Cody Johnson. Photo: Chris Douglas
Ballads and boppers compete today in DISClaimer.
In the former category, I heartily endorse the slowies by Cam, Brett Eldredge, Brandon Lake and our DISCovery Award winner, Roan Ash.
If it’s a mite more tempo you seek, add the worthy new efforts by Eric Church, Trey Hensley & Steve Wariner, Stephen Wilson Jr. and Ashley McBryde to your playlists. Not to mention our superb Disc of the Day by Cody Johnson.
CARRIE BROCKWELL / “Here I Go Again”
Writers: Brian Fechino/Carrie Brockwell; Producer: Brian Fechino; Label: CB
– Pert, bopping and lively. She’s falling for her first love while guitars jangle all around her. At the recent Josie Awards honoring indie acts, Brockwell won the Female Country prize. She’s an American Idol alumnus embarking on her career. The song is merry, in a generic sorta way. Find something stronger.
CODY JOHNSON / “Travelin’ Soldier”
Writer: Bruce Robison; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: CoJo Music/Warner Records Nashville
– This masterpiece country song was a No. 1 hit for the Chicks in 2002. Johnson’s revival is packed with feeling and delivered with heart. His take on the tale of the lonely soldier who goes to die in Vietnam is a ringing reminder of what a great artist he is.
RODELL DUFF / “Red Dirt Cursed”
Writers: Dylan Maloney/Eamon Owen/Eric Dodd/Rodell Duff; Producer: Dylan Maloney; Label: RD
– This gently rolling country rocker wears its heartache on its sleeve. He’s unlucky in love and knows it’s all his fault. Well worth your spins.
THE RED CLAY STRAYS / “People Hatin’”
Writers: Andrew Bishop/Brandon Coleman/Dave Cobb/John Hall/Matthew Coleman/Zach Rishel; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Red Clay Strays/RCA Records
– They’re a rock band. But since there’s no more rock on pop radio, we embrace them in our big-tent format. With its chanted chorus, searing electric guitar and shrieked lead vocal, the band’s single is certainly an ear grabber.
BRANDON LAKE / “When a Cowboy Prays”
Writers: Brandon Lake/Derrick Southerland/Hank Bentley/Jacob Sooter; Producer: Hank Bentley, Jacob Sooter; Label: Provident Label Group
– This CCM star is crossing over to country with this powerfully sung anthem. He recently wowed the Grand Ole Opry audience with his soaring, soulful delivery of it. Stirring and gripping.
CAM / “Meet You By the River”
Writers: Camaron Ochs; Producer: Camaron Ochs (Cam), Douglas Showalter, Simon Maartensson; Label: RCA Records Label
– Cam’s Beyonce collaborations grabbed ears in 2024. Her own album has an engineering Grammy nomination this year. This stark, stately track from it is a solemn vow to wait in the afterlife for her loved one. She won’t cross over the river without holding hands, “because it’s not Heaven, ‘til I’m with you.” Hushed and prayer-like, this is a gently moving lullaby.
TREY HENSLEY & STEVE WARINER / “One White Line at a Time”
Writers: Rob Ickes/Steve Wariner/Trey Hensley; Producer: Brent Maher; Label: Pinecastle Records
– Hensley is the reigning IBMA guitarist of the year, and he’s No. 1 on the bluegrass charts with “Can’t Outrun the Blues.” But he is also a fantastic country singer, as he effortlessly demonstrates on this open-road toe tapper. His idol Wariner provides ear-tickling guitar licks and high harmony vocals. If you’re not already a fan, I urge you to take this artist into your hillbilly hearts.
BRETT ELDREDGE / “Beautiful Lonely”
Writers: Brett Eldredge/Heather Morgan/Jon Green; Producer: Jon Green; Label: Warm and Cozy Records
– Brett is on his annual Glow holiday tour. But before he headed out on the road, he left us this lustrous sweet/sad ballad. Piano and strings soar behind his tender delivery. Beautifully listenable.
