Track ‘Dig A Hole’ From Upcoming LP

/by

Blackberry Smoke will release their new album, Be Right Here, Feb. 16 via 3 Legged Records/Thirty Tigers. Ahead of the release, they have unveiled the lead single, “Dig A Hole,” today (Aug. 25).

The new track, written by lead singer Charlie Starr and keyboardist Brandon Still, reminds us that life is short, so we better enjoy the ride.

“We each have a finite amount of time on this earth, so you probably want to make the most of it,” says Starr. “Eventually for all of us, they are going to dig a hole, so make it count.”

Produced by Dave Cobb, Be Right Here is filled with Blackberry Smoke’s signature rock anthems, Americana-leaning ballads and country rock jams, and celebrates the simple joys of life, the fleeting moments and little bits of luck found along the way. The project was recorded at Nashville’s historic RCA Studio A and Cobb’s Georgia Mae in Savannah, and includes special guest vocals from The Black Bettys.

“We always track live together, but this time we had all our amps and drums and everything in the same room,” says Starr. “It’s just as natural and as real as possible. The last album was very raw too, but with this one I remember different times I would say, ‘I think we should redo that,’ and Dave was like, ‘No, leave it that way. That way it’s magical.'”

In addition to their studio albums, Blackberry Smoke has released several other projects including the EPs Stoned, The Southern Ground Sessions and Live From Capricorn Studios as well as Homecoming: Live In Atlanta, a live album and concert film, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Americana/Folk Album Sales chart.

Be Right Here Track Listing:
1. “Dig A Hole”
2. “Hammer And The Nail”
3. “Like It Was Yesterday”
4. “Be So Lucky”
5. “Azalea”
6. “Don’t Mind If I Do”
7. “Whatcha Know Good”
8. “Other Side of the Light”
9. “Little Bit Crazy”
10. “Barefoot Angel”