ERNEST Plots ‘Live From The South Tour’ For 2026

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ERNEST. Photo: Braden Walker

ERNEST will kick off his “Live From The South Tour” beginning Jan. 21 in Denver. Country newcomers Chandler Walters, Cody Lohden and Rhys Rutherford will provide support for the new tour.

The tour is set to hit Boston, Sacramento, Jacksonville, Charleston, New York, Detroit, Ft. Worth, Houston and more before wrapping in April. Public on-sale begins Sept. 26.

“I’m so excited for this chapter. The ‘Live From The South Tour’ is gonna be a night full of sounds from the South,” shares ERNEST. “Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee and a lover of the southland… even further south where I find so much inspiration in the Virgin Islands. This tour is gonna be so much fun playing some new music mixed with some of my favorites and getting to share the stage with my artists on DeVille Records. So proud of them and ready to see the fellas rocking.”

Walters, Lohden and Rutherford join the tour after releasing a mixtape-style record, Cadillac Sessions, with Ernest earlier this year to launch DeVille Records. The album features original songs from the group, plus additional guests Snoop Dogg, Miranda Lambert and Jake Worthington. Walters has been on the road with Post Malone on “The BIG ASS Stadium Tour,” and Lohden and Rutherford are each in the studio working on debut projects.

ERNEST, a three-time CMA Triple Play award winner and three-time Variety hitmaker, continues to tour throughout the fall with Lainey Wilson on her “Whirlwind Tour,” and is set to headline hometown venue the Ryman for two nights this year on Nov. 4-5.

“Live From The South 2026” Dates:
1/21 – Denver, Colo. – Mission Ballroom*
1/23 – Salt Lake City, Utah – The Complex*
1/24 – Reno, Nev. – Grand Sierra Resort & Casino*
1/29 – Solana Beach, Calif. – Belly Up*
1/30 – Anaheim, Calif. – House of Blues*
1/31 – Sacramento, Calif. – Ace of Spades*
2/7 – Indio, Calif. – Fantasy Springs Casino
2/19 – Athens, Ga. – Georgia Theatre >
2/26 – Jacksonville, Fla. – FIVE >
2/27 – Charleston, S.C. – Charleston Music Hall >
2/28 – Norfolk, Va. – NorVa >
3/5 – Indianapolis, Ind. – The Egyptian >
3/6 – Rosemont, Ill. – Joe’s Live >
3/7 – Columbus, Ohio – The Bluestone >
3/11 – Grand Rapids, Mich. – The Intersection #
3/13 – Detroit, Mich. – Filmore #
3/14 – McKees Rocks, Pa. – Roxian Theatre #
3/19 – Durant, Okla. – Choctaw Casino
3/26 – Boston, Mass. – House of Blues*
3/27 – New York, N.Y.– Irving Plaza*
3/28 – Bensalem, Pa. – Parx Casino*
4/2 – Houston, Texas – White Oak Music Hall*
4/3 – New Braunfels, Texas – Gruene Hall*
4/4 – Ft. Worth, Texas – Billy Bob’s*
4/16 – St. Louis, Mo. – Hawthorn #
4/18 – Minneapolis, Minn. – First Avenue #

* Support By Chandler Walters
> Support By Cody Lohden
# Support By Rhys Rutherford

Alex Maxwell Signs With UMPG

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Pictured: TC Courtney (UMPG Nashville) and Alex Maxwell. Photo: Trey Bonner

Alex Maxwell has signed an exclusive, global publishing agreement with Universal Music Publishing Nashville.

A Pittsburgh native, Maxwell moved to Nashville in 2013 and has amassed 700 million streams and radio activity with artists including Chase Matthew, Warren Zeiders, Kameron Marlowe, Priscilla Block, Morgan Evans, Hannah McFarland, Dalton Dover, Trey Lewis, Kidd G and more. Among his list of credits is the current top 10 Chase Matthew single, “Darlin’”, Maxwell’s first hit at country radio.

“As both a songwriter and producer, Alex Maxwell is the definition of precision,” shares TC Courtney, Manager, A&R, UMPG Nashville. “He makes every lyric and melody count, approaches production with exceptional intuition, and brings an atmosphere of creative trust into every writing room. These qualities make Alex exactly the kind of writer we at UMPG gravitate toward.”