ROAN ASH / “Thieves”
Writers: Roan Ash/Stephen Wilson Jr.; Producer: Danny Smoke; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– Grab life with gusto and don’t sit on the sidelines or worry about consequences. “Empty houses don’t get robbed by thieves.” What we have here is some compelling poetic imagery delivered with dynamic light-and-shadow vocal finesse. In the verses, he is whispered, smoky intimacy, and in the choruses, he pours on fierce emotion. I was enthralled by every note. This new artist’s EP drops tomorrow (Dec. 5).
ASHLEY McBRYDE / “A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action”
Writers: Keith Hinton/Jimmy Stewart; Producer: none listed; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– McBryde sasses and struts her way through this 1994 Toby Keith classic with verve. Her version has just the right amount of no-fuss punch and moxie. I dig this, and her.
STEPHEN WILSON JR. / “Gary”
Writers: Stephen Wilson Jr.; Producer: Ben West, Stephen Wilson Jr.; Label: Big Loud Records
– This rumbler has a churning, understated power that’s super compelling. While the track kicks up dust, Wilson gives the nostalgic lyric some soulful juice. This guy has it all going on. Completely captivated listening.
ERIC CHURCH/ “Bleed On Paper”
Writers: Casey Beathard/Monty Criswell/Tucker Beathard; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: EMI Music Nashville
– Church burned down the house with this on Jimmy Kimmel Live, complete with horns, voices, and full band. Muscular and moody, this blazes with intensity. Easily the best and most expressive production of this listening session. Stay tuned for the long, echoey, eloquent instrumental coda.
KASHUS CULPEPPER / “In Her Eyes”
Writers: Brent Cobb/Kashus Culpepper/Oscar Charles; Producer: Brian Elmquist; Label: Big Loud Records
– A throbbing rhythm undertow surges beneath his pleading vocal. She has a grip on him, and he can’t break free. This has a lot more rocked-up production than he has unleashed in the past, but I remain a big fan of this.
Industry Ink: Dustin Lynch, Chandler Walters, OVATION by Onoleigh, Leslie Perez
/by Lauryn SinkDustin Lynch Raises Over $32K For Bel Aire PTO Inclusive Playground & Isaiah 117 House
Pictured (L-R): Tullahoma Fire Department’s Joseph Hale, Rylee Rackley, Gage Morrison, Dustin Lynch. Photo: Kai Gorowsky.
Dustin Lynch recently hosted “Dustin Lynch And Friends Benefit Concert” at his former high school, Tullahoma High School, for the tenth year. The night featured special guests Ben Johnson, Josh Thompson and Austin Shawn.
The show raised over $32K for Bel Aire PTO Inclusive Playground, which is raising funds to build the school’s first inclusive playground for special needs children, and Isaiah 117 House, which provides a safe, comforting home environment for children awaiting foster placement. Additionally, toys were collected for Toys for Tots for the area.
Chandler Walters To Host Nashville Benefit Show
Chandler Walters. Photo: Devin Flanagan
Chandler Walters will host the “First Annual Walters Western Christmas” in partnership with Barstool Nashville on Dec. 11. All proceeds will benefit the USO and The Independence Fund.
Toy donations can be dropped off now through Dec. 11. All toys will be donated to military families through the USO’s Holly Jolly Holiday Program. Additionally, Barstool Nashville will donate $1 of all “Cranberry Kringle” (speciality drink) sales for the month of December.
Ovation By Onoleigh Hosts Special Holiday Show Benefiting Musicians On Call
Pictured (L-R): JP Burr, Noah Guthrie, Onoleigh, Peytan Porter, Abigail Rose, Madison Hughes. Photo: Jessica Hood
OVATION by Onoleigh brought its full-band showcase series to The Station Inn on Dec. 1 for a special holiday edition benefiting Musicians On Call. Hosted by Onoleigh, the night also featured J.P. Burr, Noah Guthrie, Abigail Rose, Madison Hughes and Peytan Porter.
