Scotty McCreery gathered some of his musical buddies and went a little off book in the making of his new EP, Scooter & Friends, due out on July 18.
Produced by Frank Rogers, the project brings McCreery together with some legendary friends including Hootie & the Blowfish, Lee Brice and one of McCreery’s biggest musical idols, R&B legend Charlie Wilson.
“Back home everyone calls me ‘Scooter,’ so since I’m singing with a few of my favorite artists, I decided to call this project Scooter & Friends,” explains McCreery. “It’s a fun collection of songs that are a little different from what I normally sing, yet they are still me. If the fans like it, maybe there will be a second volume in a few years.”
The latest release from Scooter & Friends, “Once Upon a Bottle of Wine,” with Wilson is out now. The track features an unexpected sound that many fans haven’t heard from McCreery and he co-wrote the song with Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey and Frank Rogers.
“I have been a massive fan of Charlie Wilson since I first heard him on the radio when I was a kid. He’s one of my favorite artists of all time,” says McCreery. “Getting to perform with him on stage a few years ago was a bucket list item for me. Being able to call him a friend means more than I can say. And now, having him sing with me on a song I wrote is a dream come true.”
“My ‘Charlie Last Name Wilson’ song was one of his favorites when he was growing up and I never knew he was a fan, so when we finally met years ago I was blown away with that huge voice and had him jump on stage with me,” says Wilson. “He brought the house down that night and now I’m so excited that we have a duet together.”
The first single from Scooter & Friends, “Bottle Rockets” featuring Hootie & the Blowfish, quickly became the song of the summer for McCreery fans upon its release, and was the top track added to country radio at impact. It’s currently rising up the charts, ranking No. 20 on Mediabase this week after just five weeks since its release.
McCreery is also gearing up for his new monthly series “Prime Country with Scotty McCreery” on SiriusXM’s Prime Country channel (Ch. 58). The show will debut on July 5 at 2 p.m. CT and will air 10 times on the channel throughout the month. A new episode will debut on the first Saturday of each month as McCreery spotlights his favorite musical era, ‘80s and ‘90s country, sharing how each artist influenced him or telling behind-the-scenes stories. Each episode will also feature a live performance from an artist on the Opry that was recorded on the legendary stage in the ‘80s or ‘90s.
Scooter & Friends Track List:
1) “Bottle Rockets” feat. Hootie & the Blowfish – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Monty Criswell, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Dean Felber, Jim Sonefeld
2) “Swim Up Bar” – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Monty Criswell, Frank Rogers
3) “Once Upon a Bottle of Wine” feat. Charlie Wilson – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Frank Rogers
4) “Whiskey Said” feat. Lee Brice – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Frank Rogers
5)“Holding Down the Honky Tonk” – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Frank Rogers
Foster Ferrell Signs With 507 Publishing
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Cooper Carr, A&R Coordinator; Teri Nelson Carpenter, CEO; Foster Ferrell and Madison Policastri, A&R Manager. Photo: Studio TM
Songwriter and producer Foster Ferrell has inked with 507 Publishing.
Ferrell is a Nashville-based songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist known for his versatile work across genres, penning songs for Olivia Lane, Katie Flemming, Chandler Letner and more.
“I’m so excited and honored to be working with everyone at 507 Publishing,” says Ferrell. “It’s such a wonderful place to call home, and I know we have a lot of wonderful songs in our future together!”
“I met Foster Ferrell on June 27th, 2023, and instantly became a fan,” shares Madison Policastri, A&R Manager at 507 Publishing. “His talent, work ethic, and heart are undeniable, and he captivates everyone in his path – it’s a privilege to welcome him to the 507 Publishing family.”
“I am so thrilled to welcome Foster Ferrell to the 507 Publishing family,” adds Teri Nelson Carpenter, CEO. “Foster brings a sonic and skillful versatility to 507 Publishing, he is invaluable. We look forward to all the milestones to come in this partnership.”
Chase McDaniel To Release Debut Album In September
/by Lauryn SinkChase McDaniel is set to release his debut record, Lost Ones, on Sept. 19 via Big Machine Records. The title track, written by McDaniel, Chris LaCorte and Josh Miller, is available now.
“My music may be a little darker than what you’re used to hearing, but so is my story,” shares McDaniel. “I hope Lost Ones finds who it’s meant to because it’s a lot of people’s story too. You are not alone.”
The record, produced by Lindsay Rimes, shares the most painful aspects of his personal story, including his struggle with depression and the life-altering experience of losing his father to addiction. McDaniel co-wrote every track, alongside writers including Jon Nite, Rimes, Josh Osborne and many more.
