Adam Anders, Jason Owen
On Sunday (Sept. 11), FOX will premiere the new multi-generational musical drama Monarch.
The series focuses on America’s “leading family of country music,” built around the “Queen of Country Music” Dottie Cantrell Roman (played by Academy Award winner Susan Sarandon), and her beloved husband and fellow country music royalty Albie Roman (played by multi-Platinum country music star Trace Adkins).
Susan Sarandon and Trace Adkins in the series premiere of Monarch. Photo: FOX © 2022 FOX Media LLC.
The dramatic story finds the Romans ruling their country music dynasty, a legacy their daughter Nicolette “Nicky” Roman (played by Golden Globe nominee Anna Friel) plans to continue with her own music career. Nicky’s brother Luke Roman (Joshua Sasse) is also in the family business, serving as CEO of the Romans’ Monarch Entertainment. Youngest daughter Gigi Tucker-Roman (Beth Ditto) is very close to her older brother and sister, but in a family of superstars, she’s always felt like bit of an outcast despite her incredible singing voice.
As learned from a sneak peek of the show, things get tricky for the Romans when it’s discovered that the very foundation of their success is a lie. The show, which is 100% owned and produced by FOX Entertainment, debuts with a special two-night event, beginning Sunday, Sept. 11, immediately following the FOX NFL doubleheader at 8 p.m. EST.
Prior to the premiere, MusicRow caught up with Monarch‘s executive producer and top music manager, Jason Owen, as well as Monarch‘s executive music producer Adam Anders.
Owen says that Monarch came about to offer something new to viewers, especially in middle America.
“Gail Berman, who has become my mentor, is a genius producer. She ran FOX during the decade that they had American Idol and Glee,” Owen says. “She has her own production company now and she has felt like there needed to be a country music-centric show for FOX, knowing that FOX’s demographic was really in the middle of the country. No one was really speaking to the middle of the country, they were all speaking to the coast.”
That’s where screenwriter Melissa London Hilfers came in. She was the perfect choice to write the story of the Romans, as she grew up on country music.
“Gail needed someone who knew both TV and the music business—someone that can add authenticity to this, but also add drama to it,” Owen says. “That’s where I came in. We had a meeting three and half years ago and just immediately connected.”
Susan Sarandon and Trace Adkins in the series premiere of Monarch. Photo: FOX © 2022 FOX Media LLC.
With his background in the country music industry, and a client list that includes Kacey Musgraves, Little Big Town, Dan + Shay and Kelsea Ballerini, it’s easy to assume that Owen would have a lot of influence and knowledge to draw on when creating Monarch.
“You’ll see storyline references through the process that you could probably connect some dots to [in country music history], whether it’s a divorce or something like that. There’s a story about one of the record labels buying someone’s masters. There are those through lines that come from reality.
“Look, there’s no question that I’m surrounded by divas every day—including myself!” Owen adds with a laugh.
There is one character, however, that is inspired after a well-known Nashvillian.
“One real life example I took for the script was for Dottie’s hairdresser Earl,” Owens says. “Earl Cox is a legend in hair for country music and a dear friend of mine. He’s done hair for Martina McBride, Wynonna Judd, Tammy Wynette, Faith Hill, and everybody else you can imagine. He’s such a character and he’s such a wonderful human.
“Earl was not part of the original script. At some point, I said, ‘We need this counterpart because the glam teams, specifically ones that have been with these artists for a long time, have a big influence on them.’ So Earl was written in. We got permission from Earl to use his real name. I use a lot from him, including a lot of his sayings and interactions.”
In a show about country music, it’s no surprise that the music on the show was of the utmost importance. That’s why the Monarch team brought in three-time Grammy Award nominee and series executive music producer Adam Anders to head up the music. Anders has experience in creating a soundtrack for a television series that is larger than life, as he was the executive music producer for Glee.
Anders is also a true country music fan from childhood, making him the perfect steward for the music of Monarch.
“The first record I ever bought was when I saved my pennies to buy Kenny Rogers‘ The Gambler,” Anders says. “I’ve always had an affinity for country music. My parents loved it. I moved to Nashville whenI was 16 years old. I started as a bass player and did a lot of Christian and country records. I cut my teeth as a songwriter in Nashville.
Beth Ditto and Anna Friel in the series premiere of Monarch. Photo: FOX © 2022 FOX Media LLC.
“The thing that drew me to the show was it’s not just classic country or new country, it’s everything in between as well,” he adds. “There was an opportunity for original songs. The only real correlation with Glee is that we get to introduce songs to a new generation. [Viewers] might not have heard a Waylon Jennings song, a Hank Williams song or Barbara Mandrell song, so it’s fun for me to reframe those in a way that is appealing to this generation. A great song is a great song.”
