The Academy of Country Music has announced the Special Awards, Studio Recording Awards and Songwriter of the Year Award winners.
Little Big Town, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and the late Jeff Walker, are among the recipients of Special Awards, along with legends like Glen Campbell, Crystal Gayle, the late Eddie Rabbitt, The Statler Brothers, Tanya Tucker, and Jimmy Webb.
In addition, Ross Copperman has been named Songwriter of the Year. The Studio Recording Award winners are bass player Michael Rhodes, drummer Shannon Forrest, guitar player Derek Wells, piano/keyboards player Jim “Moose” Brown, specialty instrumentalist Danny Rader, steel guitarist Paul Franklin, audio engineer Justin Niebank and producer Dave Cobb.
The Academy of Country Music Special Awards are voted on by the ACM Board of Directors for specific achievements. The Studio Recording and Songwriter of the Year Awards are voted on by specific categories of the Academy’s professional membership.
Honorees and winners will be celebrated during the 10th Annual ACM Honors, an evening dedicated to recognizing the special honorees and off-camera category winners from the 51st Academy of Country Music Awards. The event will take place in the fall at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.
SPECIAL AWARDS:
ACM LIFTING LIVES GARY HABER AWARD – Carrie Underwood has been chosen to receive the ACM Lifting Lives Gary Haber Award. This new award, named in honor of late ACM Lifting Lives Chairman Gary Haber, was created by the ACM Lifting Lives Board of Directors to recognize a country music artist or industry professional who is committed to serving others, has a generosity of spirit and shows a dedication to helping those in need.
Underwood, one of Haber’s longtime clients, was among the first artists to partner with ACM Lifting Lives, bringing much needed musical instruments to the public schools in her hometown, Checotah, Oklahoma. This year, Underwood is giving her time as a headliner for the first night of the three-day ACM Party for a Cause Festival on April 1. In addition, she has been involved with a number of charitable endeavors including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, Operation Homefront and her own C.A.T.S. Foundation, which gives back to her hometown community.
CAREER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – Glen Campbell has been chosen to receive the Career Achievement Award, which honors artists who have advanced the popularity and acceptance of country music through their endeavors in the entertainment industry in multiple areas during the preceding calendar year.
Campbell, over the course of six decades and 45 million records sold, blazed a trail as one of country music’s most diverse entertainers. His blend of country and pop sounds in the ‘60s and ‘70s resulted in the classics “Gentle on My Mind,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “Wichita Lineman,” and “Rhinestone Cowboy,” just a few of his 29 Top 10 singles. His lauded career earned 10 Academy of Country Music awards, including the 1998 Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Campbell also flourished as a first-call session guitarist, performing with the Wrecking Crew, and contributing to iconic songs by the Beach Boys (Pet Sounds album), The Righteous Brothers (“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling”) and The Monkees (“I’m a Believer”). Born the son of an Arkansas sharecropper, Campbell’s combination of talent and personality made him successful as an actor in True Grit alongside John Wayne, and as host of his popular television show, The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour.
In recent years, Campbell faced his struggle with Alzheimer’s disease head-on, launching a farewell tour and documenting it in the acclaimed 2014 film, Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me. A song featured in the documentary, “I’m Not Gonna Miss You,” was co-written by Campbell and won the 2015 Grammy Award for Best Country Song and was also nominated for Best Original Song at the 2015 Academy Awards.
CLIFFIE STONE PIONEER AWARD – Crystal Gayle, Tanya Tucker and The Statler Brothers have been chosen to receive the Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award honoring individuals who are pioneers in the country music genre.
Crystal Gayle
Gayle traversed new territory as the first female country artist to achieve platinum album sales with her 1977 project We Must Believe in Magic, containing her crossover smash “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue.” The Kentucky native and younger sister of Loretta Lynn has been connecting with fans of country-pop for five decades, starting with the release of her debut single in 1970. Often working with hit-making producer Allen Reynolds, Gayle scored 20 No. 1 country hits during the 1970s and ‘80s, including “You Never Miss a Real Good Thing (Till He Says Goodbye),” “I’ll Get Over You,” and “Talking in Your Sleep.” She toured worldwide and starred in several prime-time television specials. In total, Gayle’s career yielded six gold albums and four ACM Awards.
