DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Stapleton, Elvie Shane, Drew Parker

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Chris Stapleton. Photo: Becky Fluke

There’s two-word headline for this week’s edition of DisClaimer.

Our survey of new country sounds is topped by our hands-down Disc of the Day winner, whose two words are Chris and Stapleton.

The listening session was festooned with new faces. Staging their column debuts were Triston Marez, Alexander Ludwig, Elvie Shane, Norman North and our DisCovery Award winner, Drew Parker.

CHASE BRYANT / “Upbringing”
Writers: Chase Bryant/Stephen Wilson Jr.; Producer: Chase Bryant/Jon Randall; Label: Green Iris
— The track churns and burns with a frothing, rocking energy while his urgent tenor vocal soars above. Excitement rules in this excellent production.

TRACE ADKINS / “Heartbreak Song”
Writers: Greg Crowe/Johnny Garcia/Adam Wood; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones/Derek George; Label: Verge Records
— This icon doesn’t know how to be anything but charismatic. This rolling, midtempo tune decries happy-happy, feel-good country songs and points out that sometimes ya just gotta have heartache in your audio diet. Recommended.

WALKER COUNTY / “Bits & Pieces”
Writers: Benjamin Mathis/busbee/Jon Bellion; Producer: David Garcia; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— Their scampering vocals are a delight. I love how the pinpoint, twin-like harmonies stay perfectly in place no matter how rapid-fire the delivery becomes. The song has a cool, femme attitude, too. I definitely look forward to hearing this on the radio and to hearing more from this talented duo.

CHRIS STAPLETON / “You Should Probably Leave”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Ashley Gorley/Chris DuBois; Producer: Chris Stapleton/Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury Nashville
— The sensuous soul groove is super compelling, with laid-back guitar, funky organ and deep-blue rhythm section. It goes without saying that his vocal is stunning on this steamy ode to magnetic sexual attraction. He’s a mighty, mighty man.

ELVIE SHANE / “My Boy”
Writers: Elvie Shane/Lee Starr/Nick Columbia/Russell Sutton; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Wheelhouse Records
— Like all great country music, this song is nothing but emotional truth. He feels love and fatherhood for a boy who comes into his life as a stepson. Written with insight. Sung with depth. Millions will relate to this.

ALEXANDER LUDWIG / “Let Me Be Your Whiskey”
Writers: Alexander Ludwig/Mike Dulaney; Producer: Kurt Allison/Tully Kennedy; Label: BBR Music Group/BMG
— He’s the Hollywood star of Hunger Games, Vikings, Lone Survivor, Bad Boys for Life and more. But don’t hold that against him. He’s also a Real Deal country artist, as this nicely done romantic ballad demonstrates.

TRISTON MAREZ & RONNIE DUNN / “Where the Neon Lies”
Writers: Chris Duboise/Lynn Hutton/Triston Marez; Producer: David Dorn/Alex Torrez; Label: Torrez Music Group
— Triston has a smooth, solidly country delivery that’s beautifully complemented by Ronnie’s spine-tingling honky-tonk vocal burn. The twang guitars and echoey backdrop add to the single’s undeniable oomph. By all means, play it. This youngster been paying his dues in Texas and on Lower Broadway long enough and deserves his time in the spotlight.

NORMAN NORTH / “Plain Jane”
Writers: Norman North; Producer: Norman North/Lex Lipsitz; Label: Venice
— His pleading tenor is country and the backing track is hip-hop. A fascinating fusion by another Black entrant into the format.

GARY LeVOX & MERCYME / “A Little Love”
Writers: Bart Millard/Jordan Mohilowski/Ethan Hulse/Jess Cates; Producer: Jordan Mohilowski/Tedd T./Brown Bannister; Label: Big Machine Records
— The Rascal Flatts front man is issuing his debut CCM collection, One on One. Its single is a collaboration with Christian stars MercyMe and is infused with that group’s pop sensibilities. The mood here is sunny, positive and uplifting.

