Pictured (L-R, back row): Mike Sistad (ASCAP), Spencer Nohe (Warner Chappell), Chris Van Belkom (Combustion), Lee Krabel (SMACKSONGS), Shannan Hatch (SESAC), Courtney Crist (Anthem), Gilles Godard (Anthem), Troy Tomlinson (Universal Publishing), Mike Dungan (UMG Nashville), Noah Dewey (Anthem), Blain Rhodes (The Tape Room), Chris Farren (Combustion). (L-R, front row): Josh Jenkins, Jordan Davis, Luke Bryan, Matt Jenkins, Jacob Davis. Photo: Larry McCormack
Some of Music Row’s biggest and brightest could be found at Tailgate Brewery in Nashville’s Germantown on Monday (Oct. 3) to celebrate a couple of Jordan Davis‘ recent No. 1s. The MCA recording artist, along with his co-writers, were honored for “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot” and “Buy Dirt” both making it all the way to the top of the charts.
Hosted by ASCAP’s Mike Sistad, the celebration started with “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot,” which made its climb to the peak of country radio in tandem with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The song was written in 2014 by Davis and Lonnie Fowler, who rang in his first No. 1 with the track, and was produced by Paul DiGiovanni.
Anthem Music’s Noah Dewey kicked things off, thanking all of the people who got the song to the top. He was followed by Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe who doted on Lonnie, noting that he was “an incredibly talented songwriter of timeless songs.” Whitt Jeffords from Amylase Music took the mic next, explaining that the song stood the test of time from its origin to its trip to No. 1.
When Mike Dungan, Chairman and CEO of UMG Nashville, made his way to the front, he started his presentation by yelling, “I love Jordan Davis!” which earned a round of applause in agreement. He proceeded to explain that though it hadn’t been officially certified just yet, the guys were going to receive 2x Platinum plaques for the song’s success.
“The truth is, it’s not officially certified,” Mike admitted. “We have an audit glitch so it’ll be certified in like 15 minutes, but we’re celebrating anyway! We’re really proud of this record and really proud of you, Jordan.”
The writers took over from there.
Pictured (L-R): Mike Sistad (ASCAP), Spencer Nohe (Warner Chappell), Lonnie Fowler, Jordan Davis, Whit Jefferds (Amylase), Noah Dewey (Anthem), and Mike Dungan (UMG). Photo: Larry McCormack
Jordan mentioned the leaps and bounds “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot” had to go through to get to the top, all the while bragging on his MCA Nashville team. “MCA Nashville is the best out there,” he noted. “This is just as much y’all’s as it is me and Lonnie’s.”
He also took the crowd back to the day the song was written, explaining how special the song was. “This will always be one of my favorite songs I’ve ever released because, much like with any song I put out, I go back to the day we wrote it. I remember that more than the stuff that follows, although this is pretty damn sweet,” he shared beaming at the packed room.
Lonnie closed things out at the first of the celebrations. As it was his first No. 1, he prepared a few pages of notes, joking that he’d had enough time to think about what he wanted to say since he wasn’t sure this party was ever going to happen. He first thanked God for the gift of music, as well as his family and, of course, Jordan. “Thank you to Jordan for bringing your gift of phrasing, imagery and lyrical swagger into the room that day,” he said with a laugh. “He has a way of saying things that’s all Jordan and nobody else.”
Listing off the rest of the team responsible for bringing the song to life and sharing it around the world, he closed by recalling when he got the call that it was probably going to hit the top of the charts.
“When I got the call that it looked like the song was going to hit No. 1, I happened to be standing in a good friend’s yard in East Nashville looking at the entire upstairs of their house in the wake of the tornado. In the weeks after, the world shut down and that’s when the song hit No. 1,” Lonnie remembered. “It was definitely a difficult time to celebrate a big career success in the wake of those two things. For a long time, I didn’t know if I would get a chance to celebrate with anybody in person, but here it is. It’s actually happening. Thanks everyone for coming out, showing up and making the most of this special day.”
Pictured (L-R): Jordan Davis, Mike Dungan (Chairman & CEO, UMG Nashville), Luke Bryan, Cindy Mabe (President, UMG Nashville). Photo: Larry McCormack. Photo: Larry McCormack
Next it was time to honor “Buy Dirt,” which is nominated for the CMA Song and Single of the Year. The Jordan Davis and Luke Bryan duet, written by two sets of brothers—Jordan, Jacob Davis, Josh Jenkins and Matt Jenkins—also won the NSAI Song of the Year last month.
