Darius Rucker’s “Wagon Wheel” Joins Spotify Billions Club
Darius Rucker. Photo: Josh Pruitt/Ivywild Visuals
Darius Rucker‘s version of “Wagon Wheel” has joined the Spotify Billions Club. Before taking the stage at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on July 25, Darius Rucker and Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor were surprised with a Spotify Billions Club plaque commemorating the achievement.
“You never know where a song is going to take you, and I don’t think any of us could’ve imagined ‘Wagon Wheel’ would still mean this much to people all these years later,” says Rucker. “To celebrate a billion streams with Ketch right before we walked out at Red Rocks made it even more special. I’m grateful to everybody who’s made this song part of their lives, and I’ll keep singing it as long as y’all let me!”
Alli Leighann Signs With Deep Cuts Management Co.
Alli Leighann. Photo: Courtesy of Deep Cuts Management Co.
Alli Leighann has signed with Deep Cuts Management Co.
“From the first time I heard Alli, it was clear that she has something special,” shares Liam Sullivan, Founder and CEO of Deep Cuts Management Co. “Her voice, her songwriting, and the authenticity she brings to everything she does represent exactly what we look for at Deep Cuts. We’re excited to help guide the next chapter of her career and support her vision as an artist.”
“Music has always been my way of connecting with people and sharing pieces of my story,” says Leighann. “I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity with Liam and excited to have a team that believes in my vision and the music I want to create. I can’t wait for what’s ahead.”
CMHOFM Hosts Interview With Buddy Cannon
Jon Freeman and Buddy Cannon. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently hosted an interview with Buddy Cannon on his life and career in the museum’s Ford Theater. Hosted by the museum’s Jon Freeman, the event featured photos, video clips and recordings. This program was offered in support of the museum’s newest exhibition, “Kenny Chesney: Living in Fast Forward.” It was filmed and will premiere at a later date as part of the museum’s Live at the Hall digital program series.
Cannon began his career playing bass for Bob Luman and Mel Tillis before shifting his focus to composing. He then started producing in the 1990s and has worked with Kenny Chesney on 17 albums, including the multi-platinum releases No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems (2002) and When the Sun Goes Down (2004). Additionally, Cannon has produced Country Music Hall of Fame member Willie Nelson since 2008, including the Grammy-winning releases Summertime: Willie Nelson Sings Gershwin and A Beautiful Time.
JB Somers Performs For Nashville Soccer Club’s Pride Night Celebration
JB Somers. Photo: Courtesy of Nashville Soccer Club
JB Somers performed as the featured artist for Nashville Soccer Club’s Captain’s Club during the team’s annual Pride Night celebration on July 23 at GEODIS Park.
“To be part of Nashville Soccer Club’s Pride Night was incredibly meaningful,” shares Somers. “I’ve always believed music has the power to make people feel seen, and getting to celebrate authenticity and community through these songs made the night really special. I’m grateful to Nashville SC for creating spaces where everyone can feel welcome.”
Old Crow Medicine Show & Maggie Rose Appear On Songs of U.S.
Old Crow Medicine Show has released a cover of Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth” for Salt Lick Sessions’ Songs of U.S. series. The band was also joined by Maggie Rose for a duet of “Beautiful Land.”
Additional performance and interview videos can be found here.
American Blonde Appears On WXXV-TV
Nata Morris, Tinka Morris and Chloe Carter.
American Blonde recently appeared in the WXXV-TV studio to celebrate the release of their newest single, “Delta Home” and promote their sold-out show at Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi.
Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame & Ryman To Host 2nd Annual ‘Rock the Ryman’ Concert
/by Lorie HollabaughThe “Rock the Ryman” concert is returning to Nashville on Sept. 1. to celebrate the intersection of rock and country music and honor the legacy and impact of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees who have graced the Ryman stage.
