Back Blocks Music Elevates One, Adds Two

 

Elizabeth Cook, Megan Clemens & Laine Lonero

Back Blocks Music has promoted Elizabeth Cook to Creative Director, and has added Megan Clemens as Director of Digital Marketing and Laine Lonero as Marketing Coordinator.

Cook joined Back Blocks in 2023 as Creative Coordinator while attending Belmont University. As Creative Coordinator, she worked on A&R admin, pitching songs, managing interns, coordinating writers’ calendars and retreats and more. She played a key role in the writing process for Tucker Wetmore’s What Not To, and was recently named to MusicRow’s Next Big Thing Industry Directory. In her new role, she will lead creative development, calendars and catalog management, supporting artists like Ashley Cooke, Tucker Wetmore and Ethan Burdick.

Clemens joins Back Blocks from previously serving as Head of Digital at CSM Management, where she worked with Chris Isaak, Def Leppard, Fleetwood Mac, Lenny Kravitz, Stevie Nicks and more. In her new role, she will lead Back Blocks’ digital strategy for the company’s roster of artists and will focus on creating genuine fan relationships, through content.

In her new role, Lonero will oversee a wide range of marketing and digital initiatives, including content creation, website management, scheduling, data analysis and social media management. Lonero was previously an intern for the company in 2024, and recently graduated from Belmont University, where she studied media and entertainment industries and music. She has also held internships at Fort Nash and PEG Music.

“I am thrilled to welcome Megan and Laine to the Back Blocks team, while also celebrating the well-deserved promotion of Elizabeth, whose leadership has been instrumental in the growth for our writers over the past year,” says Founder/CEO Rakiyah Marshall. “Our team is entering a new season of growth and we’re sharpening our focus on long-term artist and songwriter development. Each of these women represent the caliber of leadership, passion and expertise that aligns with Back Blocks’ vision as we look ahead to 2026.”

Cody Jinks Celebrates Re-Release Of ‘Adobe Sessions’ Album With Special Commemorative Editions

Cody Jinks. Photo: Joshua Black Wilkins

Cody Jinks is celebrating the re-release of his Adobe Sessions album and the project’s 10-year anniversary with a special commemorative edition featuring an array of collectible formats and special packaging.

Each edition showcases premium design details, including a dimensional embossed metallic copper foil stamp, and includes the previously unreleased track “Everything,” recorded during the original Adobe Sessions but never before shared with fans and exclusively released on these physical products only.

The deluxe vinyl release features dual-sided gatefold artwork, while the CD comes in a striking digipack format. With ultra-limited autographed pressings, indie-exclusive colorways, and premium variants, the anniversary collection celebrates a decade of Adobe Sessions while offering something special for both longtime collectors and new listeners alike.

The D2C Limited Edition ($65) features a one-of-a-kind hand-splattered vinyl in a custom color combination, no two copies alike alongside a hand-signed insert by Jinks and deluxe gatefold packaging. The D2C Exclusive Edition ($40) offers a vibrant metallic copper vinyl pressing housed in a reversible dual-cover gatefold. The Independent Retail Exclusive ($40) will be available at participating indie record stores and includes the “Adobe Sunset” translucent swirl vinyl in matching deluxe packaging. Rounding out the collection, the CD Edition ($13) features a reversible dual-cover digipack, delivering an accessible yet premium option for fans and collectors alike.

Jinks has sold over five million tickets to date, and recently wrapped his co-headlining “Same Kind of Crazy Acoustic Tour” with Ward Davis. In 2026, Jinks will play various festivals including Outlaws And Legends Music Fest, Arizona Bike Week, Boots In The Park, Under The Big Sky Festival, and more.

Nate Smith To Kick Off ‘Long Live Country Rock & Roll Tour’ This Spring

Nate Smith. Photo: Kaiser Cunningham

Nate Smith will launch his most extensive North American run, the “Long Live Country Rock & Roll Tour,” beginning in March. Special guests Josh Ross, Brandon Wisham and Just Jayne will join him on the 23-date trek.

Kicking off on Mar. 26 at Tulsa’s Cain’s Ballroom, the new tour will include stops in Raleigh, Indianapolis, Atlanta, Reno, New York City and more, wrapping with a two-night stand at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium June 17-18. Tickets are available now here.