The Statler Brothers
The Statler Brothers were a pioneering quartet comprised of Harold Reid, Don Reid, Phil Balsley, original member Lew DeWitt—and later member Jimmy Fortune. The Virginia natives intertwined gospel-inspired harmonies with country songs, getting their professional break in 1964 as Johnny Cash’s backing vocalists and opening act. This launched a career that would yield numerous hits in the 1960s through 1980s, including “Flowers on the Wall,” “Bed of Rose’s,” “Do You Know You Are My Sunshine?,” “Elizabeth,” “My Only Love” and “Too Much on My Heart.” Many of their signature songs were helmed by producer Jerry Kennedy. The Statlers often used humor in their music and performances, leading to frequent appearances on Cash’s popular television show and their own successful program on The Nashville Network (TNN) in the early to mid-1990s. The Statlers garnered two ACM Awards and 2008 induction to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Tanya Tucker
Since the release of her debut single, “Delta Dawn,” at age 13, Tucker has been influencing generations of female artists. The 1972 hit, under the guidance of legendary producer Billy Sherrill, was the first in Tucker’s string of 56 Top 40 singles, including 10 No. 1s. Boosting her success was her willingness to address difficult topics, such as adultery and revenge in the song “Blood Red and Goin’ Down.” During the ‘70s and ‘80s, Tucker scored with “Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone),” “Texas (When I Die),” “Can I See You Tonight,” and “One Love at a Time.” The 1990s marked a professional high-point for Tucker, thanks to memorable songs “Two Sparrows in a Hurricane,” “Down to My Last Teardrop,” and “It’s a Little Too Late.” Tucker is the recipient of two ACM Awards. Today, more than 50 years since her first record deal, she is still actively touring and making music.
CRYSTAL MILESTONE AWARD – Little Big Town has been chosen to receive the Crystal Milestone Award, which is given to an artist or industry leader to commemorate a specific, remarkable achievement.
Little Big Town, the reigning ACM Vocal Group of the Year, enticed listeners with “Girl Crush,” a double-platinum single they performed on last year’s ACM Awards, the Billboard Music Awards, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, the Grammy Awards, the Grand Ole Opry and Late Night With Jimmy Kimmel. Despite some initial controversy and confusion over the subject matter, the smoldering single told through the eyes of a jilted lover grew to become the most downloaded country song in 2015. “Girl Crush” held the top spot of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for 13 consecutive weeks, setting the longest run in the top spot for a group since the Browns’ 10-week run in 1959 with “The Three Bells.” The single’s success helped Little Big Town earn its 10th nomination this year in the ACM Vocal Group of the Year category.
Jeff Walker
JIM REEVES INTERNATIONAL AWARD – Jeff Walker (awarded posthumously) has been chosen to receive the Jim Reeves International Award, which is presented to an artist or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the acceptance of country music throughout the world.
Australian native Jeff Walker greatly impacted the international reach of country music, advocating on behalf of foreign-born artists as well as working to expose country artists overseas. He moved to Nashville in 1974 and established his marketing and promotions firm in 1980. Over the next 35 years, the company became known as The AristoMedia Group/Marco Music Group, and grew to encompass divisions offering publicity, web development, radio promotion, video promotion and label/distribution services. An active member of the Music Row community, Walker served on the boards of the Country Radio Broadcasters, the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music. Walker passed away on Aug. 24, 2015 at age 65.
MAE BOREN AXTON AWARD – Keith Urban has been chosen as the recipient of the Mae Boren Axton Award, which is given to an outstanding individual recognizing years of dedication and service to the Academy of Country Music.
Keith Urban kept his Fuse burning in 2015, as that gold-certified album sparked a fifth hit single in “Raise ‘Em Up.” The Grammy-nominated anthem—which opened the live 50th ACM Awards—carried Urban and Eric Church to the top of the country airplay chart. The good-natured Australian also mentored aspiring talent on American Idol and attended the opening of a spotlight exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum about his career.
Urban has given his time, talent and support to both the Academy of Country Music and ACM Lifting Lives, proving to be a great friend and advocate for both organizations for years. Since his first appearance on the ACM Awards in 2001, Urban has performed or presented on every show since then, with the exception of 2007. Following the final season of American Idol, Urban will kick off his latest world tour of arenas and amphitheaters in June.