DREW PARKER / “While You’re Gone”
Writers: Drew Parker/Jameson Rodgers; Producer: Phil O’Donnell; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— I dig this guy. He has a powerful singing voice, and the production is epic. The song finds him sitting and drinking, knowing that she’s gone and wondering if she’s ever coming back. I’m thinking she’s history, pal, so drink up and go home. Heartache on the hoof.

TEXAS HILL / “Neon Heart”
Writers: James LeBlanc/Ryan Beaver/Mike Walker; Producer: Texas Hill; Label: Queue
— This new trio is comprised of former TV-competition stars Craig Wayne Boyd (The Voice), Casey James (American Idol) and Adam Wakefield (The Voice). They harmonize effectively on the choruses. The thin, unimaginative pop production lets them down.

SHANNON McNALLY & RODNEY CROWELL / “I Ain’t Living Long Like This”
Writers: Rodney Crowell; Producer: nShannon McNally; Label: Compass Records
— Shannon’s album is called The Waylon Sessions. Her drawling alto slips just behind the relentless beat to find a groovy pocket on this revival of a 1980 classic. The song’s Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame writer jumps in for a personality-packed third verse. The track kicks butt. She also has videos of “Black Rose” and “I’ve Always Been Crazy.” This gal has the goods.

Keithan Melton Promoted To GM, Mojo Music & Media Nashville [Exclusive]

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Keithan Melton. Photo: Glenn Sweitzer/Fresh Design

Keithan Melton has been elevated to General Manager of Mojo Music & Media, Nashville. He will report to company Founder/CEO, Mark Fried.

Formerly Senior Creative Director at the company, Melton has spent the last five years at Mojo and was instrumental in signing Neil Medley, who co-wrote Jake Owen’s current hit  ‘Made For You,” which reached No. 1 at country radio this week, and Lindsey Ell’s ballad “I Don’t Love You.” Working closely with fellow song plugger Courtney Crist, he helped advance the careers of roster writers Bart Butler, Mike Walker, Joe Clemmons, Brinley Addington, Sarah Allison Turner, and Lalo Guzman.

A veteran of the Nashville publishing community since 2003, Melton previously worked at Magic Mustang and Sea Gayle, with writers like Steve Bogard, Justin Wilson, Dave Turnbull, Lee Thomas Miller and Chris Stapleton, and contributed to the songwriting careers of artists Craig Campbell, Runaway June and Dustin Lynch. He’s pitched numerous hit singles including the chart-toppers Trace Adkins’ “You’re Gonna Miss This,” Randy Houser’s “We Went,” and Michael Ray’s “Kiss You In The Morning.”

“Keithan is one of the strongest advocates of songs and songwriters I know,” said Fried. “His devotion these past few years to Mojo’s mission of proactive song promotion, next generation royalty management and helping our writers build their brands and legacies has been tireless and has proven he’s ready to lead. I’m looking forward to working with him in keeping our Berry Hill home buzzing with positive energy and non-stop creativity.”

“I couldn’t be more honored that Mark, Alan [Wallis] and Peter [Shane] have trusted me to lead Mojo’s Nashville office,” said Melton. “I look forward to growing this great catalog and continuing the legacy of my predecessors.”

Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Zac Brown Band Among 2021 Summerfest Lineup

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Summerfest has announced the lineup of headliners for its 2021 festival set for Sept. 2-4, 9-11, and 16-18. Held at the new American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, artists Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Zac Brown Band, Gabby Barrett, Dylan Scott, Sheryl Crow, Cam, Jordan Davis, Brett Eldredge, Jimmie Allen,  and more are among the lineup.

Also set to perform during the new festival format are Chance the Rapper, Miley Cyrus, Black Pumas, Wilco, Nelly, Rise Against, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Diplo, and many more.

The new venue will also host special Wednesday Kick-Off Concerts, prior to each weekend of Summerfest including performances by the Jonas Brothers, Dave Matthews Band, and others yet to be announced. Ticket holders for the Wednesday Kick-Off Concerts will receive a digital ticket via email for Summerfest 2021, valid for any of the nine days of the festival.