With summer dates on the books, as well as supporting Jason Aldean in New Jersey in October, more details on all things album and touring can be found here.
Lost Ones Tracklist:
1. “Before I Let You Go” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Jon Nite, Lindsay Rimes)
2. “Die Trying” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Seth Ennis, Lindsay Rimes)
3. “Burned Down Heaven” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Jon Nite, Lindsay Rimes)
4. “Risk It All” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Zach Kale, Seth Mosley)
5. “Born In A Burning House” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Josh Osborne, Lindsay Rimes)
6. “Lost Ones” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Chris LaCorte, Josh Miller)
7. “My Side Of The Family” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Zach Kale, Seth Mosley)
8. “Meaning Of Mine” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Jon Nite, Lindsay Rimes)
9. “Heart Still Works” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Lindsay Rimes, Josh Osborne)
10. “What I Didn’t Have” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Jon Nite, Lindsay Rimes, Russell Sutton)
11. “Made It This Far” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Lindsay Rimes, Josh Osborne)
12. “Mind On Fire” (Peyton Chase McDaniel, Lindsay Rimes, Brett Warren)
Scotty McCreery Celebrates Summer With New EP ‘Scooter & Friends’
/by Lorie HollabaughScotty McCreery gathered some of his musical buddies and went a little off book in the making of his new EP, Scooter & Friends, due out on July 18.
Produced by Frank Rogers, the project brings McCreery together with some legendary friends including Hootie & the Blowfish, Lee Brice and one of McCreery’s biggest musical idols, R&B legend Charlie Wilson.
“Back home everyone calls me ‘Scooter,’ so since I’m singing with a few of my favorite artists, I decided to call this project Scooter & Friends,” explains McCreery. “It’s a fun collection of songs that are a little different from what I normally sing, yet they are still me. If the fans like it, maybe there will be a second volume in a few years.”
The latest release from Scooter & Friends, “Once Upon a Bottle of Wine,” with Wilson is out now. The track features an unexpected sound that many fans haven’t heard from McCreery and he co-wrote the song with Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey and Frank Rogers.
“I have been a massive fan of Charlie Wilson since I first heard him on the radio when I was a kid. He’s one of my favorite artists of all time,” says McCreery. “Getting to perform with him on stage a few years ago was a bucket list item for me. Being able to call him a friend means more than I can say. And now, having him sing with me on a song I wrote is a dream come true.”
“My ‘Charlie Last Name Wilson’ song was one of his favorites when he was growing up and I never knew he was a fan, so when we finally met years ago I was blown away with that huge voice and had him jump on stage with me,” says Wilson. “He brought the house down that night and now I’m so excited that we have a duet together.”
The first single from Scooter & Friends, “Bottle Rockets” featuring Hootie & the Blowfish, quickly became the song of the summer for McCreery fans upon its release, and was the top track added to country radio at impact. It’s currently rising up the charts, ranking No. 20 on Mediabase this week after just five weeks since its release.
McCreery is also gearing up for his new monthly series “Prime Country with Scotty McCreery” on SiriusXM’s Prime Country channel (Ch. 58). The show will debut on July 5 at 2 p.m. CT and will air 10 times on the channel throughout the month. A new episode will debut on the first Saturday of each month as McCreery spotlights his favorite musical era, ‘80s and ‘90s country, sharing how each artist influenced him or telling behind-the-scenes stories. Each episode will also feature a live performance from an artist on the Opry that was recorded on the legendary stage in the ‘80s or ‘90s.
Scooter & Friends Track List:
1) “Bottle Rockets” feat. Hootie & the Blowfish – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Monty Criswell, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Dean Felber, Jim Sonefeld
2) “Swim Up Bar” – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Monty Criswell, Frank Rogers
3) “Once Upon a Bottle of Wine” feat. Charlie Wilson – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Frank Rogers
4) “Whiskey Said” feat. Lee Brice – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Frank Rogers
5)“Holding Down the Honky Tonk” – Scotty McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Frank Rogers
Wiles + Taylor Elevates Five
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Lizzy Stone, Amy Gellick, Karla Stafford, David Zeigler and David Murray. Photo: Emma Delevante
Business management firm Wiles + Taylor has announced five internal promotions including Lizzy Stone and Amy Gellick to Account Manager, Karla Stafford to Director of Financial Reporting and Compliance, and David Zeigler and David Murray to Business Manager.
