Carrie Underwood Announces Deluxe Album, Launches SiriusXM Channel

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Carrie Underwood is releasing Denim & Rhinestones (Deluxe Edition), an expanded version of her latest album, on Sept. 22.

Produced by Underwood and David Garcia, the deluxe edition features six new tracks including “Out of That Truck” and her new single out today, “Take Me Out.” Limited Denim & Rhinestones (Deluxe Edition) packages are also available for fans including a special double picture disc vinyl, CD, poster and more.

Today the superstar is also launching Carrie’s Country, SiriusXM’s newest year-round 24/7 channel curated and presented by Underwood. Available now on channel 60, Carrie’s Country highlights her friends, favorites and influences—new and classic country, workout hits, gospel and beyond. Listeners can also find high-octane favorites from classic to hard rock, as well as the stories behind her music, record-breaking career and life on the road. In addition to Underwood’s hits, subscribers will hear music from Keith Urban, Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, The Rolling Stones and more.

The eight-time Grammy-winner also returns this month to her “Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency” at Resorts World Las Vegas. She will also join Guns N’ Roses once again this summer for three stadium dates on the North American leg of their “2023 World Tour,” including Croix-Bieue Medavie Stadium in Moncton, New Brunswick, Parc Jean Drapeau in Montreal and GEODIS Park in Nashville.

Industry Ink: Josh Turner, Gary Allan, LoCash, Chris Tomlin, More

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Josh Turner Receives Platinum Surprise From Randy Travis & Family

Pictured (L-R): Mary Travis, Hampton Turner, Randy Travis and Josh Turner. Photo: Grand Ole Opry/Chris Hollo

Josh Turner received a big surprise on stage Tuesday night (June 6) at the Grand Ole Opry in the middle of his set, when legend Randy Travis, his wife Mary and Turner’s son Hampton surprised Turner with a plaque celebrating two new RIAA certifications. Turner’s hit single “Your Man” is now certified quadruple-Platinum, while his album, Your Man, is now certified triple-Platinum. Turner is performing this week during CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium on Sunday (June 11) and is currently on his “Long Black Train 20th Anniversary Tour” in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Turner’s hit album, Long Black Train.

Gary Allan Earns Pandora Billionaire Status

Pictured (L-R): Alina Thompson, Gary Allan and Bekah Digby

Gary Allan joined the Pandora Billionaires club this week, receiving a Pandora Billionaire plaque after exceeding one billion streams on the streaming service. Alina Thompson, Associate Director, Strategy & Operations, Artist & Industry Relations and Bekah Digby, Associate Director, Artist & Industry Relations – Country & Christian for SiriusXM and Pandora, were on hand to present the award to Allan during his CMA Fan Club party on Tuesday (June 6).

“It feels like we’ve logged a billion miles on the road, so it is an honor to receive this Billionaires award from Pandora,” says Allan. “Every night as I watch the fans sing songs back to us word for word, it proves that my music has connected with them, and honors like this show me my songs have stood the test of time with my fans. Thank you for showing up on the road and for streaming my music through Pandora.  I could not do this without all of you!”

LoCash Named Honorary Guardians Of The U.S. Space Force

Pictured (L-R): LoCash’s Chris Lucas, Chief Towberman and LoCash’s Preston Brust. Photo: DeAnna Murano

LoCash became the first country act to become Honorary Guardians of the United States Space Force during an induction ceremony at Patrick Space Force Base on May 25. Chief Towberman presented the official certificates signed by the Chief of Space Operations General B. Chance Saltzman. Honorary Guardians exemplify the Space Force Core Values of Character, Connection, Commitment and Courage as captured in the Guardian Spirit, have a connection to the Space Force mission, the space domain or contribute to the success of the service as well as support the advancement of a safe, secure and stable space domain.

The United States Space Force administers the Honorary Guardian program to enhance the Guardian Spirit, build public trust and support, and strengthen partnerships the Space Force relies on to fulfill Space Force roles and missions.