When it came time to find a theme song for Monarch, more Nashville creatives were called in. The Love Junkies—Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna and Liz Rose—wrote a haunting song called “The Card You Gamble” for the show. Talented songstress Caitlyn Smith recorded it.
“FOX really wanted an original theme song versus a licensed theme song,” Owen shares. “I have had tremendous success with the Love Junkies and they’re great friends of mine. I called Beth Laird first and she got them all on a Zoom with me. I walked through what the show was, what we were looking for, and the concept. I sent the first script and talked through it all. Within three or four days, they had that song back to me.
“Then, of course, we needed someone to sing it,” he adds. “FOX was going to hire a singer that does theme songs, but I said, ‘No, I have literally one of the best voices in country music: Caitlyn Smith.’ She jumped on it and they were thrilled.”
One thing that is evident with the Monarch team is their intention to include as many Nashville creators as possible.
“The songwriting community in Nashville [is involved in the new songs], as well as the musician community,” shares Anders. “We’re tracking every song in Nashville and all the backgrounds are Nashville singers, so it’s a really a Nashville affair.”
Catch the series premiere of Monarch on Sunday, Sept. 11, immediately following the FOX NFL doubleheader (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET, and simultaneously to all time zones). It then makes its time period premiere Tuesday, Sept. 20 (9:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT), following the season six debut of The Resident (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET/PT).
Luke Bryan Announces Eighth Annual Crash My Playa For January
/by Lorie HollabaughLuke Bryan. Photo: Robby Kline
Luke Bryan is heading back to the beach for the eighth annual Crash My Playa concert vacation from Jan. 19-22 at the Moon Palace Cancún.
The event will feature four nights of music on a private stretch of white sand beach, with Bryan headlining two of the four nights with fellow American Idol judge Lionel Richie, who is making his debut appearance at the event.
Chris Stapleton and Cole Swindell will return this year as headliners, and Dustin Lynch will once again host and perform at a special poolside party. Additional performers during the four-day event include Ashley McBryde, Brian Kelley, Carly Pearce, Chase Rice, Dylan Scott and DJ Rock. Kendell Marvel will also return with his special Honky Tonk Experience late-night performance. Additional performers will be announced later this fall.
“Oh my gosh this line up! Some dear friends and new friends but regardless, what an amazing treat for the fans,” Bryan notes. “Everybody rest up and get ready for these four beachside hangs.”
A limited amount of all-inclusive Crash My Playa 2023 event packages will be available to the public on Sept. 13 at 12 p.m. CT at crashmyplaya.com.
Lineup Announced For Dottie West Birthday Bash Hosted By Jeannie Seely
/by Lorie HollabaughPerformers have been announced for the Fourth Annual Dottie West Birthday Bash set for Oct. 11 at Nashville’s 3rd & Lindsley.
Hosted by Grand Ole Opry Member Jeannie Seely, the 90th birthday celebration for West will include performances by Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry Member Charlie McCoy, who will be honored for his impact on country music.
Country Music Hall of Fame members Ray Stevens and Brenda Lee, as well as Grand Ole Opry members Rhonda Vincent and Mandy Barnett, John Schneider, Heidi Newfield, Dallas Wayne, Tim Atwood, Kenna West, Tess Frizzell, Bobby Tomberlin and other surprise guests will also take the stage.
Tickets for the annual event are available now for purchase here.
Industry Ink: Randy Travis, Lauren Alaina, Big Machine, Catie Offerman, Cooper Alan
/by Lydia FarthingRandy Travis’ More Life Documentary Earns Six Telly Awards
Pictured (L-R): WMN’s Justin Luffman and Shane Tarleton, Randy Travis, Mary Travis, Tony Conway, Zach Farnum and WMN’s Mike Du. Photo: Courtesy Warner Music Nashville
Country Music Hall of Famer Randy Travis was recently presented six Telly Awards for his documentary, More Life. Travis received the honors for Gold Winner in Non-Broadcast – Editing, Gold Winner in Non-Broadcast – Biography, Silver Winner in Non-Broadcast – Directing, Silver Winner in Non-Broadcast – Use of Archival Footage, Silver Winner in Non-Broadcast – Documentary: Individual, and Silver Winner in Non-Broadcast – Music/Concert.
