Parker McCollum onstage at Ascend Amphitheater on May 21, 2022. Photo: Chris Kleinmeier
“We don’t get rained out, we get rained on!” Parker McCollum told the devoted fans who waited out an hours-long storm delay before he took the stage at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater around 10 p.m. on Saturday (May 21) for a sold-out show.
Standing in the spotlights, McCollum embraced the moment, looking at a sea of enthusiastic followers; some soaked, others in ponchos. He was wearing his standard attire: plain white T-shirt, gold chains, and a white ball cap. “I don’t even have the words to express how grateful I am that this many people stuck around to see me,” he said.
It was a night for McCollum to toast a year of wins driven largely by his current album, Gold Chain Cowboy. The project is a showcase for McCollum’s perfectionist songwriting polished up by his talented collaborator and producer Jon Randall. From that album, McCollum’s set included “Wait Outside,” “Drinking,” “Why Indiana,” “Dallas” and “Never Loved You At All,” as well as the No. 1 singles, “To Be Loved By You” and “Pretty Heart,” which initiated a major crowd singalong. He also offered the brand new song, “Stoned.”
Earlier in the evening, Universal Music Group Nashville surprised its rising MCA star with plaques to celebrate “Pretty Heart” being certified 2-times Platinum, and “To Be Loved By You,” being certified Gold.
McCollum receives RIAA certifications for “To Be Loved By You,” and “Pretty Heart.” Pictured (L-R): Jackie Jones, RIAA; Cindy Mabe, UMGN; Enzo DeVincenzo, Red Light Management; Parker McCollum; Hallie Ray Light McCollum; Stephanie Wright, UMGN; Brian Wright, UMGN; Katie Dean, UMGN; and Annie Ortmeier, UMGN. Photo: Chris Kleinmeier
Over the course of three albums, McCollum has shown musical growth and sophistication, with hints of influences including Ryan Adams and John Mayer. As a songwriter, McCollum veers easily between introspective and vulnerable, and fun and upbeat.
McCollum’s trajectory dates back to 2015 with the release of his first full-length album. Along the way he has built an enviable touring base and successfully transitioned from playing heavily in his home state of Texas to being a national headliner.
Onstage at Ascend, he recalled his 2020 concert at Nashville’s Exit/In, grateful to have moved to a much bigger venue in only two years. Other recent milestones for the young troubadour include winning ACM New Male Artist of the Year, realizing his childhood dream of playing the sold-out RodeoHouston, and getting married. Accordingly, McCollum then sang “Hell of a Year,” a solo-written fan favorite and proof of his songwriting ability.
When he closed with “I Can’t Breathe,” the audience was in his hands. It was a glimpse into the future of an artist who still has a ton of potential up his T-shirt sleeve. With his 30th birthday right around the corner, McCollum is just getting started.
McCollum will make his debut appearance at this year’s CMA Fest in Nashville, performing at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 12. He will also make his first appearance on the iconic music television series ACL Live on July 26.
Photo: Chris Kleinmeier
Tauren Wells Announces ‘Joy In The Morning Tour’
/by Lorie HollabaughTauren Wells is launching an extensive headline tour in support of his new album, Joy In The Morning, on Oct. 6 in Tampa, Florida. Aaron Cole and Lakewood Music will join as special guests on all dates.
The North American run will include stops at Los Angeles’ Orpheum Theatre, The Soundstage at Graceland in Memphis, The Tabernacle in Atlanta, and a show at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Nov. 15. Tickets for the “The Joy In The Morning Tour” are on sale now.
“Performing is my favorite part of what I do. I love it,” says Wells. “I love the entertainment aspect of it–just being able to get out there and dance and sing and crack jokes and tell stories. It is life-giving and it’s a great privilege to have people showing up every night to go there together.”