Chris Tomlin’s Second Annual Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering Raises Over $12 Million

Pictured (L-R): For Others Founders Chris Tomlin, Lauren Tomlin, Kelley Spencer and Chad Spencer welcome guests to the second annual Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering. Photo: Courtesy of For Others

Chris Tomlin and wife Lauren’s nonprofit For Others, in partnership with the Troubadour Golf & Field Club in Middle Tennessee and Discovery Land Company Foundation, raised over $12 million at the second annual Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering last month. Over 30 celebrities from across sports and music participated in the benefit golf tournament and auction, including Nate Bargatze, Drew Brees, Kirk Herbstreit, Vince Gill, Tyler Hubbard, Shay Mooney, Golden Tate, TobyMac, Ben Roethlisberger, Tomlin and Carrie Underwood, among others.

“This year’s Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering exceeded our expectations in countless ways. What a day! Best golf experience, incredible ladies’ gathering and most of all, we witnessed an evening of laughter and heart that reached beyond our highest hopes. Because of the generosity of our guests, we’ll be able to fund even more adoptions than planned this year so that families can focus on welcoming their new child wholeheartedly without financial stress. I’m so sincerely grateful to everyone who attended and to those who chose to donate. You’re our heroes,” says Tomlin.

AudioMasters Nashville Benefit Golf Tournament Return For 25th Year

Golfers gather for the start of the 25th annual AudioMasters Nashville Benefit Golf Tournament “Live Day,” sponsored by DiGiCo, at Harpeth Hills Golf Course.

The 25th annual AudioMasters Nashville Benefit Golf Tournament was held May 18-19. This year’s event, hosted by the AES Nashville Section, saw the return of title sponsor DiGiCo for the “Live Day” of play on Thursday, with Audio-Technica serving as title sponsor for “Studio Day” on Friday. From each day’s shotgun start to the 19th hole awards dinner and reception, the course offered a relaxed day of play on the course with peers, pros and audio students alike. Serving as the primary fundraiser for the Nashville Engineer Relief Fund (NERF), this year’s event also paid special tribute to Co-Founder of NERF and the AudioMasters Tournament, Bil VornDick.

Pickers Original Vodka Highlights Channing Wilson, Chris Canterbury, Music Health Alliance In New Mural

Pickers Original Vodka has unveiled the next mural in its series promoting Nashville artists Channing Wilson and Chris Canterbury and Music Health Alliance (MHA). The mural was created by local artist Bryan Deese, and is located at The Purple Building at 5 Points in Nashville. The mural series highlights Pennington Distilling Company’s pledge that a dollar for every bottle of Pickers Original Vodka sold at Middle Tennessee bars, restaurants and venues that support live music will be donated to MHA.

Jeff and Jenny Pennington, Co-Founders of Pickers Vodka, says, “We are excited to highlight artists who are active in the Nashville music scene while continuing to promote Music Health Alliance. We feel that Channing Wilson and Chris Canterbury are great additions to the Pickers Vodka Mural Series and this initiative. We’re proud to support the mission of Music Health Alliance as they provide support to music industry professionals with a variety of healthcare needs.”

Thomas Rhett Celebrates 20 No. 1s With Retrospective Vinyl Collection

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Pictured (L-R): The Valory Music Co.’s George Briner, Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, Thomas Rhett, Big Machine Label Group’s Allison Jones. Photo: Steve Lowry

Thomas Rhett is marking a decade of constant hits with the release of a new retrospective vinyl collection celebrating his 20 chart-toppers, 20 Number Ones, out Sept. 29.

Set to include all 20 No. 1s so far and his current single, “Angels (Don’t Always Have Wings),” as a bonus track, the project traces the path behind the hardworking star. Through the tracks on the two discs, he pauses to acknowledge it all, taking the journey in realizing he’s already surpassed his dreams 100 times over. In commemoration of the the new project, fans will be able to purchase special edition packages along with a clear vinyl edition and gold metallic vinyl edition exclusively at Target and Walmart, respectively.

“To have 20 No. Ones is beyond wild—honestly more than I ever could have imagined,” says Rhett. “I’m grateful to have hit this milestone, but mostly it’s just exciting to look back at this journey so far and see how these songs represent the different chapters of my life—and hopefully the Home Team feels the same way. I want to say thank you to everyone for letting me be a part of the special moments in life—it’s hard to put into words what these past 10 years mean to me. Can’t wait for another great 10!”

