Following the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 37th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year category.
The Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year honors a Nashville songwriter and recording artist who wrote or co-wrote their first top 10 country song via radio or streaming during the eligibility period. Outside nominations from Nashville’s publishing community are considered for this award.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 15 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Drew Baldridge earned his breakthrough with “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” the co-written ballad that became the first independently released debut single to reach No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart. Now RIAA Gold-certified, the viral hit has amassed more than 1.1 billion impressions and remains the highest-charting self-funded song on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. The success of the single led to a deal with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, where Baldridge followed up with the Top 10 track “Tough People.” His newest release, “Get Me Gone” featuring Emily Ann Roberts, previews more music to come. Named to the CRS New Faces Class of 2025 and selected as an iHeart On the Verge artist, Baldridge was also honored as MusicRow’s Independent Artist of the Year. As a songwriter signed to Sony Music Publishing, he has penned more than 500 songs, recorded by artists such as Bailey Zimmerman, LOCASH, and Chase Matthew. Baldridge has toured alongside Eric Church, Cody Johnson, Jason Aldean, and Luke Bryan, and is currently on the road with Zimmerman ahead of another run with Johnson.
Ella Langley scored two breakout hits—both of which she co-wrote—including her chart-topping duet “You Look Like You Love Me” with Riley Green and the fan-favorite “Weren’t For The Wind.” The Alabama native built her foundation playing bars and festivals before moving to Nashville in 2019, where she quickly carved out a space with her gritty, no-frills sound. Her 2023 debut EP Excuse The Mess laid the groundwork for Hungover, her full-length debut released in August 2024. Co-writing all 14 tracks, Langley delivered an unfiltered look into her story, earning critical acclaim and spots on The New York Times and Rolling Stone’s “Best of 2024” lists. “You Look Like You Love Me” marked her first Billboard Hot 100 entry and first No. 1 at country radio, making her one of only two women to top the Billboard Country Airplay chart in 2024. The Platinum-certified single also earned CMA and ACM wins, including Musical Event and Single of the Year. After supporting Morgan Wallen and Luke Bryan, Langley sold out her first headline tour and returns to the road with Wallen and Green this summer.
Chase Matthew scored his breakout with the Platinum-certified “Love You Again,” a Top 5 hit he co-wrote and the first single to showcase his bold mix of country grit and emotional edge. The Nashville native built his career from the ground up, first finding viral success as an independent artist before signing with Warner Music Nashville. Now with more than 1.4 billion global career streams and 1.5 million social media followers, Matthew has emerged as a dynamic force in the genre. His Platinum debut single “County Line” put him on the map, and he continues his momentum with his third album CHASE and the Gold-certified single “Darlin’,” currently at country radio. Named to MusicRow’s Next Big Thing and the Opry NextStage Class of 2024, he’s also earned nods from HITS and the People’s Choice Country Awards. As a songwriter and performer, Matthew blends a rowdy, grounded persona with a deep twang and emotional delivery. After headlining his sold-out “Come Get Your Memory tour,” Matthew is out on his 2025 world tour now.
Josh Ross broke through with “Single Again,” the vulnerable, cowritten hit that captured hearts across North America and marked a major turning point for the rising global artist. Blending rock influences with modern country and raw lyricism, the Canada born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter has carved out a space uniquely his own. Ross followed the Platinum-certified “Trouble” with his 2024 8-song project Complicated, earning him his first JUNO Award for Country Album of the Year and setting the stage for his full-length debut Later Tonight, due September 19. With more than 1 billion global streams, Ross is known for his raspy vocals, heart-on-sleeve storytelling, and a sound that leans as much into arena rock as it does country. Named the 2024 CCMA Entertainer of the Year and recipient of the CMA’s Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award, he has toured with artists ranging from Nickelback and Brantley Gilbert to Bailey Zimmerman and Luke Bryan. Most recently, Ross wrapped a Canadian run with Jelly Roll and will open select shows for Dylan Scott this fall.
Zach Top scored his breakout with “I Never Lie,” the co-written standout that helped catapult him into country music’s spotlight. With a voice rooted in tradition and a writing style that bridges classic sensibilities with modern finesse, Top made waves with his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music, released in 2024. The project drew critical acclaim, landing on year-end “Best Of” lists from Rolling Stone, Billboard, and The New York Times. After opening for Lainey Wilson through the summer and fall, Top launched his own “Cold Beer & Country Music Tour” in early 2025—selling out dates within hours. Along the way, he’s taken the stage with legends and innovators alike, including Alan Jackson, Dwight Yoakam and Billy Strings. In April, he was named ACM New Male Artist of the Year, affirming his growing presence in the genre. With a firm grasp on both storytelling and stagecraft, Top is poised as one of country music’s most promising young artist-writers.