Joy In The Morning will be released by Capitol Records/CCMG on June 10. Wells will celebrate with an appearance at the Grammy Museum L.A. Live on June 13. The evening, which is part of the museum’s “The Drop” series, will feature an intimate conversation with Wells, moderated by television host Jason Kennedy, and a performance.
Wells, who is nominated for KLOVE Fan Awards Male Artist of the Year, will co-host the awards with Matthew West at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville on May 29. The show airs on TBN on June 3.
Austin Burke To Give 15% Of Masters From Newest Single To Songwriters
/by Lydia FarthingAustin Burke. Photo: Raul Esparza
Independent artist Austin Burke has released his newest single “Take My Life,” penned by Emma White and Jamie Kenne. With the release, Burke is committing to giving 15% of his masters to songwriters in an effort to even the playing field for the creative community.
“I’ve seen what the income looks like from the artist’s side and have also seen it from a songwriter’s side and to say the numbers aren’t fair would be an understatement,” he continues. “I just hope that other artists will follow my lead so that we can begin having actual change and taking care of the songwriters who help make all of this possible.”
During the pandemic, Burke and his wife Lexy created the “Venmo Challenge” by crowdfunding to surprise members of the service industry with unusually generous tips.
This release follows Burke’s most recent EP, Changed Everything, which has already amassed over 7 million streams. The singer-songwriter was included on Spotify’s Top Country Songs of 2021 playlist, and his therapeutic track, “Let It Burn,” climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard country digital charts earlier this year.
Zach Bryan Smashes Single-Day Album Streaming Record On Spotify, Apple With ‘American Heartbreak’
/by Lorie HollabaughZach Bryan
Zach Bryan has broken the 2022 record for the most streamed country album in a single day on Spotify and Apple Music with his debut album American Heartbreak.
The Navy veteran-turned-country-breakout artist has now surpassed 1 billion global streams, and recently topped the Billboard Country Songwriter Chart. Additionally, his initial breakout track, “Heading South,” was just certified Gold from the RIAA.
Each of the songs released from American Heartbreak–“Something In The Orange,” “Highway Boys,” “Late July,” “Open The Gate,” and “From Austin”– have become fan-favorites during Bryan’s live shows.
“From Austin” quickly claimed the No. 1 country song spot on Apple Music and debuted at No. 4 on Spotify’s Global Country chart. The deeply autobiographical track has garnered over 37 million global streams to date.
Earlier this week, Spotify announced Bryan as the first-ever country artist to be spotlighted as a part of their RADAR US program, a global artist development initiative that supports emerging artists in their path to stardom through comprehensive marketing, content, and editorial campaigns.
Late July
Something In The Orange Z&E
Heavy Eyes
Mine Again
Happy Instead
Right Now The Best
The Outskirts
Younger Years
Cold Damn Vampires
Tishomingo
She’s Alright
You are My Sunshine
Darling
Ninth Cloud
Oklahoma City
Sun to Me
Highway Boys
Whiskey Fever
Billy Stay
Sober Side of Sorry
High Beams
The Good I’ll Do
Someday (Maggie’s)
Poems and Closing Time
From Austin
If She Wants a Cowboy
Corinthians (Proctor’s)
Open The Gate
Half Grown
No Cure
’68 Fastback
Blue
Morning Time
This Road I Know
Gordie Sampson Signs With Sheltered Music
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Darrell Franklin, Sr. VP Sheltered Music; Gordie Sampson; Jenny Hall, Creative Director Sheltered Music; Lance Freed, President Sheltered Music
Gordie Sampson has signed an exclusive worldwide publishing deal with Sheltered Music.
Sampson began his career in his native Canada, enjoying top 20 success as a guitarist and singer in his band Realworld, and later as a solo artist, releasing three award-winning albums. Upon moving to Nashville, he earned a co-writing credit on Carrie Underwood’s Grammy-winning smash “Jesus Take The Wheel.”