In 2011, More Life started as a concert special honoring the 25th anniversary of Travis’ iconic album Storms of Life. As the film was being finalized in 2013, Travis unexpectedly became ill and suffered a massive stroke, making him unable to perform and severely limiting his speech. Since then, the film has become a celebration of his legacy.
“Producing More Life has been a labor of love for the past eleven years. Having the documentary released to the world, and received with such accolades, feels so right. Randy Travis is the cornerstone of Warner Music Nashville and we are honored and thrilled to help tell his story with More Life,” shares Shane Tarleton, EVP, Artist Development, Warner Music Nashville.
Lauren Alaina Performs At CMHOF’s 10th Annual Nightfall At The Hall
Pictured (L-R, back row): Ben Hall, senior director of development at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum; Zach Farnum, Troubadour Advisory Council leadership team member; Lauren Alaina; Patrick Thomas, chair of the Troubadour Advisory Council; Mary Lauren Teague, Troubadour Advisory Council leadership team member; (L-R, front row): Katherine Smith, senior manager of advancement at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum; Ella Choi; Katie Cline Moore, Troubadour Advisory Council leadership team member; and Lisa Purcell, senior vice president of external affairs at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Lauren Alaina took the stage at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s 10th annual Nightfall at the Hall concert on Wednesday (Sept. 7). The night serves as an after-hours celebration exclusively for the museum’s Troubadour members.
Prior to Alaina’s performance, student artist Ella Choi performed “Blueberry Love,” a song that she wrote with guidance from museum staff as part of the museum’s flagship educational program, Words & Music.
For more information or to become a Troubadour member, click here.
Addie Morton Joins Big Machine Records, Samantha Kane Moves To BMLG
Addie Morton & Samantha Kane
Addie Morton has been named Promotion Coordinator for Big Machine Records.
Morton fills the position previously held by Samantha Kane, who moved into the newly created role of Marketing & Event Manager for all of Big Machine Label Group.
Catie Offerman Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
Catie Offerman. Photo: Chris Hollo
MCA Nashville singer-songwriter Catie Offerman made her Grand Ole Opry debut earlier this month (Sept. 2). Offerman showed off her talent as a multi-instrumentalist by playing her fiddle and guitar on songs such as “Happyland Trailer Park” and “Don’t Do It In Texas.”
“I just finished playing my Opry debut and honestly, I can’t believe it’s over because I feel like I’ve prepared for this my whole life, and it was over just like that. It’s just so surreal to be part of this country music family, something that I’ve dreamed about for years, and even talked to my grandparents about. And here I am, I did it and I can’t wait to do it again!” says Offerman.
“It is so special to have my family here, they came all the way from Texas, 15 hours in the car with their chihuahuas, just to be here,” she continues. “It’s just really sweet because it’s a long haul and it was amazing knowing that they were out there supporting me, though they’ve supported me my whole life. Whether it’s been me playing in smokey bars in Austin or God knows where in Texas, pizza restaurants, polka gigs, all the way to the Opry they’ve been there for me. So, this is really special to share this moment with them,” she adds.
Cooper Alan To Make Grand Ole Opry Debut
Cooper Alan will make his Grand Ole Opry debut on Sept. 21, joining a lineup of Opry members The Isaacs and the Del McCoury Band, along with Priscilla Block, Steven Curtis Chapman and more.
With over 100 million streams on his music and 10 million followers across social platforms, Alan has built a fanbase through his writing and performing sold-out shows across the country.
“Making my Opry debut is something I’ve dreamed of my entire life. My heroes have all sung on that stage and I’m incredibly honored, humbled, and grateful that it is my turn to step into that circle. A huge thank you to the Opry staff for believing in me and my amazing team for working so hard to help me get here!” Alan shares.
“We have lots of respect for artists who go from playing bars to headlining their own tours, all while growing such an engaged & dedicated fan base. Because of that, we’re thrilled to welcome Cooper onto the Grand Ole Opry stage to make his debut,” notes Grand Ole Opry Director of Artist Relations & Programming Strategy Jordan Pettit.
Breland Looks To Bridge The Genre Gap On Debut ‘Cross Country’ Project [Interview]
/by Lydia FarthingBreland. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine
Since independently releasing his breakthrough smash hit “My Truck” on social media in 2020, genre-bending singer-songwriter Breland has spent the last couple years taking the country world by storm and making quite the mark on Nashville along the way.
In that time, the New Jersey native has kept busy, hosting his own “Breland & Friends” benefit concert at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium, which raised over $140,000 for the Oasis Center, as well as being included on countless artist to watch lists. He’s been featured on many projects from established country and hip-hop artists, such as Dierks Bentley‘s “Beers On Me” alongside Hardy, Nelly‘s “High Horse” with Blanco Brown, and more. Not to mention he’s been popping out his own collection of collaborations, including the Gold-certified “Throw It Back” with Keith Urban.