SESAC’s Shannan Hatch kicked things off, touting Josh’s achievements over the last few years—this being his first No. 1. Troy Tomlinson of UMPG commended all four of the writers, as well as producer Paul DiGiovanni for his “less is more” mentality to let the vocals shine. He also announced that UMPG would be making a contribution to MusiCares on behalf of the writers to assist those with mental health and emotional needs.
Anthem’s Noah Dewey returned to the mic, explaining that the group of four best friends had charmingly named themselves the Dream Team. Lee Krabel from SmackSongs followed, putting the spotlight directly on Josh, saying: “It’s hard to imagine a better partner as a publisher. Josh is incredibly talented, but he has this energy and positivity that spreads around the office. I don’t think Smack would look the same if we hadn’t signed him seven years ago.”
Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe also came back up, saying that Jordan was “exactly why [he] got in this business,” giving him lavish praises for his songwriting career. Blaine Rhodes from Tape Room Music also echoed everyone’s sentiments of pride for the song. Combustion Music’s Chris Farren spoke about Matt’s career and thanked the Universal team and his Combustion staff.
Mike Dungan once again came to the front, this time with some figures regarding the song’s success. He noted that “Buy Dirt” was one of the top five most streamed songs for two years in a row—both in 2021 and 2022—and that the track has notched over 677 million streams to date. He mentioned its nomination at the 57th ACM Awards, as well as his expectation for a win at the upcoming 56th Annual CMA Awards on Nov. 9.
Next the men behind the song took a few moments at the mic.
Matt took the lead, explaining how the song came to be. “When we sat down to write this song we were at a cabin about an hour outside of Nashville,” he recalled. “We weren’t trying to write a hit, we just wanted to write something that we loved. To see the life that this song took on is really special.”
He also looked back on the last few years of Jordan’s career, while also noting the special bond that the two sets of brothers and best friends share. He thanked Luke for his part on the song, the Universal team, his family and management, as well as ASCAP and the publishers at Combustion, Tape Room and Warner Chappell.
Josh went next, immediately apologizing in advance for if he talked too much since this was his first No. 1. He thanked his family for their never ending support, and all the people along the way who helped him get to this point.
“All of us know that to get here, it takes so many people along the way to encourage you, pick you up, and believe in you when you don’t believe in yourself,” Josh shared. “I thank Lee and the crew [at Smack] whose north star has always been making music that makes people feel something. They have given me a space to create music that I believe in.” He added, “This [song captures] who we want to be as men, husbands, and fathers. We want to live this way and that will always be one of the most special things about this song.”
Jacob took over from there, echoing his thanks to his wife and daughters, and taking a moment to speak about each of his co-writers and his relationships with them. He also gave a special sentiment to his mother, who one can assume he credits for much of his love for music.
“My mom is an incredible piano player and the melodies that come out of this little lady are just incredible. I remember she wanted me and Jordan to take piano lessons, but we were going to play professional baseball so we didn’t need piano lessons,” he said cheekily. “For the four years that we took them, I sure appreciate you forcing us to do that. A lot of it stuck, so thank you.”
Luke Bryan shared his thanks next. He told the story about getting the text to be a part of the song, noting how honored he is to be featured on a song that “does what a song oughta do,” which he explained is to tell a message and inspire people.
He also made light of the conversations surrounding the upcoming CMA Awards and joked that, as co-host, he wrote into his contract that the song had to win, to which the audience roared with laughter and applause.
“This is the most fun business in the world in the best town in the world because we don’t get caught up in a bunch of flashy egos,” Luke summed. “We just love to see great songs get written and I’m just honored to be a part of it.”
The man of the hour closed things out with a speech that explained the critical role that honesty has played in his career over the years. He said that “Buy Dirt” exudes the same brand of honesty about the three important things in his life: faith, family and friends.
He spent time thanking his publishing team at Warner Chappell, his management team, UMG Nashville, and his co-writers, while also teasing future Dream Team songs to come.
“I’m so grateful that I’ve been around people from day one that have done nothing but shoot me straight and try to push my career forward,” he shared. “I’m so grateful to be at the best damn label in Nashville, Tennessee. I’m looking forward to writing many, many more songs.
“I hope, fingers crossed, that we get to talk about this song one more time in a couple of weeks [at the CMA Awards]. I do like my in with the co-host,” he said with a laugh before closing. “To every person in this room, thank you for giving me a career. I love you guys. Go buy dirt.”
Adam Doleac Slates ‘Barstool Whiskey Wonderland’ Tour For 2023
/by Lorie HollabaughAdam Doleac. Photo: Cal & Aly
Arista Nashville/Sony Music Nashville’s Adam Doleac has announced a new 2023 headlining trek named after his brand new album, Barstool Whiskey Wonderland. The tour will feature special guest Alana Springsteen.