He has since had hundreds of songs recorded by artists ranging from Guy Clark (“My Favorite Picture Of You”) to Luke Bryan (“Knockin’ Boots”). A talented songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer with multiple No. 1s, Sampson’s catalog includes cuts by Faith Hill, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Florida Georgia Line, and more.
“From the first time I heard Gordie’s music, I was completely blown away,” notes Sheltered Music SVP Darrell Franklin. “I’ve been a huge fan of his ever since. Gordie brings it all. He is as strong musically as he is lyrically, and his music always brings a unique identity and sound to to whatever he writes. Gordie is going to be such a great addition to this roster in Nashville and so proud to have him onboard.”
“I am wholeheartedly excited to be joining the Sheltered team,” Sampson adds. “Their combined experience and legacy in publishing is undeniable and I look forward to being part of the momentum as they go forward.”
Parker McCollum Sells Out Ascend Amphitheater, Celebrates Double Platinum Single
/by Sarah SkatesParker McCollum onstage at Ascend Amphitheater on May 21, 2022. Photo: Chris Kleinmeier
“We don’t get rained out, we get rained on!” Parker McCollum told the devoted fans who waited out an hours-long storm delay before he took the stage at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater around 10 p.m. on Saturday (May 21) for a sold-out show.
Standing in the spotlights, McCollum embraced the moment, looking at a sea of enthusiastic followers; some soaked, others in ponchos. He was wearing his standard attire: plain white T-shirt, gold chains, and a white ball cap. “I don’t even have the words to express how grateful I am that this many people stuck around to see me,” he said.
It was a night for McCollum to toast a year of wins driven largely by his current album, Gold Chain Cowboy. The project is a showcase for McCollum’s perfectionist songwriting polished up by his talented collaborator and producer Jon Randall. From that album, McCollum’s set included “Wait Outside,” “Drinking,” “Why Indiana,” “Dallas” and “Never Loved You At All,” as well as the No. 1 singles, “To Be Loved By You” and “Pretty Heart,” which initiated a major crowd singalong. He also offered the brand new song, “Stoned.”
Earlier in the evening, Universal Music Group Nashville surprised its rising MCA star with plaques to celebrate “Pretty Heart” being certified 2-times Platinum, and “To Be Loved By You,” being certified Gold.
McCollum receives RIAA certifications for “To Be Loved By You,” and “Pretty Heart.” Pictured (L-R): Jackie Jones, RIAA; Cindy Mabe, UMGN; Enzo DeVincenzo, Red Light Management; Parker McCollum; Hallie Ray Light McCollum; Stephanie Wright, UMGN; Brian Wright, UMGN; Katie Dean, UMGN; and Annie Ortmeier, UMGN. Photo: Chris Kleinmeier
Over the course of three albums, McCollum has shown musical growth and sophistication, with hints of influences including Ryan Adams and John Mayer. As a songwriter, McCollum veers easily between introspective and vulnerable, and fun and upbeat.
McCollum’s trajectory dates back to 2015 with the release of his first full-length album. Along the way he has built an enviable touring base and successfully transitioned from playing heavily in his home state of Texas to being a national headliner.
Onstage at Ascend, he recalled his 2020 concert at Nashville’s Exit/In, grateful to have moved to a much bigger venue in only two years. Other recent milestones for the young troubadour include winning ACM New Male Artist of the Year, realizing his childhood dream of playing the sold-out RodeoHouston, and getting married. Accordingly, McCollum then sang “Hell of a Year,” a solo-written fan favorite and proof of his songwriting ability.
When he closed with “I Can’t Breathe,” the audience was in his hands. It was a glimpse into the future of an artist who still has a ton of potential up his T-shirt sleeve. With his 30th birthday right around the corner, McCollum is just getting started.
McCollum will make his debut appearance at this year’s CMA Fest in Nashville, performing at Nissan Stadium on Sunday, June 12. He will also make his first appearance on the iconic music television series ACL Live on July 26.