Breland. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine
All the while, though, the magnetic entertainer was hard at work perfecting his eagerly awaited debut project, Cross Country, which was officially unveiled today (Sept. 9).
Taking its name from his autobiographical 2021 single, which earned a remixed version featuring Mickey Guyton, Cross Country features over three dozen co-writers within its fourteen tracks spanning varied levels of success, from Nashville writer royalty such as Derrick Southerland, Ashley Gorley, Monty Criswell and Jessie Jo Dillon, to fellow artists like Sam Hunt, Ernest, Hardy and Ryan Hurd. Its track list also features a fair share of newer tunesmiths such as Jacob Durrett, Cameron Bartolini and Rocky Block. However, Breland’s hand and signature flair can be heard on every song.
“I’m someone that can write a song entirely by myself, but I love co-writing because it’s social,” Breland shares with MusicRow. “You end up coming to different conclusions than you would come to on your own, and I feel like each of the songwriters that I wrote these records with all have a unique point-of-view. They all have different things that they bring to the table melodically and conceptually.
Breland. Photo: Evan Kaufmann
Cross Country includes a handful of previously released tracks, such as the title track with Guyton, the Urban-graced “Throw It Back,” the infectious “Praise The Lord” featuring Thomas Rhett, and the Shania Twain-inspired “Natural.” However, the project also brings plenty of fresh blood in its track list, all of which showcase Breland’s journey over the past few years.
“[This album] has been a long time coming. I feel like every artist is waiting for the opportunity to put out their debut album, and I’ve been working on this one since I signed my deal two and a half years ago. There are songs on here from early 2020 before the pandemic and songs from just a few months ago,” he notes. “I’ve grown a lot during that span and lived a lot of life during that time as well, so there’s a good array of songs, a lot of sonic diversity, and also a lot of different types of stories on this album.”
Breland. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine
Helmed by Breland’s longtime producers Sam Sumser and Sean Small, who oversaw the project nearly in its entirety, the album encompasses his signature “Cross Country” sound which, as he explains, includes a myriad of different musical influences. Whether merging with gospel, Motown, R&B, hip-hop or any other combination, the project aims to show a slightly different side of country music intersecting with other genres through each song.
“Each song is important and helps cover some ground in terms of the different intersections that I’m trying to hit with country and [other genres]. They all contribute to the Cross Country narrative and soundscape,” he explains. “You never know when you go into a room what’s going to happen, especially when you’re trying to be experimental with the sounds. You’re not always going to land it, which is why when you end up with a body of work with a bunch of songs that you feel like you did land it, they all represent something more.”
An entertainer known for his high-flying collaborations, Cross Country includes two new ones: “Told You I Could Drink” with help from country trio Lady A, and “Here For It” which features labelmate Ingrid Andress.
Pictured (L-R): Reservoir EVP Creative John Ozier, Reservoir Creative Coordinator Beth St. Jean, Zachary Manno, Breland, Reservoir VP Creative Greg Gallo
Born after a surprise meeting at a CMA Awards after party, Breland joined forces with Lady A’s Charles Kelley for their tune, along with newcomer Zachary Manno. In May of this year, Manno signed with Reservoir in a first-of-its-kind deal for the publishing house through its Protégé mentorship campaign. Launched by Breland, the platform aims to elevate and guide rising Nashville talent and provide them with opportunities that might otherwise be hard to come by.
“Zach is such a talented man. It was shocking to me that he hadn’t had any major cuts given the talent that he possesses as a writer, producer and guitarist, coupled with the vibe that he brings to the studio. I had written with him a few times and every time we got in together, we made something magical,” Breland shares. “He’s someone that I think is going to really crush it in country music.”
Among the rest of the album’s track list are a few that the Bad Realm Records/Atlantic Records/Warner Music Nashville artist is particularly excited for fans to get their hands on, including the powerfully delivered “For What It’s Worth,” which he believes will be one of the biggest songs on the record and ready for radio in no time.
Another highlight of the project can be heard in “Good For You,” which was penned alongside rising Warner Nashville artist Tyler Braden. The track gives the breakthrough entertainer a chance to show off his pipes with a moving vocal performance that hasn’t really been heard before. “I think if you just listen to ‘Throw It Back,’ ‘My Truck’ and some of the bigger records, people might not know that I’m a vocalist,” he notes. “That song gives me the opportunity to share some of my chops, and it’s a really well written song.”