Tucker Wetmore broke through with “Wind Up Missin’ You,” the Platinum-certified hit he co-wrote that helped fuel his rapid rise. The track, along with fellow smash “Wine Into Whiskey,” earned Wetmore multiple appearances on the Billboard Hot 100 and pushed his career streams past 1 billion in just over a year. Wetmore made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 2024 and released his first EP, Waves On A Sunset, followed by his full-length debut What Not To. He also contributed two songs—“Already Had It” and “Steal My Thunder”—to the Twisters soundtrack. Known for his rich vocal tone and emotional writing, Wetmore has built a loyal fan base through dynamic live shows. After supporting Kameron Marlowe and Luke Bryan, he launched a sold-out headline run in 2024 and continued with international dates across the UK, U.S., and Europe in early 2025. He’s currently on the road as direct support for Thomas Rhett’s “Better In Boots Tour.” An ACM New Male Artist nominee, Wetmore has earned “Artist to Watch” nods from Billboard, MusicRow, Spotify, the Opry, and more.
The Castellows Mix It Up On New ‘Acoustic Live Sessions’ Project
/by Lorie HollabaughSister trio The Castellows have released a new six-song project, Acoustic Live Sessions via Warner Music Nashville.
The six-song release features reimagined versions of fan favorites from their debut EP Homecoming, early career tracks, and some brand-new acoustic recordings. The project includes stripped-back cuts of standouts like “Old Way,” “Sheltered,” and their version of Patty Loveless’s “You Don’t Even Know Who I Am,” as well as a new acoustic spin on the previously released “Alabama Stone.” It also features the heartfelt focus track “Red Dirt Girl” and the Dan Seals hit “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold).” Each song was captured live.
The Castellows are currently on the road with Thomas Rhett for his “Better in Boots Tour” and will kick off their headline “The Homecoming Tour” this fall.
Acoustic Live Sessions Track List:
1. “Alabama Stone” (Caroline Watkins, Josh Dorr, Eleanor Balkcom, Powell Balkcom, Lily Balkcom)
2. “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold)” (Dan Seals, Bob McDill)
3. “Sheltered” (Eleanor Balkcom, Lily Balkcom, Powell Balkcom and Daniel Tashian)
4. “Old Way” (Ellie Balkcom, Powell Balkcom, Casey Beathard, and Jimi Bell)
5. “You Don’t Even Know Who I Am” (Gretchen Peters)
6. “Red Dirt Girl” (Rodney Crowell)
Chase Rice Sparks Creative Reset On Upcoming New Album ‘ELDORA’
/by Lorie HollabaughChase Rice will deliver his new album ELDORA to fans on Sept. 19, and he’s offering a taste of the new project with “Circa 1943,” out today (Aug. 8), a bittersweet love story set against the backdrop of World War II.
Written by Rice alongside Wyatt McCubbin and producer Oscar Charles, the new track pays tribute to the courage and heart of the Greatest Generation.
“Harold and Berniece were my mom’s parents,” shares Rice about the new single. “They didn’t meet around 1943, he never took a bullet to the leg to my knowledge, she had brown eyes, not blue, he was not a Marine (he was very proudly Air Force), and she was not a nurse in our military. However, he did make her laugh and loved her with every ounce of his being. Their names are the only true parts about this story – nevertheless, I hope it honors them and anybody from the Greatest Generation who fought and/or died for our amazing country.”
Written primarily in the quiet solitude of Eldora, Colorado alongside Charles, McCubbin, Foy Vance and Cleto Cordero in the days following his recent performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the 12-song Eldora reflects a creative reset for the artist, one chasing moments that matter and songs that leave a mark. “Circa 1943,” joins “Two Tone Trippin’” in previewing the forthcoming project, with the guitar-filled joyride capturing the heart of summer. He also has some special guests join him on the new album, including Kashus Culpepper and Elvie Shane on “Tall Grass,” McCubbin on “Two Tone Trippin,’” and Madeline Edwards on “Country & Western.”
