Old Dominion Earns New RIAA Certifications
Pictured (L-R): Clint Higham (Morris Higham), Taylor Lindsey (Sony Music Nashville), Trevor Rosen, Geoff Sprung, Brad Tursi, Matthew Ramsey, Ken Rebold (Sony Music Nashville) and Will Hitchcock (Morris Higham).
Old Dominion has earned new RIAA certifications, marking “Memory Lane” going double Platinum, “Snapback” hitting triple Platinum, and “One Man Band” ascending to 8x Platinum.
The honors were presented by representatives from Sony Nashville during a listening party for the band’s upcoming record Barbara at their own Odie’s bar.
“What do I say now?” frontman Matthew Ramsey said while holding the new Platinum record for “One Man Band.” “We’re very excited about this album. I think it’s the most united we’ve been as a band, from the writing, recording, to how we feel about the final product. We can’t wait to share it with you.”
CMHOFM Honors Alison Brown
Pictured (L-R, back row): Museum writer-editor Allison Moorer, Lorianne Crook, Sally Williams, Alison Brown, Sarah Trahern and museum CEO Kyle Young. (L-R, front row) Bebe Evans and Bonnie Garner. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recognized Alison Brown this week at its 17th annual Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum in the museum’s Ford Theater. This annual forum, which began in 2007, recognizes music industry leaders who continue the legacy of Louise Scruggs. During an in-depth interview with museum writer-editor Allison Moorer, Brown discussed her more than 35 years as a musician, producer, songwriter and record label executive. The program featured a special performance by Brown, Becky Buller, Sierra Hull and Molly Tuttle.
Known for her blend of diverse musical styles, Brown has recorded twelve solo albums and has produced works for Claire Lynch, Bobby Osborne and Peter Rowan, among others. She released her Grammy-nominated debut album, Simple Pleasures, in 1990 and became the first woman to win the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Banjo Player of the Year award in 1991. Brown won a Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance in 2001 and was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame in 2019. In 1995, Brown co-founded the internationally recognized label Compass Records with her husband, Garry West. Over the last 30 years, the label has amassed a catalog of more than 1,000 releases across multiple imprints.
Nikki Kovacevich Joins Black River Entertainment As Marketing & PR Coordinator
Nikki Kovacevich. Photo: Courtesy of Black River Entertainment
Black River Entertainment has added Nikki Kovacevich as Marketing and PR Coordinator.
The Ohio native has made stops at The Lede Company and King Publicity prior to joining Black River.
“I’m so excited to start this journey with Black River Entertainment,” says Kovacevich. “Working alongside such creative and driven artists and staff is honestly surreal. I can’t wait to dive in, grow, and be a part of shaping what’s next!”
Under Color Celebrates Launch
Photo: Jordan Simison
Under Color, the new artist management and creative services company founded by Kohl Almire, officially celebrated its launch on Aug. 12 at The Lipstick Lounge. The evening featured performances from roster artists Maddie Medley and Harleigh Colt (Charlie Holt), drawing a full house of artists, industry leaders and community members in support.
“Launching Under Color is about creating a space where artists can be fully themselves,” says Almire. “This event wasn’t just a celebration of the company, it was a celebration of the community we’re building around vulnerability, artistry and identity.”
Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit Raises $115,000
Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit
The Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit raised over $115,000. Wolfe was joined on stage by Tracy Byrd, Kevin Fowler, Roger Creager, William Beckmann, Radney Foster, Kelly Willis, Jake Worthington, Kylie Frey, Bleu Edmondson, Billie Jo Jones, Walker Montgomery, David Lewis, Clay Hollis and Cody Hibbard.
“Last night was a true testament to the heart of the hill country and the selfless people that live here and visit here. It was truly a special night for a much needed cause. The impact of the catastrophic floods in Kerr County and surrounding areas has left such a massive need for help – I’m beyond thankful to have the opportunity to work with Gruene Hall and humbled by the amazing artists that gave of their time and talents,” shares Wolfe.
