Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson & Post Malone
Beloved California country music festival Stagecoach will return to Indio’s Empire Polo Club from April 24-26. This year’s lineup feature headline sets from Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson and Post Malone.
The full 2026 lineup includes Adrien Nunez, Amos Lee, Avery Anna, Bailey Zimmerman, Bayker Blankenship, Benjamin Tod, BigXthaPlug, Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters, Brandon Wisham, Braxton Keith, Brett Young, Brooks & Dunn, Bush, Cameron Whitcomb, Charles Wesley Godwin, Chase Matthew, Chase Rice, Corey Kent, Counting Crows, Diplo, Eli Young Band, Elizabeth Nichols, Ella Langley, Gabriella Rose, Gavin Adcock, Guy Fieri, Hannah McFarland, Hootie & the Blowfish, Hudson Westbrook, Ink, Jake Worthington, Josh Ross, Journey, Julia Cole, Kameron Marlowe, Kevin Smiley, Lane Pittman, Larkin Poe, Little Big Town, Ludacris, Lyle Lovett, Marcus King Band, Max McNown, Michael Marcagi, Nate Smith, Neon Union, Noah Cyrus, Noah Rinker, Ole 60, Pitbull, Redferrin, Red Clay Strays, Riley Green, Ryan Hurd, S.G. Goodman, Sam Barber, Something Out West, Tayler Holder, Teddy Swims, The Road, The Wallflowers, Third Eye Blind, Treaty Oak Revival, Tyler Braden, Ty Myers, Warren Zeiders, Willow Avalon, Wyatt Flores, Wynonna Judd and Zach John King.
“I’ll never forget the first time I got the call to play Stagecoach,” shares Johnson. We were on one of the smaller stages and I remember wondering if anyone would even know our songs. Now here we are invited back to headline the Mane Stage. What a ride. I hope y’all bring the energy… because it’s gonna get western.”
“My first Stagecoach was in 2022 on the SiriusXM Stage at 2:30PM in the afternoon,” says Wilson. “Look how far we’ve come y’all! I’m honored to headline this year. This is a career highlight and I can’t wait to see everyone there.”
“Had a hell of a time at Stagecoach in 2024 alongside so many incredible artists and friends,” adds Post Malone. “Can’t wait to be back next year!”
This year, the Mustang stage will kick off at dusk each day, providing the famous after-dark Stagecoach moments. The Rose Garden Saloon will also return this year for the honky tonk experience for festival attendees. Diplo will also return to the desert this year for his iconic Diplo’s Honkytonk, alongside Guy Fieri also making his return with Guy Fieri’s Stagecoach Smokehouse.
New this year will be Nashville’s own Whiskey Jam taking over the Palomino stage for after hours sets with their curated lineups spotlighting new talent and fan favorites. Also a new element this year happening on the Mane Stage will be the chance for the winner of upcoming competition show The Road to perform.
Amazon Music will return as the exclusive livestream partner for the fourth year. Stagecoach performances will be streamed live across Twitch, Prime Video and the Amazon Music app.
Passes for the 2026 festival will go on sale Oct. 2 at 1 p.m. CT here.
Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson & Post Malone Set As Stagecoach Headliners
/by Madison HahnenCody Johnson, Lainey Wilson & Post Malone
Beloved California country music festival Stagecoach will return to Indio’s Empire Polo Club from April 24-26. This year’s lineup feature headline sets from Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson and Post Malone.
