Robert Earl Keen & Kelly Thomas. Photo: Erika Goldring
When Kelly Thomas left behind a two-decade career in luxury fashion, she never imagined she’d find herself managing one of Texas music’s most beloved icons, Robert Earl Keen, or organizing a star-studded benefit concert in less than two weeks. But that’s exactly where life has taken her.
Thomas’ entry into the music industry came unexpectedly, but not without purpose. After years spent in the high-paced world of fashion as a buyer for major department and specialty stores in Dallas, she reached a turning point both personally and professionally.
“I had burned the candle at both ends for many years, both personally and professionally and needed a change,” she tells MusicRow. During her time in a recovery center, she met Keen.
Photo: Erika Goldring
“He needed some short-term help with a few events he had booked. And what was meant to be a temporary arrangement blossomed into a wonderful working relationship and point of change we both needed to step into the next chapter of our lives.”
Though she was new to artist management, Thomas found that her fashion career had equipped her with the tools she needed. “It’s another financial business built on and sprung from a creative process. So my skills translated very easily into my new role and industry.”
That perfect fit was put to the test this summer, when massive flooding devastated the Texas Hill Country just before Keen was scheduled to perform at Kerrville’s Fourth on the River celebration.
“Once we were able to digest the shocking news and shuddering morning phone call, we knew we had to act fast. People needed help, and Robert is the voice of the affected region of Texas.” From that urgency, the idea for the benefit concert “Applause for the Cause” was born.
Jon Randall Stewart, Miranda Lambert and Jack Ingram perform during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Starting the next day, Thomas sprang into action, juggling every moving part of the event. “I have never been on my phone more than in those weeks of planning the event,” she recalls. “I would have to switch gears from run of show creative planning, to livestream execution, to logistics and sound and light production, to charitable giving organizations.”
A key early challenge was selecting the right venue. While they had interest from large partners that could have filled a stadium, Thomas and Keen were focused on keeping the event rooted in the community. “We had to hold the event ‘in the Hill Country, and for the Hill Country,’’” she said. When Will Korioth of Whitewater Amphitheater in New Braunfels offered the space, it felt right.
The artist community responded immediately. “No one shows up for Texas, like Texans,” Thomas said. Within days, over 30 artists confirmed their participation, including some of the biggest names in music, including Tyler Childers, Miranda Lambert, Jamey Johnson and more.
One of the defining moments behind the scenes wasn’t just the music, but the atmosphere it created. “I overheard multiple artists saying it was the best event they had been to, and how it felt like ‘the best family reunion for Texas country music.’ Seeing artists shaking hands and hugging those who had not collaborated in years, or making new connections which might breed future partnerships was truly a beautiful thing.”
Tyler Childers performs during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Crucially, the event wasn’t just about music, it was about real help. Thomas and Keen chose the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country as the beneficiary due to their direct presence in the area and their ability to respond quickly. “That was our biggest desire, for the money to get to those who needed it, and fast.” The Foundation’s CEO, Austin Dickson, and his small team impressed Thomas with their efficiency and dedication.
Partnerships came together quickly thanks to longtime relationships. One pivotal call was to Buc-ee’s owner Beaver Aplin. “Robert made the call to his friend, who quickly and without hesitation jumped on board with enthusiasm. It started with their $1 million pledge and grew from there.”
Reflecting on the event, Thomas said the outpouring of support and the final results left her speechless. “It was pure gratitude. To see the results and feel the energy in that amphitheater on the day of the event from artists to patrons, I knew we had done something truly impactful and special no one who was there will forget.”
It’s clear that for Thomas, both her career change and the flood benefit were about more than just professional milestones. They were about showing up, for her artist, her community, and for the people of the Hill Country when they needed it most.
White Sands, Wide Open Spaces Inspire Jamie O’Neal’s New Album ‘Gypsum’ Set For January
/by Lorie HollabaughJamie O’Neal is set to release her sixth studio album, Gypsum, via BFD/Audium Nashville on Jan. 23. The first single from the album, “Ole Heartache,” is out now.