‘Opry 100 Honors’ Pays Tribute To Porter Wagoner
/by Lorie HollabaughTuesday night’s “Opry 100 Honors Porter Wagoner” finale of performers singing “Y’All Come.” Photo: © Grand Ole Opry, by Chris Hollo
The Grand Ole Opry continued its “Opry 100 Honors” series Tuesday night (Aug. 12) by honoring legendary Opry member Porter Wagoner.
Opry members Marty Stuart, Connie Smith, The Isaacs, Mandy Barnett and Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor, plus Rhett Akins, Chuck Mead, Gordon Mote and more paid tribute to Wagoner during the special “Opry 100 Honors Porter Wagoner” show.
Marty Stuart unveils his specially-designed Opry 100 themed mic stand on Tuesday night’s show “Opry 100 Honors Porter Wagoner.” Photo: © Grand Ole Opry, photo by Chris Hollo
During the tribute, Stuart unveil his specially-designed Opry 100 themed mic stand that was designed in the same iconic style worn by not only him but by longtime friend Porter Wagoner, whose style he emulated. The retro-styled stage wear both Stuart and Wagoner wore were designed by master designer Manuel Cuevas. The custom mic stand was inspired by Stuart’s style, reflecting his iconic wardrobe and specifically the look he wore on the night of his Opry induction, Nov. 28, 1992. The mic stand will be used for special performances throughout the Opry’s centennial celebration and was commissioned exclusively to celebrate Marty Stuart for the Opry’s 100th year.
Upcoming “Opry 100 Honors” shows will include “Opry 100 Honors Bill Monroe” (Sept. 16) featuring Opry members Ricky Skaggs, Del McCoury Band, Carly Pearce, Riders In The Sky as well as The Kentucky Headhunters, The Brothers Comotose and more, and “Opry 100 Honors Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff” (Oct. 18) featuring performances by Opry members Vince Gill, Bill Anderson, Gary Mule Deer, Old Crow Medicine Show, Steve Wariner, plus Chonda Pierce, and more.
FEMco To Host Conversation With Megan Moroney & Diane Warren
/by Lauryn SinkFEMco will host its first interview-based series on Sept. 2 at Anzie Blue. The event will feature Diane Warren in conversation with Megan Moroney. The event will be moderated by FEMco’s Leslie Fram portions of the proceeds benefit local animal rescue organizations via MuttNation..
“Having the incomparable Diane Warren and Megan Moroney in the same room, meeting in person for the very first time, and having the privilege of listening to the experiences and perspectives of these two compelling and accomplished women is PERFECTION,” says Fram. “This one-of-a-kind FEMco Presents experience is the type of event that the music community here lives and breathes for, and I could not be more excited to launch this series with these two extraordinary women.”
The one-hour, ticketed event is sponsored by MTSU’s College of Media & Entertainment and tickets to the event are available now.
MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)
/by Madison HahnenThis week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is brimming with notable career moves, strategic promotions and exciting milestones across the music industry. Click here to see the full edition.
A major leadership transition is on the horizon as industry executive Austen Adams has been named President of Warner Chappell Music Nashville. Adams, who officially begins his new role on Sept. 15, will report to WCM Co-Chairs and CEO Guy Moot and COO Carianne Marshall. He brings with him a deep well of experience, having spent the past six years as COO of Big Loud’s Publishing and Records divisions. His leadership at Big Loud helped shape the careers of standout artists like Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Miranda Lambert, Ernest and Stephen Wilson Jr.
In celebration of its 10th anniversary, The Kinkead Entertainment Agency has announced two promotions. Julie Devereux has been elevated to CEO, while Greg Scott has been named President. Devereux, whose background includes high-level advertising campaigns for brands like Pepsi and Taco Bell and management of artists like Tracy Nelson and Sammy Kershaw, will continue to oversee agency development, including its film and television ventures. Scott, who joined Kinkead at its founding in 2015, brings a dual degree in music business and production, and decades of experience as both a touring artist and label owner. He’ll now lead all live performance bookings and talent development efforts for the agency.