Breland. Photo: Jimmy Fontaine
However, the song that Breland is most looking forward to is a touching track titled “Growing Pains” that nearly didn’t make the cut for the project. Chronicling his journey over the past few years, the young trailblazer notes that it’s the most accurate reflection of where he feels he is now, while also diving into some of the recent lessons learned.
As one of the voices leading the charge for Black country artists’ representation in the genre, “Growing Pains,” which was written with Sumser, Small and Stephen McGregor, speaks to that sentiment while also showing that growth isn’t always pretty.
“Growing Pains’ was the last song written to make it onto the project.” He explains, “I’ve grown a lot [over the past year] and I realized that the career growth that I’ve experienced is a direct reflection of the personal growth that has been happening… However, it’s also recognizing that growth isn’t always a linear process and that you might still have down days, but it’s how you respond to those that really shows how far you’ve come.”
With this colossal debut project under his belt and the start of a new chapter in his career, Breland, as always, has his eyes set on what’s next. Already hard at work on his sophomore effort, the burgeoning artist has plenty more in the works, including some still-under wraps opportunities in the TV and film space, and hopefully bringing these new songs to crowds all across the country.
Breland’s debut album, Cross Country, is available everywhere now.
Luke Combs Takes His Star Power Worldwide With Upcoming 2023 Tour
/by Lydia FarthingCountry superstar Luke Combs will embark on a world tour in 2023, spanning 3 continents, 16 countries, and 35 shows.
The trek includes 16 stadiums across North America, such as AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas; Nashville’s Nissan Stadium; Kansas City’s GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium; and Foxborough’s Gillette Stadium. The reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year will also make stops in Australia, New Zealand, U.K., Ireland, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, France and Belgium.
Tickets for the North American dates, which will feature special guests Riley Green, Lainey Wilson, Flatland Cavalry and Brent Cobb, will be available with a variety of pre-sale options starting Sept. 14 at 4 p.m. local time, with general on-sale following Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. local time. General on-sale for the international concerts also begins Sept. 16 at 9 a.m. local time in Europe and 2 p.m. local time in Australia and New Zealand. Special guests on the Australian and New Zealand dates will be Cody Johnson and Lane Pittman.
Combs’ new album, Growin’ Up, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart this past June. Produced by Combs, Chip Matthews and Jonathan Singleton, the record marks his third studio album following 2019’s 3x Platinum What You See is What You Get and the 4x Platinum debut, This One’s For You.
Luke Combs 2023 World Tour Dates:
March 25, 2023—Arlington, TX—AT&T Stadium*
April 1, 2023—Indianapolis, IN—Lucas Oil Stadium*
April 15, 2023—Nashville, TN—Nissan Stadium*
April 22, 2023—Detroit, MI—Ford Field*
April 29, 2023—Pittsburgh, PA—Acrisure Stadium*
May 6, 2023—Chicago, IL—Soldier Field*
May 13, 2023—Minneapolis, MN—U.S. Bank Stadium*
May 20, 2023—Boise, ID—Albertsons Stadium*
May 27, 2023—Vancouver, BC—BC Place*
June 3, 2023—Edmonton, AB—Commonwealth Stadium*
June 10, 2023—Kansas City, MO—GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium*
June 17, 2023—St. Louis, MO—Busch Stadium*
July 8, 2023—Tampa, FL—Raymond James Stadium*
July 15, 2023—Charlotte, NC—Bank of America Stadium*
July 22, 2023—Foxborough, MA—Gillette Stadium*
July 29, 2023—Philadelphia, PA—Lincoln Financial Field*
August 9, 2023—Auckland, New Zealand—Spark Arena+
August 11, 2023—Brisbane, Australia—Brisbane Entertainment Centre+
August 16, 2023—Sydney, Australia—Qudos Bank Arena+
August 20, 2023—Melbourne, Australia—Rod Laver Arena+
August 23, 2023—Adelaide, Australia—Adelaide Entertainment Centre+
August 26, 2023—Perth, Australia—RAC Arena+
September 30, 2023—Oslo, Norway—Spektrum
October 1, 2023—Stockholm, Sweden—Annexet
October 4, 2023—Copenhagen, Denmark—Vega
October 6, 2023—Hamburg, Germany—Barclays Arena
October 7, 2023—Amsterdam, Netherlands—AFAS Live
October 8, 2023—Paris, France—La Cigale
October 10, 2023—Zurich, Switzerland—The Hall
October 11, 2023—Brussels, Belgium—Ancienne Belgique
October 13, 2023—Dublin, Ireland—3Arena
October 14, 2023—Belfast, N. Ireland—SSE Arena
October 16, 2023—Glasgow, Scotland—OVO Hydro Arena
October 17, 2023—Manchester, England—AO Arena
October 19, 2023—London, England—The O2 Arena
*with special guests Riley Green, Lainey Wilson, Flatland Cavalry and Brent Cobb
+with special guests Cody Johnson and Lane Pittman
‘Monarch’ Execs Prep For Sunday’s Premiere [Interview]
/by LB CantrellAdam Anders, Jason Owen
On Sunday (Sept. 11), FOX will premiere the new multi-generational musical drama Monarch.