“This is the kind of music I’ve always loved and the kind of stories I’ve always wanted to tell,” says Rice. “I hope the past few years have helped fans see that this is the real me, not the person who was chasing trends or afraid to do something different. ELDORA isn’t about proving anything – it’s about making something that’s real and letting it speak for itself.”
Rice is currently in the midst of his “Go Down Singin’ International Tour.”
ELDORA Track List:
1. “Cowboy Goodbye” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Foy Vance)
2. “Tall Grass” (feat. Kashus Culpepper and Elvie Shane) (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Foy Vance)
3. “Namin’ Horses” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
4. “ELDORA” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
5. “Two Tone Trippin’” (feat. Wyatt McCubbin) (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
6. “Mr. Coors” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
7. “Circa 1943” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
8. “Country & Western” (feat. Madeline Edwards) (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
9. “Cottonmouth” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
10. “Good Side of Gettin’ Older” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
11. “One Drink Long” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Wyatt McCubbin)
12. “Sunsettin’” (Chase Rice, Oscar Charles, Cleto Cordero)
Tucker Wetmore, Chris Lane & More To Headline Wags & Walks Benefit Concert
/by Lauryn SinkTucker Wetmore, Chris Lane, Fancy Hagood and Tiera Kennedy are set to headline this year’s Wags & Walks benefit concert. The show will take place Oct. 7 at the SkyDeck on Broadway. More guests will be announced in the coming weeks.
“This concert represents everything we believe in — the power of community, the joy of rescue, and the real change that happens when people come together for a cause,” says Kathryn Hurley, Founder of Wags & Walks. “Every ticket sold helps us save more dogs, provide essential medical care, and offer vital services like low-cost spay/neuter and wellness appointments through our Wags for Good program. We’re proud to celebrate six years in Nashville and 6,000 lives saved, and we can’t wait to see the SkyDeck filled with people who share our passion for rescue. We hope to see you there!”
Wags & Walks is is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters, focusing on bully breeds, medical dogs and female dogs with puppies. Last year’s benefit show raised over $300,000 for the organization.
Tickets are on sale now, and prices will increase on Aug. 21. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
Jordan Davis Hits No. 1 On MusicRow Radio Chart With ‘Bar None’
/by John Nix ArledgeJordan Davis tops the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week with his song, “Bar None.”
The track is off of his upcoming third studio album Learn the Hard Way, and was written by Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps and Lydia Vaughan.
Davis will perform “Bar None” on Jimmy Kimmel LIVE! Aug. 14, then appear on TODAY Aug. 21 to celebrate his new album and “Ain’t Enough Road Tour,” kicking off Sept. 11.
“Bar None” currently sits at No. 13 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 9 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
2025 MusicRow Awards Nominees For Male Songwriter Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 37th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Male Songwriter of the Year category.
Male Songwriter of the Year nominees are honored for notable activity on high-performing country songs during the eligibility period, as determined by data from MusicRow’s Top Songwriter Chart.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 15 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Below are a selection of songs that entered the MusicRow Songwriter Chart for the Male Songwriter of the Year nominees:
Louis Bell
“I Had Some Help” by Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
“Guy For That” by Post Malone feat. Luke Combs
“Wrong Ones” by Post Malone feat. Tim McGraw
“California Sober” by Post Malone feat. Chris Stapleton
“Losers” by Post Malone feat. Jelly Roll
“What Don’t Belong To Me” by Post Malone
“Finer Things” by Post Malone feat. Hank Williams Jr.
