Ascend Music has signed Americana/Rock duo, Marfa. Composed of Bryce Menchaca and Kellen Wall, Marfa serves as the first signing to the newly announced Big Machine Label Group imprint, established in partnership with music industry executive Joel Klaiman.

“Marfa is the first of many groundbreaking artists set to come from Ascend Music,” says Founder, Chairman and CEO of Big Machine Label Group Scott Borchetta. “This was a ‘one-listen, one-meeting, and we have to do this’ moment. These guys are going to blow people away with their musicality and vibe.”

“From the moment I first heard Marfa — the songs, the writing, the depth of their musicianship and the harmony of Bryce and Kellen’s voices — I knew they were something special,” adds Klaiman. “Their sound is both timeless and unmistakably of the moment. I’m thrilled to have them as the first signing to our new venture. They set the tone for the kind of talent, artistry and authenticity we are building the label around.”

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be a part of something so special and to embark on a dream come true,” shares Menchaca and Wall. “Signing our first record deal with an all-star team of Ascend Music and Big Machine Label Group is something we’re really proud of.”

The duo has released its first track, “Little Miss Two Time,” penned alongside Morgan Nagler.

“This track was inspired by Kellen receiving some unfortunate news following one of our shows, when an ex-girlfriend promptly ended things with him,” shares Menchaca.

Wall adds, “I later found out there was someone else the whole time, so we, along with our co-writer Morgan, made the best out of a bad situation, and ‘Little Miss Two Time’ was born.”

Luke Bryan’s Crash My Playa will rock the beaches for its 11th year in 2026 when it returns Jan. 15-18 to take over the Moon Palace Cancún for another all-inclusive concert experience.

Bryan will headline for two nights, with the full lineup and artists participating in the final night’s “Luke Bryan & Friends” performance to be announced soon. The Blind Faith On-Sale for Crash My Playa will begin on July 14 at crashmyplaya.com. Previous attendees will have early access through an Alumni Pre-Sale starting at noon CT today (July 11.)

“Every year I’m blown away by how special Crash My Playa has become,” says Bryan. “From the beachside shows to the late-night hangouts, it’s one of the highlights of my year. I can’t wait to be back in Cancún with our fans and kick off 2026 in the best way possible.”

In addition to lots of music, attendees can look forward to special guests, daily pool parties, late-night performances, and more. Moon Palace Cancún offers world-class accommodations, gourmet dining, 24-hour room service, and endless entertainment options, all included in each package and set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. Guests can relax at the resort’s spa, tee off on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, or dance the night away at the custom beachfront stage that makes Crash My Playa unlike any other destination concert experience.

Will Jones has inked with WME for global representation across all areas. Additionally, he has signed with Lady Luck Songs and Blue Harbor Music for publishing and artist development.

“Will’s talent, work ethic, and musicianship is exceptional. His future is bright, and we’re excited to have him at WME and be a part of his journey,” shares WME’s Carter Green and Jay Williams. “The future of country music is in good hands!”

“Lady Luck Songs and Blue Harbor Music are thrilled to team up and welcome powerhouse writer/artist Will Jones to our publishing and artist development roster,” states Steve Markland (Blue Harbor Music) along with Kim Penz and Cliff Audretch of Lady Luck Songs. “Will’s a true triple-threat with big things on the horizon. We can’t wait for the world to hear and see what all he has coming down the pike!”

“Will’s been doing the work his whole life. He’s got the raw talent, work ethic and personality for longevity,” adds John Cantu of Red Light Management. “We have a great team in place and a clear vision. Proud to be a part of building what’s next for him.”

The Blue Ridge native is slated to release his new single, “Lonesome Dove,” tomorrow (July 11).

“‘Lonesome Dove’ came from imagining what Gus McCrae might’ve said to Lorie Darlin’ in that saloon,” Jones says of the song. “It’s a lighthearted take on the idea that not everyone’s chasing forever – sometimes it’s enough to share a moment, even if it only lasts the length of a song.”

Hudson Westbrook Lends A Hand To Texas Hill Country Flood Victims

Hudson Westbrook has announced that 100% of proceeds from his merch sales this week through July 14 will go to help Texas Hill Country flood relief following the devastating recent floods in the area that claimed the lives of so many. Fans wanting to help can participate here.

 

David Hanono Named VP/Digital Strategy & Revenue Ops For Get After It Media

Get After It Media (GAIM) has appointed David Hanono as Vice President of Digital Strategy and Revenue Ops. Hanono will architect, lead, build and execute GAIM’s digital growth and revenue strategy, bridging business development, platform design, integration, operator engagement, and ad monetization across all digital properties and partnerships for GAIM’s national networks: The Action Channel, The Family Channel, The Heartland Network, Retro TV and Rev’n.

 

Alex Miller Is New Brand Ambassador For Kentucky Proud Program

Alex Miller has been named a brand ambassadorship for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Kentucky Proud program. As the state’s official agricultural marketing brand for over 20 years, Kentucky Proud’s goal is to increase awareness of agricultural initiatives and promote member products.

“I come from a long line of Kentucky farmers, and I can tell you that the work is hard but incredibly rewarding,” says Lancaster native Miller. “I am honored to be a part of Kentucky Proud. This chance to serve as an ambassador will allow me to highlight member accomplishments spotlighted by this amazing program. I love Kentucky and I will always do all I can to share the wonders of the Commonwealth. As an American FFA degree recipient, this was an easy opportunity to say ‘yes’ to, and I’m eager to get started.”

 

Dee White Shares Title Track From New Album On Opry

Dee White recently played ‘the Grand Ole Opry for the fourth time. He was introduced by producer Tony Brown and performed a patriotic melody including “America the Beautiful” with the Opry singers and “Heart Talkin,” the title track to his recently-released sophomore album, produced by Brown.

 

The Down East Boys Sign With StowTown Records

The Down East Boys have signed to StowTown Records. Since their inception in 1985, the Down East Boys have become  a mainstay in the gospel music world. Under the leadership of longtime lead vocalist and manager Ricky Carden, their music has consistently topped radio charts, including hits like “Beautiful Valley,” “Beat Up Bible,” “Testimony Time,” “What Love,” “Something To Shout About” and their most recent top 20 hit, “Mercy River.”

The debut release from the group under the StowTown label is expected to be released this fall, just in time for gospel music’s premier event, the National Quartet Convention, set to take place in September.