Pictured (L-R): Valerie Ervin (Ray Charles Foundation president), Eddie Bayers, Wynonna Judd, Johnny Drake (son of the late Pete Drake) and Rose Drake (wife of the late Pete Drake) in the Hall of Fame Rotunda at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum before the induction of the 2021 class of Country Music Hall of Fame members. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Bobby Karl Works The Room
Chapter 654
This year’s Medallion Ceremony inducting the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame was full of first-time experiences.
The induction of Ray Charles was long overdue, and was celebrated as such. Pete Drake became the first steel guitarist to be inducted. Eddie Bayers is now the Hall’s first country drummer. Naomi Judd was unexpectedly inducted posthumously in The Judds, due to her death the previous day. Wendy Moten, The War & Treaty, Bettye LaVette, Tommy Sims and Old Crow Medicine Show drummer Jerry Pentecost comprised the largest Black musical presence at such an event in history.
Pictured: Inductee Wynonna Judd onstage for the class of 2021 medallion ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Medallion Ceremony took place on Sunday (May 1) in the Hall’s CMA Theater. To be frank, I was worried when I got the news about Naomi’s death on Saturday. I thought that the event might turn into a wake, and/or that the inductions of Charles, Bayers and Drake would be completely overshadowed.
Wynonna and her sister Ashley Judd urged the Hall to proceed as scheduled. The Hall responded by staging a supremely classy ceremony.
The musical intro to the event was Tom T. Hall’s 1971 eloquent country classic “A Million Miles to the City.” Museum CEO Kyle Young referred to its lyric throughout the ceremony. “Each of tonight’s inductees were fueled by dreams and words and melodies,” he said. Mary Ann McCready introduced the Circle Guard, a ceremonial elite consisting of Steve Turner, David Conrad, Bill Denny, Seab Tuck, Ken Levitan, Mike Milom and Jerry Williams.
Then came the processional of existing Hall of Famers—Randy Travis, Bill Anderson, Don Schlitz, Ray Stevens, Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry of Alabama, Bud Wendell, Bobby Braddock, Duane Allen of the Oaks, Ricky Skaggs, Garth Brooks, Ronnie Milsap and Marty Stuart. The CMA’s Sarah Trahern was the first to address Naomi’s passing. “Love: It fills this room,” she said. “Love sustains us and comforts us. Love Can Build a Bridge — The Judds taught us that, and love is Naomi’s legacy. We lost an industry icon….Each of these inductees is an inspiration to us all.”
Kyle asked for a moment of silence for Hall of Fame members Ralph Emery and Hargus “Pig” Robbins, both of whom have died since the last Medallion event. He then spoke of Naomi’s sudden passing, explaining that her family wished the ceremony to go on.
Pictured (L-R) Johnny Drake and Rose Drake accept Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum induction on behalf of Pete Drake presented by Charlie McCoy and CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Kyle Young for the class of 2021 medallion ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
He introduced the induction of Pete Drake (1932-1988), describing Drake as “one of America’s prime music innovators.” Drake invented the “talk box” device showcased on his 1964 steel-guitar hit “Forever” and later adopted by rock stars Peter Frampton, Joe Walsh and others. Drake also promoted Nashville’s musical diversity via his publishing, record label and recording-studio ventures.
To salute Drake, Elizabeth Cook performed “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” and Wendy Moten did “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” The steel guitarist played on both of those. Charlie McCoy presented the Medallion to widow Rose Drake and son John Drake. “Everything he played on fit like a glove,” said Charlie. “He became part of the records he was on.”
“Pete loved music and his music friends more than anything,” said Rose. “We need to recognize these musicians more. The music of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s created Nashville. Thank you very much for keeping his legacy going.”
Pictured: Kyle Young inducts Eddie Bayers (L) into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Kyle said that inductee Eddie Bayers provided “very good grooves and very bad jokes,” describing him as, “a metronome with a heart.” Vince Gill’s “When I Call Your Name” and Trisha Yearwood’s “Walkaway Joe” were just two of the hundreds of hits Eddie has played on. “A great drummer is felt, not heard,” said Vince. “My hope for you, Eddie, is that you get a really good looking plaque.” That joking reference was to the notoriously ugly bronze facial reliefs on the Hall’s official plaques.
“People make a family, and we are certainly a family,” said Eddie. “I love all of you. God bless you all.” He also saluted his wife Lane Brody as “my immortal beloved.”
“They sang their hearts out loud,” said Kyle of The Judds. “They sang in harmony even when they didn’t live in harmony.” Shouted Wy from her seat, “Amen.” “We can’t know all of their struggles, but we know all of their songs,” Kyle concluded. Carly Pearce sang “Grandpa (Tell Me Bout the Good Old Days)” and Gillian Welch & Dave Rawlings sang “Young Love.”
Ricky Skaggs inducted The Judds. “We’re not gonna be sad today,” he said of Naomi Judd (1946-2022). “We’re going to have joy. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Y’all touched so many people with those songs. All of country music, all of the people around the world who loved The Judds are praying for you.”