“We could not be more excited to unveil the lineup for Summerfest and introduce a new festival format; more weekends and more headliners, promises to be a big hit among our fans,” said Don Smiley, president and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “From first timers, including Chance the Rapper, Miley Cyrus, and Run the Jewels, to Fest favorites including Dave Matthews Band, T-Pain, Styx, and Chris Stapleton, our lineup continues to be one of the most diverse and unique in the industry.”

Previously purchased tickets for concerts at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater during Summerfest will be honored for the rescheduled date. Refunds will be available from the original point of purchase, 30 days from the announcement of the rescheduled date. Summerfest is committed to providing a safe environment for its fans, vendors, sponsors, and staff.  Festival officials are working closely with local civic officials and health professionals to implement health and safety procedures and protocols.

Reservoir Signs Levi Hummon To Worldwide Publishing Deal [Exclusive]

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Pictured (L-R): Greg Gallo (Reservoir VP Creative), David Crow (Attorney), John Ozier (Reservoir EVP Creative), Levi Hummon, Fletcher Foster (F2 Entertainment Group), Hayley Corbett (F2 Entertainment Group). Photo: Haley Crow, MusicRow

Reservoir has announced the signing of country singer-songwriter Levi Hummon to a worldwide publishing deal.

Son of songwriter Marcus Hummon and a Nashville native, Hummon grew up surrounded by music greats who had a profound influence on his songwriting. He released his EP Patient in 2018, and has since toured with acts like Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, and Lady A. Last week, he returned to the stage, performing a sold-out show at the Grand Ole Opry alongside a lineup that included Rhett Akins, Doyle Dykes, and more.

Having already amassed over 100 million on-demand streams, Hummon released his latest EP, 36/86 Side B, in April.

“Just as the world is beginning to spin again, I’m so excited to be joining the Reservoir team here in Nashville,” says Hummon. “[EVP of Creative] John Ozier and [VP of Creative] Greg Gallo are incredible champions for so many amazing songwriters and artists and I’m fired up to be a part of that growing roster. We have a big year ahead, full of new music, and this is such an exciting piece of the next chapter.”

Reservoir ‘s EVP of Creative, Ozier adds, “Levi offers such truth in his lyricism, which is the mark of a really compelling singer-songwriter. We are so happy to welcome him to the Reservoir roster and give him the support to continue writing music and sharing it with the world.”

This news comes following the announcement that Reservoir has entered into an agreement with Roth CH II ($ROCC), a special purpose acquisition company, taking the first step toward becoming a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ.

Alan Jackson Set For Grand Ole Opry Show At Big Machine Music City Grand Prix

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Alan Jackson. Photo: Russ Harrington.

The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix has announced its partnership with the Grand Ole Opry to present a special performance in downtown Nashville on Sunday, August 8 to conclude the weekend of racing.

This stage will feature a full lineup of talent to be announced at a later date, culminating with country icon, and longtime racing enthusiast Alan Jackson.

“When we first began to conceptualize the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix we knew music had to be just as big a part of this event as the racing itself, and there is no better partner for this than the Grand Ole Opry – the show that made country music famous,” says Matt Crews, CEO of Big Machine Music City Grand Prix. “We are looking forward to closing out what is sure to be an unforgettable weekend in the best way possible with the Grand Ole Opry.”

Since its inception, the Opry has rarely taken its show outside of its home venue, only visiting prestigious locales such as New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Washington, D.C.’s Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as well as headlining shows at Bonnaroo.

“The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix has brought together a course like no other, an artist like no other and a show like no other to create an experience that could only take place here in Nashville,” said Scott Bailey, President of Opry Entertainment Group. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to connect artists and fans in such a unique setting.”

The three-day festival taking place August 6-8 will be staged on a temporary 2.17-mile grand prix circuit in Nashville and around the Nissan Stadium campus. In addition to a weekend of racing, attendees can look forward to live music performances by top artists, best-in-class food experiences and entertainment that centers on speed.

For more information on The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix or to purchase tickets, visit musiccitygp.com.