“Nosedive” by Post Malone feat. Lainey Wilson
“Yours” by Post Malone
“Have The Heart” by Post Malone
“Goes Without Saying” by Post Malone
“Missin’ You Like This” by Post Malone feat. Luke Combs
“Hide My Gun” by Post Malone feat. HARDY
“Devil I’ve Been” by Post Malone feat. ERNEST
“Hide My Gun” by Post Malone feat. Sierra Ferrell
“M-E-X-I-C-O” by Post Malone feat. Billy Strings
“Right About You” by Post Malone
“Pour Me A Drink” by Post Malone feat. Blake Shelton
“I Ain’t Comin’ Back” by Morgan Wallen feat. Post Malone
Rocky Block
“Cowgirls” by Morgan Wallen feat. ERNEST
“Pour Me A Drink” by Post Malone feat. Blake Shelton
“Smile” by Morgan Wallen
“Dark Til Daylight” by Morgan Wallen
“Don’t We” by Morgan Wallen
“Genesis” by Morgan Wallen
“Interlude” by Morgan Wallen
“Kick Myself” by Morgan Wallen
“Number 3 And Number 7” by Morgan Wallen
“Where’d That Girl Go” by Morgan Wallen
“Working Man’s Song” by Morgan Wallen
Ashley Gorley
“Young Love & Saturday Nights” by Chris Young
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” by Dylan Scott
“Bulletproof” by Nate Smith
“Cowgirls” by Morgan Wallen feat. ERNEST
“I Had Some Help” by Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
“Hell Or High Water” by Bailey Zimmerman
“I Am Not Okay” by Jelly Roll
“Whiskey Whiskey” by Moneybagg Yo feat. Morgan Wallen
“Liar” by Jelly Roll
“Losers” by Post Malone feat. Jelly Roll
“What Don’t Belong To Me” by Post Malone
“Yours” by Post Malone
“Have The Heart” by Post Malone
“Goes Without Saying” by Post Malone
“Missin’ You Like This” by Post Malone feat. Luke Combs
“Fix What You Didn’t Break” by Nate Smith
“Love Somebody” by Morgan Wallen
“Park” by Tyler Hubbard
“She Hates Me” by Dierks Bentley
“Not At This Party” by Dasha
“Favorite Country Song” by HARDY
“Me & A Beer” by Chris Janson
“Don’t We” by Morgan Wallen
“Kiss Her In Front Of You” by Morgan Wallen
“TN” by Morgan Wallen
Charlie Handsome (a.k.a. Ryan Vojtesak)
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” by Dylan Scott
“Cowgirls” by Morgan Wallen feat. ERNEST
“I Had Some Help” by Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
“Whiskey Whiskey” by Moneybagg Yo feat. Morgan Wallen
“Guy For That” by Post Malone feat. Luke Combs
“Wrong Ones” by Post Malone feat. Tim McGraw
“California Sober” by Post Malone feat. Chris Stapleton
“Losers” by Post Malone feat. Jelly Roll
“What Don’t Belong To Me” by Post Malone
“Finer Things” by Post Malone feat. Hank Williams Jr.
“Nosedive” by Post Malone feat. Lainey Wilson
“Yours” by Post Malone
“Have The Heart” by Post Malone
“Goes Without Saying” by Post Malone
“Missin’ You Like This” by Post Malone feat. Luke Combs
“Hide My Gun” by Post Malone feat. HARDY
“Devil I’ve Been” by Post Malone feat. ERNEST
“Never Love You Again” by Post Malone
“M-E-X-I-C-O” by Post Malone feat. Billy Strings
“Right About You” by Post Malone
“Pour Me A Drink” by Post Malone feat. Blake Shelton
“Love Somebody” by Morgan Wallen
“Smile” by Morgan Wallen
“I’m The Problem” by Morgan Wallen
“Just In Case” by Morgan Wallen
“I Ain’t Comin’ Back” by Morgan Wallen feat. Post Malone
“Superman” by Morgan Wallen
“Come Back As A Redneck” by Morgan Wallen feat. HARDY
“Don’t We” by Morgan Wallen
“Eyes Are Closed” by Morgan Wallen
“Falling Apart” by Morgan Wallen
“Genesis” by Morgan Wallen
“I Got Better” by Morgan Wallen
“Interlude” by Morgan Wallen
“Kick Myself” by Morgan Wallen
“Kiss Her In Front Of You” by Morgan Wallen
“Leavin’s The Least I Could Do”
“Miami” by Morgan Wallen
“Missing” by Morgan Wallen
“TN” by Morgan Wallen
“Missing” by Morgan Wallen feat. Tate McRae
“Where’d That Girl Go” by Morgan Wallen
“Whiskey In Reverse” by Morgan Wallen
“Working Man’s Song” by Morgan Wallen
Josh Phillips
“Dirt Cheap” by Cody Johnson
“The Man He Sees In Me” by Luke Combs
Taylor Phillips
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” by Dylan Scott
“I Am Not Okay” by Jelly Roll
“Dead End Road” by Jelly Roll
“Liar” by Jelly Roll
“Yours” by Post Malone
“Fix What You Didn’t Break” by Nate Smith
“Me & A Beer” by Chris Janson
“Kiss Her In Front Of You” by Morgan Wallen
“TN” by Morgan Wallen
Jordan Davis Celebrates Eighth Chart-Topper & New Album With Industry Party
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R, back row): ASCAP Vice President Nashville Membership Mike Sistad; MCA President and CEO Mike Harris; Vice President, Promotion, MCA Miranda McDonald; Senior Vice President, Promotion, MCA Damon Moberly; BMI Associate Director, Creative Jackson Kiger. (L-R, front row): Producer Paul DiGiovanni; songwriters Emily Reid and Mark Holman, Jordan Davis, and songwriters Travis Wood and Steve Moakler. Photo: Ed Rode for ASCAP
Jordan Davis celebrated his eighth No. 1 single, “I Ain’t Sayin’,” earlier this week at One Garage in Nashville. The party was hosted by ASCAP, in partnership with BMI.
