Kane Brown Plays Sold Out MSG Show, Celebrates A Pair Of 7x Platinum Singles
Kane Brown at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 15, 2022.
Kane Brown recently celebrated a sold out Madison Square Garden show on his “Blessed & Free Tour” on Saturday, Jan. 15.
While performing at the hallowed New York venue, Brown was also surprised on stage with commemorative plaques for two of his biggest No. 1 hits: the 7x Platinum “What Ifs,” featuring Lauren Alaina, as well as the 7x Platinum “Heaven.” These singles also mark the third and seventh most streamed country songs of all time, respectively.
Brown is in good company as he joins Taylor Swift and Florida Georgia Line as the only other artists who have multiple 7x Platinum or more songs.
He will continue on his “Blessed & Free” headlining run this weekend with stops in Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and Chicago. For a full list of upcoming dates, click here.
Soundstripe Adds Joseph Owens As Director, Data Science
Joseph Owens
Soundstripe, a provider of royalty-free music, video, and sound effects for creators, has hired Joseph Owens as Director of Data Science.
In this role, Owens will bring his expertise from past roles at Ramsey Solutions, Chegg Inc., ServiceMaster, The Pictsweet Company, and more. He will be responsible for overseeing and formalizing business intelligence initiatives, leading ML/AI strategy, and creating an environment that facilitates a data-driven culture.
Owens has previously held analytics roles in a variety of industries, including frozen vegetable manufacturer The Pictsweet Company, as a Business Analyst; ServiceMaster as a Data Scientist; and Ramsey Solutions as a Senior Data Analyst and eventually Associate Director of Analytics.
“We are excited to have Joseph join our team to help shape and determine what needs to be created for our customers,” says Travis Terrell, co-founder and co-CEO at Soundstripe. “Every department at Soundstripe requires data to make the best decisions, and I am confident that the data analytics team is in great hands under Joseph’s leadership. With tens of thousands of global Soundstripe customers and with millions of licenses accumulated, Joseph’s team will be essential in analyzing all of our product, musical, and customer data in order for us to make decisions on performance and company strategy. I look forward to seeing the new insights and strategies he will undoubtedly bring to the table.”
“I am thrilled to join Soundstripe at this exciting time while the creator economy continues to boom,” adds Owens. “Building off of the company’s established position as an essential creator resource, I see the opportunity to expand even further by fostering a data-driven culture at Soundstripe across all departments. We have some big goals ahead of us this year for Soundstripe’s growth and I can’t wait to dig into the data!”
Bexar Helps Raise Over $30,000 At BG Strong Benefit Concert
Pictured (L-R): Alex Burleson & Logan Turner of Bexar. Photo: Brandon Hanks
Warner Music Nashville’s Bexar headed back to band member Logan Turner’s hometown of Bowling Green, Kentucky on Friday (Jan. 14) to headline the BGStrong.us Benefit Concert.
The rising band was joined by local artists Mills, Mojo Thunder, Kiss Kiss Bang and special guests Dusty Leigh “The Colonel” and Big V of Nappy Roots. In total, the show raised over $33,000 for the tornado relief fund in Warren County, Kentucky, where a deadly tornado outbreak devastated the town last month.
The group recently kicked off their monthly residency at Nashville’s The Underdog. After playing at Nashville’s Whiskey Jam on Jan. 31, they will continue the residency over the next two months on Feb. 24 and March 30 before heading back to Bowling Green for a show at Tidballs on March 31.
Since their 2018 self-released EP, Bexar has accumulated more than 40 million streams to date and was named part of MusicRow‘s Class of 2022 Next Big Thing artists. Their major label debut EP, Pronounced BEAR, was released in fall of 2021 and was produced by award-winning producers Ross Copperman and Luke Laird.
Tracy Joseph Joins Odyssey Entertainment Group’s Growing Roster
Tracy Joseph
Viral TikTok user Tracy Joseph has signed with Odyssey Entertainment Group, a management group co-founded by Nicole Kasper and Paige Kosinski.