Doleac will visit 27 cities on the tour, which begins Feb. 9 in Dallas with stops in Boston, Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Atlanta and more through May 6. Tickets will go on sale this Friday, Oct. 7 at 10 a.m. local time.
His debut album, Barstool Whiskey Wonderland, features 18 tracks including “Fake Love,” a collaboration with Danielle Bradbery, that was penned by Hardy, Ryan Hurd, Maren Morris and Jordan Schmidt.
Lainey Wilson To Be Honored As Breakout Artist Of The Year At 2022 CMT Artists Of The Year
/by Lorie HollabaughLainey Wilson. Photo: Alysse Gafkjenon
Lainey Wilson will be honored as Breakout Artist of the Year at the upcoming 2022 CMT Artists Of The Year, premiering Oct. 14 at 8 p.m. CT on CMT.
“When it came to naming Breakout Artist, Lainey Wilson was unquestionably our only choice this year,” notes Leslie Fram, SVP, Music & Talent, CMT. “Not only is she a powerhouse performer and tremendously gifted songwriter with contagious energy and drive, she is just starting to show the world her range and versatility, as evident by her upcoming role on hit series Yellowstone. From naming her as part of the Next Women of Country franchise in 2019 to watching her shine on our CMT Music Awards stage with one of the most memorable performances this year, we couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate Lainey’s much-deserved successes and cheer her on for all that’s next!”
Wilson has a growing string of No. 1s, including the Platinum-certified “Things A Man Oughta Know” and “Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell. Her two latest singles, “Heart Like a Truck” and “wait in the truck” with Hardy, both continue to climb the charts as she readies to drop her new album, Bell Bottom Country, on Oct. 28.
This year, she has garnered three wins at 2022 ACM Awards and is the leading nominee at November’s CMA Awards, where she notches six nods. Wilson will also play upcoming dates with Luke Combs, and this fall will make her acting debut on the series Yellowstone.
“This past year has been a wild ride,” Wilson explains. “To be considered for this award reinforces that the years of hard work my team and I have put in was all worth it. The team at CMT feels like family, and the way they genuinely support artists on their platform is so special and important for dreamers like me.”
Wilson has a strong history with CMT, first named to its Next Women of Country franchise in 2019. This past April, she performed “Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell on the 2022 CMT Music Awards. She has also been featured in an episode of CMT Digital’s hit series CMT Campfire Sessions.
Broadcasting from Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center, the evening will salute Carly Pearce, Cody Johnson, Kane Brown, Luke Combs and Walker Hayes with special performances, guests and congratulatory moments. Alan Jackson will be named Artist of a Lifetime.
Additional honorees, performers and presenters for the 90-minute special will be announced soon.
Conner Smith Named Opry NextStage Artist For October
/by Lydia FarthingConner Smith. Photo: Danielle Piazza
Rising singer-songwriter Conner Smith has been tapped as the latest addition to the Grand Ole Opry’s NextStage Class of 2022. Smith will make his NextStage artist debut at the Opry on Tuesday, Oct. 25. Tickets for the evening’s show are available here.
Smith, who signed to BMI at the age of nine, has penned most of his recorded songs, including five of the six tracks on his debut collection, Didn’t Go Too Far, released via The Valory Music Co. The project features his first top 40 hit, “Learn From It,” and virial smash “I Hate Alabama.” Named one of Spotify’s Hot Country Artists to Watch for 2022 and Amazon Music’s 2022 Amazon Artists To Watch, the 22-year-old was the only country act named to Pandora’s all-genre Artists To Watch 2022: The Pandora Ten list.
“I have been so blessed to see a lot of my dreams come true this year but there has not been a moment comparable to my Grand Ole Opry debut,” Smith shares. “Standing in that circle, as a kid from Nashville, I truly felt the weight and history of the Grand Ole Opry in all its depth. To be even more accepted by the Opry as a NextStage Artist means more than I can say.”
Opry NextStage collaborations include live performances, strategic marketing support and short-form documentary-style storytelling created by Opry Entertainment’s content team. Opry NextStage presents rising artists who are making standout music at the forefront of their careers through the Opry’s marketing platforms, which are set to deliver more than 100 million impressions.
Smith is the sixth act to join the 2022 class that includes Breland, Callista Clark, Restless Road, Elvie Shane and Morgan Wade. The two previous NextStage classes have featured Parker McCollum, Lainey Wilson, Riley Green and Tenille Townes, who all went on to earn ACM New Male and Female Artist of the Year trophies. NextStage launched in 2019 with an inaugural class that included Green, Tegan Marie, Townes and Travis Denning.