“I Ain’t Sayin’” is the lead single from Davis’ forthcoming album Learn the Hard Way, due out Aug. 15 on MCA. The track was penned by Emily Reid, Travis Wood, Steve Moakler and Mark Holman, and produced by longtime collaborator Paul DiGiovanni.
Producer Paul DiGiovanni and Jordan Davis. Photo: Ed Rode for ASCAP
During the celebration, representatives from the publishing and label communities recognized the songwriters for their achievement. Among those who spoke were ASCAP Vice President of Nashville Membership Mike Sistad, BMI Associate Director, Creative Jackson Kiger, MCA Vice President of Promotion Miranda McDonald, Big Loud Vice President of A&R Mike Giangreco, Creative Nation Co-founder and CEO Beth Laird, Creative Nation Senior Director of Creative Emily Furman, Warner Chappell Senior Director of A&R Christina Wiltshire and Reservoir EVP of Creative John Ozier.
Davis was praised for his willingness to cut outside songs—a rarity among artists with his chart history.
Emily Reid, celebrating her first No. 1, shared that the success of “I Ain’t Sayin’” allowed her the flexibility to stay home with her newborn, calling it “a gift.”
Steve Moakler, also celebrating his first No. 1, was honored by multiple speakers for his artistry and songwriting legacy. He reflected on the long journey to this moment, and the people who helped him get there.
Jordan Davis with MCA staff. Photo: Evan Harney
Travis Wood and Mark Holman recounted the Montana writing retreat where the song was created. All four writers expressed gratitude to their families and teams.
“I moved to Nashville to be a songwriter of No. 1 songs, and I’ve been super blessed to be able to do that,” Davis shared. “This one feels the most special because it shows that it still happens [whether it’s an outside song or not.]”
Following the No. 1 celebration, Davis welcomed friends, family, media, and industry guests for a special preview event for Learn the Hard Way. He was joined on stage by moderator Kelleigh Bannen for a conversation about the new album, sharing stories behind the songs before performing several of the upcoming tracks.
Davis treated the crowd to performances of “Bar None,” “Learn the Hard Way,” “Turn This Truck Around” and “Son of a Gun.” He was also joined by special guests Marcus King for their duet “Louisiana Stick” and Carly Pearce for “Mess With Missing You.”
The heartfelt evening concluded with Davis thanking all the songwriters involved in the project and gifting each one a commemorative keepsake to mark the release of his third full-length album.
2025 MusicRow Awards Nominees For Breakthrough Artist-Writer Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 37th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year category.
The Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year honors a Nashville songwriter and recording artist who wrote or co-wrote their first top 10 country song via radio or streaming during the eligibility period. Outside nominations from Nashville’s publishing community are considered for this award.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 15 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Drew Baldridge earned his breakthrough with “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” the co-written ballad that became the first independently released debut single to reach No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart. Now RIAA Gold-certified, the viral hit has amassed more than 1.1 billion impressions and remains the highest-charting self-funded song on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. The success of the single led to a deal with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, where Baldridge followed up with the Top 10 track “Tough People.” His newest release, “Get Me Gone” featuring Emily Ann Roberts, previews more music to come. Named to the CRS New Faces Class of 2025 and selected as an iHeart On the Verge artist, Baldridge was also honored as MusicRow’s Independent Artist of the Year. As a songwriter signed to Sony Music Publishing, he has penned more than 500 songs, recorded by artists such as Bailey Zimmerman, LOCASH, and Chase Matthew. Baldridge has toured alongside Eric Church, Cody Johnson, Jason Aldean, and Luke Bryan, and is currently on the road with Zimmerman ahead of another run with Johnson.