Photo: Chris Kleinmeier
Ryman Auditorium To Host Annual Community Day On May 29
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Ryman’s Annual Community Day presented by PNC Bank is set for May 29, and this year’s event will help celebrate the historic venue’s 130th anniversary.
Tennessee residents are able to experience the Ryman’s daytime tour experience free of charge throughout the day, with complimentary self-guided tours available from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with the presentation of a valid Tennessee state ID at the Ryman box office. The first 300 guests will also receive free admission to the National Museum of African American Music across the street from the Ryman.
The PNC Plaza at Ryman Auditorium will be transformed into an outdoor festival offering free live music all day long and family-friendly activities, including balloon animals, face painting, caricatures and an instrument petting zoo provided by the Nashville Symphony. Hatch Show Print will also be onsite to help guests create their own do-it-yourself prints in celebration of the Ryman’s 130th anniversary.
“Ryman Community Day presented by PNC Bank is about bringing people together and making this legendary venue accessible to all,” shares Mike Johnson, PNC regional president for Tennessee. “We look forward to welcoming visitors as we celebrate the power of music, the vibrancy of our region and the cultural gem we have in the Ryman.”
Tours of the Ryman begin with a stop in the state-of-the-art Soul of Nashville experience. The film puts the audience at the center of the Ryman’s rich history as more than a century of iconic performances come to life on all sides of the room. The dramatic story of the building’s near demolition and rebirth culminates with a new collaboration featuring Darius Rucker, The Fisk Jubilee Singers, Sheryl Crow and Vince Gill.
Once inside, guests will see artifacts and enjoy videos that highlight each chapter of the Ryman’s history, hosted by Crow, Marty Stuart, Nicole Kidman, Ricky Skaggs, Robin Roberts and Trisha Yearwood. Fans can also have their pictures taken on the stage where so many legends have stood before them.
Nicolette Hayford Makes Artist Debut As Pillbox Patti
/by Lydia FarthingPillbox Patti. Photo: Alexa Kinigopoulos
Celebrated Nashville songwriter Nicolette Hayford has entered the artist world as Pillbox Patti with the release of two new songs—”Young and Stupid” and “Good People”—available everywhere now via Monument Records.
As a songwriter, Hayford has penned hits such as “One Night Standards” and “Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega” for McBryde, as well as songs for Lainey Wilson, William Michael Morgan and Chrissy Metz. She was named MusicRow’s Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year in 2021 and has been nominated for ACM and CMA Song Of The Year awards.
Produced by Chisolm, more music from Pillbox Patti will be released later this year. She will also be hitting the road this summer, opening for Brantley Gilbert & Jelly Roll on the “Son Of The Dirty South Tour.”
Pillbox Patti is represented by WME and managed by SMACK.
Notes Live Expands Into Murfreesboro With New Amphitheater, Complex
/by Lorie HollabaughNotes Live has announced plans for a multi-million dollar public-private partnership to open The Sunset Music Colosseum on the River, an outdoor amphitheater and an adjacent indoor music venue and restaurant in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The venue is slated to open in 2023.
The Sunset Amphitheater will host large acts on a live music entertainment campus with amenities such as 32 firepit suites alongside stadium-style seating and lawn seating. The facilities will be located on the 18.2-acre city parcel located on the southeast corner of Medical Center Parkway and Gateway Boulevard.
The proposed $40 million music, entertainment and dining project also includes a Bourbon Brothers Smokehouse & Tavern, a casual dining restaurant with a high-quality tasting room, rooftop patio and a large outdoor patio with outdoor fireplaces.
An adjoining Boot Barn Hall will hold up to 1,400 people and will be modeled after Notes Live’s Boot Barn Hall in Colorado Springs, which quickly became one of Colorado’s premiere music venues after opening in February 2019. Notes Live expects to see approximately 800,000 patrons per year across Bourbon Brothers, Boot Barn Hall and the Sunset on the River.