Over the past several months, popular creators like Charli D’Amelio have tagged and danced to Joseph’s choreography, such as her dance to “Bundles” by Kayla Nicole. She has already accumulated a following of over seven million followers and 150 million likes on her TikTok account. In just this past year alone, Joseph was cited as the top song breaker by Billboard, as well as being offered the opportunity to travel across the country to five cities as part of the “TikTok Road Show” tour. Most recently she appeared on TikTok’s New Year’s Eve special after being highlighted on the platforms Discover List of top creators.
“Joining hands with Odyssey Entertainment group has been a game-changer for me as we work together as a team to accomplish our mutual goals,” says Joseph.
The 20-year-old dancer uploaded her first dance challenge in 2019 and has since created dance trends and lip sync videos to popular tracks, such as “Love Nwatiti” and “Need to Know.” Her dance to “Woman” by Doja Cat has gained over 100 million views to date.
“Tracy has been an incredible addition to our roster,” Kasper adds. “We believe her creativity and authenticity bridges the gap between the influencer community and the music industry in an incredible way.”
Odyssey Entertainment Group, a women-run company, was founded in April 2021. The company has already expanded its offices to New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville, and recently announced a wave of new hires.
Charly Salvatore Launches Underscore Works, Signs Priscilla Block & More
/by Lorie HollabaughCharly Salvatore
Charly Salvatore, whose industry experience covers publishing, touring, A&R, artist management, development, and marketing, has launched Underscore Works. The new Nashville-based agency specializes in developing and championing rising digital music talent.
The new music management, development and marketing agency represents artists who live a balance in both traditional music models and a TikTok-driven era. One of MusicRow‘s Next Big Thing artists of 2022, Priscilla Block; and up-and-coming artists Dalton Dover and Warren Zeiders, are all signed to Underscore Works, along with Logan Mize, who has been managed by Salvatore since 2009.
Bobby Bones’ First Children’s Picture Book To Be Released In June
/by Lorie HollabaughBobby Bones. Photo: Courtesy of The GreenRoom
Bobby Bones is releasing his first-ever children’s picture book, Stanley the Dog: the First Day of School, via HarperCollins Publishers on June 14.
“I’m pumped to finally share more about my upcoming children’s book,” says Bones. “It follows our bulldog Stanley as he navigates his first day of school jitters and being himself in a brand-new situation. True to real-life Stanley, there are plenty of antics along the way! My hope through writing this book is that it will serve as reminder to kids that it’s okay to not fit in with the crowd; your differences are what make you so special.”
“I couldn’t be more thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with Bobby and Stanley on their first-ever children’s picture book,” adds David Linker, Executive Editor at HarperCollins Publishers. “I think kids will find Stanley’s story about surviving and thriving during his first day of school both heartwarmingly hilarious and doggedly reassuring. I can’t wait to share their story with the world.”
Bones is a two-time No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of Bare Bones: I’m Not Lonely If You’re Reading This Book and Fail Until You Don’t: Fight Grind Repeat. The radio and TV personality is also a two-time CMA Award winner, four-time ACM Award winner, and winner of the 27th season of Dancing with the Stars.
Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser Return To Road For ‘Country Cadillac Tour Part 2’
/by Lorie HollabaughJamey Johnson and Randy Houser are reprising their successful 2021 tour on their upcoming co-headlining “Country Cadillac Tour Part 2,” kicking off in March.
The two longtime friends will once again share the stage while performing acoustically and swapping stories, jokes and songs. The tour will visit 12 cities through April 16, including Green Bay, Evansville, Springfield, Cedar Rapids, and more. Additional dates are expected to be added in the coming months. Public on sale begins Friday, Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. CT.
Johnson’s tour was ranked in the Top 10 of all music tours in the third quarter of 2021 and was also the top ranked music tour worldwide during July 2021. Meanwhile, Houser was in the studio during the second half of 2021 to finish his soon-to-be released album while acting in two feature films.