POET’S AWARD – Eddie Rabbitt (awarded posthumously) and Jimmy Webb have been chosen to receive the Poet’s Award, which honors songwriters for outstanding musical and/or lyrical contributions throughout their careers in the field of country music.
Rabbitt scored country/pop crossover success starting in 1979 with hits “I Love a Rainy Night,” “Drivin’ My Life Away,” “Every Which Way But Loose” and “Suspicions.” His career began in the late 1960s as a professional songwriter who penned Elvis Presley’s “Kentucky Rain” and Ronnie Milsap’s “Pure Love.” While working to build his career as an artist, Rabbitt opened for Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Rabbitt also recorded duets with Juice Newton (“Both to Each Other (Friends and Lovers)”) and fellow 2016 ACM honoree Crystal Gayle (“You and I”). Rabbitt is an ACM Award winner and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee. He died May 7, 1998 at age 56
The remarkable career of songwriter Jimmy Webb began in 1965, crossing numerous genres and sales milestones. He is the pen behind platinum-selling classics recorded by multiple artists. “Up, Up and Away” was recorded by The 5th Dimension, Nancy Sinatra and Diana Ross & The Supremes. “MacArthur Park” was recorded by Waylon Jennings, Dionne Warwick, Donna Summer and Glen Campbell. Webb and fellow 2016 ACM Special Award honoree Campbell had a particularly fruitful professional relationship, resulting in the hits “Wichita Lineman,” “Galveston,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” and others. Among the stellar artists who have recorded or performed Webb’s compositions are Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Judy Collins, Isaac Hayes, Art Garfunkel, Linda Ronstadt and Carly Simon. Webb is a member of both the Songwriters Hall of Fame in New York, and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. More than fifty years into his career, Webb still performs regularly.
Photo: Jeff Lipsky/NBC
TEX RITTER AWARD – As previously announced, Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors has been chosen as the recipient of the Tex Ritter Award, which is given to recognize a movie released receiving significant exposure that featured or utilized country music, during the preceding calendar year. This award will be presented to Dolly Parton during the live 51st Academy of Country Music Awards telecast on April 3.
Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors aired on NBC in 2015, inspiring millions of viewers with its story of faith and family. Set in 1955 in the Great Smoky Mountains, the film showcases a poignant time in Parton’s childhood, as her family struggles with loss, grapples with religion, and ultimately triumphs with the healing power of love. The movie was watched by more than 16 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched TV movies of all time.
SESAC Signs Michael Tyler
/by Troy_StephensonPictured (L-R): SESAC’s Shannan Hatch, Tyler, Music Knox’s Shalacy Griffin, SESAC’s Dennis Lord and peermusic/Music Knox’s Michael Knox.
Photo: Peyton Hoge
SESAC announced today (March 29) the signing of singer/songwriter Michael Tyler for representation. Tyler, a Thayer, Missouri, native, has written songs that have been recorded by such superstar artists as Jason Aldean, LoCash and Dierks Bentley.
Tyler is signed with peermusic publishing and Reviver Music, and will have a single out this summer.
ACM Announces Special Awards, Studio Recording Awards, and Songwriter of the Year Honor
/by Jessica NicholsonThe Academy of Country Music has announced the Special Awards, Studio Recording Awards and Songwriter of the Year Award winners.
Little Big Town, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and the late Jeff Walker, are among the recipients of Special Awards, along with legends like Glen Campbell, Crystal Gayle, the late Eddie Rabbitt, The Statler Brothers, Tanya Tucker, and Jimmy Webb.
In addition, Ross Copperman has been named Songwriter of the Year. The Studio Recording Award winners are bass player Michael Rhodes, drummer Shannon Forrest, guitar player Derek Wells, piano/keyboards player Jim “Moose” Brown, specialty instrumentalist Danny Rader, steel guitarist Paul Franklin, audio engineer Justin Niebank and producer Dave Cobb.
The Academy of Country Music Special Awards are voted on by the ACM Board of Directors for specific achievements. The Studio Recording and Songwriter of the Year Awards are voted on by specific categories of the Academy’s professional membership.
Honorees and winners will be celebrated during the 10th Annual ACM Honors, an evening dedicated to recognizing the special honorees and off-camera category winners from the 51st Academy of Country Music Awards. The event will take place in the fall at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.