“We are proud to promote and celebrate the professional growth of this group of long-time Wiles + Taylor employees. All five of these individuals have exemplified strong leadership and communication skills,” states Kevin Dalton, a partner at Wiles + Taylor. “Their detail-oriented approach to work makes them excellent partners to our clients and to our collective mission as a firm, which is to be a top-tier backline to our clients for their comprehensive business management needs.”
Stone began her career at W+T in 2018 and is a member of the Recording Academy, YEP, TONS, CMA and was named a member of the 2024 ACM LEVel Up Cohort. Since 2016, Gellick has been with W+T while serving on the boards of Women’s Music Business Association and Society Of Leaders In Development (SOLID).
Stafford has been part of the W+T team for 20 years, working closely with the business management department to ensure compliance and consistency across financial operations. She is a member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music
Zeigler is a long-time Middle Tennessee resident and joined W+T in 2018 as an account manager. Hailing from Knoxville, TN, Murray began his music career in 2001 as an artist in the Boston area. He went on to work in various roles in the industry before obtaining his CPA and joining W+T in 2016, Murray is a member of the Recording Academy, ACM, CMA and TSCPA.
Carter Faith Slates Debut Record For October Release
/by Lauryn SinkCarter Faith is slated to release her debut record, Cherry Valley, on Oct. 3 via MCA. She has unveiled the latest track from the LP, “Sex, Drugs and Country Music,” today (June 27).
“Cherry Valley means everything to me,” says Faith. “Every time I have slipped into a dark place (which I have a propensity for), this album has brought me out of it. I know that I wrote the songs but they still carry reminders for me every day when I relisten. Some of the songs have even transformed for me and mean something different now. The world of Cherry Valley has been a safe and freeing place for me and everyone who has worked so hard on this record. I have truly created this album with my best friends, which feels surreal. It feels like it belongs to all of us, because it does.”
The songs on Cherry Valley span Faith’s journey from her North Carolina hometown to Nashville, with all the heartbreak, triumph and hazy nights in between. Carter and longtime producer Tofer Brown spent two years crafting tracks for the album before finally entering the studio in 2024. Named for an imagined place, a road sign Carter once saw that came to signify her creative home, the album is a document of Carter’s time in Nashville, working chronologically through her breakout successes and gut-punching breakups, new loves and family dustups.
Fresh from her Stagecoach debut and runs with Ella Langley and Carly Pearce, Faith will head back out with Little Big Town this summer.
Cherry Valley Track List:
1. “Cherry Valley” (Carter Faith, Ashley Monroe, Andrew Petroff)
2. “Sex, Drugs, and Country Music” (Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Tofer Brown)
3. “Arrows (Die For That Man)” (Carter Faith, Steph Jones, Tofer Brown)
4. “Bar Star” (Carter Faith, Aaron Raitere, Tyler Halverson, Tofer Brown)
5. “Betty” (Carter Faith, Shane McAnally, Tofer Brown)
6. “Grudge” (Carter Faith, Steph Jones, Tofer Brown)
7. “Six-String” (Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Tofer Brown)
8. “If I Had Never Lost My Mind…” (Carter Faith, Tofer Brown, Lauren Hungate, Jen Stegall)
9. “Misery Loves Company” (Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Tofer Brown)
10. “Drink Up, Baby” (Carter Faith, Amy Allen, Tofer Brown)
11. “Burn My Memory” (Carter Faith, Jessi Alexander, Brock Berryhill, Jessie Jo Dillon)
12. “Sails” (Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Tofer Brown)
13. “So I Sing”(Carter Faith)
14. “Changed” (Carter Faith, Ashley Monroe, Connie Harrington)
15. “Still A Lover” (Carter Faith, Tofer Brown, Steph Jones)
BMI Hosts Inaugural BMI Cookout: Southern Soul Takeover
/by Lauryn Sink803Fresh performs “Boots On The Ground” at the BMI Cookout on the rooftop of BMI’s Nashville headquarters. Photo: Nathan Zucker for BMI
BMI welcomed music industry professionals, community members and fans to the rooftop of its Nashville headquarters for the first-ever BMI Cookout, a new annual event aiming to champion artists during Black Music Month for a Southern Soul takeover. The event featured 803Fresh, Shae Nycole, TA Thomas, Young Guy and DJ Trucker.
Hosted by BMI’s Shannon Sanders, DJ Trucker and guest DJ Magic set the tone for the evening as Thomas warmed up the crowd. Nashville local Nycole followed, bringing her contemporary sound to the stage. Young Guy kept spirits high before headliner 803Fresh made his BMI rooftop debut showcasing his gospel and R&B roots.