Nashville’s Music Industry Gathers To Honor Jordan Davis Two Times Over
/by Lydia FarthingPictured (L-R, back row): Mike Sistad (ASCAP), Spencer Nohe (Warner Chappell), Chris Van Belkom (Combustion), Lee Krabel (SMACKSONGS), Shannan Hatch (SESAC), Courtney Crist (Anthem), Gilles Godard (Anthem), Troy Tomlinson (Universal Publishing), Mike Dungan (UMG Nashville), Noah Dewey (Anthem), Blain Rhodes (The Tape Room), Chris Farren (Combustion). (L-R, front row): Josh Jenkins, Jordan Davis, Luke Bryan, Matt Jenkins, Jacob Davis. Photo: Larry McCormack
Some of Music Row’s biggest and brightest could be found at Tailgate Brewery in Nashville’s Germantown on Monday (Oct. 3) to celebrate a couple of Jordan Davis‘ recent No. 1s. The MCA recording artist, along with his co-writers, were honored for “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot” and “Buy Dirt” both making it all the way to the top of the charts.
Hosted by ASCAP’s Mike Sistad, the celebration started with “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot,” which made its climb to the peak of country radio in tandem with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The song was written in 2014 by Davis and Lonnie Fowler, who rang in his first No. 1 with the track, and was produced by Paul DiGiovanni.
Anthem Music’s Noah Dewey kicked things off, thanking all of the people who got the song to the top. He was followed by Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe who doted on Lonnie, noting that he was “an incredibly talented songwriter of timeless songs.” Whitt Jeffords from Amylase Music took the mic next, explaining that the song stood the test of time from its origin to its trip to No. 1.
When Mike Dungan, Chairman and CEO of UMG Nashville, made his way to the front, he started his presentation by yelling, “I love Jordan Davis!” which earned a round of applause in agreement. He proceeded to explain that though it hadn’t been officially certified just yet, the guys were going to receive 2x Platinum plaques for the song’s success.
“The truth is, it’s not officially certified,” Mike admitted. “We have an audit glitch so it’ll be certified in like 15 minutes, but we’re celebrating anyway! We’re really proud of this record and really proud of you, Jordan.”
The writers took over from there.
Pictured (L-R): Mike Sistad (ASCAP), Spencer Nohe (Warner Chappell), Lonnie Fowler, Jordan Davis, Whit Jefferds (Amylase), Noah Dewey (Anthem), and Mike Dungan (UMG). Photo: Larry McCormack
Jordan mentioned the leaps and bounds “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot” had to go through to get to the top, all the while bragging on his MCA Nashville team. “MCA Nashville is the best out there,” he noted. “This is just as much y’all’s as it is me and Lonnie’s.”
He also took the crowd back to the day the song was written, explaining how special the song was. “This will always be one of my favorite songs I’ve ever released because, much like with any song I put out, I go back to the day we wrote it. I remember that more than the stuff that follows, although this is pretty damn sweet,” he shared beaming at the packed room.
Lonnie closed things out at the first of the celebrations. As it was his first No. 1, he prepared a few pages of notes, joking that he’d had enough time to think about what he wanted to say since he wasn’t sure this party was ever going to happen. He first thanked God for the gift of music, as well as his family and, of course, Jordan. “Thank you to Jordan for bringing your gift of phrasing, imagery and lyrical swagger into the room that day,” he said with a laugh. “He has a way of saying things that’s all Jordan and nobody else.”
Listing off the rest of the team responsible for bringing the song to life and sharing it around the world, he closed by recalling when he got the call that it was probably going to hit the top of the charts.
“When I got the call that it looked like the song was going to hit No. 1, I happened to be standing in a good friend’s yard in East Nashville looking at the entire upstairs of their house in the wake of the tornado. In the weeks after, the world shut down and that’s when the song hit No. 1,” Lonnie remembered. “It was definitely a difficult time to celebrate a big career success in the wake of those two things. For a long time, I didn’t know if I would get a chance to celebrate with anybody in person, but here it is. It’s actually happening. Thanks everyone for coming out, showing up and making the most of this special day.”
Pictured (L-R): Jordan Davis, Mike Dungan (Chairman & CEO, UMG Nashville), Luke Bryan, Cindy Mabe (President, UMG Nashville). Photo: Larry McCormack. Photo: Larry McCormack
Next it was time to honor “Buy Dirt,” which is nominated for the CMA Song and Single of the Year. The Jordan Davis and Luke Bryan duet, written by two sets of brothers—Jordan, Jacob Davis, Josh Jenkins and Matt Jenkins—also won the NSAI Song of the Year last month.