Smith will head into the New Year as direct support for Jason Aldean on the upcoming 2026 leg of his “Full Throttle Tour.” He capped off the year by earning his fourth consecutive No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart with “Fix What You Didn’t Break,” before recently gaining major traction with the celebratory anthem “After Midnight,” his brand-new collaboration with Tyler Hubbard.

2026 Dates For Nate Smith’s “Long Live Country Rock & Roll Tour”:
March 26 | Tulsa, OK – Cain’s Ballroom ^ #
March 27 | Norman, OK – Riverwind Casino ^ #
March 28 | Ft. Worth, TX – Billy Bob’s Texas ^ #
April 2 | Wallingford, CT – The Dome at Toyota Oakdale Theatre *^
April 3 | Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore Silver Spring *^
April 4 | Raleigh, NC – The Ritz *^
April 9 | Lake Buena Vista, FL – House of Blues Orlando *^
April 10 | Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre *^
April 11 | Charlotte, NC – Coyote Joe’s *+ #
April 16 | Waukee, IA – Vibrant Music Hall *^
April 17 | Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room @ Old National Centre *^
April 18 | Cincinnati, OH – The Andrew J Brady Music Center *^
April 23 | Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live ^
April 25 | Reno, NV – Grand Theatre at Grand Sierra Resort *+ #
May 7 | Omaha, NE – Steelhouse Omaha *^
May 8 | Columbia, MO – 9th Street *^
May 14 | Mankato, MN – Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center *^ #
May 15 | Grand Rapids, MI – GLC Live at 20 Monroe *^
May 16 | Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit *^
May 28 | New York, NY – The Rooftop at Pier 17 *^
May 29 | Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues *^
June 17 | Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium *^ #
June 18 | Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium *^ #

* Support: Josh Ross
^ Support: Brandon Wisham
+ Support: Just Jayne
# Non-Live Nation Date

Industry Ink: Lady A, She Is The Music, Grammy Museum Mississippi, Christmas 4 Kids, More

Lady A Partners With Cornerstone Building Brands Partners For Habitat For Humanity

Lady A. Photo: Alysse Gafkjen

Lady A and Cornerstone Building Brand have pledged a donation of $50,000 in Ply Gem windows and vinyl siding to Habitat for Humanity’s Rockford, Illinois affiliate to support affordable housing in the Rockford community. In addition, Cornerstone Building Brands is contributing $10,000 to support LadyAID’s local, national and global initiatives.

“Home has always been at the heart of our music and our lives,” shares Hillary Scott of Lady A. “We’re honored to partner with Cornerstone Building Brands and Habitat for Humanity to lift up families in Rockford. As we visit each city on our holiday tour, it means a lot to connect the spirit of the holiday season with giving back locally.”

“We’ve seen firsthand how a safe, affordable home can change the trajectory of a family,” adds Keri Asevedo, Executive Director of the Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity. “This contribution of windows and siding will help us deliver durable, energy-efficient solutions that improve comfort, reduce energy costs and support long-term stability for Rockford families. We’re grateful to Cornerstone Building Brands and Lady A for their support of our mission.”

 

Laura Segura Appointed Executive Director Of She Is The Music

Laura Segura.

Laura Segura has been appointed Executive Director of She Is The Music (SITM), the global nonprofit dedicated to gender equality and increasing the number of women working in music.

As Executive Director, Segura will oversee and expand SITM’s core initiatives. She joins from her position as Executive Director of MusiCares, where she helped found Humans of Hip Hop grant program, the annual Wellness in Music research project, The Day That Music Cares and more. Previously, Segura served as Vice President of Membership & Industry Relations for the Recording Academy.

 

Grammy Museum Mississippi To Debut New Exhibit ‘The Killer, The Preacher and The Cowboy’

The Grammy Museum Mississippi will debut its new exhibit, “The Killer, The Preacher and the Cowboy: The Legacies of Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggart and Mickey Gilley,” on Jan. 22.

“Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggart and Mickey Gilley each carved out their own distinct place in American culture, whether through music, entertainment or ministry,” says Emily Havens, Executive Director of GRAMMY Museum Mississippi. “GRAMMY Museum Mississippi is proud to bring to light the stories of these three remarkable cousins from Ferriday and Natchez. Though all three of these legends have since passed on, they continue to have a lasting impact on generations of fans and followers.”