Greg Kurstin To Kick Off 2021 ASCAP Experience, Receive Golden Note Award

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Greg Kurstin will open the 2021 ASCAP Experience on Wednesday, May 12 at 4 p.m. CST in a virtual conversation with friend and collaborator Dave Grohl about songwriting, inspiration and more. Kurstin’s relationship with Grohl was forged when he was tapped to produce Foo Fighters’ albums Concrete and Gold (2017) and he also produced their latest chart-topping album Medicine at Midnight (2021).

Kurstin has won eight Grammys and produced or written many of the biggest pop/rock songs of the last two decades. Some of his credits include Adele’s “Hello” and “Water Under the Bridge;” Sia’s “Cheap Thrills” and “Chandelier;” Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger;” P!nk’s “Blow Me (One Last Kiss)” and “Try;” and Halsey’s “You Should Be Sad.”

Kurstin co-wrote and produced Maren Morris’ No. 1 hit “Girl,” as well as produced her CMA and ACM song of the year, “The Bones.” In addition to his writing/producing credits, Kurstin is also an accomplished multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, bass, keyboards and drums on many of the tracks he produces.

The ASCAP Golden Note Award will be presented to Kurstin by Beck (Colors) and ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams, with video congratulations to Kurstin from Maren Morris, P!nk, Sia, Stevie Nicks, Halsey, Nick Jonas, Maggie Rogers, Greta Van Fleet, Mozella, Inara George and Sony Music Publishing CEO Jon Platt. The ASCAP Golden Note Award is given to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Previous recipients include Blondie, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Trent Reznor, Alicia Keys, Tom Petty and more.

After the May 12 kickoff, the 2021 ASCAP Experience which was created to inspire, educate and connect aspiring songwriters and composers everywhere, will continue twice a month on Wednesdays through the end of 2021. Songwriters, composers and music business professionals can join the ASCAP Experience community for access to conversations with A-list songwriters and producers from pop, hip-hop, R&B, country from across the musical spectrum. There will also be panels with top industry execs, song feedback, networking opportunities, and more.

The virtual sessions are free to attend and will take place on a variety of platforms, including YouTube, Instagram and on the ASCAP Experience website. For more information and to RSVP, visit www.ascapexperience.com.

BMLG, Rebel Music, Geffen Records Partner On Breakout Artist Kidd G

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Kidd G. Photo: Ford Fairchild.

Big Machine Label Group’s The Valory Music Co. has announced a partnership with Rebel Music and Geffen Records to bolster momentum for 18-year-old breakout recording artist Kidd G.

The Georgia-bred singer-songwriter joins The Valory Music Co.’s roster alongside artists Thomas Rhett, Sheryl Crow, Brantley Gilbert and Justin Moore. The BMLG imprint will provide genre support through country radio, commerce, and marketing, as Rebel Music and Geffen Records continue leading the efforts for Kidd G in various hybrid markets.

“Kidd G is the sound of the next wave of great Georgia artists who’ve combined country & hip hop in their own unique way,” says Big Machine Label Group President/CEO Scott Borchetta. “Not unlike Jason Aldean or Brantley Gilbert before him, Kidd is a southern boy who will blur and ultimately stretch format lines.”

“When we partnered with Kidd G last year, we knew it would take a special team to help him build his unique fanbase around the world,” says Rebel Music Founder & CEO Javier Sang. “With Geffen and Big Machine Label Group on board with us he has a true dream team set up for him to win.”

“Kidd G is an incredible artist who has galvanized music fans with his powerful songwriting and his ability to bend genres,” says Geffen Records General Manager Lee L’Heureux. “We are excited to be teaming up with Scott Borchetta and everyone at The Valory Music Co. to continue to grow Kidd G’s fanbase in the country music world.”

Kidd G has already achieved success with his breakthrough single “Dirt Road.” The track quickly landed on the Billboard Hot Country Chart as the official music video has garnered 13 million views to date. His first release under the new arrangement follows the December launch of Teenage Dream: 1000 Miles from Georgia, a deluxe version of Kidd G’s debut EP.