Listeners can expect to hear fan-favorite tracks from “It Goes Like This,” and “Make Me Wanna,” to “Crash and Burn,” his smash “Die a Happy Man,” “Look What God Gave Her,” and more. With the reflective beauty of “Be a Light” and “Country Again” he brought positivity and simplicity back to country’s core, and with his most recent hits, “Slow Down Summer” and “Half of Me” (featuring Riley Green) Rhett continues to prove why he’s a consistent leader in the format.

Rhett penned 15 of the 20 chart-toppers on the new collection, and earlier this week, he hosted a celebration with BMI for his most recent seven No. Ones, all of which he co-wrote. Those tracks include “Half of Me” featuring Green; “Slow Down Summer;” “Country Again;” “What’s Your Country Song;” “Be A Light” featuring Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin and Keith Urban; “Beer Can’t Fix” featuring Jon Pardi and “Remember You Young.”

20 Number Ones Track List:
SIDE A
“It Goes Like This”
“Get Me Some Of That”
“Make Me Wanna”
“Crash and Burn”
“Die A Happy Man”

SIDE B
“T-Shirt”
“Star Of The Show”
“Craving You” ft. Maren Morris
“Unforgettable”
“Marry Me”

SIDE C
“Life Changes”
“Sixteen”
“Look What God Gave Her”
“Remember You Young”
“Beer Can’t Fix” ft. Jon Pardi
“Be A Light” ft. Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin, Keith Urban

SIDE D
“What’s Your Country Song”
“Country Again”
“Slow Down Summer”
“Half of Me” ft. Riley Green

BONUS TRACK
“Angels (Don’t Always Have Wings)”

Hailey Whitters Nabs First MusicRow No. 1 With ‘Everything She Ain’t’

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Hailey Whitters. Photo: Harper Smith

Hailey Whitters tops the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart for the first time this week with “Everything She Ain’t.”

Co-written with Bryan Simpson and Ryan Tyndell, the tune appears on Whitters’ Pigasus Records/Songs & Daughters/Big Loud Records album Raised. “Everything She Ain’t” was certified Gold earlier this year, and Whitters took home the ACM New Female Artist of the Year in May.

Alongside Big Loud, “Everything She Ain’t” was promoted by Jerry Duncan Promotions. It is the secondary promotion company’s 95th No. 1 song.

Click here to view the latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.

Philadelphia’s WXPN Launches New ‘Artist To Watch: Black Opry Residency’ Podcast

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Philadelphia public radio station WXPN has launched a new podcast called Artist To Watch: Black Opry Residency, airing each Thursday through Black Music Month.

Hosted by John Morrison, the podcast presents five stories of up-and-coming Black musicians seeking to reclaim country and Americana as inclusive genres. The first episode of the five-part series is available to stream across all digital platforms now, with subsequent episodes airing each Thursday.

“Artist To Watch: Black Opry Residency” is the culmination of WXPN’s first-of-its-kind artist development project, which launched earlier this year with the goal of helping selected artists build sustainable careers through mentorship from industry professionals and a weeklong creative residency in Philadelphia. Each episode offers a deep and personal dive into the real-life struggles of emerging performers and new talent, and the debut season delves into the lives and music of up-and-coming musicians who found support, community, and inspiration through the Black Opry Residency.

The first episode features country musician Tylar Bryant, a Texas native based in Nashville who marries modern and traditional country with rock and pop grooves. Each subsequent episode will focus on four other Black Opry Residency participants: Samantha Rise, a Philadelphia-based teacher, activist, performer and writer whose inclusive music is rooted in indie folk; Grace Givertz, a Boston-based folk artist and multi-instrumentalist whose witty, honest lyrics bring a refreshing energy and sound to folk music; Nashville-based twin brothers Brandon and Derek Campbell, who harmonize, write and perform as The Kentucky Gentlemen, blending pop, country and R&B; and soulful singer-songwriter Denitia, a Nashville-based artist music exhibits elements of country and folk.

“We’ve been focused on showcasing emerging talent through our Artist To Watch program for two decades,” says Bruce Warren, Associate General Manager for Programming at WXPN. “Building on that commitment, we really wanted to up our game and build an artist development residency. We chose to partner with Black Opry and focus on Black creators who have not traditionally been afforded access to resources to help their careers.”