“Country Cadillac Tour Part 2” Dates:
March 24 – Epic Event Center in Green Bay, WI
March 25 – Michigan Theatre in Jackson, MI
March 26 – Blue Gate Performing Arts Center in Shipshewana, IN
March 27 – The Rust Belt in East Moline, IL
March 31 – Palace Theater in Lorain, OH
April 1 – Brown County Music Center in Nashville, IN
April 2 – Renfro Valley Entertainment Center in Mount Vernon, KY
April 3 – Victory Theatre in Evansville, IN
April 13 – Gillioz Theatre in Springfield, MO
April 14 – Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts in Salina, KS
April 15 – Orpheum Theatre in Sioux City, IA
April 16 – Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids, IA
Dustin Lynch Announces Fifth Studio Album, ‘Blue In The Sky’
/by Lydia FarthingDustin Lynch. Photo: The Dwyers
Broken Bow Records entertainer Dustin Lynch announced he will release his fifth studio album, Blue In The Sky, on Feb. 11.
The 12-track collection, which includes five songs Lynch co-wrote, addresses the bright side of life with optimism mixed with the country artist’s signature sound. The project also features a handful of collaborations with artists such as Riley Green and Chris Lane, as well as MacKenzie Porter, who appears on the label’s longest-reigning single at country radio: the six-week No. 1 “Thinking ‘Bout You.”
Produced by Zach Crowell, Lynch has already released five tracks to give fans a sneak peek at what’s to come, including “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter),” “Tequila On A Boat (feat. Chris Lane),” “Huntin’ Land (feat. Riley Green),” “Pasadena,” and “Not Every Cowboy.”
“This has been a fun secret to keep! Get ready for a collection of songs that are going to make you feel good and want to mix a drink and party with your friends,” shares Lynch. “I’m excited for everyone to hear Blue In The Sky.”
Blue In The Sky follows up Lynch’s Tullahoma, which delivered Platinum chart-toppers including “Ridin’ Roads” and “Good Girl,” in addition to a Top 5 hit “Momma’s House.”
Blue In The Sky Track List:
1. “Party Mode” (Jerry Flowers, Ryan Beaver, Roman Alexander, Jared Keim, Matt McGinn)
2. “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter)” (Dustin Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, Will Weatherly)
3. “Stars Like Confetti” (Josh Thompson, Thomas Rhett, Zach Crowell)
4. “Somethin’ That Makes You Smile” (Erik Dylan, Andy Sheridan, Wyatt McCubbin)
5. “Break It On A Beach” (Dustin Lynch, Ashley Gorley, Hunter Phelps, Zach Crowell)
6. “Tequila On A Boat (feat. Chris Lane)” (Hillary Lindsey, Justin Ebach, Matt Alderman)
7. “Tennessee Trouble” (Dustin Lynch, Matt Dragstrem, Hunter Phelps, Jordan Minton)
8. “Summer Never Ended” (Cole Taylor, Ben Hayslip, Paul DiGiovanni)
9. “Back Road TN” (Ben Hayslip, Brock Berryhill, Jameson Rodgers, Brent Anderson)
10. “Huntin’ Land (feat. Riley Green)” (Dustin Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, Will Weatherly)
11. “Pasadena” (Dustin Lynch, Jeff Hyde, Ryan Tyndell)
12. “Not Every Cowboy” (Casey Brown, Parker Welling, Conner Smith, Heather Morgan)
Monument Records Promotes Casey Thomas
/by Lydia FarthingCasey Thomas
Monument Records has promoted Casey Thomas to Director of Publicity and Creative.
In her new role, Thomas will oversee publicity and media marketing, international media strategy and creative services for the labels’ roster, including artists Alex Hall, Brandon Ratcliff, Caitlyn Smith, Teddy Robb, Tigirlily, Walker Hayes, and music from Fox’s Monarch.