Sponsored by Gibson and its philanthropic division Gibson Gives, the “Rock the Ryman” concert explores how country music has shaped rock & roll and how the genre has merged with today’s Americana, country and beyond. The special evening will be hosted by 2014 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee John Oates, and featured artists include Devon Allman, ROME, Sam Bush, Spencer Sutherland, Wynonna, YOLA with more to be announced soon. Each artist will perform songs by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees who were influential to their careers.
“Rock the Ryman” is the latest event in a long-term collaboration between the two institutions since the Ryman’s official designation as a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Landmark in 2022. The collaboration also includes a permanent exhibit on the Ryman daytime tour that features a rotating collection of memorabilia and stories from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees who have performed on its iconic stage. New additions to the Rock Hall at the Ryman tour exhibit for summer/fall 2026 include:
Tickets to the “Rock the Ryman” concert go on sale to the public on Friday (July 31). Proceeds from the event will help preserve and celebrate the history of rock & roll and support education initiatives
Avery Anna Slates ‘Blood Runs Thicker Tour’ For October
/by Lorie HollabaughAvery Anna
Avery Anna is kicking off her “Blood Runs Thicker Tour” this fall in Raleigh at The Ritz on Oct. 16.
The 10-show run includes stops in Athens, Richmond, Orlando, Charlotte, and more, wrapping Dec. 11.
Tickets are on sale this Friday (July 31).
Anna made her country radio debut this week with the streaming sensation “Blood Runs Thicker,” becoming the second most added and earning the title of most added female overall with the single. She’s also set to take the stage at the upcoming 19th Annual ACM Honors, joining an all-star lineup of performers celebrating this year’s Academy of Country Music honorees on Aug. 19 at The Pinnacle in Nashville.
“Blood Runs Thicker Tour” Dates:
Oct. 16 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz
Oct. 18 – Asheville, NC – The Orange Peel
Oct. 20 – Normal, IL – Braden Auditorium
Oct. 23 – Athens, GA – Georgia Theatre
Oct. 25 – Richmond, VA – The National
Nov. 7 – Madison, WI – The Sylvee
Nov. 12 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore Charlotte
Nov. 13 – Jacksonville, FL – Five
Nov. 14 – Orlando, FL – House of Blues Orlando
Dec. 11 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore Silver Spring
Devon O’Day Launches Devon’s Farm Media
/by Lauryn SinkDevon O’Day. Photo: Courtesy of Devon’s Farm Media
Devon O’Day has launched Devon’s Farm Media, a boutique communications agency specializing in public relations, media strategy, podcast production, brand development and storytelling.
“I’ve spent my life introducing audiences to extraordinary people and remarkable stories,” shares O’Day. “This isn’t so much a new beginning as it is bringing everything I’ve learned over the past forty years together in one place.”
O’Day is a Tennessee Radio Hall Of Fame Broadcaster. Additionally, she has authored seven books for major publishers, created innovative digital media projects, produced podcasts for artists, businesses and nonprofit organizations, helped raise millions of dollars for charitable causes and more. She currently hosts Backstage Nashville and co-hosts Main Street Media’s streaming television series Taste of Nashville.
Tyler Braden To Embark On First Canadian Headline Run This Fall
/by Lauryn SinkTyler Braden. Photo: Marisa Taylor
Tyler Braden will hit the road on his first-ever Canadian tour this fall.
The seven-date “The Days Of Gold Tour” will make stops in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa and more. Tickets go on sale Friday (July 31).
Braden has additional upcoming dates on his Australian “Wild At Heart Tour” this fall and his first-ever “The Days Of Gold Tour” across the UK and Europe in February 2027.
The Alabama-born, Nashville-based artist has amassed over one billion global streams and has shared stages with artists including Luke Bryan, Brooks & Dunn, Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Warren Zeiders and Darius Rucker. He recently released a stripped-down take on ROLE MODEL’s viral hit “Sally, When The Wine Runs Out.”