SESAC’s Shannan Hatch kicked things off, touting Josh’s achievements over the last few years—this being his first No. 1. Troy Tomlinson of UMPG commended all four of the writers, as well as producer Paul DiGiovanni for his “less is more” mentality to let the vocals shine. He also announced that UMPG would be making a contribution to MusiCares on behalf of the writers to assist those with mental health and emotional needs.
Anthem’s Noah Dewey returned to the mic, explaining that the group of four best friends had charmingly named themselves the Dream Team. Lee Krabel from SmackSongs followed, putting the spotlight directly on Josh, saying: “It’s hard to imagine a better partner as a publisher. Josh is incredibly talented, but he has this energy and positivity that spreads around the office. I don’t think Smack would look the same if we hadn’t signed him seven years ago.”
Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe also came back up, saying that Jordan was “exactly why [he] got in this business,” giving him lavish praises for his songwriting career. Blaine Rhodes from Tape Room Music also echoed everyone’s sentiments of pride for the song. Combustion Music’s Chris Farren spoke about Matt’s career and thanked the Universal team and his Combustion staff.
Mike Dungan once again came to the front, this time with some figures regarding the song’s success. He noted that “Buy Dirt” was one of the top five most streamed songs for two years in a row—both in 2021 and 2022—and that the track has notched over 677 million streams to date. He mentioned its nomination at the 57th ACM Awards, as well as his expectation for a win at the upcoming 56th Annual CMA Awards on Nov. 9.
Next the men behind the song took a few moments at the mic.
Matt took the lead, explaining how the song came to be. “When we sat down to write this song we were at a cabin about an hour outside of Nashville,” he recalled. “We weren’t trying to write a hit, we just wanted to write something that we loved. To see the life that this song took on is really special.”
He also looked back on the last few years of Jordan’s career, while also noting the special bond that the two sets of brothers and best friends share. He thanked Luke for his part on the song, the Universal team, his family and management, as well as ASCAP and the publishers at Combustion, Tape Room and Warner Chappell.
Josh went next, immediately apologizing in advance for if he talked too much since this was his first No. 1. He thanked his family for their never ending support, and all the people along the way who helped him get to this point.
“All of us know that to get here, it takes so many people along the way to encourage you, pick you up, and believe in you when you don’t believe in yourself,” Josh shared. “I thank Lee and the crew [at Smack] whose north star has always been making music that makes people feel something. They have given me a space to create music that I believe in.” He added, “This [song captures] who we want to be as men, husbands, and fathers. We want to live this way and that will always be one of the most special things about this song.”
Jacob took over from there, echoing his thanks to his wife and daughters, and taking a moment to speak about each of his co-writers and his relationships with them. He also gave a special sentiment to his mother, who one can assume he credits for much of his love for music.
“My mom is an incredible piano player and the melodies that come out of this little lady are just incredible. I remember she wanted me and Jordan to take piano lessons, but we were going to play professional baseball so we didn’t need piano lessons,” he said cheekily. “For the four years that we took them, I sure appreciate you forcing us to do that. A lot of it stuck, so thank you.”
Luke Bryan shared his thanks next. He told the story about getting the text to be a part of the song, noting how honored he is to be featured on a song that “does what a song oughta do,” which he explained is to tell a message and inspire people.
He also made light of the conversations surrounding the upcoming CMA Awards and joked that, as co-host, he wrote into his contract that the song had to win, to which the audience roared with laughter and applause.
“This is the most fun business in the world in the best town in the world because we don’t get caught up in a bunch of flashy egos,” Luke summed. “We just love to see great songs get written and I’m just honored to be a part of it.”
The man of the hour closed things out with a speech that explained the critical role that honesty has played in his career over the years. He said that “Buy Dirt” exudes the same brand of honesty about the three important things in his life: faith, family and friends.
He spent time thanking his publishing team at Warner Chappell, his management team, UMG Nashville, and his co-writers, while also teasing future Dream Team songs to come.
“I’m so grateful that I’ve been around people from day one that have done nothing but shoot me straight and try to push my career forward,” he shared. “I’m so grateful to be at the best damn label in Nashville, Tennessee. I’m looking forward to writing many, many more songs.
“I hope, fingers crossed, that we get to talk about this song one more time in a couple of weeks [at the CMA Awards]. I do like my in with the co-host,” he said with a laugh before closing. “To every person in this room, thank you for giving me a career. I love you guys. Go buy dirt.”
Kelly Prince Named Director Of Event Sales & Services At Cannery Hall
/by Lorie HollabaughKelly Prince. Photo: Jason Bihler
Kelly Prince has joined Cannery Hall as Director of Event Sales and Services. In her new role, she will oversee event management services for all events at Cannery Hall and its four events spaces–Amaranth, Row 1 Stage, The Mil, and Mainstage.