Ella Langley scored two breakout hits—both of which she co-wrote—including her chart-topping duet “You Look Like You Love Me” with Riley Green and the fan-favorite “Weren’t For The Wind.” The Alabama native built her foundation playing bars and festivals before moving to Nashville in 2019, where she quickly carved out a space with her gritty, no-frills sound. Her 2023 debut EP Excuse The Mess laid the groundwork for Hungover, her full-length debut released in August 2024. Co-writing all 14 tracks, Langley delivered an unfiltered look into her story, earning critical acclaim and spots on The New York Times and Rolling Stone’s “Best of 2024” lists. “You Look Like You Love Me” marked her first Billboard Hot 100 entry and first No. 1 at country radio, making her one of only two women to top the Billboard Country Airplay chart in 2024. The Platinum-certified single also earned CMA and ACM wins, including Musical Event and Single of the Year. After supporting Morgan Wallen and Luke Bryan, Langley sold out her first headline tour and returns to the road with Wallen and Green this summer.
Chase Matthew scored his breakout with the Platinum-certified “Love You Again,” a Top 5 hit he co-wrote and the first single to showcase his bold mix of country grit and emotional edge. The Nashville native built his career from the ground up, first finding viral success as an independent artist before signing with Warner Music Nashville. Now with more than 1.4 billion global career streams and 1.5 million social media followers, Matthew has emerged as a dynamic force in the genre. His Platinum debut single “County Line” put him on the map, and he continues his momentum with his third album CHASE and the Gold-certified single “Darlin’,” currently at country radio. Named to MusicRow’s Next Big Thing and the Opry NextStage Class of 2024, he’s also earned nods from HITS and the People’s Choice Country Awards. As a songwriter and performer, Matthew blends a rowdy, grounded persona with a deep twang and emotional delivery. After headlining his sold-out “Come Get Your Memory tour,” Matthew is out on his 2025 world tour now.
Josh Ross broke through with “Single Again,” the vulnerable, cowritten hit that captured hearts across North America and marked a major turning point for the rising global artist. Blending rock influences with modern country and raw lyricism, the Canada born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter has carved out a space uniquely his own. Ross followed the Platinum-certified “Trouble” with his 2024 8-song project Complicated, earning him his first JUNO Award for Country Album of the Year and setting the stage for his full-length debut Later Tonight, due September 19. With more than 1 billion global streams, Ross is known for his raspy vocals, heart-on-sleeve storytelling, and a sound that leans as much into arena rock as it does country. Named the 2024 CCMA Entertainer of the Year and recipient of the CMA’s Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award, he has toured with artists ranging from Nickelback and Brantley Gilbert to Bailey Zimmerman and Luke Bryan. Most recently, Ross wrapped a Canadian run with Jelly Roll and will open select shows for Dylan Scott this fall.
Zach Top scored his breakout with “I Never Lie,” the co-written standout that helped catapult him into country music’s spotlight. With a voice rooted in tradition and a writing style that bridges classic sensibilities with modern finesse, Top made waves with his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music, released in 2024. The project drew critical acclaim, landing on year-end “Best Of” lists from Rolling Stone, Billboard, and The New York Times. After opening for Lainey Wilson through the summer and fall, Top launched his own “Cold Beer & Country Music Tour” in early 2025—selling out dates within hours. Along the way, he’s taken the stage with legends and innovators alike, including Alan Jackson, Dwight Yoakam and Billy Strings. In April, he was named ACM New Male Artist of the Year, affirming his growing presence in the genre. With a firm grasp on both storytelling and stagecraft, Top is poised as one of country music’s most promising young artist-writers.
Tucker Wetmore broke through with “Wind Up Missin’ You,” the Platinum-certified hit he co-wrote that helped fuel his rapid rise. The track, along with fellow smash “Wine Into Whiskey,” earned Wetmore multiple appearances on the Billboard Hot 100 and pushed his career streams past 1 billion in just over a year. Wetmore made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 2024 and released his first EP, Waves On A Sunset, followed by his full-length debut What Not To. He also contributed two songs—“Already Had It” and “Steal My Thunder”—to the Twisters soundtrack. Known for his rich vocal tone and emotional writing, Wetmore has built a loyal fan base through dynamic live shows. After supporting Kameron Marlowe and Luke Bryan, he launched a sold-out headline run in 2024 and continued with international dates across the UK, U.S., and Europe in early 2025. He’s currently on the road as direct support for Thomas Rhett’s “Better In Boots Tour.” An ACM New Male Artist nominee, Wetmore has earned “Artist to Watch” nods from Billboard, MusicRow, Spotify, the Opry, and more.