“When I wrote ‘Ole’ Heartache with Shaye Smith and Ed Hill, I wanted to write something I could hear George Strait or Lee Ann Womack singing—a timeless country classic throwback that likens Heartache to almost being a friend, a sidekick who hangs around pointing out how love is doomed…again and again,” says O’Neal. “It’s one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written, and it’s got harmonica on it like ‘Arizona’ which was so great to have another song with that lonesome sound.”
The new 10-song collection includes tracks co-written by O’Neal along with Dean Dillon, Stephanie Bentley, Rob Crosby, Roxie Dean, Ava Suppelsa, Ilya Toshinskiy and more. A highlight of the project is “Flowers & Fireflies,” written by O’Neal’s late sister Samantha Murphy.
“Gypsum is named for the sand dunes in White Sands National Park, one of the most beautiful and serene, other worldly places I’ve ever been to,” said Jamie. “I have an affinity for the west—the mountains, red rocks, sand dunes, and wide open spaces inspired a lot of this album. I love being in the studio and hearing some of the most incredible musicians bring the songs to life, it’s so exciting to have a new original album finished and ready for everyone to hear!”
O”Neal will play a Music City show at the Neon Steeple at Chief’s on Broadway on Nov. 6.
Gypsum Track List:
1. “Over New Mexico” – Jamie O’Neal/Shaye Smith/Lisa Drew
2. “Ole Heartache” – Jamie O’Neal/Shaye Smith/Ed Hill
3. “Slippery Slope” – Jamie O’Neal/Robin Lee/Roxie Dean
4. “John Deere Letter” – Jamie O’Neal/Shaye Smith/Tammy Hyler/Ilya Toshinskiy
5. “Just Whiskey” – Jamie O’Neal/Stephanie Bentley/Rob Crosby
6. “Flowers & Fireflies” – Samantha Murphy
7. “All The Same” – Scotty Emerick/Dean Dillon
8. “My Midnights” – Jamie O’Neal/Ava Suppelsa/Bailey Hefley
9. “Change It Now” – Kevin Doherty/Bob Regan
10. “Liberty” – Josia Eden
Tour News: Read Southall, Evan Honer, All Them Witches
/by Lauryn SinkRead Southall Set For Fall Solo Acoustic Tour
Read Southall, frontman and namesake of Rural Rock and Roll band Southall, will embark on a solo acoustic headline tour this fall. The “Read Southall Acoustic Tour 2025” will canvas Texas throughout December, visiting five cities. The run kicks off Dec. 4 in Lubbock at Blue Light, rolls through various markets, and concludes on Dec. 12 in Huntsville at Jolly Fox. Tickets go on sale at 10am local time this Friday, October 3.
Additionally, the Southall band will headline Billy Bob’s Texas on Feb. 6, 2026.
“Read Southall Acoustic Tour 2025” Dates:
Dec. 4 | Lubbock, TX – Blue Light*
Dec. 5 | San Angelo, TX – Blaine’s Pub*
Dec. 6 | College Station, TX – The Tap*
Dec. 11 | New Braunfels, TX – Gruene Hall*
Dec. 12 | Huntsville, TX – Jolly Fox*
Evan Honer Announces 2026 “It’s A Long Road Tour”
Evan Honer has announced his 2026 headline “It’s A Long Road Tour” across North America. The announcement comes on the heels of his third studio album Everything I Wanted via Cloverdale Records. Nicholas Jamerson, harf., Michal Leah, Sam Burchfield and Timmy Skelly will join on select dates as support. Tickets will be available here on Oct. 3.
The run will stop in 30 cities including Atlanta, Seattle, Dallas and many more throughout March and April of next year. One dollar for every ticket sold benefits the Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance.