“I’m incredibly grateful to officially join the Universal Music Publishing family,” adds Maxwell. “With the momentum I’ve been fortunate enough to build thus far, this feels like the perfect next chapter. TC’s belief in me and my music has meant the world, and I’m confident that we’re just getting started on something really special.”

Riley Green Takes Top Spot On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Riley Green. Photo: David Higgs

Riley Green has taken the No. 1 spot on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart with his solo-penned Ella Langley duet “Don’t Mind If I Do.”

Chase McGill moves up to No. 2 with “20 Cigarettes,” “Brunette,” “Happen To Me,” “I Got Better,” “It Won’t Be Long,” “Miami,” “Straight Line” and “TN.” Charlie Handsome sits at No. 3 with “Hell At Night,” “Holy Water,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Miami,” “Superman,” “TN” and “What I Want.”

Blake Pendergrass (No. 4) and Morgan Wallen (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.

The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

NOW OPEN: Applications For MusicRow’s 2026 N.B.T. Music Industry Directory

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Applications are now open for MusicRow’s 2026 N.B.T. (Next Big Thing) Music Industry Directory.

MusicRow‘s N.B.T. Music Industry Directory showcases Nashville music business professionals who are rising through the ranks. This class of industry members occupy mid-level roles at their respective companies, and are on a trajectory of excellence to become future leaders in the Nashville music industry. Applicants should ideally have a minimum of five or more years experience in the music industry.

The final list will be featured in MusicRow‘s Touring/Next Big Thing print issue, which releases on Dec. 9. The print edition also includes the annual Next Big Thing artist list, with editorial features focused on the touring segment of our industry as well as professional development.

To apply for inclusion in this year’s edition of the N.B.T. Music Industry Directory, please click here to access the application form.

Please note that not all submissions are guaranteed to be listed in the directory. If you are submitting multiple candidates, you will need to click on SUBMIT at the bottom of the form before entering another candidate. Head shots can be sent to directory@musicrow.com.

New submissions for the directory close on Friday, Oct. 3. For questions, email directory@musicrow.com.

To reserve ad space in the 2025/2026 Touring/Next Big Thing issue, contact srobertson@musicrow.com. Rate card information is available here.

Kasey Tyndall Inks With Spirit Music Nashville/2Mix Music

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Pictured (L-R, front row): Kennedy Murphy (Spirit Music Nashville); Kasey Tyndall; Derek Wells (Spirit Music Nashville/2Mix); and Frank Rogers (Spirit Music Group Spirit Music Nashville). (L-R, back row): Lindsey Ray (Steadfast Co); Will Cooper (Spirit Music Nashville); Mike Fiorentino (Spirit Music Nashville); Brian Bradford (Spirit Music Nashville); AJ Burton (Fluid Music Revolution/Spirit Music Nashville); Ryan Johnson (Spirit Music); Jasmine Pettus (Spirit Music Nashville) and Andy Hodges (Spirit Music Nashville).

Kasey Tyndall has inked a worldwide publishing deal with Spirit Music Nashville and 2Mix Music.

“Kasey checks every single box for the kind of artists that we want to work with,” says Derek Wells, Vice President, Spirit/Fluid Music Revolution. “A unique perspective and voice… and one of the hardest workers you’ll meet. So excited to have her in the building!”

“Kasey is a true talent, both as a writer and an artist,” adds Kennedy Murphy, Creative Director, Spirit Music Nashville. “It feels like such a natural fit for her to join the Spirit family and we couldn’t be more excited to get to work championing her songs and career!”

The North Carolina native gained acclaim for songs like “Jesus and Joan Jett,” “Dirt Road to Hell” and “Bad For Me.” While touring with the likes of Hank Williams Jr., Megan Moroney, Ashley McBryde, Ian Munsick, Old Crow Medicine Show, Jamey Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman, Ella Langley and more, Tyndall has earned such accolades as being named to the 2023 class of CMT’s Next Women of Country. She has been featured on Spotify’s Country Rocks playlist and SiriusXM’s “On The Horizon.” She released her self-titled debut label album on MNRK Music earlier this year.

“I’ve admired what Spirit has been building for a while, so I’m beyond excited that the stars aligned for me to officially join the Spirit team,” shares Tyndall. “Can’t wait to dive in and get to work!”

Lane Smith Signs With BMG Publishing

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Pictured (L-R): VP, Head of Creative, BMG Publishing Chris Oglesby, Lane Smith & Director, Creative, BMG Publishing Amy Scott. Photo: Terry Wyatt

Country singer-songwriter Lane Smith has signed with BMG Publishing.