Pictured (L-R) Ashley Judd accepts induction on behalf of Naomi Judd with Ricky Skaggs, inductee Wynonna Judd and Kyle Young. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
“My Mom loved you so much,” said Ashley Judd. “I’m so sorry she couldn’t hang on until today. It was your affection for her that kept her going.” She turned to sister Wynonna and continued, “I love you, and I’m so proud of you. Mama was proud of you, and she always was.” She received her mother’s Medallion. Ricky placed Wy’s around her neck.
“I’m going to make this fast, because my heart is broken,” said Wy. “And I feel so blessed. It’s very strange dynamic to be this broken in this place…Though my heart is broken, I will continue to sing.” She concluded by reciting “The 23rd Psalm.” Then Tommy Sims sang a moving version if “Love Can Build a Bridge.”
“It’s been a long time comin,’” said Kyle of the induction of Ray Charles (1930-2004). “Ray took country music to places it had never been.” The War and Treaty brought down the house with a thrilling rendition of “You Don’t Know Me.” Garth Brooks did “Seven Spanish Angels,” which is his go-to song at concert sound checks. Bettye LaVette sang a soulful “I Can’t Stop Loving You.” Ronnie Milsap did the Medallion honors.
Pictured (L-R): Ronnie Milsap, Valerie Ervin and Kyle Young speak onstage for the class of 2021 medallion ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
“Ray Charles was a really cool guy,” said Ronnie. “We were really great friends. We wrote Braille letters to each other. Ray would be so happy today.” Accepting was Valerie Ervin, the president of the Ray Charles Foundation. “Ray Charles always stood his ground for what he loved, and he loved country music,” she said. “Country music was the core of Ray Charles’s life. This IS a Moment.”
“It’s been like church tonight,” observed Marty Stuart of the ceremony. He led the crowd in singing “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” He (and everyone else) was accompanied by the awesome Medallion All Star Band — Biff Watson, Jan Gunderman, Brent Mason, Jeff White, Tommy White, Rachel Loy, Jerry Pentecost, Deanie Richardson, Tanis Hancheroff, and Wendy Moten.
Taking it all in were Larry Gatlin, Paul Kennerley, T.G. Sheppard & Kelly Lang, Brent Maher, Joe Galante, Dan Rogers, John Carter Cash, Scott Hendricks, Tim Wipperman, Chuck Mead, Erika Wollam & Roger Nichols, Bill Purcell, Ellen Lehman, Steve Buchanan, Bonnie Garner, Martha Moore, Susan Stewart, Fletcher Foster, Bruce Bouton, Hunter Kelly, Bob & Leslie DiPiero, Tom Roland, Jeannie Seely, Tony Brown, Ken Paulson, Denise Stiff, The McCrary Sisters, Walter Campbell, Tracy Gershon, Tess Frizzell, Bobby Tomberlin, Jim Horn, Gary Burr & Georgia Middleman, Rique, Lon Helton, Cactus Moser, Don Potter, David Ewing, David Ross, Dave Pomeroy and Sharon Vaughn, for starters.
Brain Mansfield was introducing Marcus K. Dowling to everyone in the press section. Jim Ed Norman was on a break from touring with The Eagles. Steve Fishell’s news is that his book about Buddy Emmons is being published by the University of Illinois in its prestigious Music in American Life series. Doug Green’s book about Carson Robison has been accepted by Vanderbilt University Press, and the distinguished Bill Malone is set to write the biography of Doug’s group Riders in the Sky.
The whole shebang relocated to the sixth floor event space for a cocktail supper. On the menu were steak, salmon, potato salad, pizza and desserts. And lots of fellowship.
Bobby Karl Works The Room: Historic Moments Dot Country Hall Of Fame Inductions
/by Bobby KarlPictured (L-R): Valerie Ervin (Ray Charles Foundation president), Eddie Bayers, Wynonna Judd, Johnny Drake (son of the late Pete Drake) and Rose Drake (wife of the late Pete Drake) in the Hall of Fame Rotunda at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum before the induction of the 2021 class of Country Music Hall of Fame members. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Bobby Karl Works The Room
Chapter 654
This year’s Medallion Ceremony inducting the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame was full of first-time experiences.
The induction of Ray Charles was long overdue, and was celebrated as such. Pete Drake became the first steel guitarist to be inducted. Eddie Bayers is now the Hall’s first country drummer. Naomi Judd was unexpectedly inducted posthumously in The Judds, due to her death the previous day. Wendy Moten, The War & Treaty, Bettye LaVette, Tommy Sims and Old Crow Medicine Show drummer Jerry Pentecost comprised the largest Black musical presence at such an event in history.
Pictured: Inductee Wynonna Judd onstage for the class of 2021 medallion ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Medallion Ceremony took place on Sunday (May 1) in the Hall’s CMA Theater. To be frank, I was worried when I got the news about Naomi’s death on Saturday. I thought that the event might turn into a wake, and/or that the inductions of Charles, Bayers and Drake would be completely overshadowed.
Wynonna and her sister Ashley Judd urged the Hall to proceed as scheduled. The Hall responded by staging a supremely classy ceremony.
The musical intro to the event was Tom T. Hall’s 1971 eloquent country classic “A Million Miles to the City.” Museum CEO Kyle Young referred to its lyric throughout the ceremony. “Each of tonight’s inductees were fueled by dreams and words and melodies,” he said. Mary Ann McCready introduced the Circle Guard, a ceremonial elite consisting of Steve Turner, David Conrad, Bill Denny, Seab Tuck, Ken Levitan, Mike Milom and Jerry Williams.