“It’s A Long Road Tour” Dates
3/2 – WORKPLAY – Birmingham, AL *
3/3 – Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA *
3/5 – Ponte Vedra Concert Hall – Ponte Vedra Beach, FL *
3/6 – Charleston Music Hall – Charleston, SC *
3/7 – The Orange Peel – Asheville, NC &
3/9 – 9:30 Club – Washington, DC &
3/10 – Union Transfer – Philadelphia, PA &
3/11 – Mr. Smalls Theatre – Millvale, PA &
3/13 – Webster Hall – New York, NY &
3/14 – Royale – Boston, MA &
3/16 – The Danforth Music Hall – Toronto, ON @
3/17 – Bronson Centre – Ottawa, ON @
3/19 – Majestic Theatre – Detroit, MI @
3/20 – Vic Theatre – Chicago, IL @
3/21 – First Avenue – Minneapolis, MN @
3/26 – The Complex – Salt Lake City, UT ^
3/27-28 – Treefort Music Fest – Boise, ID
3/28 – The ELM – Bozeman, MT ^
3/30 – Commodore Ballroom – Vancouver, BC ^
3/31 – Showbox – Seattle, WA ^
4/1 – Crystal Ballroom – Portland, OR ^
4/3 – The Fillmore – San Francisco, CA ^
4/4 – El Rey Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
4/5 – The Observatory North Park – San Diego, CA #
4/7 – Orpheum Theater – Flagstaff, AZ #
4/10 – La Rosa – Tucson, AZ #
4/11 – The Van Buren – Phoenix, AZ #
4/15 – Cain’s Ballroom – Tulsa, OK #
4/16 – The Echo Lounge & Music Hall – Dallas, TX #
4/18 – Two Step Inn – Georgetown, TX
* harf. supporting
& Nicholas Jamerson supporting
@ Michal Leah supporting
^ Sam Burchfield supporting
# Timmy Skelly supporting
All Them Witches Announce Second Leg Of “House Of Mirrors” Tour
All Them Witches.
All Them Witches, the Nashville-based hard rock quartet, has announced the second leg of their North American headline tour. The band, made up of Ben McLeod (guitarist), Charles Michael Parks Jr. (bass/vocals), Christian Powers (drums), and Allan Van Cleave (keys) have confirmed 18 additional dates to their previously announced 29-date “House of Mirrors” tour across the EU, UK, and North America. The band will perform in cities including LA, Seattle, Denver, Austin and more. Tickets for the new dates will go on sale on Friday (Oct. 3). King Buffalo will join as support for this leg of the tour.
All Them Witches New “House of Mirrors” Tour Dates:
Feb 13: Birmingham, AL – Iron City+
Feb 14: Baton Rouge, LA – Chelsea’s Live+
Feb 15: Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall+
Feb 18: Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren+
Feb 19: San Diego, CA – The Observatory North Park+
Feb 20: Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern+
Feb 21: Berkeley, CA – UC Theatre+
Feb 23: Vancouver, BC – The Vogue+
Feb 24: Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom+
Feb 25: Seattle, WA – Showbox SoDo+
Feb 26: Boise, ID – Shrine Ballroom+
Feb 28: Boulder, CO – Boulder Theatre+
Mar 1: Denver, CO – Ogden Theatre+
Mar 3: Omaha, NE – Slowdown+
Mar 4: Lawrence, KS – Liberty Hall+
Mar 5: Oklahoma City, OK – Tower Theatre+
Mar 6: Austin, TX – Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheatre+
Mar 7: Dallas, TX – House of Blues+
* with support from King Buffalo
Chris Janson To Kick Off ‘Wild Horses Untamed Tour’ In October
/by Lorie HollabaughChris Janson
Chris Janson has announced dates for his new “Wild Horses Untamed Tour,” which kicks off Oct. 3 in Laramie, Wyoming.