SPECIAL AWARDS:
ACM LIFTING LIVES GARY HABER AWARD – Carrie Underwood has been chosen to receive the ACM Lifting Lives Gary Haber Award. This new award, named in honor of late ACM Lifting Lives Chairman Gary Haber, was created by the ACM Lifting Lives Board of Directors to recognize a country music artist or industry professional who is committed to serving others, has a generosity of spirit and shows a dedication to helping those in need.
Underwood, one of Haber’s longtime clients, was among the first artists to partner with ACM Lifting Lives, bringing much needed musical instruments to the public schools in her hometown, Checotah, Oklahoma. This year, Underwood is giving her time as a headliner for the first night of the three-day ACM Party for a Cause Festival on April 1. In addition, she has been involved with a number of charitable endeavors including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, Operation Homefront and her own C.A.T.S. Foundation, which gives back to her hometown community.
CAREER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – Glen Campbell has been chosen to receive the Career Achievement Award, which honors artists who have advanced the popularity and acceptance of country music through their endeavors in the entertainment industry in multiple areas during the preceding calendar year.
Campbell, over the course of six decades and 45 million records sold, blazed a trail as one of country music’s most diverse entertainers. His blend of country and pop sounds in the ‘60s and ‘70s resulted in the classics “Gentle on My Mind,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “Wichita Lineman,” and “Rhinestone Cowboy,” just a few of his 29 Top 10 singles. His lauded career earned 10 Academy of Country Music awards, including the 1998 Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Campbell also flourished as a first-call session guitarist, performing with the Wrecking Crew, and contributing to iconic songs by the Beach Boys (Pet Sounds album), The Righteous Brothers (“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling”) and The Monkees (“I’m a Believer”). Born the son of an Arkansas sharecropper, Campbell’s combination of talent and personality made him successful as an actor in True Grit alongside John Wayne, and as host of his popular television show, The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour.
In recent years, Campbell faced his struggle with Alzheimer’s disease head-on, launching a farewell tour and documenting it in the acclaimed 2014 film, Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me. A song featured in the documentary, “I’m Not Gonna Miss You,” was co-written by Campbell and won the 2015 Grammy Award for Best Country Song and was also nominated for Best Original Song at the 2015 Academy Awards.
CLIFFIE STONE PIONEER AWARD – Crystal Gayle, Tanya Tucker and The Statler Brothers have been chosen to receive the Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award honoring individuals who are pioneers in the country music genre.
Crystal Gayle
Gayle traversed new territory as the first female country artist to achieve platinum album sales with her 1977 project We Must Believe in Magic, containing her crossover smash “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue.” The Kentucky native and younger sister of Loretta Lynn has been connecting with fans of country-pop for five decades, starting with the release of her debut single in 1970. Often working with hit-making producer Allen Reynolds, Gayle scored 20 No. 1 country hits during the 1970s and ‘80s, including “You Never Miss a Real Good Thing (Till He Says Goodbye),” “I’ll Get Over You,” and “Talking in Your Sleep.” She toured worldwide and starred in several prime-time television specials. In total, Gayle’s career yielded six gold albums and four ACM Awards.
The Statler Brothers
The Statler Brothers were a pioneering quartet comprised of Harold Reid, Don Reid, Phil Balsley, original member Lew DeWitt—and later member Jimmy Fortune. The Virginia natives intertwined gospel-inspired harmonies with country songs, getting their professional break in 1964 as Johnny Cash’s backing vocalists and opening act. This launched a career that would yield numerous hits in the 1960s through 1980s, including “Flowers on the Wall,” “Bed of Rose’s,” “Do You Know You Are My Sunshine?,” “Elizabeth,” “My Only Love” and “Too Much on My Heart.” Many of their signature songs were helmed by producer Jerry Kennedy. The Statlers often used humor in their music and performances, leading to frequent appearances on Cash’s popular television show and their own successful program on The Nashville Network (TNN) in the early to mid-1990s. The Statlers garnered two ACM Awards and 2008 induction to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Tanya Tucker
Since the release of her debut single, “Delta Dawn,” at age 13, Tucker has been influencing generations of female artists. The 1972 hit, under the guidance of legendary producer Billy Sherrill, was the first in Tucker’s string of 56 Top 40 singles, including 10 No. 1s. Boosting her success was her willingness to address difficult topics, such as adultery and revenge in the song “Blood Red and Goin’ Down.” During the ‘70s and ‘80s, Tucker scored with “Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone),” “Texas (When I Die),” “Can I See You Tonight,” and “One Love at a Time.” The 1990s marked a professional high-point for Tucker, thanks to memorable songs “Two Sparrows in a Hurricane,” “Down to My Last Teardrop,” and “It’s a Little Too Late.” Tucker is the recipient of two ACM Awards. Today, more than 50 years since her first record deal, she is still actively touring and making music.