Then came the processional of existing Hall of Famers—Randy Travis, Bill Anderson, Don Schlitz, Ray Stevens, Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry of Alabama, Bud Wendell, Bobby Braddock, Duane Allen of the Oaks, Ricky Skaggs, Garth Brooks, Ronnie Milsap and Marty Stuart. The CMA’s Sarah Trahern was the first to address Naomi’s passing. “Love: It fills this room,” she said. “Love sustains us and comforts us. Love Can Build a Bridge — The Judds taught us that, and love is Naomi’s legacy. We lost an industry icon….Each of these inductees is an inspiration to us all.”
Kyle asked for a moment of silence for Hall of Fame members Ralph Emery and Hargus “Pig” Robbins, both of whom have died since the last Medallion event. He then spoke of Naomi’s sudden passing, explaining that her family wished the ceremony to go on.
Pictured (L-R) Johnny Drake and Rose Drake accept Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum induction on behalf of Pete Drake presented by Charlie McCoy and CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Kyle Young for the class of 2021 medallion ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
He introduced the induction of Pete Drake (1932-1988), describing Drake as “one of America’s prime music innovators.” Drake invented the “talk box” device showcased on his 1964 steel-guitar hit “Forever” and later adopted by rock stars Peter Frampton, Joe Walsh and others. Drake also promoted Nashville’s musical diversity via his publishing, record label and recording-studio ventures.
To salute Drake, Elizabeth Cook performed “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” and Wendy Moten did “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” The steel guitarist played on both of those. Charlie McCoy presented the Medallion to widow Rose Drake and son John Drake. “Everything he played on fit like a glove,” said Charlie. “He became part of the records he was on.”
“Pete loved music and his music friends more than anything,” said Rose. “We need to recognize these musicians more. The music of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s created Nashville. Thank you very much for keeping his legacy going.”
Pictured: Kyle Young inducts Eddie Bayers (L) into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Kyle said that inductee Eddie Bayers provided “very good grooves and very bad jokes,” describing him as, “a metronome with a heart.” Vince Gill’s “When I Call Your Name” and Trisha Yearwood’s “Walkaway Joe” were just two of the hundreds of hits Eddie has played on. “A great drummer is felt, not heard,” said Vince. “My hope for you, Eddie, is that you get a really good looking plaque.” That joking reference was to the notoriously ugly bronze facial reliefs on the Hall’s official plaques.
“People make a family, and we are certainly a family,” said Eddie. “I love all of you. God bless you all.” He also saluted his wife Lane Brody as “my immortal beloved.”
“They sang their hearts out loud,” said Kyle of The Judds. “They sang in harmony even when they didn’t live in harmony.” Shouted Wy from her seat, “Amen.” “We can’t know all of their struggles, but we know all of their songs,” Kyle concluded. Carly Pearce sang “Grandpa (Tell Me Bout the Good Old Days)” and Gillian Welch & Dave Rawlings sang “Young Love.”
Ricky Skaggs inducted The Judds. “We’re not gonna be sad today,” he said of Naomi Judd (1946-2022). “We’re going to have joy. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Y’all touched so many people with those songs. All of country music, all of the people around the world who loved The Judds are praying for you.”
Pictured (L-R) Ashley Judd accepts induction on behalf of Naomi Judd with Ricky Skaggs, inductee Wynonna Judd and Kyle Young. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
“My Mom loved you so much,” said Ashley Judd. “I’m so sorry she couldn’t hang on until today. It was your affection for her that kept her going.” She turned to sister Wynonna and continued, “I love you, and I’m so proud of you. Mama was proud of you, and she always was.” She received her mother’s Medallion. Ricky placed Wy’s around her neck.
“I’m going to make this fast, because my heart is broken,” said Wy. “And I feel so blessed. It’s very strange dynamic to be this broken in this place…Though my heart is broken, I will continue to sing.” She concluded by reciting “The 23rd Psalm.” Then Tommy Sims sang a moving version if “Love Can Build a Bridge.”
“It’s been a long time comin,’” said Kyle of the induction of Ray Charles (1930-2004). “Ray took country music to places it had never been.” The War and Treaty brought down the house with a thrilling rendition of “You Don’t Know Me.” Garth Brooks did “Seven Spanish Angels,” which is his go-to song at concert sound checks. Bettye LaVette sang a soulful “I Can’t Stop Loving You.” Ronnie Milsap did the Medallion honors.
Pictured (L-R): Ronnie Milsap, Valerie Ervin and Kyle Young speak onstage for the class of 2021 medallion ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
“Ray Charles was a really cool guy,” said Ronnie. “We were really great friends. We wrote Braille letters to each other. Ray would be so happy today.” Accepting was Valerie Ervin, the president of the Ray Charles Foundation. “Ray Charles always stood his ground for what he loved, and he loved country music,” she said. “Country music was the core of Ray Charles’s life. This IS a Moment.”
“It’s been like church tonight,” observed Marty Stuart of the ceremony. He led the crowd in singing “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” He (and everyone else) was accompanied by the awesome Medallion All Star Band — Biff Watson, Jan Gunderman, Brent Mason, Jeff White, Tommy White, Rachel Loy, Jerry Pentecost, Deanie Richardson, Tanis Hancheroff, and Wendy Moten.