“The Days Of Gold Tour” Dates:
October 27 – Toronto, ON – The Opera House
October 29 – Montreal, QC – Studio TD
October 30 – Ottawa, ON – Bronson Centre Music Theatre
November 3 – Winnipeg, MB – The Park Theatre
November 5 – Saskatoon, SK – Coors Event Centre
November 6 – Edmonton, AB – Midway Music Hall
November 7 – Calgary, AB – The Palace Theatre
Opry Plots Face The Fight Night To Bring Awareness To Veteran Suicide Prevention
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Grand Ole Opry and its presenting sponsor Humana are teaming up to drive awareness and education about veteran suicide prevention with the third annual Face the Fight event on Sept. 9, the eve of World Suicide Prevention Day.
Avid military supporters who will perform during the special evening include Opry members Trace Adkins and Chris Young, Army veteran Scotty Hasting, Breland, RaeLynn, the U.S. Army Chorus and more.
Founded by Humana Foundation, USAA, and Reach Resilience, Face the Fight is a national movement bringing organizations together to dramatically reduce the veteran suicide rate. The coalition now includes more than 300 members working collectively to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and engage communities. Face the Fight-funded programs have also impacted more than 1,400,000 lives with proven interventions.
“Veteran suicide prevention begins with connection, the kind that reminds people they are seen, valued and never alone,” says Tiffany Benjamin, CEO of the Humana Foundation. “In Nashville, Face the Fight is bringing that message to life through a thought leadership convening, meaningful conversations and Face the Fight Night at the Opry, where music and storytelling can help people feel connected to something bigger than themselves. The Humana Foundation and Humana are proud to stand with Face the Fight and its coalition partners as we help turn shared commitment into lasting support for veterans and families.”
The Opry is also supporting the morning’s “Louder Together: Music and the Movement to End Veteran Suicide” thought leadership event at Ole Red ahead of the evening’s show.
Guy Clark Estate Joins The Humanable Movement
/by Lorie HollabaughGuy Clark‘s Estate has joined the Humanable artist roster, certifying his discographies as fully-human and free from the use of generative artificial intelligence in the creation of the music, and helping push the movement of protecting human creation in the arts.
Truly Handmade Records, a division of Guy Clark LLC, has joined the movement and Humanable to certify his and wife Susanna’s discographies as fully-human. Truly Handmade Records was formed by Clark’s grandchildren to honor his legacy and support songwriters who follow in his footsteps. Guy and Susanna’s discographies, including Guy’s 2013 Grammy-winning album My Favorite Picture of You, will be joining the list of fully human music certified via Humanable.
“Witnessing the current landscape where artificial intelligence is transforming art and media, it was important to us to certify that all of Guy and Susanna Clark’s compositions were written by the artists with zero assistance from machines,” says Tamara Saviano, President and Creative Director of Guy Clark LLC. “We hope the quality of their work will inspire future generations of writers and artists to trust their own creativity.”
Humanable Co-Founder
Humanable’s industry-wide standard certification provides a unique, individual identifier that helps prevent GenAI outputs from eroding the royalties of composers, musicians, and artists. Once art is certified, downstream gatekeepers and fans will have an instant visual guarantee that it was not created by GenAI, thanks to the easily recognizable Humanable
Matt McVaney Inks With Back Row Publishing
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Michael Kozelj, Matt McVaney, Lindsay Will and Taylor Antle. Photo: Courtesy of Back Row Publishing
Matt McVaney has signed with Back Row Publishing.
McVaney penned and produced Kane Brown’s “Used to Love You Sober” and “I Love That I Hate You,” and wrote “Thunder in the Rain,” the debut single from Brown’s 2016 self-titled album. Since then, as a producer, he has worked with Dalton Dover, Tayler Holder and David J. As a writer, he’s landed cuts with Jordan Davis, Mitchell Tenpenny, Lainey Wilson, Chris Young, Chase Matthew, Zach John King and Tim McGraw.
“McV is a world-class writer and producer and I’m so excited to continue working with him in this new chapter at Back Row,” says Lindsay Will, VP A&R, Back Row Publishing. “His musical instincts are unmatched and his vision and passion for music aligned perfectly with our team and I can’t wait to see what we build together!”