“Some nights remind you why you chose this path,” says Onoleigh. “Being surrounded by that level of artistry and community at The Station Inn was incredibly meaningful.”
Leslie Perez Signs With Gotee Records
Pictured (L-R): TobyMac, Leslie Perez, Jess Loper, Tyrus Morgan and Joey Elwood.
Leslie Perez has signed with Gotee Records. The Minnesota-born singer-songwriter has garnered millions of independent streams, opened for Madison Ryann Ward, performed in London, and successfully crowdfunded her most recent EP.
“What an honor to partner with someone who not only has a world-class voice but also has a world-class work ethic,” shares VP A&R and Publishing of Gotee Records, Tyrus Morgan. “It’s really exciting to start this journey with Leslie and have a front row seat to where her music and songwriting will take us!”
“I want people to feel something when they hear my music, to truly love what they’re hearing and make each song their own,” says Perez.
Lainey Wilson, Kane Brown & Red Clay Strays To Headline Country Thunder Alberta
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Red Clay Strays, Kane Brown and Lainey Wilson are set to headline Calgary’s main stage in 2026 when Country Thunder Alberta returns to The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland June 26-28 to celebrate its 10th anniversary.
Previously held in August, the 2026 event shifts to June, creating an early summer kickoff that will showcase some of country music’s biggest and brightest names.The dynamic lineup of country favorites and emerging talent includes Tyler Hubbard, Ian Munsick, Mark Chestnutt, Noeline Hofmann, Elizabeth Nichols, Logan Layman, Tony Stevens, Adrien Nunez, Chevy Beaulieu, Alee, the winner of this year’s Ranchman’s Rising Star competition Jaiden Riley, and many more, with homegrown Alberta talent soon to be announced.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate 10 years in Calgary than kicking the party off earlier in the year,” says Troy Vollhoffer, CEO, Country Thunder. “Kane, Lainey and The Red Clay Strays represent everything that makes country music so exciting right now; fresh energy, incredible talent and true connection with their fans. This anniversary year is all about celebrating where we’ve been and where we’re going, and we can’t wait to spend an unforgettable weekend in Calgary this June.”
Fans can purchase tickets at countrythunder.com/ab, where they can pay just $20 to lock in their summer plans with equal monthly payments.
Zach Bryan Adds Dates To Upcoming ‘With Heaven On Tour’
/by Lorie HollabaughZach Bryan. Photo: Trevor Pavlik
Zach Bryan has added some dates to his “With Heaven On Tour” in 2026.
The tour kicks off March 7 in St. Louis, and new dates on the upcoming trek include April 3- 4 in Tulsa, July 25 in Eugene, Oregon, and Sept. 21-22 in Toronto. The international tour will visit Spain, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Ireland and the UK along with plenty of stateside shows as well. Tickets are on sale today (Dec. 5) here.
Bryan is coming off a massive fall run with sold-out shows at major college football stadiums in the U.S., highlighted by a September concert at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which was the first concert ever held at the largest football stadium in the Northern Hemisphere, and set a record for largest single ticketed concert in U.S. history. He’s set to release his upcoming album With Heaven on Top on Jan. 9.
Newly-Added Dates:
– Friday, April 3, 2026 — Tulsa, OK – H.A. Chapman Stadium
Main: Trampled by Turtles | Supporting: J.R. Carroll
– Saturday, April 4, 2026 — Tulsa, OK – H.A. Chapman Stadium
Main: Trampled by Turtles | Supporting: J.R. Carroll
– Saturday, July 25, 2026 — Eugene, OR – Autzen Stadium
Main: Alabama Shakes | Supporting: Fey Fili
– Monday, September 21, 2026 — Toronto, ON – Rogers Centre
Main: Tramples by Turtles | Supporting: Gabriella Rose
– Tuesday, September 22, 2026 — Toronto, ON – Rogers Centre
Main: Trampled by Turtles | Supporting: Gabriella Rose
Thomas Rhett Drops ‘Live from Fenway Park’
/by Lorie HollabaughThomas Rhett is sharing the magic from his Fenway Park show on a new album, Thomas Rhett Live from Fenway Park, featuring tracks from his headlining debut at the iconic ballpark.