The Black Opry founder and co-director, Holly G, adds, “The partnership with XPN for the Black Opry Residency has been such an easy fit, it felt like we were meant to work together. It can be hard to find people in the industry that are passionate about emerging artists and willing to provide the resources to support them, especially artists from marginalized identities in the country and American landscape. It displays a tremendous amount of leadership and faith that Bruce and his team were able and willing to put their efforts behind such a big project and I’m grateful they were so keen to listen to myself and people like Rissi Palmer about the needs of our community. My hope is that others will see the success of this project and realize that we need to do it many times over.

Thomas Rhett Commemorates Seven No. 1 Songs, Adding To 20 Total

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Pictured (L-R, back row): Leslie Roberts (BMI), Josh Miller (BMI), Will Bundy (ASCAP), Riley Green (BMI), Rhett Akins (BMI), Josh Thompson (BMI), Matt Dragstrem (ASCAP), Jon Pardi (BMI) and Mike Sistad (ASCAP);(L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta (BMI), Parker Welling (BMI), Thomas Rhett (BMI), Dann Huff (ASCAP) and Ashley Gorley (ASCAP) Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI

In how many music towns would a format-leading superstar take time to speak about each of his co-writers on his last seven chart-toppers? Well that’s exactly what happened in Nashville on Tuesday (June 6) when BMI and ASCAP staged a rooftop party celebrating seven of Thomas Rhett‘s 20 career No. 1 hits.

BMI’s Leslie Roberts kicked everything off by welcoming the industry crowd. She quickly turned it over to Studio Bank’s Ron Cox, who made a special donation presentation on behalf of Rhett and the songwriters to Love One International.

“We’re celebrating 14 songwriters today and over 25 publishers,” Roberts shared. She turned everything over to Rhett, who became the emcee. He recognized each songwriter as he went through all seven of the celebrated songs, including “Remember You Young,” “Beer Can’t Fix” feat. Jon Pardi, “Be A Light” feat. Reba, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin and Keith Urban, “What’s Your Country Song,” “Country Again,” “Slow Down Summer” and “Half of Me” feat. Riley Green.

“It’s been four years since we had a No. 1 party. It’s important to me to acknowledge all these songwriters for the incredible impact they’ve had on my career,” Rhett said.

He started the presentations by recognizing Julian Bunetta (“Beer Can’t Fix”). “I met you seven years ago and from that day, you have taught me to calm down,” Rhett said as Bunetta made his way to the stage. “You’ve made a huge impact on my career and it’s been an honor to write with you and get to know you.”

Rhett and Bunetta’s co-writers on “Beer Can’t Fix,” Zach Skelton and Ryan Tedder, weren’t in attendance but were applauded.

Rhett also recognized Pardi, who was a featured vocalist on the song. Pardi was in attendance and said, “Awesome song. Awesome people. Awesome artist. This was a really cool moment, even though it was three years ago. It’s better now, right?”

Pictured (L-R, back row): MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson, Josh Miller, Will Bundy, Riley Green, Rhett Akins, Josh Thompson, Matt Dragstrem and Jon Pardi; (L-R, front row): Julian Bunetta, Parker Welling, Thomas Rhett, Dann Huff, Ashley Gorley and MusicRow’s LB Cantrell. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI

Next, Rhett recognized the writers on “Be A Light,” starting with Josh Miller. “He’s one of the kindest human beings in the world. I really wish he would make his own record.” Of “Be A Light” co-writer Matt Dragstrem, Rhett said, “You’re an incredible dude. Such a joy to be around and an incredible talent.”

Will Bundy (“Half of Me”) was the next songwriter to be praised. “You’re an amazing talent. This was your first country No. 1,” Rhett said.

Josh Thompson (“Be A Light” and “Half of Me”) was next. “Josh is the silent killer in the room,” Rhett stated. “You’re one of the most talented people I’ve ever been around.”

“You’re so fun to write with,” Thompson said to Rhett. “Thank you for being you.”

Rhett then recognized Green, who sang on “Half Of Me.” Green shared, “I appreciate you for letting me ride your coattails to No. 1. This was an awesome opportunity for me and a great song.”