Prior to joining Cannery Hall, Prince spent the last 12 years working in the events industry in and around Nashville. She most recently worked for her alma mater, Middle Tennessee State University, directing event operations. Prince has also worked in event sales and services for the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, War Memorial Auditorium, and Bridgestone Arena.
Additionally, she has led events for high-profile celebrities, professional sports teams, TV shows, movies, musical tours, comedy tours, conferences and more. As she takes on her new role at Cannery Hall, she will continue to serve as an Independent Event Contractor for notable clients, such as the NFL, CMA, and international stadium tours, among others.
“Cannery Hall will be a lot of things for our community: the largest independent music complex in Nashville, a cultural anchor for Cannery Row and one of the coolest event spaces in Nashville,” notes Brent Hyams, General Manager for the venue. “Kelly has been working with event producers and creating memorable events in Nashville for over a decade. Her creativity, passion and kindness will help Cannery Hall play host to some of the most talked-about events in town.”
“I love the charm and character that can only be found in historic venues, and Cannery Hall has it all,” adds Prince. “Cannery Row has held some of the most exclusive and unique events over the last 140 years. I’m excited to kickoff this next chapter of celebrations.”
All four Cannery Hall spaces are now accepting booking inquiries for summer 2023 and beyond. Cannery Hall is in the historic Cannery Row District, which has been a bedrock of Nashville’s music scene for over 40 years.
The War And Treaty & Don Schlitz Join Dottie West Birthday Bash Lineup
/by Lorie HollabaughThe recently crowned Americana Music Association Duo/Group of the Year, The War And Treaty, and legendary songwriter Don Schlitz have joined the lineup for this year’s fourth annual Dottie West Birthday Bash celebration, slated for Oct. 11 at Nashville’s 3rd & Lindsley.
In addition to celebrating West’s 90th birthday, the event also honors a musician or artist who, like her, has made an indelible impact on country music. This year Country Music Hall of Famer, Grand Ole Opry Member and acclaimed Grammy-winning session musician Charlie McCoy will be honored.
Previously announced event host and 55-year Opry member Jeannie Seely and McCoy will perform, along with Country Music Hall of Fame member Brenda Lee and Grand Ole Opry members Rhonda Vincent and Mandy Barnett. The night will also feature John Schneider, Heidi Newfield, Dallas Wayne, Tim Atwood, Kenna West, Tess Frizzell, Bobby Tomberlin, and several surprise guests.
All funds raised at the event will benefit Music Health Alliance. Tickets are available for purchase here.
Previous honorees include Musicians Hall of Fame and North Carolina Hall of Fame member Jimmy Capps (2017); Country Music Hall of Fame inductees Dottie West, Ricky Skaggs and Johnny Gimble (2018); and Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame member Bill Anderson (2019).
Grand Ole Opry To Honor Loretta Lynn During Its 97th Birthday Week Shows
/by Lorie HollabaughLoretta Lynn. Photo: Courtesy of the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry will honor one of its most beloved and iconic members, Loretta Lynn, this week with all Opry shows planned during its 97th Birthday week, paying tribute to her life and legacy. The legend marked 60 years of Opry membership on Sept. 25.
Saturday’s live show, radio broadcast, livestream and Circle Network broadcast will be officially dedicated to the country legend, who passed away Tuesday (Oct. 4) at her home in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. WSM’s Coffee, Country, and Cody will celebrate Lynn’s life with show visits from Opry members and other Lynn friends.
“There is no monument, award, or musical performance that can ever begin to recognize the incredible woman Loretta Lynn was or the contributions she made,” shares Dan Rogers, Opry vice president and executive producer. “There was absolutely nothing like the moment when Loretta was introduced to an Opry audience that would spring to its feet before she had even taken the stage. We are thankful for her life and career and humbled to honor her this week. Loretta and the Opry are forever connected, and as long as there is an Opry, Loretta’s treasured music will live on.”
During last night’s Tuesday Night Opry, several Opry members paid homage to Lynn with their performances, including Jeannie Seely on “You Ain’t Woman Enough,” Chris Young with a portion of “After The Fire Is Gone,” and Carly Pearce with a song she wrote, “Dear Miss Loretta.”
Lynn last performed on the Opry on January 21, 2017 when she inducted her sister Crystal Gayle as a new member of the Grand Ole Opry. That evening, Lynn performed “Fist City,” “You’re Lookin’ at Country,” “You Ain’t Woman Enough” and “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” Earlier this year the Opry recognized Lynn’s 90th birthday featuring performances by Gayle, The Gatlin Brothers, Maggie Rose, and the Opry debut of duo Twitty and Lynn, the grandchildren of Lynn and her frequent duo partner Conway Twitty.