Recorded infront of more than 35,000 fans, the EP showcases the heart and electric energy that sat in Fenway as Rhett delivered all the hits, including “Make Me Wanna,” “Beautiful As You” and “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman” featuring Teddy Swims, which has officially been certified Platinum.
“Too many memories to count. Some I remember vividly, and some are foggy, for reasons I’m sure you can imagine,” shares Rhett in his letter to Boston. “Pretty sure I’ve played most every venue that this town has to offer — from the House of Blues to my first ever tour opening for Toby Keith at the Xfinity Center, to the home of the Patriots opening for my buddy Kenny Chesney. I’ve opened in this building twice for Jason Aldean, and I also got to witness a masterpiece performance by the one and only Kid Rock. To arguably my favorite show I’ve ever played here, which was two years ago over at TD Garden. And to cap all that off, getting to headline here tonight for my very first time alongside my brother Teddy Swims is a moment that I cannot explain to you.
“I’ve drank most of your beers at a bar, most of your bars out of beer. I’ve eaten my weight in lobster rolls. Tried and failed every time to get a reservation at Neptune Oyster. Thrown my guts up on a whale-watching tour. And, attended my fair share of Red Sox games. Needless to say, this place has always been and always will be one of my favorite places to play on the planet. I have a lot of history in this city and I love y’all so much.”
During the Fenway show RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier surprised Rhett on the pitcher’s mound of the ballpark’s diamond with multiple new certifications including a Diamond award for “Die A Happy Man,” now one of only 15 country songs in history to reach the coveted 10 million unit mark.
Thomas Rhett Live From Fenway Park Track List:
1. “Make Me Wanna”
2. “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman” (featuring Teddy Swims)
3. “She Had Me At Heads Carolina”
4. “Letter To Boston”
5. “Beautiful As You”
6. “T-Shirt”
7. “Die A Happy Man”
Blake Shelton Stays At No. 1 On The MusicRow Radio Chart
/by John Nix ArledgeBlake Shelton
Blake Shelton’s “Stay Country or Die Tryin’” remains the No. 1 song on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week.
The track is off of his recent, 13th studio album For Recreational Use Only and was written by Sam Ellis, Graham Barham, Drew Parker and Beau Bailey.
Shelton is returning to The Colosseum at Caesar’s Palace next year for his eight-show “Blake Shelton: Live in Las Vegas” residency from Jan. 15-31.
“Stay Country or Die Tryin’” currently sits at No. 9 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 9 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
Ashley McBryde Hosts Opry NextStage Live With Members Of Class Of 2025
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Dan Rogers (Grand Ole Opry), Lexi Lampkin (Opry Entertainment Group), Chase Beckham, Kaitlin Butts, Dasha, Ashley McBryde, Avery Anna, Tigirlily Gold, Kashus Culpepper, Jordan Pettit (Opry Entertainment Group), Ari Cubillos Voegler (Opry Entertainment Group) and Samantha Kane (Opry Entertainment Group).
Ashley McBryde hosted Opry NextStage Live earlier this week at Category 10.
In addition to McBryde, Dasha, Kashus Culpepper, Chayce Beckham, Avery Anna, Tigirlily Gold and Kaitlin Butts each took the stage, who are all members of the Opry NextStage Class of 2025.
Each year, Opry NextStage spotlights emerging country artists through exclusive content, live performances, and Opry appearances. Since its launch in 2019, Opry NextStage has featured Lainey Wilson, Riley Green, Ella Langley, Parker McCollum, Tenille Townes, Hailey Whitters and Megan Moroney, among others.