 

2025 Christmas 4 Kids Tour Bus Show Announces Lineup

Maddox Batson, NSYNC’s Chris Kirkpatrick, Mickie James, Jeff Bates, Craig Wayne Boyd and T. Graham Brown have joined the lineup for this year’s Christmas 4 Kids Tour Bus show. With over 50 entertainers onsite, additional artists can be found here.

The event will take place on Monday (Dec. 15) at First Baptist Church in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Tickets are available on site the day of the event.

 

FEMco Hosts Holiday Bash At Anzie Blue

Pictured (L-R): David Ross, Brooke Moriber, Ian Flanigan, Leslie Fram, Charity Bowden, Phil Guerini, Tenille Arts. Photo: iamjohnjo

FEMco hosted its holiday bash showcase on Wednesday (Dec. 10) at Anzie Blue. The event featured Tenille Arts, Ian Flanigan, Brooke Moriber and Charity Bowden.

 

Pickleball For Porter’s Call To Take Place On Feb. 3

The inaugural “Pickleball for Porter’s Call’ event has been set for Feb. 3 at Pickleball Kingdom South Nashville. The event supports Porter’s Call, the nonprofit offering free care for the mental and emotional health of touring recording artists and their partners.

The event will feature lunch, dedicated free-play courts, and two competitive tournament tracks (limited to 16 teams). Attendees are encouraged to sign up early to secure their spot. All artists, managers, teams, and industry professionals are invited to participate.

“In a fast-moving industry, we saw an opportunity to create an event that would highlight Porter’s Call and build community among industry and artists,” shares Matt Roberts of Jeff Roberts Agency. “We hope to see people come together, have fun and rally support around the mission of Porters Call.”

MusicRow Weekly (MusicRow Touring & Next Big Thing Issue, News, Charts, More…)

This week brought a surge of developments across Nashville’s music industry, ranging from major business moves and leadership shifts to headline-making artist news and the unveiling of the talent shaping the year ahead. The latest edition of The MusicRow Weekly captures the momentum across Music City as artists, executives and companies continue to drive the industry forward. Click here to see the full edition.

A key highlight is the release of MusicRow Magazine’s 2026 Touring & Next Big Thing Issue, which features Gavin Adcock of Thrivin’ Here Records/Warner Records Nashville on the cover. Inside, the publication introduces its 12th annual Next Big Thing class, spotlighting a group of artists positioned for major growth: Graham Barham, Kaitlin Butts, Laci Kaye Booth, The Castellows, Kashus Culpepper, Lanie Gardner, Alexandra Kay, Braxton Keith, Zach John King, Chase McDaniel, Ty Myers, Emily Ann Roberts, Hudson Westbrook and Stephen Wilson Jr. The issue also presents the N.B.T. Industry Directory Class of 2026, recognizing emerging Nashville business leaders whose work is already influencing the city’s creative and commercial landscape.

The magazine digs into the evolving live music sector with a roundtable featuring WME’s Barrett Sellers, Wasserman’s Lenore Kinder, The Neal Agency’s Brian Carothers, UTA’s Brian Hill, CAA’s Lindsey Myers and Kinkead Entertainment’s Greg Scott. Coverage extends to mental health visibility through Hollywood & Mind’s first Nashville event, discussions on genre and equity with Gina Miller and Jeanette Porcello, insights from Ryman Auditorium/Grand Ole Opry House/Ascend Amphitheater Director of Concerts Chrissy Hall, and a closer look at life on the road from tour managers Chelsae Partosan and Matt Morgan.

In artist news, Maddie & Tae announced that they are moving forward with separate paths. Font will continue releasing music as a solo artist, while Kerr is stepping away from the business to focus on her family. Another notable moment occurred during Jelly Roll’s appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, where Craig Morgan surprised him with an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry via video message.

The industry also noted the passing of Raul Malo, frontman of the Grammy-winning band The Mavericks, who died at age 60 after a battle with cancer.

Conway Entertainment Group Live (CEG Live) announced the launch of its new Nashville-based consulting division, offering venue booking, strategic planning and operational support for entertainment spaces. Tony Conway will lead the initiative, working alongside Blake McDaniel, Scott Welch, Sherry May and Brandon Mauldin.