“I can tell Back Row Publishing is building something different,” says McVaney. “Lindsay is an absolute champion who is creative, strategic, and pushes the boundaries with every writer. Mike [Kozelj] balances a great business mind with creativity to make sure everyone wins along the way, and Taylor [Antle] has a gift for connecting the dots and always doing what’s best for the writer and company. I truly believe Back Row is creating an unstoppable model, and I’m honored to be a part of what’s ahead.”
Back Row Publishing launched earlier this year, signing Christian Yancey as its flagship writer.
Industry Ink: Darius Rucker, Alli Leighann, Buddy Cannon, JB Somers, More
/by Lauryn SinkDarius Rucker’s “Wagon Wheel” Joins Spotify Billions Club
Darius Rucker. Photo: Josh Pruitt/Ivywild Visuals
Darius Rucker‘s version of “Wagon Wheel” has joined the Spotify Billions Club. Before taking the stage at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on July 25, Darius Rucker and Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor were surprised with a Spotify Billions Club plaque commemorating the achievement.
“You never know where a song is going to take you, and I don’t think any of us could’ve imagined ‘Wagon Wheel’ would still mean this much to people all these years later,” says Rucker. “To celebrate a billion streams with Ketch right before we walked out at Red Rocks made it even more special. I’m grateful to everybody who’s made this song part of their lives, and I’ll keep singing it as long as y’all let me!”
Alli Leighann Signs With Deep Cuts Management Co.
Alli Leighann. Photo: Courtesy of Deep Cuts Management Co.
Alli Leighann has signed with Deep Cuts Management Co.
“From the first time I heard Alli, it was clear that she has something special,” shares Liam Sullivan, Founder and CEO of Deep Cuts Management Co. “Her voice, her songwriting, and the authenticity she brings to everything she does represent exactly what we look for at Deep Cuts. We’re excited to help guide the next chapter of her career and support her vision as an artist.”
“Music has always been my way of connecting with people and sharing pieces of my story,” says Leighann. “I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity with Liam and excited to have a team that believes in my vision and the music I want to create. I can’t wait for what’s ahead.”
CMHOFM Hosts Interview With Buddy Cannon
Jon Freeman and Buddy Cannon. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently hosted an interview with Buddy Cannon on his life and career in the museum’s Ford Theater. Hosted by the museum’s Jon Freeman, the event featured photos, video clips and recordings. This program was offered in support of the museum’s newest exhibition, “Kenny Chesney: Living in Fast Forward.” It was filmed and will premiere at a later date as part of the museum’s Live at the Hall digital program series.
Cannon began his career playing bass for Bob Luman and Mel Tillis before shifting his focus to composing. He then started producing in the 1990s and has worked with Kenny Chesney on 17 albums, including the multi-platinum releases No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems (2002) and When the Sun Goes Down (2004). Additionally, Cannon has produced Country Music Hall of Fame member Willie Nelson since 2008, including the Grammy-winning releases Summertime: Willie Nelson Sings Gershwin and A Beautiful Time.
JB Somers Performs For Nashville Soccer Club’s Pride Night Celebration
JB Somers. Photo: Courtesy of Nashville Soccer Club
JB Somers performed as the featured artist for Nashville Soccer Club’s Captain’s Club during the team’s annual Pride Night celebration on July 23 at GEODIS Park.
“To be part of Nashville Soccer Club’s Pride Night was incredibly meaningful,” shares Somers. “I’ve always believed music has the power to make people feel seen, and getting to celebrate authenticity and community through these songs made the night really special. I’m grateful to Nashville SC for creating spaces where everyone can feel welcome.”
Old Crow Medicine Show & Maggie Rose Appear On Songs of U.S.
Old Crow Medicine Show has released a cover of Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth” for Salt Lick Sessions’ Songs of U.S. series. The band was also joined by Maggie Rose for a duet of “Beautiful Land.”
Additional performance and interview videos can be found here.