Spotify Honors Megan Moroney For Wrapped Campaign
/by Madison HahnenSpotify Celebrates 2025 Wrapped with Megan Moroney Fan Pop-Up in Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of Spotify
To celebrate their 2025 Spotify Wrapped campaign, Spotify took over a building on Broadway to honor one of Nashville’s top streamers, Megan Moroney. The pop-up was first unveiled on Dec. 3 and will remain open through Dec. 7.
The building was wrapped in Moroney’s signature deep blue connected to her Am I Okay? era, along with matching roses, and topped with a massive blue bow. “In Nashville, the only thing bigger than this bow is Megan’s 821M+ streams in 2025” the building reads.
Other Spotify Wrapped pop-ups include Oasis in Manchester, JENNIE in Seoul, Bad Bunny in Mexico City, Chappell Roan in New York City, and more.
Spotify Celebrates 2025 Wrapped with Megan Moroney Fan Pop-Up in Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of Spotify
Spotify Celebrates 2025 Wrapped with Megan Moroney Fan Pop-Up in Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of Spotify
Spotify Celebrates 2025 Wrapped with Megan Moroney Fan Pop-Up in Nashville. Photo: Courtesy of Spotify
JUST IN: Jody Williams To Lead Vince Gill’s Management Team
/by Lauryn SinkJody Williams.
Jody Williams, Founder and CEO of independent music publishing company Jody Williams Songs (JWS), has taken on management duties for Vince Gill under his new management company, Little Guitar Management.
Williams has served as Gill’s publisher for four years. Larry Fitzgerald, Gill’s manager for over forty years, remains as consultant to Williams. Long-time colleague to Fitzgerald, Jennifer Templeton remains as Gill’s day-to-day manager.
“Taking on this new role with Vince feels like a calling and a natural evolution,” shares Williams. “My motivation is to ensure that Vince’s career aspirations for the near future are realized and his long term legacy includes milestones he has not yet reached. Nobody does Vince Gill like Vince Gill. His unique musical aesthetic has served him well his whole career. I’m honored to work alongside Vince, and very grateful for Larry and Jennifer’s support.”
“Throughout my career I’ve put great care into putting teams together around our artists, yet it was only recently that I used those skills one final time for my buddy Vince,” Fitzgerald reflects. “I’ve always admired Jody’s vision, organizational, and decision-making skills, and he has an ability to engage with talent in meaningful ways. Already a member of Vince’s team as his publisher, we know his passion is unparalleled.”
Williams previously held posts as VP, Creative for BMI, President of MCA Music Nashville, and his independent publishing company Jody Williams Music. He is former Chairman of the Board of the Country Music Association. Currently, he is Board Chairman of The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, as well as a trustee. Williams will continue as CEO of JWS in addition to managing Gill. VP and General Manager of JWS, Nina Jenkins Fisher, will continue to oversee all day-to-day aspects of the publishing company.
Williams can be reached at jody@littleguitarmgmt.com and will retain jody@jodywilliamssongs.co for publishing business.
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Cody Johnson Reminds Us ‘What A Great Artist He Is’
/by Robert K OermannCody Johnson. Photo: Chris Douglas
Ballads and boppers compete today in DISClaimer.
In the former category, I heartily endorse the slowies by Cam, Brett Eldredge, Brandon Lake and our DISCovery Award winner, Roan Ash.
If it’s a mite more tempo you seek, add the worthy new efforts by Eric Church, Trey Hensley & Steve Wariner, Stephen Wilson Jr. and Ashley McBryde to your playlists. Not to mention our superb Disc of the Day by Cody Johnson.
CARRIE BROCKWELL / “Here I Go Again”
Writers: Brian Fechino/Carrie Brockwell; Producer: Brian Fechino; Label: CB
– Pert, bopping and lively. She’s falling for her first love while guitars jangle all around her. At the recent Josie Awards honoring indie acts, Brockwell won the Female Country prize. She’s an American Idol alumnus embarking on her career. The song is merry, in a generic sorta way. Find something stronger.