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Dierks Bentley, Riley Green & John Anderson Team For Disc Of The Day
/by Robert K OermannDierks Bentley, Riley Green & John Anderson
The hallmarks of this edition of DISClaimer are ballads and collaborations.
Tugging at the heartstrings are the sublime Tim McGraw, Austin Snell, Hudson Westbrook and Bailey Zimmerman. McGraw wins the battle of the ballads.
The collabs are a merrier lot. Colbie Caillat’s matches up with Maddie & Tae; the Zac Brown Band burns one down with Snoop Dogg; Chris Jones & The Night Drivers are pluperfect country with Jim Lauderdale. Dierks Bentley, Riley Green and John Anderson romp off with the Disc of the Day prize.
The DISCovery Award goes to Alexandra Kay.
DIERKS BENTLEY, RILEY GREEN & JOHN ANDERSON / “Broken Branches”
Writers: Beau Bailey/Graham Barham/Zach Abend; Producers: Jon Randall, Mary Hilliard Harrington, Ross Copperman; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– A rollicking drinkin’ party with lotsa rhythm and plenty of smiles. The trailer-trash music video is creating a viral sensation.
AUSTIN SNELL / “Family Tree”
Writers: Austin Snell/Conor Matthews/Nicolette Hayford/Riley Thomas; Producer: Andrew Baylis; Label: River House Artists/Warner Music Nashville
– The echoey ballad contemplates generational trauma with a clear understanding and forthright honesty. Both the vocal performance and the production are gorgeous. Play this.
BAILEY ZIMMERMAN / “Chevy Silverado”
Writers: Bailey Zimmerman/Gavin Lucas/Heath WarrenIlsey Juber/Tucker Beathard; Producer: Austin Shawn; Label: Atlantic Records/Warner Music Nashville
– He’s lost her, but he still has his truck. Heartache with soaring electric guitars.
ALEXANDRA KAY / “Straight For The Heart”
Writers: Jimmy Robbins/Karley Scott Collins/Sasha Sloan; Producer: Andrew DeRoberts; Label: BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records
– If you’re gonna break her heart, make her hate you first. The sound is big and oomphy, but she’s a strong enough singer to power through. Highly promising
COLBIE CAILLAT WITH MADDIE & TAE / “Live Without”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/Eric Arjes/Jimmy Robbins/Liz Rose; Producers: Eric Arjes, Jimmy Robbins; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records
– “Goodbye ain’t the bullet that I thought it was,” they sing in wafting harmony. The jaunty bopper is about thriving and soaring after a breakup. The happy rhythm, the sparking production and the intertwined voices are all completely enchanting. A terrific pop-country outing.
CHRIS JONES, THE NIGHT DRIVERS & JIM LAUDERDALE / “How Small of Me”
Writers: Andrew McCutcheon/Chris Jones; Producer: Chris Jones; Label: Mountain Home Music Company
– A dandy disc. Audio elegance. With honky-tonk vocals, an acoustic bluegrass arrangement and a two-step tempo, what’s not to love? Jones is celebrating his 30th anniversary with his band. Lauderdale was announced this week as an upcoming Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee.
MAGGIE ROSE & GRACE POTTER / “Poison in My Well”
Writers: Davis Naish/Margaret Durante/Melissa Fuller; Producers: Ben Tanner, Davis Naish; Label: One Riot Records
– Bluesy and groove soaked, this slow-burn anthem addresses someone who can’t be happy for someone else’s good fortune. Both singers are accomplished pop practitioners.
MON ROVIA / “Heavy Foot”
Writers: Andrew Lowe/Cooper Holzman/Eric Cromartie/Grant Averill; Producer: Cooper Holzman; Label: Nettwerk Music Group
– This artist blends his Liberian heritage with Appalachian folk story telling. His new single has a lilting, strummy-guitar track that bops along happily. But the lyric protests the heavy foot of a government trying to “keep us all down.” Not to worry, the song assures us that love and solidarity will persevere. Mon Rovia staged his Opry debut on July 29.