Since joining the label in 2018, Thomas has overseen the launches of many projects across the roster, while also being instrumental in the soundtrack set-up of Fox’s upcoming 2022 drama, Monarch. In her former role of Publicist, she also worked on behalf of the label to help manage communications and press strategy for Monument artists.
The Boston native’s previous stops include time at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where she was responsible for press operations.
“We are so proud of Casey’s leadership within our organization and her ability to think long-term while also maximizing momentum,” says Monument’s GM, Katie McCartney. “Her integrity, passion, and work ethic are invaluable.”
“I’m so grateful to work at Monument Records and support this incredible leadership team,” shares Thomas. “It’s a privilege to represent and work alongside such a compelling roster of artists and creators, and I am looking forward to this next exciting chapter.”
Formed under the leadership of Jason Owen and Shane McAnally, Monument Records is a joint venture with Sony Music Entertainment. Since the label’s launch, the artist roster has accumulated over a billion streams, released multi-Platinum singles—including Walker Hayes’ No. 1 smash hit “Fancy Like”—and more.
Congratulate Thomas at casey.thomas@sonymusic.com.
Big Future Music Group, Truss Records Sign I AM THEY In New Joint Venture
/by Lydia FarthingPictured (L-R): Big Future Music Group President Ryan Wesley Smith, Justin Shinn, Nicole Hickman, Matt Hein, Abbie Parker, and Brandon Chase of I AM THEY, and Tyrus Morgan. Photo: Daniel Boczarski
Nashville-based Big Future Music Group has entered into a joint venture with Truss Records led by Tyrus Morgan.
I AM THEY will be the debut act as well as the first release for the co-venture. The group just kicked off their 2022 tour as part of the popular “Winter Jam Tour Spectacular” traveling across the US.
Since coming on to the scene, the band has racked up unprecedented numbers on streaming platforms; numerous award nominations, including the GMA Dove Award for Best New Artist; and several major tour billings.
Big Future Music Group President Ryan Wesley Smith comments, “We are honored and thrilled to bring the talents of I AM THEY into our universe, along with the launch of Truss Records with our dear friend Tyrus Morgan.” He continues, “To have I AM THEY as our debut signing is exciting. Their hearts, professionalism and unbelievable presence is paramount in developing key components of a burgeoning entertainment company. Couple that with a unique and viable message of hope in their well-written songs–this is exactly our mission for Big Future.”
“What an honor to be able to support I AM THEY through our new label imprint with Big Future Music Group,” Morgan adds. “This band has always been able to write songs that speak straight to the heart, and we are excited to dream with them and bring even more of their signature sound and heart for God to the world.”
I AM THEY is managed by Co-Lab Management, booked by Jeff Roberts & Associates and is on Big Future Entertainment Group/Truss Records. The group plans to release a new single this quarter along with a new worship project.
Lauren Alaina Named Maurices First-Ever Celebrity Brand Ambassador
/by Lorie HollabaughLauren Alaina. Photo: Katie Kauss
Lauren Alaina has been named the first-ever celebrity brand ambassador for the Maurices retail brand.
The year-long partnership will feature opportunities around her upcoming “Top of the World Tour” presented by Maurices, the “Hometown Heroes” program and more, including a CMA Fest sweepstakes prize package and an exclusive Maurices t-shirt design collaboration which will highlight Alaina’s love of puns and sassy phrases.
“Partnering with Lauren is the perfect match for Maurices,” says Laura Sieger, Chief Marketing Officer of Maurices. “She encompasses the DNA of our brand, and our core customer shares similar values of style, service, and community. As a small-town Georgia native, Lauren is the right fit to support our core purpose of making a positive difference in the lives of women who are the heart of our hometowns.”
Throughout her 2022 headlining tour, Alaina will be styled in some of her favorite Maurices looks. As part of the upcoming tour and brand partnership, Maurices and Alaina will also shed light on and support deserving women with unique moments during the tour through the Maurices “Hometown Heroes” sweepstakes.