At Big Machine Label Group, Justin Ford has been promoted to Vice President, Creative Design & Branding. Ford, previously Senior Creative Director, has been an integral part of BMLG’s visual identity for a decade, contributing award-winning work for artists such as Thomas Rhett, Carly Pearce and Sheryl Crow. His efforts have been recognized with numerous honors including Davey, Communicator and PRINT Awards. Ford, a Murray State University alum, continues to lead design strategy across the label’s roster.
Meanwhile, the Grand Ole Opry stage was the site of a touching moment this week. On Saturday night (Aug. 9), country music icon Kathy Mattea received a surprise invitation from Opry member Charlie McCoy to become the newest member of the esteemed institution.
Rising artist Lanie Gardner made her Opry debut on Aug. 6, performing her songs “Hills Have Eyes” and “Faded Polaroids,” the title track of her forthcoming sophomore album.
In artist representation news, LOCASH, the duo of Preston Brust and Chris Lucas, has signed with CAA for exclusive representation in all areas. Sticks Management has expanded its roster with the addition of Gavin Adcock. At the same time, Adcock’s manager, Saxon Curry, has officially joined the company.
River House Artists continues to bolster its team with the addition of Helena Akhtar as Director of Digital Marketing & Artist Development.
Veteran music executive Benny Brown has made waves with the acquisition of Wide Open Music Publishing and the launch of a new venture: North Chapel Music. The new company inherits the full Wide Open catalog, including several country chart-toppers such as Brett Young’s Diamond-certified hit “In Case You Didn’t Know,” Matt Stell’s “Prayed For You,” and George Birge’s “Cowboy Songs” and “Mind On You.”
Lastly, Relative Music Group has announced a global publishing deal with Jeb Gipson, in partnership with Sony Music Publishing.
In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Scotty McCreery and Hootie & the Blowfish return to the No. 1 spot with “Bottle Rockets.” Explore more chart data here.
The MusicRow Weekly is delivered every Friday, featuring Nashville’s top music industry news, exclusive interviews, song reviews, radio and songwriter charts and more. Sign up for free here.
Industry Ink: Old Dominion, Alison Brown, Nikki Kovacevich, Under Color, Jon Wolfe
/by Lauryn SinkOld Dominion Earns New RIAA Certifications
Pictured (L-R): Clint Higham (Morris Higham), Taylor Lindsey (Sony Music Nashville), Trevor Rosen, Geoff Sprung, Brad Tursi, Matthew Ramsey, Ken Rebold (Sony Music Nashville) and Will Hitchcock (Morris Higham).
Old Dominion has earned new RIAA certifications, marking “Memory Lane” going double Platinum, “Snapback” hitting triple Platinum, and “One Man Band” ascending to 8x Platinum.
The honors were presented by representatives from Sony Nashville during a listening party for the band’s upcoming record Barbara at their own Odie’s bar.
“What do I say now?” frontman Matthew Ramsey said while holding the new Platinum record for “One Man Band.” “We’re very excited about this album. I think it’s the most united we’ve been as a band, from the writing, recording, to how we feel about the final product. We can’t wait to share it with you.”
CMHOFM Honors Alison Brown
Pictured (L-R, back row): Museum writer-editor Allison Moorer, Lorianne Crook, Sally Williams, Alison Brown, Sarah Trahern and museum CEO Kyle Young. (L-R, front row) Bebe Evans and Bonnie Garner. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recognized Alison Brown this week at its 17th annual Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum in the museum’s Ford Theater. This annual forum, which began in 2007, recognizes music industry leaders who continue the legacy of Louise Scruggs. During an in-depth interview with museum writer-editor Allison Moorer, Brown discussed her more than 35 years as a musician, producer, songwriter and record label executive. The program featured a special performance by Brown, Becky Buller, Sierra Hull and Molly Tuttle.