The series focuses on America’s “leading family of country music,” built around the “Queen of Country Music” Dottie Cantrell Roman (played by Academy Award winner Susan Sarandon), and her beloved husband and fellow country music royalty Albie Roman (played by multi-Platinum country music star Trace Adkins).
Susan Sarandon and Trace Adkins in the series premiere of Monarch. Photo: FOX © 2022 FOX Media LLC.
The dramatic story finds the Romans ruling their country music dynasty, a legacy their daughter Nicolette “Nicky” Roman (played by Golden Globe nominee Anna Friel) plans to continue with her own music career. Nicky’s brother Luke Roman (Joshua Sasse) is also in the family business, serving as CEO of the Romans’ Monarch Entertainment. Youngest daughter Gigi Tucker-Roman (Beth Ditto) is very close to her older brother and sister, but in a family of superstars, she’s always felt like bit of an outcast despite her incredible singing voice.
As learned from a sneak peek of the show, things get tricky for the Romans when it’s discovered that the very foundation of their success is a lie. The show, which is 100% owned and produced by FOX Entertainment, debuts with a special two-night event, beginning Sunday, Sept. 11, immediately following the FOX NFL doubleheader at 8 p.m. EST.
Prior to the premiere, MusicRow caught up with Monarch‘s executive producer and top music manager, Jason Owen, as well as Monarch‘s executive music producer Adam Anders.
Owen says that Monarch came about to offer something new to viewers, especially in middle America.
“Gail Berman, who has become my mentor, is a genius producer. She ran FOX during the decade that they had American Idol and Glee,” Owen says. “She has her own production company now and she has felt like there needed to be a country music-centric show for FOX, knowing that FOX’s demographic was really in the middle of the country. No one was really speaking to the middle of the country, they were all speaking to the coast.”
That’s where screenwriter Melissa London Hilfers came in. She was the perfect choice to write the story of the Romans, as she grew up on country music.
“Gail needed someone who knew both TV and the music business—someone that can add authenticity to this, but also add drama to it,” Owen says. “That’s where I came in. We had a meeting three and half years ago and just immediately connected.”
Susan Sarandon and Trace Adkins in the series premiere of Monarch. Photo: FOX © 2022 FOX Media LLC.
With his background in the country music industry, and a client list that includes Kacey Musgraves, Little Big Town, Dan + Shay and Kelsea Ballerini, it’s easy to assume that Owen would have a lot of influence and knowledge to draw on when creating Monarch.
“You’ll see storyline references through the process that you could probably connect some dots to [in country music history], whether it’s a divorce or something like that. There’s a story about one of the record labels buying someone’s masters. There are those through lines that come from reality.
“Look, there’s no question that I’m surrounded by divas every day—including myself!” Owen adds with a laugh.
There is one character, however, that is inspired after a well-known Nashvillian.
“One real life example I took for the script was for Dottie’s hairdresser Earl,” Owens says. “Earl Cox is a legend in hair for country music and a dear friend of mine. He’s done hair for Martina McBride, Wynonna Judd, Tammy Wynette, Faith Hill, and everybody else you can imagine. He’s such a character and he’s such a wonderful human.
“Earl was not part of the original script. At some point, I said, ‘We need this counterpart because the glam teams, specifically ones that have been with these artists for a long time, have a big influence on them.’ So Earl was written in. We got permission from Earl to use his real name. I use a lot from him, including a lot of his sayings and interactions.”
In a show about country music, it’s no surprise that the music on the show was of the utmost importance. That’s why the Monarch team brought in three-time Grammy Award nominee and series executive music producer Adam Anders to head up the music. Anders has experience in creating a soundtrack for a television series that is larger than life, as he was the executive music producer for Glee.
Anders is also a true country music fan from childhood, making him the perfect steward for the music of Monarch.