Lauren Alaina. Photo: Katie Kauss
The “Hometown Heroes” program will spotlight female healthcare workers, educators, first responders, and military members and their families who give back to their communities. Winners will receive tickets to Alaina’s headlining concert in their hometown and the ultimate Maurices shopping spree. The program will be offered in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Rosemont, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Columbus, Ohio; Indianapolis, Indiana; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Cedar Park, Texas; Little Rock, Arkansas; and Nashville, Tennessee.
“Lauren Alaina represents the essence of feel good fashion for real life,” shares David Kornberg, CEO of Maurices. “Through this partnership, we are excited to build brand awareness and recognition with existing customers while introducing Lauren’s strong fanbase who aren’t aware of Maurices to their new favorite clothing brand. We are thrilled to partner with Lauren, who uses country music, faith, family, community and resilience to inspire women–all of which embody the Maurices customer.”
“I am beyond excited and honored to be able to partner with Maurices as I kick off my 2022 ‘Top of the World’ tour presented by Maurices and inspire a new generation of women to look and feel their best in everything they do while shining a light on deserving women through the Hometown Heroes sweepstakes,” adds Alaina.
For more information on the partnership and the “Hometown Heroes” program, click here.
Industry Ink: Kane Brown, Soundstripe, Bexar, Odyssey Entertainment Group
/by Lydia FarthingKane Brown Plays Sold Out MSG Show, Celebrates A Pair Of 7x Platinum Singles
Kane Brown at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 15, 2022.
Kane Brown recently celebrated a sold out Madison Square Garden show on his “Blessed & Free Tour” on Saturday, Jan. 15.
While performing at the hallowed New York venue, Brown was also surprised on stage with commemorative plaques for two of his biggest No. 1 hits: the 7x Platinum “What Ifs,” featuring Lauren Alaina, as well as the 7x Platinum “Heaven.” These singles also mark the third and seventh most streamed country songs of all time, respectively.
Brown is in good company as he joins Taylor Swift and Florida Georgia Line as the only other artists who have multiple 7x Platinum or more songs.
He will continue on his “Blessed & Free” headlining run this weekend with stops in Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and Chicago. For a full list of upcoming dates, click here.
Soundstripe Adds Joseph Owens As Director, Data Science
Joseph Owens
Soundstripe, a provider of royalty-free music, video, and sound effects for creators, has hired Joseph Owens as Director of Data Science.
In this role, Owens will bring his expertise from past roles at Ramsey Solutions, Chegg Inc., ServiceMaster, The Pictsweet Company, and more. He will be responsible for overseeing and formalizing business intelligence initiatives, leading ML/AI strategy, and creating an environment that facilitates a data-driven culture.
Owens has previously held analytics roles in a variety of industries, including frozen vegetable manufacturer The Pictsweet Company, as a Business Analyst; ServiceMaster as a Data Scientist; and Ramsey Solutions as a Senior Data Analyst and eventually Associate Director of Analytics.
“We are excited to have Joseph join our team to help shape and determine what needs to be created for our customers,” says Travis Terrell, co-founder and co-CEO at Soundstripe. “Every department at Soundstripe requires data to make the best decisions, and I am confident that the data analytics team is in great hands under Joseph’s leadership. With tens of thousands of global Soundstripe customers and with millions of licenses accumulated, Joseph’s team will be essential in analyzing all of our product, musical, and customer data in order for us to make decisions on performance and company strategy. I look forward to seeing the new insights and strategies he will undoubtedly bring to the table.”
“I am thrilled to join Soundstripe at this exciting time while the creator economy continues to boom,” adds Owens. “Building off of the company’s established position as an essential creator resource, I see the opportunity to expand even further by fostering a data-driven culture at Soundstripe across all departments. We have some big goals ahead of us this year for Soundstripe’s growth and I can’t wait to dig into the data!”