Shae Nycole performs at the BMI Cookout in Nashville. Photo: Nathan
Zucker for BMI
Young Guy entertains the crowd at the first ever BMI Cookout in Nashville. Photo: Nathan Zucker for BMI
TA Thomas warms up rooftop of BMI’s Nashville office at the BMI Cookout. Photo: Nathan Zucker for BMI
Attendees of the BMI Cookout line dance on the rooftop of BMI’s Nashville headquarters. Photo: Nathan Zucker for BMI
BMI’s Shannon Sanders poses with 803Fresh at the BMI Cookout: Southern Soul Takeover in Nashville. Photo: Nathan Zucker for BMI
Creed Fisher Signs With Average Joes Entertainment
/by Lorie HollabaughJoe Barrick, Creed Fisher, Andrew Davis and Forrest Latta
Outlaw singer-songwriter Creed Fisher has signed with Average Joes Entertainment.
His first single with the new label, “Keep Those Wheels Rollin,’” is a raw, road-worn anthem that captures the heavy toll and quiet glory of life on the highway and those long nights, diesel-fueled drives, and the deep pull of love and home.
“‘Keep Those Wheels Rollin’ is a tribute not only to the truckers who make our country great, but to anyone who spends a lot of time out on the highway—like myself,” says Fisher. “From the hot shot drivers to the police officers who keep us safe, they all truly help make America the greatest country in the world. Keep those wheels rollin’, my friend.”
Fisher is a relentless storyteller whose music has already racked up nearly 100 million Spotify streams and close to 60 million YouTube views with his authentic sound. Raised in the rough country of West Texas, Fisher’s path to music was unique. He found his way to music after nearly a decade playing professional football, and brought that same tenacity and fire into his songwriting.
“Creed is the definition of real country music,” says Andrew Davis, SVP, Marketing, Average Joes Entertainment. “Gritty, unapologetic, and rooted in truth. His voice speaks to the heart of working-class America, and we’re honored to help amplify that message.”
“Teaming up with Creed was a no brainer,” Forrest Latta, President, Average Joes Entertainment, adds. “His brand aligns perfectly with our vision, and I can’t wait for fans to hear what’s coming.”
MusicRow Weekly (News, Charts, More…)
/by Madison HahnenThis week’s edition of The MusicRow Weekly is packed with headlines that showcase the momentum and dynamism of Nashville’s music industry, highlighting key executive appointments, exciting new entertainment ventures, and major milestones for rising stars and established icons alike. Click here to see the full edition.
Lost Highway is expanding its Nashville-based leadership team with two strategic hires. Casey Thomas has been named Vice President of Marketing, while Vincent Masino has stepped into the newly created role of Manager, Audience Development and Content Strategy.
Dolly Parton will headline a limited engagement at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, performing six shows from December 4- 13 during the National Finals Rodeo.
TKO Artist Management has promoted Eric Gundrum to Manager, and Jordan Bernal has stepped into the role of Management Coordinator. The company also welcomes Ella Bare as Executive Assistant to the President.
CBS is venturing into the world of music competition with The Road, a new reality series premiering this fall. Designed as a docu-follow, the show tracks 12 emerging musicians as they compete for a coveted spot opening for Keith Urban on tour. Joining Urban as executive producers are Blake Shelton and Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan, while Gretchen Wilson will serve as the artists’ “Tour Manager.”
Painted Horse Pictures, a division of Range Media Partners in Nashville, has begun production on its debut feature, Cowboy. The contemporary western rodeo drama is being directed by Midland’s Cameron Duddy, marking his first feature film as a director.
Big Loud artist Lauren Watkins made a dream come true on June 20 with her Grand Ole Opry debut. The Nashville native delivered heartfelt performances of her debut single “Shirley Temple” and her latest release “I’ll Get Through It,” receiving a warm and thunderous welcome from a crowd filled with friends and family.
There was also a wave of new signings this week. Owen Riegling has signed an exclusive global publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Nashville. Sony Music Publishing Nashville added two new writers to its roster: Briana Calhoun, in partnership with Kix Brooks, and Jay Webb.
Brendan Walter has inked a record deal with RECORDS Nashville and Sony Music Nashville, while Adam Sanders joined the Liz Rose Music family. Drew Trosclair also landed a new publishing deal with Electric Feel Entertainment. Curb Records artist Hannah Ellis has officially signed with the Kinkead Entertainment Agency for representation.
This week also features an insightful conversation with Spotify’s Tim Foisset.
In addition, the latest MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart is included. Nate Smith sits in the No. 1 spot for the second consecutive week with “Fix What You Didn’t Break.” 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.