“The first record I ever bought was when I saved my pennies to buy Kenny Rogers‘ The Gambler,” Anders says. “I’ve always had an affinity for country music. My parents loved it. I moved to Nashville whenI was 16 years old. I started as a bass player and did a lot of Christian and country records. I cut my teeth as a songwriter in Nashville.
Beth Ditto and Anna Friel in the series premiere of Monarch. Photo: FOX © 2022 FOX Media LLC.
“The thing that drew me to the show was it’s not just classic country or new country, it’s everything in between as well,” he adds. “There was an opportunity for original songs. The only real correlation with Glee is that we get to introduce songs to a new generation. [Viewers] might not have heard a Waylon Jennings song, a Hank Williams song or Barbara Mandrell song, so it’s fun for me to reframe those in a way that is appealing to this generation. A great song is a great song.”
When it came time to find a theme song for Monarch, more Nashville creatives were called in. The Love Junkies—Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna and Liz Rose—wrote a haunting song called “The Card You Gamble” for the show. Talented songstress Caitlyn Smith recorded it.
“FOX really wanted an original theme song versus a licensed theme song,” Owen shares. “I have had tremendous success with the Love Junkies and they’re great friends of mine. I called Beth Laird first and she got them all on a Zoom with me. I walked through what the show was, what we were looking for, and the concept. I sent the first script and talked through it all. Within three or four days, they had that song back to me.
“Then, of course, we needed someone to sing it,” he adds. “FOX was going to hire a singer that does theme songs, but I said, ‘No, I have literally one of the best voices in country music: Caitlyn Smith.’ She jumped on it and they were thrilled.”
One thing that is evident with the Monarch team is their intention to include as many Nashville creators as possible.
“The songwriting community in Nashville [is involved in the new songs], as well as the musician community,” shares Anders. “We’re tracking every song in Nashville and all the backgrounds are Nashville singers, so it’s a really a Nashville affair.”
Catch the series premiere of Monarch on Sunday, Sept. 11, immediately following the FOX NFL doubleheader (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET, and simultaneously to all time zones). It then makes its time period premiere Tuesday, Sept. 20 (9:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT), following the season six debut of The Resident (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET/PT).
Avery Anna Gives In To Her ‘Mood Swings’ This Fall
/by Lorie HollabaughAvery Anna. Photo: Ford Fairchild
Warner Music Nashville artist Avery Anna is releasing her debut EP, Mood Swings, on Oct. 7. Fans are receiving a first taste of the upcoming music with “What Made You Think?,” which she co-wrote with Andy Sheridan and Seth Ennis.
The new project further introduces the rising artist, whose smash hit “Narcissist” topped SiriusXM The Highway’s Hot 30 Countdown and has sold more than 500,000 track equivalents. David Fanning serves as producer on the new project, and Avery penned each of its seven tracks.
Mood Swings is the result of a whirlwind couple of years. During the pandemic, Anna started filming videos of herself singing in her mom’s bathroom where the acoustics were best. Two years later, the Arizona native is a high school graduate with more than 1.5 million followers , 27 million likes on TikTok, and a fresh deal with Warner Nashville. She has also already earned more than 130 million global streams.
“Mood Swings is made up of songs that are inspired by moments in my own life where I have felt either really happy, really in love, really confused, or even really sad,” says Anna. “These songs come straight from the heart, so I am so excited for you to hear them!”
Anna will reach another career milestone ahead of the EP release as she makes her Grand Ole Opry debut on Sept. 30. She’ll continue performing on the road through the end of the year, including dates on Spencer Crandall’s “The Western Tour.”
1. La Di Da (Avery Anna / Ben Williams / Steven McMorran / Andy Sheridan)
2. Narcissist (Avery Anna / David Fanning / Ben Williams / Andy Sheridan)
3. What Made You Think? (Avery Anna / Andy Sheridan / Seth Ennis)
4. Lovesick (Avery Anna / Sasha Sloan / Jesse Frasure)
5. Biggest T-Shirt (Avery Anna / Colin Healy / Lori McKenna / Chris McKenna)
6. Critic (Avery Anna / Ben Williams / Ava Suppelsa)
7. Good Day (Avery Anna / David Fanning / Matt Thomas / Andy Sheridan)
Dolly Parton & Kelly Clarkson Release Reimagined ‘9 to 5’ Duet
/by Lorie HollabaughDolly Parton and Kelly Clarkson are putting a new spin on the classic movie track “9 to 5” in an inspired duet version of the song, arriving via SMACKSongs/Atlantic Records. The track is being released ahead of the upcoming Still Working 9 to 5 documentary, set to premiere Sept. 16.