The full 2026 lineup includes Adrien Nunez, Amos Lee, Avery Anna, Bailey Zimmerman, Bayker Blankenship, Benjamin Tod, BigXthaPlug, Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters, Brandon Wisham, Braxton Keith, Brett Young, Brooks & Dunn, Bush, Cameron Whitcomb, Charles Wesley Godwin, Chase Matthew, Chase Rice, Corey Kent, Counting Crows, Diplo, Eli Young Band, Elizabeth Nichols, Ella Langley, Gabriella Rose, Gavin Adcock, Guy Fieri, Hannah McFarland, Hootie & the Blowfish, Hudson Westbrook, Ink, Jake Worthington, Josh Ross, Journey, Julia Cole, Kameron Marlowe, Kevin Smiley, Lane Pittman, Larkin Poe, Little Big Town, Ludacris, Lyle Lovett, Marcus King Band, Max McNown, Michael Marcagi, Nate Smith, Neon Union, Noah Cyrus, Noah Rinker, Ole 60, Pitbull, Redferrin, Red Clay Strays, Riley Green, Ryan Hurd, S.G. Goodman, Sam Barber, Something Out West, Tayler Holder, Teddy Swims, The Road, The Wallflowers, Third Eye Blind, Treaty Oak Revival, Tyler Braden, Ty Myers, Warren Zeiders, Willow Avalon, Wyatt Flores, Wynonna Judd and Zach John King.
“I’ll never forget the first time I got the call to play Stagecoach,” shares Johnson. We were on one of the smaller stages and I remember wondering if anyone would even know our songs. Now here we are invited back to headline the Mane Stage. What a ride. I hope y’all bring the energy… because it’s gonna get western.”
“My first Stagecoach was in 2022 on the SiriusXM Stage at 2:30PM in the afternoon,” says Wilson. “Look how far we’ve come y’all! I’m honored to headline this year. This is a career highlight and I can’t wait to see everyone there.”
“Had a hell of a time at Stagecoach in 2024 alongside so many incredible artists and friends,” adds Post Malone. “Can’t wait to be back next year!”
This year, the Mustang stage will kick off at dusk each day, providing the famous after-dark Stagecoach moments. The Rose Garden Saloon will also return this year for the honky tonk experience for festival attendees. Diplo will also return to the desert this year for his iconic Diplo’s Honkytonk, alongside Guy Fieri also making his return with Guy Fieri’s Stagecoach Smokehouse.
New this year will be Nashville’s own Whiskey Jam taking over the Palomino stage for after hours sets with their curated lineups spotlighting new talent and fan favorites. Also a new element this year happening on the Mane Stage will be the chance for the winner of upcoming competition show The Road to perform.
Amazon Music will return as the exclusive livestream partner for the fourth year. Stagecoach performances will be streamed live across Twitch, Prime Video and the Amazon Music app.
Passes for the 2026 festival will go on sale Oct. 2 at 1 p.m. CT here.
Brayden Stewart Signs With Warner Chappell Music Nashville
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (Back Row, L-R): Kayce Russell (WCM), Eric Reid (WCM), Bethany Mako (WCM), Julie Hess (WCM), Sara Latimer (WCM), Bryce Sherlow (WCM), Spencer Nohe (WCM), Jessi Stevenson (WCM). (Front Row, L-R): BJ Hill (WCM), Brayden Stewart, Alexa Morris (WCM), Benji Amaefule (WCM). Photo: Courtesy of WCM
Brayden Stewart has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music Nashville.
“The first time I saw Brayden play I was infatuated with his musicianship and energy on stage,” shares BJ Hill, SVP, A&R, WCM Nashville. “Then when I found out what an amazing songwriter he is, I instantly knew I wanted to be a part of his journey. I’m excited to champion his growth alongside our talented WCM team.”
Hailing from Scurry, Texas, Stewart began honing his craft at a young age, teaching himself guitar, bass, and drums. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical influences such as Metallica, Matchbox Twenty, Jason Isbell and Sturgill Simpson, he released his 2024 EP, Claire, and debut album Better Part of Me in 2025, with standout tracks like “Mexican Wind” and “Tell Me Why.” Stewart co-wrote a track with Pecos Hurley of Pecos & The Rooftops for the band’s upcoming album. Known for his high-energy live sets, he has toured with Blacktop Mojo and performed alongside Cole Barnhill and Kolby Cooper.
“I’m super excited to be a part of the Warner Chappell team,” adds Stewart. “I’m grateful to have found a home here with a bunch of other great creatives and I’m looking forward to collaborating with the teams more in the immediate future. This is an exciting new chapter in my life and I couldn’t feel more blessed.”