The Spring Branch, Texas native grew up around rodeo culture, establishing his values of a hard work ethic and dedication through his time as a bullrider before creating music. Smith has already released fan favorite tracks such as “Austin,” “Slow Burn” and “Break Mine,” all highlighting his talent for creating emotional songs, and amassing over a million streams thus far. He has already opened up for Matt Stell, Colt Ford, Chase Matthew and Kyle Park.

“We are thrilled to announce the signing of rising talent, Lane Smith,” shares Amy Scott, Director, Creative at BMG, Director, Creative at BMG. “Hailing from Spring Branch, Texas, Lane blends grit with heart in his storytelling. With his fearless creativity and background as a bullfighter, Lane brings a bold voice to today’s musical landscape. This partnership is a key milestone in Lane’s career and BMG’s ongoing mission to support original voices and songwriters. Lane’s passion, work ethic, and ability to turn real life into melody is inspiring to watch. He brings such authenticity and heart to every melody, and I am thrilled to be on this ride.”

“I’m just a guy from Texas, and I never imagined an opportunity like this would come so quickly,” adds Smith. “I’m incredibly grateful to have Amy Scott and the entire BMG team behind me. I truly feel they believe in me as much as I believe in them, and I’m excited to be a part of this. I can see this partnership lasting throughout my whole music career.”

Brett Eldredge To Ring In The Holidays On ‘Glow Live Tour’

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Brett Eldredge

Brett Eldredge is helping fans get into the holiday spirit again this year with his “Glow Live Tour” this November and December.

The tour will kick off Nov. 28-30 in Nashville with three Ryman Auditorium shows and visit Chicago, St. Louis, New York, Detroit and Boston through Dec. 20. “Mr. Christmas” himself will perform original songs from his albums Merry Christmas (Welcome to the Family), Glow and Mr. Christmas, as well as some standards during the special holiday dates, with comedian Steven Rogers opening all shows on the tour.

“If I could convince you of one thing in my life, it would be to come to a GLOW show,” says Eldredge. “It’s become a timeless holiday tradition, and you will leave brighter than you came in—I can promise you that!”

Verizon will offer customers an exclusive presale for select shows from Sept. 23-25, and tickets will be available starting with an artist pre-sale beginning Sept. 23, with additional pre-sales running throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale beginning Sept. 26 here.

Eldredge’s third holiday album, Merry Christmas (Welcome to the Family), is out now. The collection of eight original holiday songs draws on memories that feel lived-in, like a favorite holiday sweater. Throughout his career Eldredge has notched seven No. 1’s, launched two albums into the Top 3 of the Billboard 200, and served up fan-favorite holiday albums Glow [2016] and Mr. Christmas [2021]. His cover of “Baby, It’s Cold Outside!” feat. Meghan Trainor has generated over 207 million Spotify streams and counting.

Brett Eldredge Tour Dates:
Fri Nov 28 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium*
Sat Nov 29 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium*
Sun Nov 30 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium*
Thu Dec 4 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
Fri Dec 5 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
Sat Dec 6 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
Wed Dec 10 – Saint Louis, MO – The Fabulous Fox
Fri Dec 12 – New York, NY – Beacon Theatre
Sat Dec 13 – New York, NY – Beacon Theatre
Wed Dec 17 – Detroit, MI – Masonic Temple Theatre
Fri Dec 19 – Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre
Sat Dec 20 – Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre

*not a Live Nation show

Brooks & Dunn, Keith Urban, Zach Top Set To Headline C2C 2026

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Country To Country returns March 13-15 for three-days across the United Kingdom with a revolving lineup of country’s biggest stars and newcomers including headliners Brooks & Dunn, Keith Urban and Zach Top.

Brooks & Dunn will headline C2C for the first time ever, marking the Country Music Hall of Famers’ first appearances in the UK since 2010. Urban returns to C2C for the first time in seven years, and Top performs in the UK for the first time ever, after recently being nominated for five CMA Awards.

The festival will take place at The O2, London, The OVO Hydro, Glasgow and The SSE Arena, Belfast and other artists set to perform include Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson Drake Milligan, Bayker Blankenship, Kameron Marlowe, Ashley Cooke, Mackenzie Carpenter, Tyler Braden and Alana Springsteen, who co-hosted the main stage alongside Bob Harris in 2024. Completing the lineup, Waylon Wyatt and Noeline Hofmann will make their C2C debuts.