Known for her blend of diverse musical styles, Brown has recorded twelve solo albums and has produced works for Claire Lynch, Bobby Osborne and Peter Rowan, among others. She released her Grammy-nominated debut album, Simple Pleasures, in 1990 and became the first woman to win the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Banjo Player of the Year award in 1991. Brown won a Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance in 2001 and was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame in 2019. In 1995, Brown co-founded the internationally recognized label Compass Records with her husband, Garry West. Over the last 30 years, the label has amassed a catalog of more than 1,000 releases across multiple imprints.
Nikki Kovacevich Joins Black River Entertainment As Marketing & PR Coordinator
Nikki Kovacevich. Photo: Courtesy of Black River Entertainment
Black River Entertainment has added Nikki Kovacevich as Marketing and PR Coordinator.
The Ohio native has made stops at The Lede Company and King Publicity prior to joining Black River.
“I’m so excited to start this journey with Black River Entertainment,” says Kovacevich. “Working alongside such creative and driven artists and staff is honestly surreal. I can’t wait to dive in, grow, and be a part of shaping what’s next!”
Under Color Celebrates Launch
Photo: Jordan Simison
Under Color, the new artist management and creative services company founded by Kohl Almire, officially celebrated its launch on Aug. 12 at The Lipstick Lounge. The evening featured performances from roster artists Maddie Medley and Harleigh Colt (Charlie Holt), drawing a full house of artists, industry leaders and community members in support.
“Launching Under Color is about creating a space where artists can be fully themselves,” says Almire. “This event wasn’t just a celebration of the company, it was a celebration of the community we’re building around vulnerability, artistry and identity.”
Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit Raises $115,000
Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit
The Jon Wolfe and Friends: Hill Country Flood Relief Benefit raised over $115,000. Wolfe was joined on stage by Tracy Byrd, Kevin Fowler, Roger Creager, William Beckmann, Radney Foster, Kelly Willis, Jake Worthington, Kylie Frey, Bleu Edmondson, Billie Jo Jones, Walker Montgomery, David Lewis, Clay Hollis and Cody Hibbard.
“Last night was a true testament to the heart of the hill country and the selfless people that live here and visit here. It was truly a special night for a much needed cause. The impact of the catastrophic floods in Kerr County and surrounding areas has left such a massive need for help – I’m beyond thankful to have the opportunity to work with Gruene Hall and humbled by the amazing artists that gave of their time and talents,” shares Wolfe.
Sons Of Habit Sign With WME
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R, front row): Hagan Edge, Dalton Daniels, Mitchell Douglas, Jeffrey Parish and Noah Patrick; (L-R, back row): WME’s Adam Fisher, Champ Management / Red Light Management’s Evan Miller and Matt Musacchio and WME’s Janelle Flint. Photo: Dakota DeGraw
Rising indie folk band Sons of Habit has signed with WME for exclusive global representation across all areas.
Formed only a year ago in the small community of Habit, Kentucky, Sons of Habit is comprised of childhood friends lead singer Mitchell Douglas, writing partner Hagan Edge and bandmates Dalton Daniels, Jeffrey Parish and Noah Patrick—all who hail from Owensboro, Kentucky. The group takes its name from the trailer in Habit where they first began making their music, blending country grit, rock edge and heartfelt storytelling into a sound all their own.
Last week, the band released “Fool’s Gold,” which comes on the heels of their debut EP, Nostalgia, released earlier this year. Fans can hear the music and more as the band continues their “A Long Way From Corydon Tour.” Since their first single “Madeline,” Sons of Habit has earned millions of streams, played headline shows nationwide, and shared stages with Ole 60, Shane Smith & The Saints, The Revivalists and Dustin Lynch.
“Sons of Habit’s authenticity, musicianship and undeniable chemistry make them one of the most exciting new acts on the scene,” says WME’s Adam Fisher. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to WME and look forward to helping them bring their music to audiences worldwide.”
“We’ve been chasing this dream since those first nights in the trailer back in Habit, Kentucky,” says Sons of Habit. “To have WME in our corner means we can take the music we love to even more people, in more places, than we ever imagined. This is just the beginning.”