Parker Welling (“What’s Your Country Song”) was the next songwriter up. “From the moment I met Parker, I knew she was going to make a gigantic impact on this town,” Rhett said. “I want to thank you for making me a better human being and challenging me as a writer.”

Welling thanked Home Team, Rhett’s publishing joint venture with Warner Chappell that signed her in 2020.

“This next guy is pretty new to town, you may not know him. His name is Ashley Gorley,” Rhett joked about the NSAI Songwriter of the Decade and ACM Songwriter of the Year. “Through the years, Ashley has been a go-to co-writer for me.”

Gorley (“Remember You Young,” “What’s Your Country Song,” “Country Again” and “Slow Down Summer”) made sure to thank all of the publishers and those who help make songs go to the top of the charts.

Finally, Rhett spoke about his dad, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Rhett Akins. “You have been the source of every bit of inspiration I could have ever had,” he said. “You supported me [in every interest and passion I have had] and I think that’s why I have the mentality to go and get it today.”

Akins spoke about getting to write songs with his son, and thanked the crowd of supporters who have helped Rhett along the way.

“This is a miracle. This does not happen to most artists. It doesn’t happen to most dads—to get to sit up here to watch your son receive seven No. 1s,” Akins said. “God is the only way that this happened. I pray we get to do it a lot more.”

Zach Crowell (“Country Again”), Sean Douglas (“Slow Down Summer”) and Jesse Frasure (“Remember You Young,” “What’s Your Country Song” and “Slow Down Summer”) weren’t in attendance, but Rhett recognized them as well.

In addition to recognizing his co-writers, Rhett managed to get humble producer Dann Huff out to a No. 1 party. “You have really helped me find my sound. You’ve let me be me and you’ve allowed me to explore,” Rhett said. “You’ve been an incredible staple in my career.”

Huff, who produced all seven No. 1 hits, shared, “The feeling is mutual. I learn as much from you.”

Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, Allison Jones and George Briner gave a special presentation to commemorate Rhett’s 20 career hits. They each told the story of how they encountered Rhett.

Borchetta thanked the writers, his team at Big Machine and Rhett.

“Allison, myself and everyone who touches these records, we live for the moment when Thomas says, ‘I’m ready to play you new songs,'” Borchetta said. “It’s the thing that keeps me going and it’s the thing that drives our beautiful town.”

Tony-Nominated ‘Shucked’ To Open On London’s West End In 2024

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Pictured (L-R): Shane McAnally, Robert Horn and Brandy Clark

Shucked, the Tony-nominated musical, is heading to London.

Based on the book written by Robert Horn, Shucked is a tale from the heart of the heartlands directed by three-time Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien and produced by Sandbox Entertainment’s Jason Owen alongside Mike Bosner. The show features music and lyrics by renowned songwriters Shane McAnally and Brandy Clark, and is also nominated for 12 Drama Desk Awards, seven Outer Critics Circle Awards and three Drama League Awards.

The musical will open in London’s West End theatre district in 2024, confirmed by U.K.’s preeminent producer and theater owner, Cameron Mackintosh. Casting, theater location, ticketing information and other details will be announced in the coming months.

“I’m delighted to confirm that London is going to get Shucked in one of one of my theatres next year! Shucked is a rarity: a completely original musical and the funniest show since The Book of Mormon, with a terrifically tuneful rollicking country and western score,” says Mackintosh.

“The truth about this kind of entertainment is it should make people feel good,” says Owen. “You can make people think or look at their values with a smile on their face just as easily as you can by being serious. But where the world is right now, people need to come together, to laugh and honestly recognize that Iowa, Nebraska, Ohio or even Arkansas where I’m from is as much a part of America as Wall Street or Hollywood – and Shucked is about bringing all these people together.”

Leadership Music Announces Class Of 2024

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Leadership Music has announced the 44 industry leaders from across the nation who will make up its Class of 2024.

Leadership Music is an annual program designed to create a forum in which music industry leaders can learn about all facets of the music business, explore current issues affecting the industry and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences while building lasting relationships with their classmates.

Participants first attend an orientation, alumni welcome reception, and the two-day Opening Retreat in October, followed by six all-day sessions once a month, ending in May with graduation at the two-day Closing Retreat.