Taking it all in were Larry Gatlin, Paul Kennerley, T.G. Sheppard & Kelly Lang, Brent Maher, Joe Galante, Dan Rogers, John Carter Cash, Scott Hendricks, Tim Wipperman, Chuck Mead, Erika Wollam & Roger Nichols, Bill Purcell, Ellen Lehman, Steve Buchanan, Bonnie Garner, Martha Moore, Susan Stewart, Fletcher Foster, Bruce Bouton, Hunter Kelly, Bob & Leslie DiPiero, Tom Roland, Jeannie Seely, Tony Brown, Ken Paulson, Denise Stiff, The McCrary Sisters, Walter Campbell, Tracy Gershon, Tess Frizzell, Bobby Tomberlin, Jim Horn, Gary Burr & Georgia Middleman, Rique, Lon Helton, Cactus Moser, Don Potter, David Ewing, David Ross, Dave Pomeroy and Sharon Vaughn, for starters.
Brain Mansfield was introducing Marcus K. Dowling to everyone in the press section. Jim Ed Norman was on a break from touring with The Eagles. Steve Fishell’s news is that his book about Buddy Emmons is being published by the University of Illinois in its prestigious Music in American Life series. Doug Green’s book about Carson Robison has been accepted by Vanderbilt University Press, and the distinguished Bill Malone is set to write the biography of Doug’s group Riders in the Sky.
The whole shebang relocated to the sixth floor event space for a cocktail supper. On the menu were steak, salmon, potato salad, pizza and desserts. And lots of fellowship.
The Judds Matriarch, Naomi Judd, Dies At 76
/by LB CantrellNaomi Judd
One day before she was scheduled to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, it was revealed that The Judds’ Naomi Judd died on Saturday (April 30). She was 76.
On Saturday, Naomi’s daughter Ashley Judd announced on social media that her mother had passed. “Today we sisters experienced a tragedy,” she writes. “We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness. We are shattered. We are navigating profound grief and know that as we loved her, she was loved by her public. We are in unknown territory.”
Naomi and her other daughter and musical partner, Wynonna, were to be celebrated alongside Ray Charles, Eddie Bayers, and Pete Drake on Sunday (May 1) for their iconic career full of country hits. It is unclear at press time if the induction ceremony will still be held.
The two had also just performed on the CMT Awards, and announced their farewell tour that was scheduled to kick off in September.
Comprised of mother Naomi and daughter Wynonna, The Judds are one of the most successful duos in country music history. Together they scored 20 Top 10 hits, including 14 No. 1s, between 1984 and 1991. Their most enduring country standards, such as “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Why Not Me” and “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘bout the Good Old Days),” infused folk, bluegrass and blues into a unique country sound all their own.
Naomi was born Diana Ellen Judd on January 11, 1946 and grew up in Ashland, Kentucky. She married as a teenager and had two daughters, Christina and Ashley Ciminella, before divorcing and moving to California. As part of a fresh start, all three took Diana’s maiden name. Diana and her older daughter changed their first names, as well. Diana became Naomi, a biblical figure she admired, and Christina became Wynonna, using an adapted spelling of Winona, the northern Arizona town mentioned in the song “Route 66.”
Naomi moved the family to Nashville in 1979, where she took a job as a nurse at Williamson County Medical Center. Her and a 15-year-old Wynonna began appearing on WSM-TV’s The Ralph Emery Show in the early ’80s, but their break came via a chance encounter with Nashville producer Brent Maher. Maher’s teenage daughter, who had been injured in a car accident, had seen the mother-daughter duo on television and recognized Naomi, one of his daughter’s nurses. He began working with The Judds and helped secure them a recording contract with RCA Records/Curb Records.
The Judds. Photo: Kristin Barlowe
After releasing “Had a Dream (For the Heart),” a B-side for Elvis Presley in 1983, The Judds scored their first hit with its follow-up, “Mama He’s Crazy.” The song hit No. 1 on the charts, immediately making The Judds country music’s most successful mother-daughter act since Mother Maybelle Carter and the Carter Sisters. “Mama He’s Crazy” was the first of eight straight chart-toppers for the duo and earned Naomi and Wynonna their first of five Grammy Awards.
Following “Mama He’s Crazy,” The Judds released the six-song Wynonna & Naomi EP and won the Horizon Award at the 1984 CMA Awards. They released their first full-length album, Why Not Me, the following week.
The Judds became frequent award winners throughout the ’80s, collecting nine CMA Awards and seven from the Academy of Country Music. They released six studio albums and an EP from 1984 to 1991, and helped revive the popularity of acoustic sounds in country music. Together, the Judds have 16 Gold, Platinum, and multi-Platinum albums and longform videos, led by 2x Platinum albums Why Not Me and The Judds Greatest Hits.
In October 1990, Naomi announced her retirement from performing due to chronic hepatitis. That retirement would come after the 124-date “Love Can Build a Bridge Farewell Tour,” which wrapped December 4, 1991, at Middle Tennessee State University.