Music Row Pays Tribute To Loretta Lynn
/by Liza AndersonLoretta Lynn. Photo: Russ Harrington
Members of the country music family are remembering country legend Loretta Lynn, who passed away Tuesday morning (Oct. 4). Many artists and industry members have paid tribute to and shared memories of the renowned “Coal Miner’s Daughter.”
Over her 60-year career, the Kentucky native was continuously honored for her immense impact on creators of various genres. Lynn accumulated an amazing 51 Top 10 hits, sold over 45 million albums worldwide, and earned every honor available in the music world. Lynn won four Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards as well as eight CMA awards. She joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1962. She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1988, and and was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors in 2003. She was then welcomed into Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2008, and awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.
Along the way, Lynn broke down barriers for women everywhere with songs such as “Don’t Come Home a Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind),” “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Fist City,” and “The Pill.” She was the first woman to win the CMA and ACM Awards for Entertainer of the Year.
“So sorry to hear about my sister, friend Loretta. We’ve been like sisters all the years we’ve been in Nashville and she was a wonderful human being, wonderful talent, had millions of fans and I’m one of them. I miss her dearly as we all will. May she rest in peace.” – Dolly Parton
“My roots in country music run deep because of may love an admiration for ‘Ms Loretta.’ She was there in the ’80s, when I arrived in Nashville, to encourage me and allow me to open for her on tour… and, she was there to open for me, in Aurora, Illinois, in 2013, which unknowingly was my last public concert before my stroke. The years in between are each gifts wrapped in respect, admiration, awe and love — and we shopped for lots of dresses through those years! Whenever I heard ‘my Randy,’ I knew Loretta was near and her kind, sweet kisses left lipstick memories on my forehead and both cheeks. I wish I could have bottled those kisses and saved them for a day like today, when I learned of her passing. An emptiness came over me as I reflected on the magnitude of Ms Loretta’s presence—in the heart and soul of country music, and the entire world–and the void now created. If your path ever crossed with hers, you immediately felt her magic. Loretta and Doolittle ‘Doo’ represented a legacy marriage with six beautiful children as proof… and, a lot of us that Ms. Loretta took under her wing. I thank God that my career overlapped with The Queen’s—it’s an honor and a privilege. After 90 years of teaching us how to live and love here on earth, we sing her home to heaven, with grateful hearts. Our thoughts and prayers follow the precious Lynn family down this road of loss and transition—thank you for sharing Ms Loretta with us. We will never have another Loretta Lynn…this world isn’t good enough for two of her.” – Randy Travis
“There are simply no words to adequately describe my feelings at this loss. She was the Matriarch of our Opry Family the past several years and even though she could not be there in person, she was very much in that building, in our hearts and on our minds. She was very welcoming to me when I came, asking me to sit down beside her and tell her about me. I was thrilled then and it still thrills me to think she was interested. In the end she just patted my knee and said “Don’t ever change”. Her impact on our industry through her songs was huge. She made everyone aware, starkly at times, of the plight of some women’s lives, and that awareness brought about changes. Of course, I will always remember her sense of humor! She would ask me to tell her a joke and then say “Tell Doo so he can explain it to me”! She will always be one of country music’s greatest gifts to the world.” – Jeannie Seely
“I have lost one of my dearest friends and the world has lost a true treasure.” – Brenda Lee
“Loretta was a good friend and fantastically talented. She was a great writer, singer, and human being. I’ll miss her a lot.” – Willie Nelson
“Today, my world changed, and it will never be the same again. My hero got her wings last night, and it’s been a day filled with tears. Many memories, so much gratitude and thanking my God above for blessing me first with her music and her guidance through the perils of the music world way before we ever met. I looked up to Loretta always. Then when we became friends, she brought me flowers always, and I brought flowers to her. Time has let me share many special moments with her, but now time has taken her from me forever! But she’s left me with so much to remember and cling on to. I thank God above that I got to sing with her on her latest record. I’ve been waiting a long time for that to come to pass. I was busy planning a much-needed trip to Mexico when I got the news, but for now, Mexico will have to wait because my childhood hero Loretta Lynn has caught the train and she’s ‘On Her Way to Heaven.’ Mexico will always be there, but my friend has gone on to glory. I will see her there someday! I miss you so Retti! I think you know how I feel! Your girl always.” – Tanya Tucker