Bexar Helps Raise Over $30,000 At BG Strong Benefit Concert
Pictured (L-R): Alex Burleson & Logan Turner of Bexar. Photo: Brandon Hanks
Warner Music Nashville’s Bexar headed back to band member Logan Turner’s hometown of Bowling Green, Kentucky on Friday (Jan. 14) to headline the BGStrong.us Benefit Concert.
The rising band was joined by local artists Mills, Mojo Thunder, Kiss Kiss Bang and special guests Dusty Leigh “The Colonel” and Big V of Nappy Roots. In total, the show raised over $33,000 for the tornado relief fund in Warren County, Kentucky, where a deadly tornado outbreak devastated the town last month.
The group recently kicked off their monthly residency at Nashville’s The Underdog. After playing at Nashville’s Whiskey Jam on Jan. 31, they will continue the residency over the next two months on Feb. 24 and March 30 before heading back to Bowling Green for a show at Tidballs on March 31.
Since their 2018 self-released EP, Bexar has accumulated more than 40 million streams to date and was named part of MusicRow‘s Class of 2022 Next Big Thing artists. Their major label debut EP, Pronounced BEAR, was released in fall of 2021 and was produced by award-winning producers Ross Copperman and Luke Laird.
Tracy Joseph Joins Odyssey Entertainment Group’s Growing Roster
Tracy Joseph
Viral TikTok user Tracy Joseph has signed with Odyssey Entertainment Group, a management group co-founded by Nicole Kasper and Paige Kosinski.
Over the past several months, popular creators like Charli D’Amelio have tagged and danced to Joseph’s choreography, such as her dance to “Bundles” by Kayla Nicole. She has already accumulated a following of over seven million followers and 150 million likes on her TikTok account. In just this past year alone, Joseph was cited as the top song breaker by Billboard, as well as being offered the opportunity to travel across the country to five cities as part of the “TikTok Road Show” tour. Most recently she appeared on TikTok’s New Year’s Eve special after being highlighted on the platforms Discover List of top creators.
“Joining hands with Odyssey Entertainment group has been a game-changer for me as we work together as a team to accomplish our mutual goals,” says Joseph.
The 20-year-old dancer uploaded her first dance challenge in 2019 and has since created dance trends and lip sync videos to popular tracks, such as “Love Nwatiti” and “Need to Know.” Her dance to “Woman” by Doja Cat has gained over 100 million views to date.
“Tracy has been an incredible addition to our roster,” Kasper adds. “We believe her creativity and authenticity bridges the gap between the influencer community and the music industry in an incredible way.”
Odyssey Entertainment Group, a women-run company, was founded in April 2021. The company has already expanded its offices to New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville, and recently announced a wave of new hires.
Musicians On Call Promotes Five, Announces New Openings
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Tarah Duarte, Janine Garcia, Sara Kolodziejczak, Nicole Rivera, and Lindsay Solomon
Musicians On Call (MOC) has promoted five team members to help meet the increased demand for its music programs in hospitals across the country.
Staff promotions include Nicole Rivera to Senior Director of Programs, Sara Kolodziejczak to Senior Director of Fundraising, Janine Garcia to Director of Technology, Lindsay Solomon to Senior Marketing Manager, and Tarah Duarte to Partnerships Manager.
“Over the past few years, Musicians On Call has experienced growth across every sector of our business, even with the challenges we have all faced during the pandemic. This wouldn’t be possible without our passionate volunteers, our best-in-class Board of Directors, our generous partners and supporters, and, of course, our incredibly talented team. The staff here at Musicians On Call is the best in the business, full stop. Their passion and commitment to our mission has fueled our growth, and because of their successes we are in a position to promote a number of our leaders and bring on new members to our team,” says Musicians On Call President & CEO Pete Griffin. “Our nonprofit is committed to creating an environment that encourages compassion, community, inclusivity, innovation and excellence. We look forward to welcoming more creative individuals who embody these values and can help take us to the next level, reaching millions of more people in hospitals nationwide in the years to come.”
Rivera started at MOC in 2014 and currently oversees all staff members within the Programs department. She is responsible for organizing and executing celebrity visits and vision planning for the future of MOC’s programs.