Nashville Songwriter Awards Shine At The Ryman With Tributes & Top Honors
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): Jason Aldean, Randy Owen of ALABAMA (Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree), Lisa Kristofferson and Kelly Owen. Photo: Jason Davis
The eighth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards lit up the Ryman Auditorium last night (Sept. 23) with an evening of celebration and reflection honoring the gift of songwriting. Presented by the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and City National Bank, the event recognized 42 individuals for their exceptional contributions to the craft.
The night opened with a heartfelt tribute to NSAI founding member Kris Kristofferson as Lukas Nelson performed “Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” in honor of the songwriting legend and namesake of NSAI’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Later, Kris’ widow, Lisa Kristofferson, presented this year’s Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award to Teddy Gentry, Randy Owen and the late Jeff Cook—known collectively as the iconic country group ALABAMA.
Trisha Yearwood celebrates onstage with Brenda Lee, the 2025 NSAI President’s Keystone Award Recipient. Photo: Jason Davis
Their honor was celebrated with a medley of ALABAMA hits performed by Gordon Mote, a heartfelt rendition of “There’s No Way” from Lorrie Morgan and Jason Aldean’s performance of “My Home’s in Alabama.” Gentry was unable to attend due to illness, but Owen took the stage to share humorous industry stories and reflect on the joy of songwriting.
Brenda Lee received the 2025 President’s Keystone Award, with Trisha Yearwood honoring her through a performance of “Sweet Nothin’s.” Lee expressed her gratitude to the industry for supporting her career since she began performing at age nine.
The Legendary Song Award, introduced last year to spotlight songs chosen by NSAI’s professional songwriting membership as the most influential works from defined timeframes, went to Dolly Parton’s timeless “I Will Always Love You” for the 1968-1984 era. Caylee Hammack delivered a stunning tribute performance of the classic.
Ashley Gorley claimed Songwriter of the Year for a record-breaking ninth time, celebrated with Tyler Hubbard performing “Park” and Dylan Scott delivering “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us.”
Josh Phillips, NSAI 2025 Songwriter of the Year with Lee Thomas Miller (NSAI Board President). Photo: Jason Davis
Matthew West was named 2025 Songwriter-Artist of the Year for the second time, with Anne Wilson joining the celebration to perform their co-written hit “My Jesus.”
Throughout the evening, 37 songwriters were honored with the peer-voted 10 Songs I Wish I’d Written awards. The song receiving the highest number of votes—and earning Song of the Year—was “Dirt Cheap,” written solely by Josh Phillips. Phillips shared his gratitude for the song’s success, noting how it has propelled his career forward.
Nearly all 10 Songs honorees performed their winning titles, including Ella Langley surprising the audience with co-writer Aaron Raitiere for a hilarious version of “You Look Like You Love Me.” Ian Munsick also performed “Espresso” to honor writers Amy Allen, Julian Bunetta, Sabrina Carpenter and Steph Jones.
The Nashville Songwriter Awards will return to the Ryman Auditorium for its ninth annual ceremony on Sept. 22, 2026.
Tyler Hubbard and Ashley Gorley (NSAI 2025 Songwriter of the Year) backstage at The Ryman. Photo: Jason Davis
Pictured (L-R): Bart Herbison (NSAI Executive Director, Matthew West (NSAI 2025 Songwriter of the Year), Lee Thomas Miller (NSAI Board President). Photo: Jason Davis
Donna Duncan Exits CMT
/by Madison HahnenDonna Duncan
Donna Duncan, Vice President, CMT Music & Talent, has exited her role at the company, due to organizational changes. Her last day on the job will be this Friday (Sept. 26).
Duncan joined CMT in 2006 as Executive Assistant for Program Enterprises & MTV, before being promoted to Coordinator, Series Production & Development where she worked with on-air talent and music programming including CMT on Tour, CMT Film and Rockband.
In 2012, she joined the talent team where she has since worked on booking, music specials and digital franchises, as well as close collaboration with the Integrated Marketing, Ad Sales and Digital teams across all CMT platforms. Duncan also served as Talent Executive for CMT Hot 20 Countdown, Talent Producer for the CMT Music Awards and CMT Crossroads, and has also worked across Paramount events including the recent MTV Video Music Awards.