Capitol CMG Publishing revealed multiple promotions; David Gutekunst to Executive Vice President; Kent Draughon to Senior Vice President of Administration & Operations; Katie Barolak and Terryl Padilla to Senior Director, Creative; and Jessica Marion to Vice President of Marketing & Song Promotion. Sony Music Publishing also expanded its lineup with a global publishing deal for BigXthaPlug and a new partnership with Tooth & Nail Publishing for Max McNown.

Additional personnel updates included Caroline Fields taking the helm of 2PM Sharp Publicity’s Nashville office, Brad Moist joining Integrity Music as Vice President of A&R & Development, and Ella Fernandez being elevated to Executive within CAA’s Global Touring Marketing division. New publishing agreements were inked by Ricky Manning with Electric Feel Publishing/Plush–Push Play Publishing, Jake Puliti with Young Guns Publishing, and Matt McKinney with Position Music.

In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Jason Aldean takes the No. 1 spot with “How Far Does A Goodbye Go.” Explore more chart data here.

The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.

Jake Owen To Hit The Road On ‘Dreams to Dream Tour’

Jake Owen. Photo: Spidey Smith

Jake Owen is set to hit the road next year on the “Dreams to Dream Tour.” Kendell Marvel will join as support.

Kicking off on Feb. 26 in Washington, DC, the tour will make stops in Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama and more on the 12-date trek. The tour steps back from arenas to more intimate venues for a stripped down set in support of his recently released Dreams To Dream album. Tickets are on sale now.

Produced by Shooter Jennings, the new project features guest appearances by Jamey Johnson on “The Jukebox Knows,” and Savannah Conley on “Them Old Love Songs” and writing credits from Ben Chapman and Marvel.

“Dreams To Dream Tour” Dates:
Feb. 26 – Lincoln Theatre – Washington, DC.
Feb. 27 – The Paramount Theater – Charlottesville, VA
Feb. 28 – Appell Center for the Performing Arts – York, PA
March 06 – Walker Theatre – Memorial Auditorium – Chattanooga, TN
March 07 – Von Braun Center – Mars Music Hall – Huntsville, AL
March 08 – Bijou Theatre – Knoxville, TN
March 19 – The Fitzgerald Theater – Saint Paul, MN
March 20 – Capitol Theatre – Davenport, IA
March 21 – Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts – Bloomington, IL
March 26 – Meyer Theatre – Green Bay, WI
March 27 – Hoyt Sherman Place – Des Moines, IA
March 28 – Blue Gate Performing Arts Center – Shipshewana, IN

ACM Reveals Submissions & Ballot Timeline For 61st Annual Awards

The Academy of Country Music has unveiled the submissions and ballot timeline for member voting for the 61st annual awards, taking place on May 17 in Las Vegas.

The window to become a member or renew membership ends Monday (Dec. 15) at 5 p.m. CT. Interested industry professionals can submit an application for ACM Membership online here.

Nominee submissions for the 61st ACM Main Award, Radio Award, and Industry Award categories will open at 11 a.m. CT on Jan. 5, and will remain open through Jan. 26, 2026 at 7 p.m. CT. The eligibility period for submissions for the 61st ACM Awards is Jan. 1, 2025 – Dec. 31, 2025. Information on how to submit nominees can be found here.

Key dates for Academy professional members for the 2025 ACM Awards cycle:
Submissions Period Opens: January 5, 2026
Submissions Period Closes: January 26, 2026
First Round Voting, Main Awards: February 23, 2026 – March 2, 2026
Second Round Voting, Main Awards: March 23, 2026 – March 30, 2026
Final Round Voting, Main Awards: April 13, 2026 – April 20, 2026
*All submission/voting windows close at 8 p.m. E.T. / 7 p.m. C.T. / 5 p.m. P.T.

Key dates for Academy professional members for the 2025 ACM Radio Awards cycle:
Submissions Period Opens: January 5, 2026
Submissions Period Closes: January 26, 2026
First Round Voting, Radio Awards: February 9, 2026 – February 23, 2026
Final Round Voting, Radio Awards: March 2, 2025 – March 16, 2026
*All submission/voting windows close at 8 p.m. E.T. / 7 p.m. C.T. / 5 p.m. P.T.

Lainey Wilson, Tyler Childers, Jason Isbell Among New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2026 Lineup

Lainey Wilson, Tyler Childers, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Teddy Swims, Eagles, Rhiannon Giddens, Earth, Wind & Fire and many more are among the jam-packed lineup for the 2026 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, set for April 23 through May 3.