Kolodziejczak came to Musicians On Call in 2016 to lead the organization’s fundraising initiatives and has helped steer MOC to surpass its revenue goals year over year. She also spearheaded MOC’s recent major capital campaign to raise funds for its online portal. As Senior Director of Fundraising, Kolodziejczak will continue to direct MOC’s growing fundraising team and strategy.
Garcia has been a member of MOC’s Programs department since 2017, managing volunteer and hospital relationships and Bedside Performance Programs in New York City and Boston. She has also managed the growth of MOC’s Virtual Bedside Performance Program. Since 2020, she has led the creation of MOC’s new proprietary program portal and will now oversee the organization’s Technology Department as Director of Technology.
Solomon joined MOC’s team in New York City in 2016 and has managed the growth and strategy for the organization’s email marketing, social media and digital campaigns. She serves on MOC’s DEI Task Force and, through her new role, she will drive the organization’s digital footprint and strategies.
Duarte joined MOC in 2019 as Executive Assistant to Griffin. She also worked under the Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, assisting with the organization’s corporate partnerships. She will expand these duties in her new role, providing further support in all corporate fundraising initiatives.
Musicians On Call is currently hiring for the following positions: Creative Coordinator, Executive Assistant and Fundraising Coordinator. Additional openings will be posted in the coming weeks. For information, click here.
Music City Walk Of Fame To Induct Dierks Bentley, Keb’ Mo’, Bobby Bare, Connie Smith
/by LB CantrellPictured (clockwise): Dierks Bentley, Bobby Bare, Keb’ Mo’, Connie Smith
The Music City Walk of Fame will induct beloved entertainers Dierks Bentley, Keb’ Mo’, Bobby Bare, and Connie Smith, the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp has announced.
An induction ceremony is planned for 2 p.m. on April 5, 2022, at Music City Walk of Fame Park. The ceremony will be the first induction ceremony in more than two years due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The artists will receive the 90th, 91st, 92nd and 93rd stars on the Music City Walk of Fame.
“We are proud to bring back a Music City Walk of Fame ceremony with such a distinguished and diverse group of inductees who span various genres and eras of music,” says Ed Hardy, a distinguished Music Row executive and chairman of Music City Inc. “The individuals in the Walk of Fame remind us of Nashville’s rich history as Music City, and we congratulate the newest four members.”
“Gibson is proud to honor the artistry and creativity of songwriters, musicians, and artists of the Music City Walk of Fame who represent the soul of Music City,” adds James “JC” Curleigh, President and CEO of Gibson Brands, sponsor of the Music City Walk of Fame. “Each induction ceremony is a special way to pay tribute to every honoree and a time to appreciate and enjoy the tightly-knit music community we have here in Nashville.”
Inductees into the Music City Walk of Fame are recognized for their significant contributions to preserving the musical heritage of Nashville and for contributing to the world through song. The first induction ceremony was held in 2006 with the induction of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, Reba McEntire, Ronnie Milsap, Roy Orbison and Kenneth D. Schermerhorn of the Nashville Symphony.
Bentley is a Grand Ole Opry member with 20 No. 1 hits who has earned multiple awards from the ACMs, CMAs and more while also collecting 14 Grammy nominations.
Keb’ Mo’ has won five Grammy Awards, including for Best Americana Album for his 2019 release, Oklahoma. He will release a new album, Good To Be, on Jan. 21, 2022 via Rounder Records. He has also appeared in films and TV, as well as Visit Music City’s recent commercial: While You’ve Been Away, We’ve Been Creating.
Bare has scored nearly five dozen top 40 hits from 1962 to 1983. He won a Grammy in 1964 for “Detroit City,” and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2013.
Smith was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 1965 and was later dubbed by Roy Acuff as the “Sweetheart of the Grand Ole Opry.” Her “Once a Day” became the first-ever debut single by a female country act to reach No. 1, and she has been nominated for 11 Grammy Awards.