“It’s not an exaggeration when I say my journey as a member of the Leadership Music Class of 2001 was a life-changing experience for me,” says Debbie Carroll, Leadership Music President and Selection Committee Co-Chair. “As an alum, I know the 44 leaders in the Class of 2024 are about to embark on an amazing experience that will have a significant impact on their career. This is a special group of leaders, chosen after a great deal of deliberation by the selection committee from nearly 300 qualified candidates. The 30 alums who make up the selection committee don’t take the responsibility of choosing a class lightly, which is why Leadership Music classes always include the best of the best.”

Class of 2014 alumnus, Past Leadership Music President and Selection Committee Co-Chair David Kells, highlights the effort that goes into choosing a class. “The selection committee keeps several factors in mind when choosing members of a class,” he says. “Of course, we’re considering a candidate’s career history and achievements, community impact and more, but we also strive to assemble a class that’s diverse in every way—gender, ethnicity, genre of music and segment of the music industry. We’re exceptionally proud of the leaders chosen for this program year, the 34th class, and can’t wait to see how they bond and unite as the Leadership Music Class of 2024.”

Leadership Music Class of 2024

Angela Abbott, Senior Manager, Business Affairs & Music Licensing, Tidal
Beth Barcus, Co-Director & Porter, Porter’s Call
Andrew Batey, Founder & Co-CEO, Beatdapp Software Inc. (Santa Monica, California)
Sarah Buxton, Artist-Songwriter
Jackie Campbell, Founding Partner, 615 Leverage + Strategy
April Carty-Sipp, EVP Industry Affairs, National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) (Washington D.C.)
Sal Cirrincione, Senior Director of Rock Programming & Specials, Premiere Networks/iHeartRadio (New York, New York)
Katie Cline Moore, President, Cline Co Business & Financial Management
Michelle Conceison, Artist Manager/Associate Professor, Mmgt, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
Juanita Copeland, President/COO/GM, Sound Emporium Studios
Paul Davis, SVP/Booking & Development, MGM Resorts International (Las Vegas, Nevada)
Kirsten Donaldson, Vice President of Legal, Digital Media Association (DiMA) (Washington, D.C.)
Holly G, Founder, Co-Director, The Black Opry
Dan Gill, EVP Recorded Music, Los Angeles, BMG (Los Angeles, California)
Paul Goldman, CEO, Founder, Muserk (New York, New York)
Kerry Gordy, CEO, Kerry Gordy & Associates, Inc. (Beverly Hills, California)
Tiara Guy, Associate Director of Industry Relations & Marketing Operations, SoundExchange (Washington, D.C.)
Chrissy Hall, Director of Concerts, Ryman Auditorium, Opry Entertainment Group
Kelly Henderson, Senior Director, Sales Enablement, Ticketmaster
Matt Houser, Head of Production, Taillight & Porchlight
Tiffany Kerns, SVP Industry Relations & Philanthropy, Country Music Association (CMA)
Rohan Kohli, VP A&R, Warner Music Nashville
Rory Levine, VP Marketing and Digital Strategy & Engagement, Academy of Country Music (ACM)
Keith Levy, Agent/Vice President, Wasserman Music
Jodi Marr, Songwriter/Producer/Educator/Author, Lazy Jo Music/Wizard of Ahhs Productions/Belmont University
Mandy McCormack, EVP/Marketing & Partner Strategy, Trisha Yearwood, Inc.
John Merchant, Professor, Middle Tennessee State University
Nick Gusz Miller, Senior Director of International Marketing, Interscope Records
Lauren Morales, COO, TomKats Hospitality
Wes Perry, Senior Director of Business Development, Live Nation
Kevin Ream, Owner, Round Rock Amp (Austin, Texas)
Jessie Richard, SVP Federal Public Policy, RIAA (Washington, D.C.)
Autumn Rowe, Artist-Songwriter/Producer (Van Nuys, California)
Samantha Saturn, Chief Marketing Officer, SESAC Music Group
Seth Seigle, Agent/Partner, William Morris Endeavor (WME)
Ashley Sidoti, VP of Promotion & Digital, The Valory Music Co.
Jason Sloan, Assistant General Counsel, U.S. Copyright Office (Washington, D.C.)
Daniel Susla, Commercial Development, Music Publishing, Apple (Santa Monica, California)
Jenn Tressler, Senior Manager, Artist & Label Strategy, Opry Entertainment Group
Charles Wadelington, Senior Manager, Public Policy & Government Relations, Universal Music Group (Washington, D.C.)
Matt Watkins, President of Marketing & International Relations, The AristoMedia Group
Derek Wells, VP A&R, Spirit Music Group
Joe Wetzel, Partner, Latham & Watkins LLP (San Francisco, California)
Iwona Wyrzykowska, VP Global Film & TV Administration, UMPG