“CMA is proud to once again sponsor the Spotlight Stage at C2C,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “Helping rising country artists take their music to international audiences, and working alongside the industry that champions them worldwide, remains central to our mission. We are grateful for our continued collaboration with C2C, a valued partner since the very beginning.”

“Radio 2 remains committed to specialist music, and Bob Harris’ Country Show continues to be the nation’s most popular country music program,” says Helen Thomas, Head of BBC Radio 2. “We’re proud to have been the broadcast partner of C2C since its launch in 2013, and I’m delighted that this relationship will continue in 2026, as it’s one of the highlights in our live music calendar. The appeal of Country music continues to grow in the UK, and Radio 2 will continue to respond to this, producing many hours of country music programming which our listeners can hear again and again on BBC Sounds.”

The CMA Spotlight Stage, Bluebird Cafe and CMA Songwriters Series will also return to the festival, with the lineups to be announced in the coming months. Remaining tickets for Country To Country go on general sale on Sept. 26 at c2c-countrytocountry.com.

Payton Smith Unveils New Album ‘The Bridge’

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Payton Smith unveiled his newest album on Friday (Sept. 19), The Bridge, via Combustion Masters/CMDSHFT.

“The Bridge is a reflection of where I’ve been, where I am, and the uncertainty of what’s ahead,” Smith shares. “25 is an interesting place to be—especially when you’ve been chasing a dream since you were 14, got married at 22, and welcomed your first baby girl at 25.”

Produced by Chris Farren, the 10-track coming-of-age album captures Smith’s evolution through young adulthood to his current daily life. He wrote nine of the ten tracks alongside Joybeth Taylor, Lydia Vaughan, Andy Sheridan and more. The final track features rising singer-songwriter Ashley Anne.

“The album starts from a younger place and grows into the life I’m living now,” he adds. “Every song matters. Every moment matters. And the truth is, we’re always on the bridge—just a little farther from where we came from, and a little closer to where we’re going. Somewhere in the middle. And that’s okay. You can be grown-up and still feel young at the same time.”

The Bridge Track List:
1. “Girl Goin’ Through It” (Payton Smith, Beau Bailey, Jeff Garrison, Joybeth Taylor)
2. “She Shouldn’t Have” (Payton Smith, Cole Miracle, Beau Bailey, Gabe Faust)
3. “To The Moon And Back” (Corey Kent, Tucker Beathard, Ben Foster)
4. “Mountain On Fire” (Payton Smith, Thomas Archer, Blake Bollinger, Andy Sheridan)
5. “Enough For Me” (Payton Smith, Joybeth Taylor, Tucker Beathard)
6. “The Bridge” (Payton Smith, Thomas Archer, Blake Bollinger, Andy Sheridan)
7. “That’s Alright” (Payton Smith, Joybeth Taylor, Tucker Beathard)
8. “Love Nobody Else” (Payton Smith, Tony Lane, Sam Ellis)
9. “Baby Holding A Baby” (Payton Smith, Thomas Archer, Blake Bollinger, Lydia Vaughan)
10. “Who Do You Need Me To Be” (feat. Ashley Anne) (Payton Smith, Jim McCormick, Jeff Garrison)

Mackenzie Carpenter Inks With Rich MGMT

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Mackenzie Carpenter & Brendan Rich. Phot0: Courtesy Of Rich MGMT.

Mackenzie Carpenter has signed to Rich MGMT, joining the roster of George Birge, Matt Stell, John Morgan, Darren Kiely and more.

The Valory Music Co./Big Machine Label Group artist has garnered over 105 million global streams. This spring, she unveiled her debut album, Hey Country Queen, landing a hit with “I Wish You Would” featuring Midland. The duet is currently climbing the charts and has notched over 40.2 million worldwide streams to date.

“This signing announce has been a long time coming, and we couldn’t be more fired up to finally make it official,” shares Rich MGMT Founder Brendan Rich. “Mackenzie is a once-in-a-generation talent, and my whole team couldn’t be prouder to be a part of everything that lies ahead!”

Carpenter got her start as a songwriter, penning “I’m Not Pretty,” “Indifferent,” “28th of June,” and CMA-nominated “You Had To Be There” for Megan Moroney. She’s currently supporting Jordan Davis on his North American headline run, Ain’t Enough Road Tour, and will hit the road with Riley Green next year for his Cowboy As It Gets Tour.