The tour will visit Huntsville, Seattle, Montgomery, Ocala and more, with a Nashville stop set for January 29. The tour announcement comes on the heels of Janson’s latest album, Wild Horses, which was released on August 1. From high-energy romps like “Hung Up On” to emotional ballads that cut to the core, the project is a full-spectrum ride through Janson’s life, loves, and lessons and is a reflection of Janson’s journey: bold, wild, and untamed.
The leadoff single from the album, “Me and a Beer,” a breezy, feel-good anthem that invites listeners to let loose and celebrate the moment, is nearing the Top 30 at country radio and climbing.
“Wild Horses Untamed Tour” Dates:
10.3.25 I Laramie, WY
10.4.25 I Greenfield, MO
10.9.15 I Bethlehem, PA
10.10.25 I Shipshewana, IN
10.11.25 I Wisconsin Dells, WI
10.18.25 I Hobbs, NM
10.24.25 I Mount Vernon, KY
10.25.25 I Odessa, MO
11.11.25 I Huntsville, AL
11.15.25 I Seattle, WA
1.16.26 I Montgomery, AL
1.29.26 I Nashville, TN
1.30.26 I Effingham, IL
1.31.26 I Hiawassee, GA
2.6.26 I Ocala, FL
2.26.26 I New London, CT
2.28.26 I Woonsocket, RI
How Kelly Thomas Brought The Hill Country Flood Benefit To Life [Interview]
/by Madison HahnenRobert Earl Keen & Kelly Thomas. Photo: Erika Goldring
When Kelly Thomas left behind a two-decade career in luxury fashion, she never imagined she’d find herself managing one of Texas music’s most beloved icons, Robert Earl Keen, or organizing a star-studded benefit concert in less than two weeks. But that’s exactly where life has taken her.
Thomas’ entry into the music industry came unexpectedly, but not without purpose. After years spent in the high-paced world of fashion as a buyer for major department and specialty stores in Dallas, she reached a turning point both personally and professionally.
“I had burned the candle at both ends for many years, both personally and professionally and needed a change,” she tells MusicRow. During her time in a recovery center, she met Keen.
Photo: Erika Goldring
“He needed some short-term help with a few events he had booked. And what was meant to be a temporary arrangement blossomed into a wonderful working relationship and point of change we both needed to step into the next chapter of our lives.”
Though she was new to artist management, Thomas found that her fashion career had equipped her with the tools she needed. “It’s another financial business built on and sprung from a creative process. So my skills translated very easily into my new role and industry.”
That perfect fit was put to the test this summer, when massive flooding devastated the Texas Hill Country just before Keen was scheduled to perform at Kerrville’s Fourth on the River celebration.
“Once we were able to digest the shocking news and shuddering morning phone call, we knew we had to act fast. People needed help, and Robert is the voice of the affected region of Texas.” From that urgency, the idea for the benefit concert “Applause for the Cause” was born.
Jon Randall Stewart, Miranda Lambert and Jack Ingram perform during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Starting the next day, Thomas sprang into action, juggling every moving part of the event. “I have never been on my phone more than in those weeks of planning the event,” she recalls. “I would have to switch gears from run of show creative planning, to livestream execution, to logistics and sound and light production, to charitable giving organizations.”
A key early challenge was selecting the right venue. While they had interest from large partners that could have filled a stadium, Thomas and Keen were focused on keeping the event rooted in the community. “We had to hold the event ‘in the Hill Country, and for the Hill Country,’’” she said. When Will Korioth of Whitewater Amphitheater in New Braunfels offered the space, it felt right.
The artist community responded immediately. “No one shows up for Texas, like Texans,” Thomas said. Within days, over 30 artists confirmed their participation, including some of the biggest names in music, including Tyler Childers, Miranda Lambert, Jamey Johnson and more.
One of the defining moments behind the scenes wasn’t just the music, but the atmosphere it created. “I overheard multiple artists saying it was the best event they had been to, and how it felt like ‘the best family reunion for Texas country music.’ Seeing artists shaking hands and hugging those who had not collaborated in years, or making new connections which might breed future partnerships was truly a beautiful thing.”