WAMCon Nashville Immersive Recording Arts Conference Set For Aug. 2
/by Lorie HollabaughWAMCon Nashville, a recording arts conference hosted by Women’s Audio Mission, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing women and gender-expansive individuals in production and the recording arts, will take place at Gold Pacific Studios on Aug. 2.
Presented with Bonnaroo Works Fund and EqualizeHer, WAMCon Nashville will feature panels, mentorship, networking opportunities, giveaways and interactive workshops led by award-winning producers, engineers and artists. Tickets and more information can be found here.
Featured WAMConspeakers and mentors include:
– Cam – Grammy-winning artist and songwriter
– Joy Oladokun – Singer-songwriter
– Alex Hope – Australian producer and songwriter based in Nashville (Troye Sivan, Selena Gomez)
– Gena Johnson – 2X Grammy-winning producer/engineer (Brandi Carlile, Kacey Musgraves, Lady Gaga)
– Leslie Richter – Recording engineer/producer (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Wynonna Judd)
– Rachael Moore – Producer, mixer, and engineer (Elvis Costello, Bob Dylan)
– Piper Payne – Mastering Engineer (Dolly Parton, Janis Ian)
Now in its 14th year, WAMCon has hosted sold-out events in Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, Boston and online. Each conference offers exclusive access to top-tier music professionals, providing a rare opportunity for participants to learn, connect, and grow in an industry where women and gender-expansive individuals make up less than 5 percent of the workforce.
Zandi Holup To Release Debut Album ‘Wildflower’ In August
/by Madison HahnenZandi Holup will release her debut album, Wildflower, on August 1 via Big Loud Records.
“Wildflower is my debut album; it is the first seed I’ve sown in a garden of sounds,” shares Holup. “Its lyrics are a tangled web of roots, a cracked mirror revealing parts of who I am beneath the surface: dark, complex, with pain and curiosity lurking in the shadows.”
“I believe this record will help others understand me on a deeper level and, in turn, explore and know parts of themselves,” she continues. “It’s a diverse glimpse into my world, but only the surface of my true self. I’m a curious, odd soul with many dark thoughts, and this album is my way of sharing that. I’m genuinely excited to release this project and deeply thankful to everyone who has listened and supported me along the way. Your support means everything, and I can’t wait for you to experience the beginning of my musical journey.”
Teaming up with producer Ryan Hadlock, Holup spent a month recording at Bear Creek Studios in northwest Washington. Throughout the project’s 11 tracks, Holup combines poetry, confession and storytelling into her songwriting, filling each moment with vulnerable emotion. Holup co-wrote all 11 tracks, and collaborated with songwriters such as Ben Johnson, Mary Kutter, Paul Sikes and more.
Among the 11 tracks are recent releases “Go Find Less,” “Mountain Man,” “Dirty Wings” and “Gas Station Flowers,” as well as “Mary Jane,” released today (June 27) alongside the announcement. The track was co-penned with Daniel Leathersitch.
“’Mary Jane’ isn’t really about Mary Jane,” says Holup. “She’s a symbol, a shadow, a metaphor wearing a familiar name. I wrote this song about someone very special to me…a soul who danced in and out of heroin’s grip for fifteen years. When I met him, he was already on the long road back to recovery. His scars were stories, and his eyes told the truth before his voice even had to. The more he shared, the more my heart opened, and the song began to write itself. Let me be clear: This isn’t a sermon. This isn’t everyone’s story. This is his story through my eyes. And through him, a window for you to look through.”
Wildflower Track List:
1. “All That’s Left Is Me” (Zandi Holup, Autumn Buysse, Mary Kutter)
2. “Dirty Wings” (Zandi Holup, Chris Drizen)
3. “Go Find Less” (Zandi Holup, Brock Butler, Autumn Buysse, Ben Johnson)
4. “Wildflower” (Zandi Holup, Mike Mizwinski)
5. “Gas Station Flowers” (Zandi Holup, Stefanie Joyce, Brian Alexander)
6. “Runs In The Family” (Zandi Holup, Mary Kutter, Chris Sligh)
7. “Doing the Time” (Zandi Holup, Nate Kenyon, Paul Sikes)
8. “Cowgirls Don’t Cry” (Zandi Holup, Willie Breeding, Mary Kutter)
9. “Mountain Man” (Zandi Holup, Daniel Leathersich)
10. “Mary Jane” (Zandi Holup, Daniel Leathersich)
11. “Things I’ll Never Forget” (Zandi Holup, Mike Mizwinski)