More than 5,000 musicians will perform across 14 stages over eight days at the historic Fair Grounds Race Course, filling the air with everything from jazz and blues to gospel, funk, rock, and zydeco. Beyond the music, Festivalgoers can indulge in local cuisine, art, and tradition, making Jazz Fest not just an event, but a celebration of everything that makes New Orleans unforgettable.

From Katrina to Melissa, Jazz Fest stands in solidarity with the people of Jamaica and is dedicating its 2026 Cultural Exchange Pavilion to the island nation. Entitled “One Love Jamaica,” this special presentation celebrates Jamaica’s vibrant music, rich cultural traditions, and indomitable spirit in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa this fall. The lineup features some of the biggest names in reggae and dancehall, including Ziggy and Stephen Marley, Sean Paul, Burning Spear, Protoje, Original Koffee and Lila Iké, alongside emerging talent and the lesser-known sounds of Jamaican mento, gospel, jazz and Junkanoo.

Outside the Pavilion, festival-goers can visit the Cultural Exchange Artist Demonstration Tent, which will offer a curated selection of craft items supporting artisans affected by the hurricane, and enjoy authentic Jamaican cuisine and beverages at the Cultural Exchange food stand.

Weekend passes and VIP packages go on sale today, (Dec. 12) , at 10 a.m. at nojazzfest.com,  and the festival offers special payment plans starting with just $49 down. Jazz Fest also offers discounted general admission pricing for Louisiana Residents.  Once again Jazz Fest 2026 will include the much-beloved “Locals Thursday” on both weekends of the event, April 23 & 30, for Louisiana residents.

NSAI Accepting Submissions For 34th Annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival

The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) is now accepting round submissions for the 34th annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, set for March 24-28.

Longstanding presenting partner Regions Bank is returning to support and celebrate songwriters alongside NSAI, and planning has begun for the annual five-day festival dedicated to honoring the art of songwriting and shining the spotlight on those who often go unseen as they craft the world’s favorite songs.

To submit a round for consideration, visit here or tinpansouth.com prior to the submission deadline of Jan. 9. Once the open submission period closes, all entries received will be reviewed by the official selection committee to confirm the official festival schedule. For any questions regarding the submission process, please contact Lindsay@nashvillesongwriters.com.

Keith Urban Shares Raucous Fun Of Live Shows On First-Ever Live Album ‘High And A (Live)’

Keith Urban has released his first full-length live album, High And A (Live) today (Dec. 12).

Recorded during his recently-wrapped “High And Alive World Tour,” the new album features every minute of Urban’s two-hour, 20-song concert, and gives fans a chance to experience and/or re-live one of his most explosive concert tours to date. The tour was Urban’s first in nearly three years, and the album captures screaming guitar solos, raucous crowd singalongs, and a cover of the New Radicals “You Get What You Give.”

Some of Urban’s biggest hits like “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” “One Too Many,” “Somebody Like You” and “Wasted Time” are featured on High And A (Live) , including 11 of his 24 No. 1s, a mashup of “Kiss A Girl” and “Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me,” an acoustic version of “You’ll Think Of Me,” as well as songs from his latest album High.

“Playing live is what I live to do,” says Urban. “Looking out from a stage and seeing people singing, forgetting about all the stress in their lives, cutting loose, and feeling ALIVE – that’s what it’s about for me.”

Urban has been the featured headliner on The Road, the new music series he co-produced with Taylor Sheridan and Blake Shelton on CBS. The show highlights Urban’s and Shelton’s journey in search of the next big musician; performing as Urban’s opening act at music venues across America. The Road finale is set to air on Dec. 21.

High And A(Live) Track List:
1. “Straight Line”
2. “Where The Blacktop Ends”
3. “Long Hot Summer”
4. “Messed Up As Me”
5. “John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16”
6. “Somewhere In My Car with The Way It Is”
7. “Cop Car”
8. “Chuck Taylors”
9. “Days Go By”
10. “‘Til Summer Comes Around”
11. “Heart Like A Hometown”
12. “Kiss A Girl / Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me”
13. “The Fighter”
14. “Somebody Like You”
15. “One Too Many”
16. “You’ll Think Of Me”
17. “Blue Ain’t Your Color”
18. “Wasted Time with Folsom Prison Blues”
19. “You Get What You Give”
20. “You Look Good In My Shirt”