Other than a handful of subsequent performances together, both Naomi and Wynonna pursued solo career paths until announcing their reunion tour for 2022. Naomi published her autobiography Love Can Build a Bridge in 1993, as well as pursued acting and television opportunities, hosting a talk show and serving as a judge and mentor on an entertainment competition series.
The two were announced as inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2021.
Industry Ink: Thomas Rhett, Caitlyn Gordon, Sister Sadie, CWBY
/by Lydia FarthingThomas Rhett, Chaco Footwear Unveil New Collaboration Sandal
Thomas Rhett
Thomas Rhett has announced his newest collaboration with Chaco Footwear, which expands upon last year’s collection.
The limited-edition sandals are inspired by Rhett’s love for the outdoors and memories on the river with his family. With two different patterns available in both adult and children’s sizes, the collection features the vibrant colors of the rainbow trout and the brook trout.
“Getting out and being in the river with my wife, family or friends is one of the most peaceful ways that we get to spend time together. Those moments, when I’m 60 or 70 years old and looking back, are going to stand out as some of my favorite memories,” Rhett shares. “One of the main reasons I wanted to make sure we added a kid’s line is that I want our kids to feel a part of this. I cannot wait to see entire families in these shoes all over the country this year and have that encourage them to get out and do something adventurous together.”
“Thomas Rhett embodies the Chaco Nation spirit, and we are so excited to be working with him again on another collaboration,” says Lauren Poole, Sr. Director of Marketing, Chaco. “This year, we took fans’ feedback and focused on fishing-inspired design and styles the whole family can wear on adventures together.”
Proceeds from each children’s sandal sale will be donated to Love One International—providing access to life-saving medical care to children in Uganda; and a donation made to Trout Unlimited, a non-profit dedicated to conserving freshwater streams, rivers, and associated upland habitats for trout, salmon, and other aquatic species.
BBR Music Group Elevates Caitlyn Gordon To Director, Marketing
Caitlyn Gordon
BBR Music Group has promoted Caitlyn Gordon to Director of Marketing. She will report to JoJamie Hahr, SVP of BBR Music Group.
Gordon previously served as the Director of Midwest/Southeast Promotion for BBR Music Group’s Wheelhouse Records. In her new role of Director of Marketing, she will manage projects for the label group’s roster of artists, including Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Elvie Shane, Jelly Roll and more; create marketing plans; streamline advertising initiatives; and coordinate with all departments on artist release plans and strategies.
In her ten years at BBR Music Group, Gordon has risen through the ranks within the company from Promotion Coordinator. Scoring numerous No. 1s throughout her tenure, her most recent was Shane’s debut country radio single “My Boy.”
“Caitlyn has been a superstar within our promotion team at BBR Music Group/BMG for nearly 10 years and has always been a shining example of class, leadership, creativity, and passion,” says Hahr. “We are so lucky to have her join the team!”
Gordon can be reached at caitlyn.gordon@bmg.com.
Mountain Home Music Company Signs Sister Sadie
Pictured (L-R): Sister Sadie’s Hasee Ciacco, Gena Britt and Deanie Richardson, Mountain Home’s Jon Weisberger, and Sister Sadie’s Mary Meyer and Jaelee Roberts
Mountain Home Music Company has signed award-winning quintet Sister Sadie to an exclusive recording contract. The group consists of founding member and fiddle player Deanie Richardson, banjo player/vocalist Gena Britt, Jaelee Roberts on guitar, bassist Hasee Ciacco, and mandolin player and singer Mary Meyer.
Sister Sadie, which launched in the wake of a one-off show at Nashville’s Station Inn in 2012, is an all-female group that was named the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year in 2020, as well as Vocal Group of the Year in 2019, 2020 and 2021. The band’s previous release, Sister Sadie II, earned them a Grammy nomination for Best Bluegrass Album in 2019.
“Sister Sadie is incredibly excited to be a part of the Mountain Home Family,” the band shares. “We are looking forward to making a new record soon with this amazing team. On behalf of Gena, Deanie, Hasee, Jaelee and Mary, thank you for believing in us and giving us a place to make more Sister Sadie music.”
“Sister Sadie has already had quite an impact on bluegrass,” notes Mountain Home’s Jon Weisberger. “Their awards are testimony to that, but I believe a look at the esteem that musicians like Gena and Deanie have among their colleagues, and at the breadth of the group’s audience, tells the story at least as well as the trophies. We think the best is yet to come for Sister Sadie’s music, and we’re looking forward to bringing it to the world.”
CWBY Inks With CDX Records For Distribution
CWBY
Country/pop artist CWBY has inked an exclusive deal with CDX Records. The signing comes just ahead of his forthcoming single release, “Insecure” on Friday, May 13. The track will serve as the lead single from his debut EP Lovin’ Me Ain’t Easy due this summer.
First discovering his love for music when he began using songwriting as an outlet to express himself, CWBY has spent the last 2 years refining his craft. His debut release “Trapstar” has racked up over 1 million streams on Spotify alone, while the music video has nearly 2 million views. With fan-favorite tracks such as “Sorry Mama” and “Toxic,” CWBY has infused country, pop, rock, R&B and rap influences.