Noah James Signs With Santa Anna/Sony Music
/by Lorie HollabaughNoah James
Baton Rouge-based singer-songwriter Noah James has signed with Santa Anna/Sony Music.
The 18-year-old will release his debut EP, The Tracks, on Aug. 15. The project features the new single “Howl At The Moon,” a captivating duet with newcomer Anna Rae.
“‘Howl At The Moon’ is about the kind of love that lingers when someone’s gone,” explains James. “It captures the loneliness of life on the road and the ache of missing someone so deeply it feels like your heart is howling for them.”
James has already connected with his rapidly growing audience, amassing over 50 million TikTok views and nearly 300,000 followers. His debut singles “Set Free,” “Love Run Cold,” and “Same Old Things” have drawn comparisons to modern country storytellers like Zach Bryan and Wyatt Flores.
LAST DAY: Voting For 37th Annual MusicRow Awards Ends TODAY
/by MusicRow StaffToday is the last day to vote for the 37th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank. Ballots can be cast until 5:00 p.m. CT today (Aug. 15).
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 3. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a subscriber here.
Click here to view the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Now in its 37th year, the MusicRow Awards are Nashville’s longest running music industry trade publication honors and celebrate the achievements of songwriters, artists, producers and more.
The final nominees revealed in this announcement are determined by a committee. For the categories of Breakthrough Songwriter and Breakthrough Artist-Writer, outside nominations are also considered. For the Male and Female Songwriter of the Year categories, nominees are based on data from MusicRow’s Top Songwriter Chart.
New this year are the Studio of the Year and Publishing Company of the Year categories.
All nominations are based on projects that were active between the period of June 1, 2024 and May 31, 2025. Continuing MusicRow’s tradition of recognizing talent behind the scenes, the Top 10 Album All-Star Musician Awards will be presented in conjunction with the MusicRow Awards. These honors salute Nashville’s most in-demand studio players who performed on the most albums reaching the Top 10 of Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart during the eligibility period.
Priscilla Block Launches Vulnerable New Chapter On ‘Things You Didn’t See’
/by Lorie HollabaughPriscilla Block flips the script and shows fans there’s a lot more behind the glittery surface on her upcoming sophomore album Things You Didn’t See, due Oct. 10 via MCA.
She gives fans a glimpse of the honest new project with the release of “Couldn’t Care Less,” a soul-bearing letter to the music industry offering a stark look at the unseen emotional weight behind Block’s carefree, charismatic armor.
“For what has felt like forever, here we are stepping into a new chapter,” says Block. “The past couple of years have been a rollercoaster. This life has challenged me not only as an artist, but as a person. Honestly, there’s been a part of me that has felt misunderstood. The girl who “couldn’t care less,” when in reality, I’ve never cared more. Writing ‘Couldn’t Care Less’ was the therapy I didn’t even know I needed. For a long time, people have seen me as bulletproof, but this is a side they haven’t seen. It’s the misunderstood part of me… the insecurities that come with being human. It feels like the perfect way to lead into my record Things You Didn’t See, coming October 10.”
Things You Didn’t See offers fans an unfiltered view of what Block has experienced behind the scenes – anxiety, burnout and the cost of always being “on.” On the 14-track record, she gets candid about her struggles with body image and online haters, the mental health battles faced by artists in a world that always wants more, an internal wrestle with artistic identity, the pressures to fit country music’s “mold” and more. Writers contributing to the album include David Garcia, Laura Veltz, Trannie Anderson, Jessie Jo Dillon and others.
Block is set to tour with Cole Swindell on his “Happy Hour Sad Tour,” starting Sept. 4 at Huntington Center in Toledo, and will announce additional dates soon.