The Grammy-winning artists teamed up with the film’s executive producers Shane McAnally, Sasha Sloan and King Henry to reimagine the upbeat original into a melancholic yet inspirational anthem over 40 years after the original’s release, as the fight for workplace equality persists.
Written and recorded by Parton, the original “9 to 5” debuted in 1980 in tandem with the film of the same name starring Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. The song went on to receive an Academy Award nomination for Original Song and four Grammy nominations–winning two Grammys for Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance.
“Nobody sings like Kelly Clarkson,” Parton notes. “She makes any song come alive. I love her voice on ‘9 to 5’ and I am so proud I got to sing with her on it. I’m equally as proud of the wonderful arrangement and production by Shane McAnally.”
“I am so honored that Dolly asked me to reimagine this iconic song, ‘9 to 5,’ with her! She is so talented, an inspiration to all women, and one of the sweetest people you will ever meet,” adds Clarkson. “I hope y’all like what we did, but even if you don’t, remember I got to sing a duet with the magical Dolly Parton and now have bragging rights til the end of time!”
“It is a wildest dream scenario to work with 2 of the world’s greatest singers on one of the all-time greatest songs,” McAnally shares. “Co-produced and rearranged with my friends Sasha Sloan and King Henry, this classic has taken on a brand new life 40 years after it’s original chart run, and I am so grateful to be a part of the first time Dolly and Kelly have recorded together. I have a feeling it won’t be the last.”
The feature documentary Still Working 9 to 5 celebrates the iconic film, while chronicling the important impact it had on the women’s movement of the time that continues today. Still Working 9 to 5 reunites stars from the original film, as well as Rita Moreno from the 9 to 5 TV series, Allison Janney from the Broadway musical, and other stars from the television and stage versions of the film.
It also features activists and individuals closely associated with the women’s movement, and explores how the film resonated with a wide audience at a time when the feminist message was being rejected and/or feared by a large swathe of the population. It follows how the success of the film spawned various 9 to 5 spin-offs, and questions if the message retains its original poignancy, as well as examining what has and has not changed for women in the workplace over the last 40 years.
Morgan Wallen Nails MusicRow No. 1
/by MusicRow StaffMorgan Wallen returns to the top of the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart for the third time this year with “You Proof.” He previously topped the chart with “Wasted On You” and his feature on ERNEST’s “Flower Shops.”
Wallen co-wrote “You Proof” with Ashley Gorley, Ernest Keith Smith, and Ryan Vojtesak. He was recently celebrated at the 15th Annual ACM Honors where he earned the ACM Milestone Award for his unprecedented or outstanding achievement in the field of country music.
Wallen is set to headline iHeartRadio Music Festival this month and Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in 2023.
Click here to view the latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
Kane Brown Holds Interactive Event To Celebrate ‘Different Man’ Album Release
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R): Neon Coast’s Martha Earls, Kane Brown, Sony Music Nashville’s Randy Goodman and Neon Coast’s Nikki Boon. Photo: Sony Music Nashville
Music Row gathered at The Ruby yesterday afternoon (Sept. 7) to celebrate the release of country superstar Kane Brown‘s newest album Different Man.
Colored lights tinted the room and an exciting buzz filled the air as guests entered the venue. Brown’s voice blasted through the speakers while his music and lyric videos flashed across the front wall—engulfing the crowd in his talent.
Different interactive experiences filled the space, each one symbolizing a track from the upcoming album. The hit artist’s most recent single “Go Around” was represented by a 360 degree photo-op, allowing guests to stand on a platform and pose with props while a revolving camera captured their movements.
Sony Music Nashville’s Chairman and CEO Randy Goodman took the floor to welcome and thank everyone for coming. He described the process of creating Different Man, referring to Brown as a musical pioneer.
“It’s been arduous, at times, to get here, but the album speaks for itself. I’m so proud of [Brown] and the man [he] has become,” shared Goodman.
Goodman took time to acknowledge and thank all the people involved in the project. Sony Music Nashville’s VP, A&R Margaret Tomlin was next to detail Brown’s vision, noting that he maintained creative control throughout the endeavor. Tomlin stated that the presence of Brown’s wife Katelyn will be a “force” on the record, along with Blake Shelton‘s feature.
Finally, Brown took the mic to express his gratitude. He told the crowd that he is still finding his sound and growing musically. Sharing his experimentation with the anticipated album, Brown states that he knew the direction he wanted to go in when performing the record and believes the tracks are enhanced when heard live.
Different Man will release tomorrow, Sept. 9. Brown will also be back at The Ruby tomorrow to ring in the release of the album with his fans.