CODY JOHNSON / “Travelin’ Soldier”
Writer: Bruce Robison; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: CoJo Music/Warner Records Nashville
– This masterpiece country song was a No. 1 hit for the Chicks in 2002. Johnson’s revival is packed with feeling and delivered with heart. His take on the tale of the lonely soldier who goes to die in Vietnam is a ringing reminder of what a great artist he is.
RODELL DUFF / “Red Dirt Cursed”
Writers: Dylan Maloney/Eamon Owen/Eric Dodd/Rodell Duff; Producer: Dylan Maloney; Label: RD
– This gently rolling country rocker wears its heartache on its sleeve. He’s unlucky in love and knows it’s all his fault. Well worth your spins.
THE RED CLAY STRAYS / “People Hatin’”
Writers: Andrew Bishop/Brandon Coleman/Dave Cobb/John Hall/Matthew Coleman/Zach Rishel; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Red Clay Strays/RCA Records
– They’re a rock band. But since there’s no more rock on pop radio, we embrace them in our big-tent format. With its chanted chorus, searing electric guitar and shrieked lead vocal, the band’s single is certainly an ear grabber.
BRANDON LAKE / “When a Cowboy Prays”
Writers: Brandon Lake/Derrick Southerland/Hank Bentley/Jacob Sooter; Producer: Hank Bentley, Jacob Sooter; Label: Provident Label Group
– This CCM star is crossing over to country with this powerfully sung anthem. He recently wowed the Grand Ole Opry audience with his soaring, soulful delivery of it. Stirring and gripping.
CAM / “Meet You By the River”
Writers: Camaron Ochs; Producer: Camaron Ochs (Cam), Douglas Showalter, Simon Maartensson; Label: RCA Records Label
– Cam’s Beyonce collaborations grabbed ears in 2024. Her own album has an engineering Grammy nomination this year. This stark, stately track from it is a solemn vow to wait in the afterlife for her loved one. She won’t cross over the river without holding hands, “because it’s not Heaven, ‘til I’m with you.” Hushed and prayer-like, this is a gently moving lullaby.
TREY HENSLEY & STEVE WARINER / “One White Line at a Time”
Writers: Rob Ickes/Steve Wariner/Trey Hensley; Producer: Brent Maher; Label: Pinecastle Records
– Hensley is the reigning IBMA guitarist of the year, and he’s No. 1 on the bluegrass charts with “Can’t Outrun the Blues.” But he is also a fantastic country singer, as he effortlessly demonstrates on this open-road toe tapper. His idol Wariner provides ear-tickling guitar licks and high harmony vocals. If you’re not already a fan, I urge you to take this artist into your hillbilly hearts.
BRETT ELDREDGE / “Beautiful Lonely”
Writers: Brett Eldredge/Heather Morgan/Jon Green; Producer: Jon Green; Label: Warm and Cozy Records
– Brett is on his annual Glow holiday tour. But before he headed out on the road, he left us this lustrous sweet/sad ballad. Piano and strings soar behind his tender delivery. Beautifully listenable.
ROAN ASH / “Thieves”
Writers: Roan Ash/Stephen Wilson Jr.; Producer: Danny Smoke; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– Grab life with gusto and don’t sit on the sidelines or worry about consequences. “Empty houses don’t get robbed by thieves.” What we have here is some compelling poetic imagery delivered with dynamic light-and-shadow vocal finesse. In the verses, he is whispered, smoky intimacy, and in the choruses, he pours on fierce emotion. I was enthralled by every note. This new artist’s EP drops tomorrow (Dec. 5).
ASHLEY McBRYDE / “A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action”
Writers: Keith Hinton/Jimmy Stewart; Producer: none listed; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– McBryde sasses and struts her way through this 1994 Toby Keith classic with verve. Her version has just the right amount of no-fuss punch and moxie. I dig this, and her.