CRYSTAL MILESTONE AWARD – Little Big Town has been chosen to receive the Crystal Milestone Award, which is given to an artist or industry leader to commemorate a specific, remarkable achievement.
Little Big Town, the reigning ACM Vocal Group of the Year, enticed listeners with “Girl Crush,” a double-platinum single they performed on last year’s ACM Awards, the Billboard Music Awards, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, the Grammy Awards, the Grand Ole Opry and Late Night With Jimmy Kimmel. Despite some initial controversy and confusion over the subject matter, the smoldering single told through the eyes of a jilted lover grew to become the most downloaded country song in 2015. “Girl Crush” held the top spot of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for 13 consecutive weeks, setting the longest run in the top spot for a group since the Browns’ 10-week run in 1959 with “The Three Bells.” The single’s success helped Little Big Town earn its 10th nomination this year in the ACM Vocal Group of the Year category.
Jeff Walker
JIM REEVES INTERNATIONAL AWARD – Jeff Walker (awarded posthumously) has been chosen to receive the Jim Reeves International Award, which is presented to an artist or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the acceptance of country music throughout the world.
Australian native Jeff Walker greatly impacted the international reach of country music, advocating on behalf of foreign-born artists as well as working to expose country artists overseas. He moved to Nashville in 1974 and established his marketing and promotions firm in 1980. Over the next 35 years, the company became known as The AristoMedia Group/Marco Music Group, and grew to encompass divisions offering publicity, web development, radio promotion, video promotion and label/distribution services. An active member of the Music Row community, Walker served on the boards of the Country Radio Broadcasters, the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music. Walker passed away on Aug. 24, 2015 at age 65.
MAE BOREN AXTON AWARD – Keith Urban has been chosen as the recipient of the Mae Boren Axton Award, which is given to an outstanding individual recognizing years of dedication and service to the Academy of Country Music.
Keith Urban kept his Fuse burning in 2015, as that gold-certified album sparked a fifth hit single in “Raise ‘Em Up.” The Grammy-nominated anthem—which opened the live 50th ACM Awards—carried Urban and Eric Church to the top of the country airplay chart. The good-natured Australian also mentored aspiring talent on American Idol and attended the opening of a spotlight exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum about his career.
Urban has given his time, talent and support to both the Academy of Country Music and ACM Lifting Lives, proving to be a great friend and advocate for both organizations for years. Since his first appearance on the ACM Awards in 2001, Urban has performed or presented on every show since then, with the exception of 2007. Following the final season of American Idol, Urban will kick off his latest world tour of arenas and amphitheaters in June.
Rabbitt scored country/pop crossover success starting in 1979 with hits “I Love a Rainy Night,” “Drivin’ My Life Away,” “Every Which Way But Loose” and “Suspicions.” His career began in the late 1960s as a professional songwriter who penned Elvis Presley’s “Kentucky Rain” and Ronnie Milsap’s “Pure Love.” While working to build his career as an artist, Rabbitt opened for Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Rabbitt also recorded duets with Juice Newton (“Both to Each Other (Friends and Lovers)”) and fellow 2016 ACM honoree Crystal Gayle (“You and I”). Rabbitt is an ACM Award winner and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee. He died May 7, 1998 at age 56
The remarkable career of songwriter Jimmy Webb began in 1965, crossing numerous genres and sales milestones. He is the pen behind platinum-selling classics recorded by multiple artists. “Up, Up and Away” was recorded by The 5th Dimension, Nancy Sinatra and Diana Ross & The Supremes. “MacArthur Park” was recorded by Waylon Jennings, Dionne Warwick, Donna Summer and Glen Campbell. Webb and fellow 2016 ACM Special Award honoree Campbell had a particularly fruitful professional relationship, resulting in the hits “Wichita Lineman,” “Galveston,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” and others. Among the stellar artists who have recorded or performed Webb’s compositions are Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Judy Collins, Isaac Hayes, Art Garfunkel, Linda Ronstadt and Carly Simon. Webb is a member of both the Songwriters Hall of Fame in New York, and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. More than fifty years into his career, Webb still performs regularly.