Duncan graduated from Belmont University with a Bachelor of Business Administration and Masters of Sports Administration. She is a member of the Television Academy, CMA, ACM and WICT.
Kenny Chesney’s ‘Heart Life Music Tour’ To Visit Chicago, Nashville, Miami
/by Lorie HollabaughKenny Chesney. Photo: Danny Clinch
Kenny Chesney has added three more events for his upcoming book tour for Heart Life Music in Chicago, Nashville, and Miami in November.
“Heart Life Music: the Book Tour“ will go to Chicago the day after the book’s release on Nov. 5 for an event at the Copernicus Center. Chesney will then head to Nashville Nov. 6 for two book talks at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s CMA Theater. On Nov. 16 he will headline the Miami Book Fair’s opening weekend.
“I wanted to go to the heart of the country, and Chicago sure represents that for me,” says Chesney. “I wanted to go to the place where all of my music came together, the songwriters and creative community were so generous and encouraging to me. Teaming with Parnassus Books for an event at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, yards from the Turf where I’d played for tips when I arrived, is a dream come true.
“And we were asked to be a headliner for the opening of the Miami Book Fair. I feel like we’re going back to the Super Bowl, which when you read the book, you’ll get the reference. It’s an honor to be part of such a respected and iconic event. And the way I love South Florida – from West Palm Beach’s Coral Sky to the Tortuga Music Festival, Miami and the Keys – this is a whole other homecoming.”
Chesney will be joined for the conversations that explore the story and process by two-time LA Press Club Music Criticism and Entertainment Journalist of the Year and co-author Holly Gleason.
The previously announced Johnson City and Boston events are sold-out. Tickets for Chicago and Nashville will go on-sale this Friday (Sept. 26) at 10 a.m. EST, while Miami will go on-sale on Oct. 13. More information for each event can be found here.
Heart Life Music Tour Dates:
Nov. 1- East Tennessee State University Martin Center for the Arts in the ETSU Foundation Grand Hall- Johnson City, TN
Nov. 2- Back Bay Events Center- Boston, MA
Nov. 5- Copernicus Center- Chicago, IL
Nov. 6- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s CMA Theater- Nashville, TN
Nov. 16- Miami Book Fair- Miami, FL
Alison Prestwood To Be Country Music Hall Of Fame & Museum’s Next ‘Nashville Cats’ Honoree
/by Lorie HollabaughNashville bassist Alison Prestwood will be featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s in-depth interview series “Nashville Cats” on Nov. 22 in the museum’s Ford Theater.
Prestwood bought her first bass at 13, and after attending the University of Alabama, where she played in the school’s jazz ensemble, she spent 12 years performing in Atlanta’s live music scene. Upon moving to Nashville in the 1990s, she found touring work with Rodney Crowell, Patty Loveless, Olivia Newton-John and others. She also became an in-demand studio bassist and can be heard on several of Blake Shelton’s early hits, including his chart-topping debut, “Austin,” and his version of “Ol’ Red.”
Prestwood has also recorded with Trace Adkins, Frankie Ballard, Faith Hill, LoCash, Tim McGraw, Little Richard, Jessica Simpson, Brooks & Dunn and more. In recent years, she has served as Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Peter Frampton’s touring bassist.
The interview will be moderated by museum writer-editor Jon Freeman and will be illustrated with rare photos, film and recordings. After the program, Prestwood will sign commemorative Hatch Show Print posters.
The “Nashville Cats”series began in 2006 by honoring Don Helms, Harold Bradley and Charlie McCoy. Since its inception nearly 20 years ago, it has showcased stories and songs from 55 musicians and session singers who have played important roles in support of artists in either the studio or on concert tours.
Industry Ink: The Women Of Country, The War And Treaty, ‘Stories Behind The Songs,’ More
/by Lauryn SinkThe Women Of Country Celebrate 10 Years At 3rd & Lindsley
Pictured (back row, L-R) Alli Walker, Jenna Davis, Hailey Verhaalen, Jacquie Roar, Brooke Taylor, Kaylee Rose, Sophia Scott. (front row, L-R): Tezza, Nicole Marchesi, Sarah Morey. Photo: Evan McCaffery.