Tyler Childers performs during Robert Earl Keen & Friends Applause for the Cause Benefit at White Water Amphitheater August 28, 2025, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Photo: Erika Goldring
Crucially, the event wasn’t just about music, it was about real help. Thomas and Keen chose the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country as the beneficiary due to their direct presence in the area and their ability to respond quickly. “That was our biggest desire, for the money to get to those who needed it, and fast.” The Foundation’s CEO, Austin Dickson, and his small team impressed Thomas with their efficiency and dedication.
Partnerships came together quickly thanks to longtime relationships. One pivotal call was to Buc-ee’s owner Beaver Aplin. “Robert made the call to his friend, who quickly and without hesitation jumped on board with enthusiasm. It started with their $1 million pledge and grew from there.”
Reflecting on the event, Thomas said the outpouring of support and the final results left her speechless. “It was pure gratitude. To see the results and feel the energy in that amphitheater on the day of the event from artists to patrons, I knew we had done something truly impactful and special no one who was there will forget.”
It’s clear that for Thomas, both her career change and the flood benefit were about more than just professional milestones. They were about showing up, for her artist, her community, and for the people of the Hill Country when they needed it most.
Warren Denney To Retire From CMHOFM
/by Lauryn SinkWarren Denney.
Warren Denney will retire from his position as Vice President of Creative at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum at the end of the year after more than 18 years of service to the organization.
“Throughout his tenure, Warren grew the museum’s video, design and digital content efforts into an award-winning creative arm, forging an artistic vision for the museum that will resonate well into the future,” shares Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. “Beyond his talents as a visual artist and writer, he has a deep understanding and passion for this music and our museum’s educational mission that is felt in nearly everything we do.”
Denney joined the museum in 2007 as a Creative Manager and Senior Production Manager. He began leading the creative department in 2009 and became a key partner in the creation of exhibitions in partnership with the museum services team, producing primary exhibit looks, contributing writing and original content, and aided in directing and producing exhibit-related programs.
Denney co-directed Big Night (At the Museum), a 90-minute feature film in 2020, which earned a Silver Muse Award from the American Association of Museums for best video production and multiple Telly Awards. He also led art direction for From Where I Stand: The Black Experience in Country Music, an expanded box set by the museum and Warner Music Nashville released in 2024.
In his current role, Denney oversees artistic direction and design support for all exhibitions, education and marketing initiatives, as well as books published by the museum’s CMF Press and records produced by CMF Records. He also supervises the museum’s video production, photography and digital content creation, including for the museum’s public programs and other events.
In addition to writing for the museum, the Nashville native is a journalist and feature writer, primarily contributing to the Nashville Musician and the Nashvillian. He’s also written for the Tennessean, Guitar Player, Metro Music Monthly and Bone Music Magazine. Before joining the museum, Denney worked as a Managing Editor for Athlon sports publications. He has a master of fine arts degree in creative writing from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an undergraduate degree in journalism. He is also a fiction writer, poet and songwriter.
MusicRow Weekly (CMA Final Ballot Open)
/by Madison HahnenMusicRow‘s CMA Voter Guide, out now, is an inside look at the nominees for the 59th annual CMA Awards. The final nominations list was determined by eligible voting CMA members comprised of professionals within the country music industry.
Ella Langley, Megan Moroney and Lainey Wilson lead the pack with six nominations each, while other top nominees include Zach Top with five nominations, and Riley Green and Cody Johnson with four nominations each. Kristian Bush, Carson Chamberlain, Luke Combs, Charlie Handsome, Chris Stapleton and Morgan Wallen each secure three nominations. Wilson, Combs, Johnson, Stapleton and Wallen garnered a nomination for the night’s top honor, Entertainer of the Year.