“CWBY is an innovator as much as he is a fantastic artist. He has his finger on the pulse of what is happening. We believe he will change the business like Sam Phillips and Sun Records did,” shares Joe Kelly, President of CDX Records. “CWBY and his music are right in the wheelhouse of where our music is going and we are proud to be his team.”
“I’m hyped to have CDX as my distribution partner. They believe in me and this journey and I’m looking forward to taking my career to the next level with them,” CWBY says.
Tim Montana Slates Latest Project ‘Reno’ For May 6
/by Lorie HollabaughTim Montana‘s new album Reno will be released on May 6 via Music Knox Records/BBR Music Group.
The six-song project is a follow up to his 2021 Long Shots and leans even further into Montana’s distinct sound, blending country and rock to embrace the American experience and the blue collar way of life. Across the six songs, the Montana native presents an album full of rock and grit that is influenced by the West and speaks to his values, beliefs and lifestyle.
Having been raised in a single-wide without electricity in the wilds near Butte, Montana and spending years taking odd jobs just to pay the bills, Montana has racked up unbelievable stories and an appreciation for those on the grind.
“When I die, this will be the music I’ll be most proud of making. We lit the rulebook on fire and just went for it, focusing on creating music that was true to me—and that’s exactly what you’re getting—pure Tim Montana,” he explains.
He’ll be taking Reno out on the road as he headlines his own shows in addition to stops alongside Koe Wetzel, Lee Brice and Michael Ray later this year.
Nashville’s New GEODIS Park Is Embracing The ‘Music’ In ‘Music City’ [Interview]
/by Steven BoeroGEODIS Park. Photo: Courtesy of Nashville SC
As Major League Soccer (MLS) and the city of Nashville turn its eyes on Nashville Soccer Club for its home opener on Sunday (May 1), the community will get its first look at GEODIS Park.
The 30,000-seat soccer-specific stadium is the biggest of its kind in the U.S. and Canada. But this isn’t just a place for soccer fans to congregate and cheer on their club, it will be the city’s newest and shiniest outdoor venue for music.
“This stadium was designed with concerts particularly in mind,” said Nashville SC CEO, Ian Ayre, in an interview with The Sports Credential—MusicRow’s sister publication. “It has all of the phase power, lighting, plugins and all that type of stuff [needed to put on a concert]. It’s got the steelwork in the south end built, so they can hold a stage and lighting rigs. There are artist dressing rooms and locker rooms that convert into green rooms. We own our own pitch cover, so the whole thing has been designed, particularly, with with concerts in mind.”
This arena will offer the city a mid-sized, outdoor arena for artists who aren’t looking to play Nissan Stadium (69,143), but want a bigger venue than Bridgestone Arena (approximately 20,000) or the Ryman Auditorium (2,362).
Featured (L-R): Nashville SC TV play-play-play voice Tony Husband, club CEO Ian Ayre, TV analyst Jamie Watson. Photo: Courtesy of Nashville SC
GEODIS Park sits in the heart of the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood at the Nashville Fairgrounds and will be the permanent home to Nashville SC. A lot of work went into conceptualizing and constructing the privately funded stadium to not only be a fantastic soccer stadium, but an event space that can be extremely versatile.
The stadium was even designed for outdoor events, as the bathrooms will be accessible from outside even when GEODIS Park’s doors are closed. These kinds of amenities will allow for many events and watch parties that fans and the community can partake in.
Ayre says that the match-day experience was designed to be like a music festival. The main act is soccer but there will be so many other things going on for fans of all degrees. The concessions are packed with local eateries, the concourse is spacious to give fans room to take a break without having to miss the action on field, and the premium clubs will offer fans an exclusive and unique experience.
“We like to think of it like a festival of soccer,” Ayre shares. “If you go to a music festival, you go because you usually really like the headliner. In this case, soccer is that headliner. We wanted to surround that experience with all sorts of other things that people will come for, and then talk about.”
GEODIS Park will have multiple mini-stages in and around the stadium where fans will be welcomed by local artists and songwriters. Nashville SC has a unique opportunity being in Music City, and has shown its dedication to music and will continue to make local artists part of its identity.
Pictured (L-R): Mary Cavarra, Brian Tibbs, CM Joy Styles, John Ingram, Michael Carter, Darrell Freeman, Ian Ayre, Eleanor McDonald at the groundbreaking of GEODIS Park.
“We have a 60,000 square foot event square in the north end, which has power, so we can put stage out there on opening day,” says Ayre. “We’ve got a large screen video board on the external [of the building] so we can do watch parties. It has full sound so the whole thing has been designed with the ability to bring it to life in many different ways beyond soccer.”
In 2020, discussions of where the stadium would be and how it would look started early on with principal owner John Ingram and former Nashville mayor Megan Berry, before Ayre joined the club. Once the Nashville Fairgrounds were decided as the location and the team got the green light from the city, Ayre and the rest of the organization began planning what the stadium would look like in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood.
“We worked as a group—myself and the ownership group—to look at the design with Populous, who were the main architect, and Hastings, who were the local architects. Some of the key messaging that came out of those discussions was really about the neighborhood in which it would sit in,” Ayre shares. “It was really important to make it look like it belongs in that neighborhood. Wedgewood-Houston is a very up-and-coming urban area. There are some amazing stadiums both in the MLS and around the world, and some of them look like giant spaceships that have landed from somewhere, which might be the right thing in some places. We felt that our design, look, and feel needed to fit in.