The Women of Country celebrated its 10-year last week at 3rd & Lindsley.
Hosted by Founder Nicole Marchesi and iHeartRadio’s Brooke Taylor, the evening brought together over 150 fans with a lineup of artists including Alli Walker, Kaylee Rose, Jenna Davis, Sophia Scott, Hailey Verhaalen, Jacquie Roar, Sarah Morey and Tezza.
“What an incredible way to celebrate 10 years of The Women of Country. I’m so grateful for everyone who came out, your support means the world. A decade down, and the best is still ahead!” shares Marchesi.
The War And Treaty Perform On WWE’s Wrestlepalooza
The War And Treaty Perform “God Bless America” on WWE’s Wrestlepalooza.
The War And Treaty recently performed their rendition of “God Bless America” during WWE’s Wrestlepalooza, which aired live on ESPN from Indianapolis.
The night included the return of Brock Lesnar, John Cena’s farewell tour, and the first-ever mixed tag team “couple’s match” between Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch and CM Punk & AJ Lee, marking AJ Lee’s return to WWE.
The performance follows the husband-and-wife duo’s recent CMA nomination for Duo of the Year, their third consecutive nod in the category. Next month, The War And Treaty will be back on the road for a 15-city headlining tour.
Chris Blair Honors Brett James In ‘Stories Behind The Songs’ Podcast Episode
Chris Blair honored Brett James in the most recent Stories Behind The Songs episode.
James tragically died in a private plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday (Sept. 18). With more than 500 songs recorded throughout his career, James celebrated 27 No. 1s, a Grammy win for his mega Carrie Underwood hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” and was named ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and 2010. His songs have been cut by country artists like Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and Rascal Flatts, to pop stars Bon Jovi, Backstreet Boys, Kelly Clarkson and Leona Lewis.
CMHOFM Celebrates Opening Of Earl Newman: Six Decades of Lyrical Compositions Exhibit
Pictured (L-R): Museum CEO Kyle Young, Haley Gallery Director Daniel Lonow, Earl Newman and Director of Hatch Show Print Celene Aubry at the Haley Gallery. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently celebrated the opening of Earl Newman: Six Decades of Lyrical Compositions, showcasing the works of the poster printmaker, who is also serving as the 2025 Hatch Show Print Visiting Artist.
The exhibition, which is free and open to the public through Nov. 14, includes vintage silkscreened posters by Newman and new works created in collaboration with Hatch Show Print.
Alex Miller Visits FOX56
Pictured (L-R): Alex Miller and FOX 56 “Live From Chevy Chase” co-hosts Tamara Schneider and Leigh Jordan
Alex Miller brought his new single, “Secondhand Smoke” to Lexington, Kentucky with an in-studio performance on FOX56’s morning show “Live From Chevy Chase.” The song was written by Alan Jackson and Jim McBride.
Gary Brewer Signs with Pinecastle Records
Gary Brewer.
Gary Brewer has signed with Pinecastle Records.
The Kentucky native, along with his band, The Kentucky Ramblers, will release a new studio album in 2026. A lead single will be released later this year.
“I am honored and glad to partner with Pinecastle for the release of my new project,” shares Brewer. “It will feature all new original material I’ve written celebrating my 46th year in the music business. All in rambler fashion!”
“Gary Brewer has spent his life making great music and keeping Bluegrass moving forward while staying true to its roots. He’s someone who has inspired fans and musicians for decades. We’re excited to have him join our label, and can’t wait to share his new music with everyone,” adds Ethan Burkhardt, Pinecastle Records CEO.
Hollywood & Mind To Host Inaugural On Location Event In Nashville
/by Madison HahnenPictured (clockwise): Ashley Gorley, Ashley McBryde, Chase McDaniel and GAYLE
Entertainment industry mental health coalition Hollywood & Mind will host the inaugural Hollywood & Mind On Location event on Oct. 22 at Anzie Blue and The Belcourt Theatre in Nashville. The day long program will feature Ashley Gorley, singer-songwriters Ashley McBryde, Chase McDaniel, Gayle, Maggie Rose, Sam Williams, Stella Prince, Madeline Edwards, Summer Joy and an array of music industry executives.