First-time CMA Awards nominees include Johnny Clawson, Jon Decious, Jessie Jo Dillon, Josh Dorr, Alexandra Gavillet, Lalo Guzman, Jimmy Harnen, Brandon Lake, Micah Nichols, John Park, Aaron Raitiere, Matt Rovey, Kyle Sturrock, Wales Toney, Tucker Wetmore and Stephen Wilson Jr.
The 59th Annual CMA Awards broadcasts live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Wednesday, Nov. 19 (8:00 – 11:00 PM/EST) on ABC and next day on Hulu.
“Each year, the CMA Awards shine a light on the creativity, passion and dedication of our community,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “The nominees announced today represent some of the most impactful work happening across Country Music, and we are deeply appreciative of our voting members for lending their time and expertise to this process. Their commitment helps ensure the CMA Awards remain a true reflection of the genre’s excellence. On behalf of CMA, congratulations to all of this year’s nominees.”
Winners will be determined in a Final Round of voting by eligible CMA Professional voting members. The third and Final Ballot will be emailed on Wednesday, Oct. 1. Voting for the CMA Awards Final Ballot ends Wednesday, Oct. 29 (6:00 PM/CT).
Click here to view the CMA Voter’s Guide.
Judge Grants The MLC To File Amended Complaint In Spotify Case
/by Madison HahnenThis ruling give The MLC the ongoing opportunity to challenge Spotify’s bundling practices that have reduced songwriter and publisher royalties. The case will continue to be litigated, with potential for major financial and industry-wide implications.
“The MLC welcomes this Order granting our motion to file an amended complaint and recognizing our right to seek recovery of underpaid royalties from Spotify.” The MLC stated in response. “This is an important case. We brought it to ensure streaming royalties are properly paid under the law. We look forward to further demonstrating the merit in our claims.”
The MLC’s goal is to ensure that streaming royalties are accurately calculated and paid according to the law, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to protecting creator’s rights.
The MLC’s case against Spotify was first filed last year. The action seeks recovery of unpaid royalties due under the compulsory mechanical blanket license obtained by Spotify to reproduce and distribute musical works in the United States via its consumer music streaming platform.
“We are extremely pleased that the case against Spotify by The MLC has new momentum,” shared the NMPA in a statement. “The judge today upheld The MLC’s ability to file a new complaint alleging Spotify improperly used the Audiobooks Access plan and that Spotify actually owes royalties on the Audiobooks Access plan because it comes with music. This means songwriters and publishers have reason to hope that Spotify’s deceptive practices will be stopped. You cannot unilaterally convert music subscribers to bundles including audiobooks – to pay a lower royalty rate – then raise prices and make it exceedingly difficult to return to a music-only plan.”
Dennis Lord Joins Gordon Law Group
/by Lauryn SinkDennis Lord.
Dennis Lord has joined Gordon Law Group.
“Our firm is well known for estate and business planning, including entertainment law. Dennis brings wisdom from a decades-long career in entertainment and music law which goes hand in hand with building sustainable careers and estates. It’s a perfect fit.” says Robin J. Gordon, Founder & Managing Partner, Gordon Law Group, PLC. “We see so many entertainers building great businesses but see estate planning as secondary. When building, managing and protecting a client’s wealth, we view it wholistically. Dennis is a key part of this service to our established and new client base.”
Lord arrived in Nashville in 1986 for songwriting, and within two years he delivered Travis Tritt’s first major hit, “Country Club.” While Lord continued to write, he practiced entertainment law, working with songwriters, artists, music industry executives and publishing companies. He also served on the Board of the Nashville Songwriters Association International, leading legislative efforts in Washington, D.C.
In 1997 he was recruited by SESAC, where he remained for twenty years, working with its principals as Executive Vice President in all areas of the business. During that time he affiliated and worked with Rush, Zac Brown, composers Randy Newman and Jonathan Wolff (Seinfeld), the Kurt Cobain Estate and Adele, among others.