STEPHEN WILSON JR. / “Gary”
Writers: Stephen Wilson Jr.; Producer: Ben West, Stephen Wilson Jr.; Label: Big Loud Records
– This rumbler has a churning, understated power that’s super compelling. While the track kicks up dust, Wilson gives the nostalgic lyric some soulful juice. This guy has it all going on. Completely captivated listening.
ERIC CHURCH/ “Bleed On Paper”
Writers: Casey Beathard/Monty Criswell/Tucker Beathard; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: EMI Music Nashville
– Church burned down the house with this on Jimmy Kimmel Live, complete with horns, voices, and full band. Muscular and moody, this blazes with intensity. Easily the best and most expressive production of this listening session. Stay tuned for the long, echoey, eloquent instrumental coda.
KASHUS CULPEPPER / “In Her Eyes”
Writers: Brent Cobb/Kashus Culpepper/Oscar Charles; Producer: Brian Elmquist; Label: Big Loud Records
– A throbbing rhythm undertow surges beneath his pleading vocal. She has a grip on him, and he can’t break free. This has a lot more rocked-up production than he has unleashed in the past, but I remain a big fan of this.
Legendary Guitarist, R&B & Soul Musician Steve Cropper Passes
/by Lorie HollabaughSteve Cropper
Steve Cropper, Memphis soul legend, guitarist and member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s, has passed. He was 84.
The influential player on the R&B and soul scene grew up in Memphis and began playing guitar as a teen. In 1960, he formed the band The Royal Spades with fellow students from his high school. Soon after, he ventured into engineering, producing, and playing on sessions at Stax Records, which released the Royal Spades’—later known as the Mar-Keys—first hit, “Last Night.”
Along with several other Mar-Keys members, Cropper went on to form Booker T. & the M.G.’s. The band released the instrumental “Green Onions,” which became a major R&B and pop smash. A celebrated songwriter as well as a sideman, Cropper co-wrote “Green Onions,” along with beloved classics such as “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” “In the Midnight Hour,” and many others. The M.G.’s released albums and 45s throughout the 1960s and also served as the Stax house band, backing numerous legendary singers including Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding. Cropper was especially close to Redding, and reportedly added the final touches to Redding’s timeless hit “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” while grieving after the singer was killed in a tragic plane crash in 1967.
Cropper eventually became an A&R executive at Stax, and before exiting the label, released several solo albums that showcased his guitar prowess. He continued working in production with numerous acts and played on sessions for John Lennon, Rod Stewart, and others before joining the John Belushi–Dan Aykroyd act The Blues Brothers as guitarist. He performed on their cover of “Soul Man” and appeared in the band’s films. In later years, he reunited with members of the M.G.’s for special performances, including Bob Dylan’s 30th Anniversary Concert at Madison Square Garden in 1992 and a tour supporting Neil Young the following year.
After moving to Nashville in 1988, Cropper founded his own recording studio and record label, recording with artists such as Dolly Parton, Jimmy Buffett, Alabama, Wynonna Judd and many more, and becoming a fixture in the Nashville music community. He continued writing, producing and collaborating with new artists throughout his later years, remaining an active presence in studios around the city. In 2010, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and in 2015 received a star on the Music City Walk of Fame alongside Miranda Lambert, E.W. “Bud” Wendell and Johnny Cash. BMI honored him with the BMI Icon Award at its 2018 Country Awards.
In 2024, Cropper released what would be his final solo album, Friendlytown, under the name Steve Cropper & the Midnight Hour. The album featured guest work from guitar legends like Billy Gibbons (of ZZ Top) and Brian May (of Queen), and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album.
Cropper was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 as a member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005. He received a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2007, and in 2008 was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame along with Booker T. & the M.G.’s. Rolling Stone ranked him No. 39 on its “100 Greatest Guitarists” list.
Cropper is survived by his wife, Angel; and his children Andrea, Cameron, Stevie and Ashley.
A private family service will be held.