Photo: Jeff Lipsky/NBC
TEX RITTER AWARD – As previously announced, Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors has been chosen as the recipient of the Tex Ritter Award, which is given to recognize a movie released receiving significant exposure that featured or utilized country music, during the preceding calendar year. This award will be presented to Dolly Parton during the live 51st Academy of Country Music Awards telecast on April 3.
Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors aired on NBC in 2015, inspiring millions of viewers with its story of faith and family. Set in 1955 in the Great Smoky Mountains, the film showcases a poignant time in Parton’s childhood, as her family struggles with loss, grapples with religion, and ultimately triumphs with the healing power of love. The movie was watched by more than 16 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched TV movies of all time.
Ryman Hospitality Properties Hit With Email Scam
/by Jessica NicholsonNashville’s Ryman Hospitality Properties, parent company for The Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and WSM-AM, was the victim of an email spoofing scam earlier this month.
Internal communication was sent to employees informing them that confidential W-2 information for 2015 was breached on March 23. The data included names, addresses, tax rates and Social Security numbers, as well as income earned from Opry performances in 2015 for some musicians. The Opry stated that the data did not include bank account records or account passwords. This incident only affects employees’ information and does not affect customers.
Ryman Hospitality Properties provided the following statement to MusicRow regarding the event:
Three Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductees Revealed
/by Craig_Shelburne2016 Country Music Hall of Fame inductees Fred Foster, Charlie Daniels and Randy Travis. Photo: John Russell/CMA
Charlie Daniels, Randy Travis and Fred Foster are the latest inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The announcement was made on Tuesday morning (March 29) at a private event held inside the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s rotunda. Daniels will enter in the Veterans Era category, while Travis will join in the Modern Era category.
Travis notched 30 Top 10 hits between 1986 and 2009, including modern classics like “Forever and Ever, Amen,” “Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart” and “Three Wooden Crosses.” He was the 1987 and 1988 CMA Male Vocalist of the Year. Lee recounted Travis’ rise from washing dishes to becoming a country star. She choked up while introducing Travis, who has recovered from health issues enough to walk to the podium with his wife, Mary. Travis is 56 years old and spoke a few words, then his wife spoke eloquently on his behalf.
Daniels moved to Nashville in 1967 and worked as a session guitarist on projects like Bob Dylan’s Nashville Skyline. As a recording artist, he entered the country chart in 1973 with “Uneasy Rider.” However, his true breakthrough arrived with the 1979 smash single, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” His fiddle playing is also a centerpiece of his shows. Admitting his nerves while at the podium, Daniels did thank his family, friends, and God for the honor. A road warrior for his whole career, Daniels is 79 years old and insisted that he has no interest in retiring.
Foster was selected in the Non-Performer category. He was cited for his contributions to the careers of Jimmy Dean, Kris Kristofferson and Dolly Parton. He signed Roy Orbison to Monument Records, a label he started in 1958, and produced all of his classic hits. He also signed Parton to Monument, as well as his pioneering publishing company, Combine Music. Foster also signed Kristofferson to Combine and shares a writing credit with him on “Me and Bobby McGee.” Foster is 84 years old and stated that he would like to keep working.
CMA CEO Sarah Trahern and Brenda Lee with inductees Charlie Daniels, Randy Travis and Fred Foster at CMA’s 2016 Country Music Hall of Fame Inductees announcement on Tuesday, March 29 at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville. Photo: John Russell/CMA
All three inductees are North Carolina natives.
Inductees will be formally inducted later this year in the CMA Theatre. Brenda Lee introduced the inductees. Remarks were also provided by Kyle Young, Director of the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Sarah Trahern, CEO of CMA.
Country Music Hall of Fame inductees Bobby Bare, Joe Bonsall, Bonnie Brown, William Lee Golden, Jo Walker-Meador were in attendance.