Things You Didn’t See Track List:
1. “Things You Didn’t See” – Priscilla Block, Brandon Paddock, Martin Johnson
2. “Bring Me Downtown” – Priscilla Block, Cole Taylor, David Garcia, Laura Veltz
3. “Stranger Things (with Chase Matthew)” – Priscilla Block, Trannie Anderson, Cole Taylor, David Garcia
4. “Goodwill To Gucci” – Priscilla Block, Audra Mae, Summer Overstreet, Jesse Frasure
5. “Phones And Radios” – Priscilla Block, David Garcia, Trannie Anderson, Blake Pendergrass
6. “Couldn’t Care Less” – Alex Maxwell, Cole Taylor, Trannie Anderson, Priscilla Block
7. “2-3-4” – Priscilla Block, Alex Maxwell, Sarah Jones
8. “Try” – Priscilla Block, Tyler Hubbard, Trannie Anderson, David Garcia
9. “Good On You” – David Garcia, Jessie Jo Dillon, Laura Veltz, Priscilla Block
10. “Yard Sale” – Priscilla Block, Laura Veltz, David Garcia, Jessie Jo Dillion
11. “You’re Breaking My Heart (Cecilia)” – Chris Tompkins, Jesse Frasure, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hailey Whitters, Paul Simon
12. “He’s My Man” – Alysa Vanderheym, Faren Rachels, Chris Tompkins, Jacob Hackworth
13. “Elijah” – Priscilla Block, Sarah Jones, Rian Ball
14. “Time Ain’t A Two Lane (Demo)” – Rian Ball, Priscilla Block, Sarah Jones, Aaron Raitiere
Scotty McCreery And Hootie & The Blowfish Return To No. 1 On MusicRow Radio Chart
/by John Nix ArledgeScotty McCreery returns to the No. 1 position on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week alongside Hootie & The Blowfish with their song, “Bottle Rockets.”
The track was released as the lead single from McCreery’s recent EP Scooter & Friends, and was written by McCreery, Brent Anderson, Bobby Hamrick, Darius Rucker, Dean Felber, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Jeremy Bussey, Jim Sonefeid, Mark Bryan and Monty Criswell.
McCreery was recently featured on the cover of the Summer 2025 issue of Cigars & Spirits, which includes an interview and photo gallery with the cover shot done by his longtime video director and photographer, Jeff Ray. His appearance places him alongside past stars such as Matthew McConaughey, Jeremy Renner, Mike Tyson and Francis Ford Coppola.
“Bottle Rockets” currently sits at No. 9 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 6 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
Keith Urban Kicks Off International Dates On ‘High And Alive World Tour’
/by Lauryn SinkKeith Urban. Photo: Guitar Monkey Touring
Keith Urban has kicked off the international dates of his “High And Alive World Tour” with the launch of the tour’s second leg in Newcastle, Australia at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre.
Chase Matthew and DJ Old Nawty will join Urban for the nine remaining Australian arena shows, including two performances in Sydney and Melbourne, as well as three in Brisbane. On Sept. 10 Urban will head to Canada for seven shows.
“I grew up there, playing in all the pubs and clubs, so it definitely brings a different kind of energy,” says Urban of touring in his home country. “For me, playing live is all about the moment. I strive to get my audiences loose and relaxed for two hours – no matter where they are.”
After Australia and Canada, Urban will return to U.S. arenas for the tour’s final leg.
“High And Alive World Tour” International Dates:
August 15th – Brisbane, Brisbane Entertainment Centre
August 16th – Brisbane, Brisbane Entertainment Centre
August 17th – Brisbane, Brisbane Entertainment Centre
August 20th – Wollongong, WiN Entertainment Centre
August 22nd – Sydney, Qudos Bank Arena
August 23rd – Sydney, Qudos Bank Arena
August 25th – Melbourne, Rod Laver Arena
August 26th – Melbourne, Rod Laver Arena
August 28th – Adelaide, Adelaide Entertainment Centre
September 10th – Vancouver, BC, Rogers Arena
September 12th – Calgary, AB, Scotiabank Saddledome
September 13th – Regina, SK Brandt Centre
September 15th – Saskatoon, SK, SaskTel Centre
September 16th – Winnipeg, MB, Canada Life Centre
September 19th – Montreal, QC, Bell Centre
September 20th – Ottawa, ON, Canadian Tire Centre