Michael W. Smith To Release New Book For Father’s Day

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Multi-Platinum artist and Grammy, AMA and Dove Award winner Michael W. Smith has announced his latest book, The Way of the Father: Lessons From My Dad, Truths About God, will be available on May 18 via K-Love Books.

This newest written endeavor reveals how Smith’s father, Paul Smith, was a living example of God’s love and a role model for his family. It is a reflection in his father’s legacy and the profound effect he had on every area of his life. Smith, himself, is a father of five and a grandfather of sixteen.

“My father was my hero. Even though he’s in Heaven now, he’s still my hero every day. My memories of his life, his words, and his wisdom are with me constantly as I parent and grandparent today,” writes Smith. “Throughout his life, on a daily basis, Dad gave me a glimpse of what God is like. I am so grateful to be part of a long line of love and godly legacy through the grace and mercy of Jesus in our family.”

Smith partnered with long-time writer and creative Robert Noland to write The Way of the Father. Noland is also the writer of the bestselling memoir, I Can Only Imagine, with author and recording artist Bart Millard of MercyMe.

K-LOVE Books has crafted a national marketing and media campaign to support the release of The Way of the Father, including extensive promotions across K-LOVE and Air1, signed book giveaways, and interviews via local K-LOVE stations as well as select podcasts hosted by AcessMore.com

Home Free Announce Warmest Winter Holiday Tour

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Vocal-only country group Home Free are in the holiday spirit early, announcing the cities and dates of their upcoming Warmest Winter Holiday Tour.

The 14-city tour, that includes a stop at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, will find the a cappella singers Austin Brown, Adam Chance, Tim Foust, Rob Lundquist and Adam Rupp returning to an annual tradition. Kicking off December 1 in Evansville, Indiana, Home Free will perform their favorite holiday tunes, including many off their 2020 album, Warmest Winter. The project, released during the COVID-19 pandemic, features special guests Alabama, Rachel Wammack, and Striking Matches.

“There is a special kind of indescribable magic that only exists between performers and audiences via live music,” Foust says. “It’s hard to believe it’s been over a year since we’ve been able to share that connection with our fans. We’re more than ready to get this show back on the road.”

Tickets for the Warmest Winter Tour are available now.

Sammy Sadler Reimagines Some Vintage Hits On New Album ‘1989’

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Sammy Sadler is releasing his new album 1989, on June 11 via BFD/Audium Nashville.

The new collection is a trip down memory lane and accentuates the sounds of a time when Sadler was making his debut as a newcomer on the Nashville music scene, until an assassination plot commonly known as the “Murder On Music Row” brought his music career to a halt.

Sadler teamed up with several country hitmakers from the late eighties on 1989, most notably a duet with Shenandoah’s Marty Raybon for a fresh take on the upbeat “The Church On Cumberland Road.” He also duets with country soul stylist T. Graham Brown for a revitalized re-recording of “Darlene,” and recruited Larry Stewart of Restless Heart to reimagine another notable track on the album, “The Bluest Eyes In Texas.”

“It is such an honor to re-record some of the most memorable and greatest songs from an era which I think was one of the best ever,” Sadler said. “To have some of the original artists on this record with me is both humbling, and an honor.”

1989 Track List:
1. “Tell It Like It Is” (Richard George Davis JR, Lee Diamond)
2. “Church On The Cumberland Road” (Bob De Piero, Dennis Anthony Robbins, John Scott Sherrill) Featuring Marty Raybon of Shenandoah
3. “The Bluest Eyes In Texas” (Van Wesley Stephenson, Dave Robbins, Tim Dubois) Featuring Larry Stewart of Restless Heart
4. “I Can’t Get Close Enough” (Sonny Lemaire, James Pennington)
5. “Darlene” (Michael Geiger, Ricky Rector, Woodrow Mullis) Featuring T. Graham Brown
6. “I Should Be With You” (Steve Noel Wariner)
7. “She’s Crazy For Leaving” (Guy Clark, Rodney Crowell)
8. “I Know A Place” (Harry Stinson, Tommy Lee James)