“It is not enough to say today that country music has lost Loretta Lynn, but rather the world has lost a true music legend. Loretta was a woman whose contributions and impact inspired countless artists and transformed the Country genre into a universal art form. She was a Country Music Hall of Fame member and the first woman to receive a CMA Award for Entertainer of the Year. As a trailblazing songwriter, she bravely wrote about socially and culturally relevant topics that came to define a generation. I’ll personally remember Loretta for her spirit, artistry and genius that rivaled contemporaries like Bob Dylan, John Lennon and Paul McCartney.” – Sarah Trahern, CEO, Country Music Association
“The world has lost a treasured icon, and I have lost a friend of more than sixty years. I have so many wonderful memories of touring with Loretta, sharing stages all over the world, laughing together and admiring her strength and tenacity. She was one of a kind as a singer, songwriter, and human being. We are all better off for her having walked among us.” – Bill Anderson
“There simply is not another female artist whose songwriting and artistry have blazed more of a trail or had more impact on the country music industry – and the world – than Loretta Lynn,” said Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. “The true ‘Queen of Country’ had a massive impact on the history and legacy of the Academy, earning 14 ACM Awards, including Entertainer of the Year in 1975, making her the first female to win that coveted trophy. She was also honored with the ACM Artist of the Decade Award for her fearless and legendary work in the 1970s, again the first and only female to achieve that. I was personally honored to work with her family last year for ACM Honors when we celebrated Loretta’s groundbreaking contributions as a songwriter by honoring her with the ACM Poet’s Award. While we all feel the deep loss of an icon, Loretta’s spirit will continue to guide today’s artists and songwriters for decades to come.” – Damon Whiteside, CEO, Academy of Country Music
“The story of Loretta Lynn’s life is unlike any other, yet she drew from that story a body of work that resonates with people who might never fully understand her bleak and remote childhood, her hardscrabble early days, or her adventures as a famous and beloved celebrity. In a music business that is often concerned with aspiration and fantasy, Loretta insisted on sharing her own brash and brave truth.” – Kyle Young, CEO, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
SESAC Promotes Rose Cook To SVP Of Operations
/by LB CantrellRose Cook
SESAC Music Group announced the promotion of Rose Cook to SVP of Operations.
In her new role, the Nashville-based Cook will report to SESAC Music Group’s Chief Operations Officer Malcolm Hawker, and work with the team across the entire portfolio of SESAC companies to drive efficiencies and growth opportunities.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to expand Rose’s operations role out to the SESAC Music Group portfolio,” shares Hawker. “She will continue to drive value for our affiliates, songwriters, publishers and licensing partners by ensuring we are operating at the highest level across all of the SESAC Music Group companies.”
Cook, who was recently named a member of the Leadership Music Class of 2023, was formerly the SVP of Licensing Operations at SESAC. She has been responsible for the operations of the licensing organization, and has restructured and rebuilt digital processes and systems, implemented cross-training programs, and streamlined workflows which have led to improved licensing efficiency and growth.
Prior to joining SESAC in 2017, Cook worked in the financial services industry, spending time at Citigroup, Oppenheimer and most recently Goldman Sachs.
Cole Swindell Notches Fourth Consecutive Week Atop The Charts
/by Lydia FarthingCole Swindell’s fastest-rising single to date, “She Had Me At Heads Carolina,” has spent another week at the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Notching his fourth consecutive week, Swindell is the only artist in 2022 to achieve this feat. The song also reached the top of the Mediabase/Country Aircheck chart.
The track, which harkens back to Jo Dee Messina‘s 1996 hit “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” was produced by Zach Crowell and co-written by Swindell, Ashley Gorley, Jesse Frasure, Thomas Rhett and the original song’s writers Mark D. Sanders and Tim Nichols. Swindell recently spoke to MusicRow about the making of the song.
To celebrate the success of “She Had Me At Heads Carolina,” Swindell released a new acoustic version of the tune.
The track follows previously released singles “Single Saturday Night” and “Never Say Never” with Lainey Wilson, and has been a top 10 most streamed country song for the past 14 consecutive weeks. His 12th career No. 1, the song has amassed nearly 200 million global streams with the largest airplay audience for a country No. 1 this year.
“I continue to be blown away and humbled by the response to this song,” Swindell shares. “I knew it was a special song when we wrote it and I knew that it could be a big song, but to now see it happening because of the support of the fans and radio, has just meant so much to me. Thank you.”
The decorated entertainer recently launched his headlining “Back Down To The Bar Tour” with Ashley Cooke and Dylan Marlowe with upcoming shows in Colorado and Arizona. He will visit Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium with two sold out back-to-back shows on Nov. 2 and 3.