Bailey Zimmerman & Crew Celebrate First Two No. 1 Hits

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Pictured (L-R, back row): Duane Hobson (ASCAP), Shaina Botwin (Boom Music Group) Joe Fisher (Boom Music Group), Ben Kline (Warner Music Nashville), Cris Lacy (Warner Music Nashville), Ryan Beuschel (Warner Chappell Music), Clay Bradley (BMI) Sam Shelton (Goat Island Sound) Emma Kiefer (Boom Music Group); (L-R, front row): Jacob Hackworth (BMI), Gavin Lucas (ASCAP), Heath Warren (BMI), Bailey Zimmerman (BMI), Austin Shawn (BMI), Jet Harvey (BMI). Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI

Breakout country star Bailey Zimmerman celebrated his first two chart-topping hits earlier this week with a double No. 1 party at Hi-Fi Clyde’s.

Industry members gathered to toast to Zimmerman’s debut chart-topper “Fall In Love” along with its follow-up, the multi-week No. 1 hit “Rock and a Hard Place.” The celebration brought together writers Zimmerman (BMI), Austin Shawn (BMI) and Gavin Lucas (ASCAP) for “Fall In Love,” along with Jacob Hackworth (BMI), Jet Harvey (BMI) and Heath Warren (BMI) for “Rock and a Hard Place.” Shawn is the producer on both hits.

“Fall In Love” and “Rock and a Hard Place” collaborators with their MusicRow No. 1 Challenge Coins. Pictured (L-R, back row): MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell, MusicRow‘s Sherod Robertson; (L-R, front row): Jacob Hackworth, Gavin Lucas, Heath Warren, Bailey Zimmerman, Austin Shawn, Jet Harvey. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI

All parties were celebrating their first ever No. 1 song. As part of BMI tradition, the BMI writers got their custom-made Taylor guitar to commemorate their first.

BMI’s Clay Bradley welcomed the crowd to the party. “What better way to kick off the 50th anniversary of CMA Fest than with these fresh and new faces, voices, energies and sounds for country music,” he said.

Zimmerman’s new sound has been incredibly well received by country music fans. Since breaking onto the scene in 2021, Zimmerman has amassed 2 billion streams to date. His debut album Religiously. The Album. arrived as not only the biggest all-genre streaming debut since 2021, but also the biggest streaming country debut of all time.

“I think it’s safe to say country music is in safe hands,” Bradley said.

ASCAP’s Duane Hobson was on hand to support affiliate songwriter Gavin Lucas. Studio Bank’s Ron Cox let the writers know that the bank had made a donation in their names to CreatiVets. Country Aircheck‘s Lon Helton presented Zimmerman with a plaque commemorating his success at country radio.

When Warner Chappell’s Ryan Beuschel got up to speak, he let the crowd know that the publishing giant represented everyone on stage, whether through direct publishing deals or administration partnerships.

“This crew has become like family to me,” Beuschel said, adding some backstory about his and Zimmerman’s first meeting. “You delivered song after song for this album. I’m so proud of you. What an amazing run that you’ve been on.”

Beuschel then went on to speak about each writer, complimenting them on what they bring to the songs.

Warner Music Nashville co-head Cris Lacy presented some stats on Zimmerman’s record-breaking run thus far. She let the crowd know that WMN originally asked for a re-write of “Fall In Love.” After Zimmerman, Shawn and Lucas humored them, they let the label executives know that they felt it was good as is.

“Sometimes the best thing for a record label to do is get the hell out of the way, so we did. This is the result,” Lacy said. “That gave us the fastest debut single to reach No. 1 since 2015, making this the quickest an artist has earned a chart-topping No. 1 on their first two singles in nearly 25 years.