“We are excited to announce another high-quality entertainment venture to our city featuring live music in both indoor and outdoor settings,” states Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland. “Providing final agreements are approved by Council, the amphitheater will be a public-private partnership adding a significant amenity to the area and elevating Murfreesboro in the Nashville music scene. As mayor, I am delighted, along with the City Council, to welcome Notes Live to Murfreesboro in making this substantial investment and we look forward to Notes Live contributing to the community in many ways.”
“I can’t tell you how excited we are to be full steam ahead in building our new Murfreesboro campus. We love Murfreesboro and plan to build one of the most luxurious music campuses in the country. We expect our live streaming and content strategy to make ‘Live from Murfreesboro’ a household name in every living room in America,” adds JW Roth, Notes Live Founder and CEO.
The company’s flagship 1,400 seat Boot Barn Hall is located in Colorado Springs. Another location is under construction outside of Atlanta, with plans to expand into Florida and Texas as well.
Danni Leigh Returns With New Album ‘Walkin’ On A Wire’
/by Lorie HollabaughDanni Leigh is back after a 15-year hiatus from the business with a new project, Walkin’ on a Wire, available June 10 via BFD / Audium Nashville.
Leigh co-wrote each of the 11 songs on her new collection, which explores love, loss and life’s complicated moments. The first single, “My Arms Stay Open All Night,” was written with Melba Montgomery, and the song’s intro features her in a candid recording from their co-writing session.
“Walking On A Wire is a good image of how I feel navigating the world right now,” she says. “That’s why I chose it for this record because it feels like with the pandemic and everything that is going on in the world right now. The song itself is talking about a relationship that is a little rocky. I don’t feel that way about my husband, of course. It’s more like the visual of walking on a wire in the world, really.”
During her time away from music, Leigh spent time focusing on her family and lived in Spain for five years. The project is a welcome return from an artist who has come into her own during her time away from the spotlight and is comfortable in her own skin.
“I learned too not to go too crazy,” she explains. “Less is more and I think that you hear that on this record. We didn’t pile on a whole bunch of stuff. The instruments breathe. They make poignant statements themselves. I’m not trying to over sing anything or prove a point or be anybody except myself, and that’s what this is to me. I’m real proud of it. I hope people like it.”
The War And Treaty Sign Major Label Deal With UMG Nashville
/by Lydia FarthingPictured (L-R): Jay Williams (WME), Shannon Saunders (WME), Grace Stern (WME), Mike Dungan (UMGN), Tanya Trotter, Michael Trotter Jr., Cindy Mabe (UMGN), Mary Hilliard Harrington (Red Light Management), Jeff Colvin (Marcus & Colvin), Mike Harris (UMGN), Rob Femia (UMGN). Photo: Katie Kauss
The War And Treaty have signed their first major record deal with Universal Music Group Nashville.
The husband-and-wife duo of Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter are currently in the studio with new music expected later this year. The War and Treaty are also celebrating their recent Americana Honors nomination for Duo/Group of the Year.
Over the last eight months, the duo also signed with Mary Hilliard Harrington and Christina Dunkley at Red Light Management and Jay Williams, Andrew Colvin and Grace Stern at WME. They are represented by Jeff Colvin at Marcus & Colvin.
“We are excited to join the ranks of so many artist who we adore and admire both past and present,” the pair note. “To be a part of a historical company such as UMG Nashville and to further tell the storyline that we all can follow and achieve our dreams brings tears to our eyes. This is our story and we are grateful UMG wants to be a part of it.”
“When I was introduced to The War And Treaty, I was absolutely blown away,” adds UMGN Chairman & CEO Mike Dungan. “Their talent and passion are extraordinary, and I’m so excited to welcome Tanya and Michael to the UMG family.”
The duo will head overseas this summer with stops in the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, and the Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom. For a full list of upcoming dates, click here.