TIM McGRAW / “King Rodeo”
Writers: Tim McGraw/Tom Douglas; Producer: Byron Gallimore, Denny Hemingson, Tim McGraw; Label: Big Machine Records
– This will stop your heart. It’s a ballad of aging and loss, delivered with ache and stunning emotional power. McGraw introduced at his rodeo concert last month, and in this live track, you can feel/hear the massive crowd’s tearful acceptance. A country music master singing unvarnished truth.
ZAC BROWN BAND & SNOOP DOGG / “Let It Run”
Writers: Andy Frasco/Chris Gelbuda/John WidoMakr/Snoop Dogg/Zac Brown; Producer: Zac Brown; Label: Master of None
– A celebration of smoking weed with the band’s usual flawless harmony work. Dogg’s rap drops in mid-song, but this is Zac’s record all the way. Programmers take note: There is a whole lot of cussing in this lyric.
Humanable To Launch World’s First AI-Free Social Media Platform
/by Lauryn SinkHumanable is set to launch the world’s first-to-market AI free social media platform, slated to be released in the fourth quarter of this year.
The platform was created to allow artists to share certified AI-free music and allow fans to interact directly with artists. The platform will be free for fan use. For artists and others wishing to have commercial accounts, the monthly subscription will be waived for all U.S.-based Humanable music members. All artists, influencers and music will be verified by the platform.
“The music industry is now seeing the negative effects of unchecked generative AI that Humanable’s co-founders have been warning about for the past year. From fully AI-generated songs from AI-generated bands reaching millions of unsuspecting listeners, we’re now witnessing the advent of ‘music designers’ who bypass royalty rights and use music generation platforms to create celebrity status to sell clicks and other goods and services,” says Lilian McGrady, President and Co-Founder of Humanable. “This is why Humanable launched to certify human-only music—so that consumers still have choices even in the flood of GenAI outputs. Human fans want real connection with real artists on social media, not with bots and GenAI outputs. Humanable’s social media platform allows artists and fans to opt out of the fake world.”
Brandon Blackstock, Longtime Talent Manager, Passes [Updated]
/by LB CantrellBrandon Blackstock
Longtime talent manager Brandon Blackstock passed away peacefully on Aug. 7 following a three-year battle with cancer. He was 48.
Born in Ft. Worth, Texas, on Dec. 16, 1976, to Narvel and Elisa Blackstock, Brandon spent his early childhood in Burleson, Texas before moving to Big Piney, Wyoming for his high school years.
He moved to Nashville as a young adult to begin a career in the music business. He began working alongside his father Narvel at Starstruck Management Group in 2006. Together, the father-son team managed a roster of top country artists, including longtime client Blake Shelton. Narvel also notably managed and was married to Reba McEntire from 1989 to 2015.
Brandon’s reputation in the music business was that of a champion, who always had his hand out to pull others up the ladder, to open a door or to make a connection.
After more than 20 years in the music business, Brandon returned in recent years to the mountains of Butte, Montana, where he embraced the cowboy lifestyle. With his partner, Brittney Marie Jones, he built businesses and helped establish Headwaters Livestock Auction, along with what will stand as his legacy—the Valley View Rodeo in Bozeman, Montana.
Brandon was preceded in death by his loving grandparents Gloria and Narvel Leroy Blackstock, Mary Helen Davis and Walter Ritter and Jacqueline and Clark McEntire. He is survived by his children Savannah Blackstock Lee, Seth Blackstock, River Rose Blackstock and Remington Blackstock; his son-in-law, Quentin Lee; grandchildren Lake Easton Lee, Julianna Rae Lee and the soon-to-arrive LouCasey Lee; parents Narvel Wayne Blackstock and Elisa Gayle Ritter Gilbert; stepparents Reba Nell McEntire, Laura Putty Blackstock and Daniel Eugene Gilbert; grandparents Karen and Terry Beattie; siblings Shawna Blackstock Meyers and Jason Meyers, Chassidy Blackstock Standefer and Scott Standefer, Shelby McEntire Blackstock and Marissa Blackstock; and his other lifelong brother, Brian Pittman.
All of Brandon’s friends and loved ones are invited to join the family for his celebration of life on Sunday, Aug. 17. Please reach out to a family member for service details.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Brandon Blackstock Memorial Fund at the Montana Stockgrowers Foundation.