“We’re building the biggest house in the neighborhood, you don’t want to build the most gaudy one. A lot of brick, steel, and wood were built into the design, and some of the steel work is designed with a very industrial look. I think it works perfectly for the location and what we’re after.”
A Liverpool, England native, Ayre has been leading the building of the club and the energy around it. He has been tasked with taking the USL Nashville soccer team’s passionate fans and building up a world-class organization with an unbelievable stadium. He stepped down as CEO of Liverpool FC in 2017 and was ready for the next adventure. However, at no point did he think that building a soccer club in Nashville would be the next adventure.
“I am a big believer that things happen for a reason,” Ayre explains. “It certainly wasn’t anything I’ve ever thought of doing, but the more time I spent on it, the more I realized what an exciting opportunity it would be not just to run a team, but to actually build the entire thing from scratch. [That is] kind of a unique thing to do in this sport. It doesn’t get more exciting and fulfilling than to create the whole thing.”
Joe Bonamassa performing the pre-match Guitar Riff. Photo: Courtesy of Nashville SC
Since joining the MLS, the Nashville SC under Ayre’s leadership has incorporated many aspects of music to its match-day festivities, most notably their pre-match Guitar Riff. Many talented musicians in Music City have taken the stage for the pre-match tradition, including Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine and blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa. Styx’s Tommy Shaw will be the first to perform the Guitar Riff at GEODIS Park this Sunday (May 1).
Nashville band Judah & the Lion wrote and performed the club’s official anthem “Never Give Up On You.” The band will perform the song during a 20 minute post-match concert on Sunday.
Right now, GEODIS Park and NSC are focused on welcoming soccer fans and making it an amazing, world-class match-day experience. But concerts are on the horizon as Ayre and his team are looking to book acts.
For information about GEODIS Park and Nashville Soccer Club, head to The Sports Credential to read more.
Chart Action: Brett Eldredge Impacts Country Radio
/by Alex ParryBrett Eldredge earns the most adds at country radio this week, pulling 85 new stations on his latest single, “Songs About You.” The single debuted on the Billboard Country Airplay at No. 38, on Mediabase at No. 46, and on MusicRow at No. 76.
“Songs About You,” which namechecks lines from tunes such as Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing In The Dark,” Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me” and Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” was written by Eldredge, Jessie Jo Dillion, and Ben West. It is the title track to his upcoming June 17 release.
“There are songs that just transport you back in time to a moment with someone you love,” Eldredge shares. “Even though you’ve not been with the person for a long time, these songs take ahold of you. You might be having a fine day, then you walk into a store where the song is playing, and you’re transported into the past.”
For more chart data, view the latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly.
Luke Bryan Heads Back To The Farm This Fall For Six-Date Tour
/by Lorie HollabaughLuke Bryan. Photo Jim Wright
Luke Bryan will headline his thirteenth “Farm Tour” this September during a two-week break from his “Raised Up Right Tour,” which launches in June. Riley Green, Jameson Rodgers, the Peach Pickers, and DJ Rock are special guests on the shows.
The Georgia native will set up stages in the fields of local farmers across six states from Sept. 15-24, and two of the farms have never been played before. Tickets are on sale May 5 at LukeBryan.com.
“I look forward to these shows every year mainly because of the meaning behind them and why it was important to me to start the ‘Farm Tour’ thirteen years ago,” Bryan explains. “It has allowed communities who don’t normally get a concert in their areas to experience a fun night in their backyard all while lifting up the American farmer. Small town and farming pretty much sum up my childhood. It is my way of life and I know it is a way of life for so many. It is truly the highlight of my year for me and my whole team.”
Bayer is once again the presenting sponsor for the shows, teaming up with Bryan to fight hunger through its #HerestotheFarmer campaign. From June 1-Oct. 31, for every share Bayer will provide one meal to a person in need through Feeding America with the goal of helping to provide 1 million meals. Since the partnership’s inception, nearly five million meals have been donated and more than $180,000 has gone to Feeding America member food banks and local farmers at each of the tour cities.
Over 100,000 fans have attended the tour each year since its inception in 2009. Bryan will continue giving back to the farmers by awarding college scholarships to students from farming families who are attending the local college or university near the tour stops. To date, more than 60 scholarships have been granted.
Miranda Lambert Rings In New Album Era At Sold-Out Franklin Show
/by LB CantrellMiranda Lambert performs at Franklin, Tennessee’s FirstBank Amphitheater. Photo: Acacia Evans
Reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year Miranda Lambert celebrated the release of her eighth solo album Palomino on Thursday night (April 28) at the FirstBank Amphitheater near Nashville.
After battling the traffic the venue has become known for, The Cadillac Three kicked off the music for the evening. The rocking country trio set the tone for a night full of fun, playing some songs from the two records they released during the pandemic, Country Fuzz and Tabasco & Sweet Tea.
The Nashville natives slowed the tempo down on a lot of their tunes, creating a swampy feel. Before turning things over to Lambert, TC3 played their beloved “White Lighting” and “The South.”
When Lambert made it to the stage, she picked up the hell-raising vibe TC3 put down with a new tune from Palomino, “Actin’ Up.” The up-to-no-good smash quickly segued into her 2005 hit “Kerosene.”