“Then ‘Rock and a Hard Place’ hit No. 1 only 15 weeks after ‘Fall In Love,’ and held that top spot for six weeks,” Lacy said. “There are some people whose job isn’t to get the hell out of the way—that’s the radio people. It’s their job to push people out of the way.”

Lacy acknowledged WMN’s Kristen Williams and her radio warriors and streaming experts.

Gregg Nadel from Elektra, who partners with WMN on Zimmerman, visited Nashville to share some kind words about the star. He recalled a night on the road when the crowd wouldn’t settle down after Zimmerman finished his set with “Rock and a Hard Place.” After a moment backstage, the young performer went out and sang it again for them.

More publishers spoke about their writers, such as Goat Island Sound’s Sam Shelton, who was also celebrating his first No. 1. He and Boom Music Group’s Shaina Botwin were on hand to speak about Hackworth. Both made sure to thank everyone involved in the song, especially Zimmerman for cutting an outside song.

“Fall In Love” co-writer Lucas was the first songwriter to speak. “Meeting Bailey Zimmerman changed my entire life,” he said. “It’s hard to write a song and hear someone else sing it in the way you meant for it to be sang. This guy sings it 10 times better than I could have thought of.”

Co-writer and co-producer Shawn shared a bit about the beginning of his partnership with Zimmerman, highlighting how quickly the artist went from a “regular guy” to a superstar.

“I met Bailey three months after he started singing. He didn’t know how to play a chord on a guitar, he didn’t know how to sing a harmony, he didn’t know anything, but what he did have and what I saw was his heart… This is the power of having heart and having drive,” he said, “We had nothing at the same time and now we have everything we could have ever imagined.”

“Rock and a Hard Place” co-writer Warren was next up. “This has been an incredible journey. I have learned a lot of lessons along the way through this entire thing, but the thing I’ve really learned is to appreciate the people you’ve surrounded yourself with,” he said.

Harvey shared that “Rock and a Hard Place” was based on argument he and his wife Kristin had. “I never thought that an argument would turn into such a miracle,” he said. “Bailey says something every night after his shows—he talks about believing in yourself. I never had anyone believe in me until I met Kristin.”

Hackworth summed everything up by saying, “Everything you’ve heard is exactly the truth. Everyone in these seats are incredible people. We all work really hard at what we do and we’re really thankful that we’re here today.”

Zimmerman told the stories behind his connection to both songs. He thanked everyone on his impactful team.

“You hear it takes a village and it really does. If I wouldn’t have had everyone I have here, it would have been awful,” Zimmerman said. “Thank you for everything you guys do. I’m so grateful to be a part of this. I love y’all with my whole heart.”

Randy Travis Helps Midwest Communications Launch Y’all 106.7 Country

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Pictured (L-R): Ron Allen, Randy Travis, Eryn Cooper

Randy Travis helped Midwest Communications, Inc. flip the switch and launch a new country station in Nashville this week when Hot 106.7 was transformed to Y’all 106.7.

The first song to air on the new ’80s and ’90s-based country format was Travis’ “Forever and Ever, Amen,” and Travis was in the Y’all 106.7 studio with Brand Manager Ron Allen to help celebrate and kick off the new format.

Allen, Brand Manager for Nashville’s 96.3 JACK-fm, will add programming responsibilities for the new brand. Allen has served as Midwest Communications Duke FM Format Captain (Classic Country), and has launched and programmed several country stations over the course of his career.

“Nashville is a market already rich in great country programming, but we feel that this unique ’80s and ’90s-based format will bring country listeners an exciting new option,” says Representing Midwest Communications ownership family, Mary Kay Wright. “It’s such an honor to have Randy Travis as part of our Y’all 106.7 launch. He isn’t just a top artist from the ’80s, he helped define the best of what country music was then and still is today.”

“We fully appreciate that the country format in Nashville is crowded, but we believe there is still an opportunity to serve the community and be successful in this lane,” says Allen.

On a personal note, Wright also shared, “Today is a little bittersweet for our family. Midwest Communications CEO and founder, Duke Wright, who recently passed away, was a huge fan of Randy Travis. ‘Forever and Ever, Amen’ was one of his all-time favorites. He would have been thrilled that Randy helped kick off Y’all 106.7.”