Among the conversations will be “Visual Storytelling and Mental Health” hosted by YouTube’s Head of Industry and Label Relations, Nashville’s Margaret Hart, featuring McBryde, her manager John Peets, and Warner Music Nashville’s SVP, Creative Director Mike Dupree. Gorley is on deck to host a fireside chat, while McDaniel will lead “Writers Room <> Therapy Session” alongside Rose and Edwards.
“Nashville is the songwriting capital of the world, and our team has been on the ground immersing in the community to better understand both the unique challenges to their wellbeing and various ways they’re using their voices to elevate mental health out in the culture,” says Cathy Applefeld Olson, Founder and CEO of Hollywood & Mind. “The big heart and collaborative nature of this city’s artistic alliance make Nashville the perfect place to debut our ‘On Location’ tour and we’ve created a program whose impact will resonate long after October 22.”
Leslie Fram, Founder and CEO of FEMco, will host a conversation with Williams and Gayle. The Executive Roundtable will include Katie Kerkhover, SVP, A&R, North America, BMG/BBR Music Group, Kevin “Chief” Zaruk, Co-Founder and CEO of The CORE Entertainment, Brittany Schaffer, Dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont University, Katrina Gay, Executive Director of NAMI Tennessee and Beth Barcus, Co-Executive Director and Porter at Porter’s Call. The whole day will kick off with a Songwriters Workshop with Joy and Prince, and the event will culminate with a reception at Anzie Blue.
The full schedule and tickets to Hollywood & Mind On Location In Nashville are available here.
Sponsor partners for the event include The NMPA S.O.N.G.S. Foundation, The FRESH Program, UTA Foundation, Anzie Blue, FEMco, Love You Three and happy coffee.
BMG Elevates Matt Vieira To Senior Director Promotion, Western US
/by Lauryn SinkMatt Vieira. Photo: Kevin Grace
BMG has elevated Matt Vieira to Senior Director Promotion, Western US.
While continuing to fulfill the role of Western US promotion for Stoney Creek Records, Viera will also add duties of Western US CHR, Hot AC and AC promotions across all BMG imprints, reporting to SVP, CHR, Hot AC and AC Promotion, BMG Lee Leipsner.
“Matt is a vital part of BMG’s success and so deserving of this promotion,” says Leipsner. “He is versatile, well respected, and has a vast knowledge of music from all genres which makes him ideal for this increased role in CHR, Hot AC and AC. His relationships are second to none and I know Matt will play a key role in our campaigns moving forward. Our company believes in the impact/reach of radio; so, elevating our efforts across multiple formats with Matt is ideal.”
Based in Sacramento, California, Vieira has logged nearly three decades of experience in the industry. He has aided in campaigns for nine No. 1s for Jelly Roll across the country and rock charts and the last four No. 1s for Parmalee. Before BBR Music Group/BMG, Vieira logged more than a decade at CBS Radio in promotions, marketing and music director roles at the organization.
Vieira can be reached here.
The Creekers Ink With Warner Music Nashville & Warner Records
/by Madison HahnenPhoto: Madelyn Ormond
Blugrass-country band The Creekers have signed a record deal with Warner Music Nashville and Warner Records.
Formed in Leslie County, Kentucky, The Creekers are a six-piece group, comprised of Tanner Horton (vocals, lead guitar), Allen Hacker (vocals, rhythm guitar), Jagger Bowling (bass, vocals), Ashton Bowling (cajon), Scott Sutton (banjo, vocals) and Anna Blanton (fiddle).
The band released their debut album Pour Me In The Creek last year, followed by their 2025 EP River Rat. Off the EP, their track “Tennessee” reached the top five on Spotify’s Viral 50-USA chart, staying there for multiple weeks over the summer. The Creekers are expected to release more music soon.