Throughout the night, Lambert kept up a timely pace, weaving in new songs with her collection of hits. Although she was clearly on a mission to play as many crowd-pleasers as possible, she was having a ball all night. Her fans, some playing off of Lambert’s cool cowgirl aesthetic, donned their best denim, rhinestones and fringe for the occasion.
Audience members threw their hands up and danced to “Fastest Girl In Town,” “Famous In A Small Town,” and “Only Prettier.” They closed their eyes and swayed to “Vice,” “Automatic,” and “The House That Built Me.” They sang their hearts out to “Bluebird” and “Settling Down.”
For the new songs Lambert played, the crowd already knew all the words to “Strange” and “If I Was A Cowboy.” The entertainer glowed with excitement to the crowd singing back the new lyrics.
Miranda Lambert performs at Franklin, Tennessee’s FirstBank Amphitheater. Photo: Acacia Evans
The most powerful moment of the night came when Lambert slowed things down. Before playing an acoustic song, she admitted that she was nervous for the show and had put a lot of thought into what she wanted to play.
“Thank y’all so much for coming out tonight to the first weekend of the tour,” Lambert said. “I was thinking about the set tonight and I know I’m throwing a couple new ones at y’all. Thanks for singing along to the new ones.
“I was thinking about some songs that meant the world to me in times in my life that I really needed them. I started thinking about what I wanted to play tonight and I always go back to this one because I’m a sucker for a sad song.”
Lambert showed off of magnificence when she played “Tin Man.” Alone in the spotlight, her exquisite country voice echoed off the rough exposed edges of rock in the rock quarry-turned concert venue. The crowd was quiet, taking in every note, some even weeping.
In another awesome moment, Lambert brought out her best friend and co-writer, Ashley Monroe, to sing their song “Heart Like Mine.” TC3’s Jaren Johnston then joined the women on stage to sing “Willin’.”
“Y’all wanna hear a real country song?” Lambert asked at one point, before playing an awesome rendition of “Tequila Does.” The rhinestone fringe gals loved this one, too.
Before saying goodnight, Lambert blitzed us with “Gunpowder and Lead,” “Mama’s Broken Heart,” “White Liar,” “Little Red Wagon” and “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home).” With a smile on her face and a 22-song setlist completed, she left the hometown crowd thoroughly entertained.
Little Big Town will join Lambert and TC3 for “The Bandwagon Tour” next week. For dates, click here.
‘A Celebration Of A Beautiful Life’ For Jimbeau Hinson Slated For May
/by Lydia Farthing“A Celebration Of A Beautiful Life” has been scheduled in remembrance of country songwriter Jimbeau Hinson. The event will take place Monday, May 9 at 3rd and Lindsley in Nashville.
Hinson, who penned several hit songs for the Oak Ridge Boys, Brenda Lee, Steve Earle, Kathy Mattea, David Lee Murphy, and more, died at age 70 on March 4, 2022 due to complications from a stroke.
Doors will open at 12 noon for the commemorative event for family, close friends and industry colleagues, with a special Video Tribute starting at 12:30 p.m. CT. Music performances by special guests will begin at 1:00 p.m.
Seating is limited and those wishing to attend are asked to send their RSVP to JimbeauHinson.com by Wednesday, May 4 at 2 p.m. CT. A livestream of Hinson’s celebration will be available at JimbeauHinson.com on May 9 beginning at 12:30 p.m. CT.
In lieu of flowers, the family has kindly requested that donations be made to the Alex LeVasseur Memorial Fund.
Chris Young Adds Jimmie Allen, Old Dominion To ‘Famous Friends (Deluxe Edition)’
/by Lorie HollabaughChris Young has enlisted the help of some more famous buddies for the expanded edition of his album Famous Friends (Deluxe Edition), due out June 3.
Fans are being treated to a first taste of the expanded project with “Everybody Needs a Song,” a collaboration with Old Dominion, available everywhere now. The track is one of six new tunes on the upcoming project.
The 20-track album also features a collaboration with Jimmie Allen, “Music Note;” the multi-week No. 1 “Famous Friends” with Kane Brown; “At The End of a Bar,” his newest single with Mitchell Tenpenny; plus two new solo songs, as well as acoustic versions of fan favorites “I’m Comin’ Over” and “Think of You” with Cassadee Pope.
Young produced or co-produced all twenty sides on the new release.
Famous Friends (Deluxe Edition) Track List:
1. Raised on Country
2. Famous Friends (with Kane Brown)
3. Town Ain’t Big Enough (with Lauren Alaina)
4. Drowning
5. Rescue Me
6. Break Like You Do
7. At the End of a Bar (with Mitchell Tenpenny)
8. Love Looks Good on You
9. One of Them Nights
10. When You’re Drinking
11. Cross Every Line
12. Hold My Beer Watch This
13. Best Seat in the House
14. Tonight We’re Dancing
15. Everybody Needs a Song (with Old Dominion)
16. If I Knew What Was Good for Me
17. Music Note (with Jimmie Allen)
18. Like a Slow Song
19. Think of You (with Cassadee Pope) (Acoustic Version)
20. I’m Comin’ Over (Acoustic Version)