American Blonde Appears On WXXV-TV
Nata Morris, Tinka Morris and Chloe Carter.
American Blonde recently appeared in the WXXV-TV studio to celebrate the release of their newest single, “Delta Home” and promote their sold-out show at Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi.
Stephanie Quayle Unveils New Album Due In August
/by Lauryn SinkStephanie Quayle will unveil her new album, The Seeker, on Aug. 28.
On July 31, Quayle will preview the project with “Wasn’t Gonna Drink Today,” the fourth song release from The Seeker, following “He Taught Me How To Pray,” “Honky Tonk Jesus” and “High Wire.”
“The magic of country music is that it isn’t just another drinking song—it connects us in the depth of the human struggle,” says Quayle. “It was important to me to bring that classic country sound into this album: the pedal steel, the fiddle and that pull of the strings that makes you feel something beyond the lyric and melody.”
Produced by Lukas Bracewell, the project opens with Quayle’s recording of Dolly Parton’s iconic “The Seeker” and ends with a special 10th anniversary version of “Drinking With Dolly,” the fan favorite that helped shape her early career.
“Without [“The Seeker”], there may never have been another Stephanie Quayle song recorded,” she says. “At a time when I wasn’t sure if I should keep going, I believe God used Dolly to encourage me—and reaffirm my calling.”
Quayle has independently amassed 26 million streams, over 50 million radio audience impressions and multiple performances at the Grand Ole Opry. She was named to CMT Next Women of Country, Rolling Stone Country’s “Artists You Need to Know” and made appearances on The Ellen Degeneres Show and The Kelly Clarkson Show. Beyond music, the Montana native is the author of Why Do We Stay?, host of the On the Edge podcast and a touring speaker.
Quayle has two upcoming shows in Montana.
The Seeker Track List:
1) The Seeker
2) Honky Tonk Jesus
3) High Wire
4) Wasn’t Gonna Drink Today
5) Hard Line
6) Cowboy Phase
7) Old San Juan
8) Small Town After All
9) He Taught Me How To Pray
10) Drinking With Dolly (10th Anniversary Version)
Joy Oladokun Plots ‘The Heavy Things Tour’
/by Lorie HollabaughJoy Oladokun. Photo: Graham Tolbert
Joy Oladokun will embark on her extensive “The Heavy Things Tour” beginning in October.
The tour includes newly confirmed stops in Austin, Los Angeles, Seattle, Denver, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Brooklyn, Washington D.C. and a Nashville Ryman Auditorium show on Nov. 19, among many others.
Tickets for the new dates go on sale this Friday (July 31).
The fall shows coincide with the recent reveal of Oladokun’s upcoming new album, Hope Is A Heavy Thing, due out Sept. 25 via Concord Records. She unveiled a new song from the project, “Kind,” last week.
“The Heavy Things Tour” Dates:
October 16—Houston, TX—The Heights Theater
October 17—Austin, TX—Scoot Inn
October 20—Phoenix, AZ—Crescent Ballroom
October 21—San Diego, CA—The Observatory North Park
October 23— Los Angeles, CA—The Bellwether
October 25— San Francisco, CA—Castro Theatre
October 27— Portland, OR—Aladdin Theater
October 29—Vancouver, BC—Hollywood Theatre
October 30—Seattle, WA—Moore Theatre
November 2—Salt Lake City, UT—The Complex – The Grand
November 4—Denver, CO—Paramount Theatre
November 6—Lawrence, KS—The Granada Theater
November 7—St. Paul, MN—Palace Theatre
November 8—Chicago, IL—The Vic Theatre
November 11—Brooklyn, NY—Warsaw Concerts
November 12—Ardmore, PA—Ardmore Music Hall
November 13—Washington, D.C.—Howard Theatre
November 15—Saxapahaw, NC— Haw River Ballroom
November 17—Charlotte, NC—Neighborhood Theatre
November 18—Atlanta, GA—Variety Playhouse
November 19—Nashville, TN—Ryman Auditorium