In 2017, Lord opened his own legal and consulting practice, assisting entertainment and media professionals along with recording, music publishing, private equity and select music technology companies in the areas of law, business and strategic planning.
Lord has served on the TJ Martell Foundation’s National Board of Trustees since 2012 and on its executive committee since 2022. He also chairs the organization’s Grants Committee.
“I’ve known Robin and his team for years and have great respect for them,” adds Lord. “While we’re Nashville-based, we practice in a majority of states, which is another element I appreciate about how Robin has built Gordon Law Group. And the fact that this firm is part of Lawyers With Purpose is exciting. It underscores our commitment to helping our clients achieve their goals successfully.”
Lord begins his role at Gordon Law Group immediately, and can be reached at dennis@gordonlawgroup.com.
Anne Wilson Releases New Devotional For Young Women
/by Lorie HollabaughAnne Wilson. Photo: Laney Oakes Photography
Anne Wilson is releasing her first devotional, Hey Girl: You Are Seen, Loved, And Made for More, a 40-day journey to help young women discover their worth in Christ via K-LOVE books.
The inspirational devotional takes its name from Wilson’s 2021 song “Hey Girl” and the growing Hey Girl Nation community she’s built online, and through Scripture, encouragement, journal prompts and heartfelt prayers, Wilson shares personal stories of comparison, grief and doubt to remind readers they’re not alone.
Tackling real-life struggles like insecurity, friendship drama, purpose and finding peace, Hey Girl invites middle school, high school and college-aged readers, or anyone needing a reminder to live free, walk in victory and know they are deeply loved. Yesterday (Sept. 29) 200 young fans got a first glimpse of both the devotional and Wilson’s upcoming new album Stars at a special “Hey Girl High Tea” event in Franklin, Tennessee.
“My brand-new Hey Girl Devotional for teen girls is out now, and I couldn’t be more excited,” shares Wilson. “Writing this has been such a prayerful journey, and my biggest hope is that every girl who reads it feels seen, loved and reminded of her worth in Jesus. You don’t have to have it all together – He already calls you His. My prayer is that these pages bring you closer to His heart and give you courage to live boldly in who He’s made you to be! You can grab your copy everywhere books are sold!”
Wilson is already a bestselling author with her book My Jesus: From Heartache to Hope, and is gearing up for the release of her third album Stars, due Oct. 17 via Capitol Christian Music Group. She recently introduced the project with its title track, a song that threads together her childhood dream of becoming an astronaut with the real-life journey she has walked: grappling with the loss of her brother Jacob, choosing to hold onto faith in the aftermath, and learning to see God’s presence reflected in both the night sky and her own story.
Riser House Entertainment Launches Riser House Rock
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Jason Martin, Jim Kaufman, Sofia Barbetta.
Riser House Entertainment has launched a new rock division of the label.
Jason Martin has been appointed President. Martin brings decades of experience to Riser House Rock, most recently serving as VP Promotion at Elektra Music Group. Prior to joining EMG, he held national promotion roles at Roadrunner and Fueled by Ramen, and earlier in his career, he served as Director, Product Manager/Artist Development at RCA Records in New York.
“This adventure into discovering, signing, and amplifying incredible rock talent wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of Jennifer Johnson, Matt Swanson, Megan Schultz, Brandon Perdue, and the entire Riser House Entertainment team,” shares Martin.
“Launching a rock label has been a dream, and there’s no one better than Jason Martin to bring it to life,” adds Johnson, Co-Founder of Riser House Entertainment. “His passion, creative vision, and experience make him the perfect force to lead this next chapter.”
Jim Kaufman will serve as JV partner on select artist signings. Kaufman is a veteran producer, mixer and is executive managed by Andrew Brightman of Brightman Music.
Sofia Barbetta, Digital Marketing & Engagement Manager at Riser House Entertainment, will lead online strategy for the newly launched division.