Dierks Bentley Reveals Release Date And Track Listing For ‘Black’
/by Eric T. ParkerDierks Bentley has revealed the release date (May 27), as well as the track listing (below) for his forthcoming, eighth studio album, Black.
The 13-track Capitol Records Nashville project features special guest vocalists Elle King, Maren Morris, Natalie Hemby, Hillary Lindsey, Jessi Alexander and Trombone Shorty. It is available for digital pre-order on Friday (April 1).
Bentley dedicates the title to his wife Cassidy’s maiden name for the album, which explores breakups, hookups, mess-ups and everything in between.
“It’s a relationship album that covers the ups and downs of the journey and ends with some self-realization and evolvement,” shared Bentley. “The song ‘Black’ helps set all of that in motion at the top of the album by guiding you into the darkness and the shadows of the night. The same guy who sings ‘Somewhere on a Beach’ winds up growing and having enough perspective to sing something introspective like ‘Different for Girls.’ By the last song, he’s taking a look back on love and life.”
As previously reported, the project is produced by Ross Copperman and executive produced by Arturo Buenahora Jr.
The forthcoming album’s single “Somewhere On A Beach” lands at No. 6 this past week on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Chart.
This week Bentley is in Las Vegas preparing for his first-ever co-hosting duties at the 51st Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards on Sunday (April 3) at 7 p.m. CT on CBS. He is nominated for Male Vocalist of The Year and Video of The Year. Bentley will set out on his 2016 Somewhere On A Beach Tour with Randy Houser, Cam and Tucker Beathard on May 12 in Holmdel, New Jersey, following a string of dates overseas.
BLACK Track List
1. “Black”
2. “Pick Up”
3. “I’ll Be The Moon” (feat. Maren Morris)
4. “What The Hell Did I Say”
5. “Somewhere On A Beach”
6. “Freedom”
7. “Why Do I Feel”
8. “Roses And A Time Machine”
9. “All The Way to Me”
10. “Different for Girls” (feat. Elle King)
11. “Mardi Gras” (feat. Trombone Shorty)
12. “Light It Up”
13. “Can’t Be Replaced”
Weekly Register: Kane Brown, Bobby Bones, ‘Southern Family’ Make Top 5 Debuts
/by Jessica NicholsonDebuts make the headlines this week in the top country albums rankings. New RCA Nashville signing Kane Brown debuted at No. 9 on the overall album rankings, and No. 3 on the country chart, with Chapter 1 (28k, 22k album only).
Joey+Rory‘s Hymns collection remains at No. 1 on the country album rankings (27k, album only), followed by Chris Stapleton‘s million-seller Traveller (26k this week, album only).
The rest of the top 5 is rounded out by three debuts, including Brown, Bobby Bones And The Raging Idiots at No. 4 (11k, album only), and the Dave Cobb-produced Southern Family (11k, album only). William Michael Morgan‘s latest EP, featuring his single “I Met a Girl,” landed at No. 28, with 1.8k sold.
Bobby Bones and the Raging Idiots
Gwen Stefani take the top overall album position this week with This Is What The Truth Feels Like (84k). Notably, Passion: New Orleans soundtrack (featuring Trisha Yearwood, among others) comes in at No. 8 on the overall albums chart, with 31k sold (28k album only).
Overall album sales are down 16.9 percent from last year, while overall digital album sales are down 24.4 percent from last year. Country album sales have decreased 4 percent from this time last year, while country digital album sales are down 13.1 percent.
Tim McGraw‘s “Humble and Kind” tops the digital country tracks chart, with 35k sold, followed by Maren Morris’ “My Church” (31k), Blake Shelton‘s “Came Here To Forget” (31k), Dierks Bentley‘s “Somewhere on a Beach” (28k), and Cole Swindell‘s “You Should Be Here” (27k).
Kane Brown also lands the highest debut country track this week, with “There Goes My Everything” selling 22k, and landing at No. 8 country and No. 35 in the overall rankings.
Meghan Trainor‘s “No” is at No. 1 on the overall digital tracks rankings, with 128k.
Overall, digital tracks sales are down 26.1 percent, while country track sales have decreased 22.1 percent over last year.
Information provided by Nielsen Soundscan
Steven Tyler Signs With WME
/by Jessica NicholsonSteven Tyler
Steven Tyler has signed with William Morris Endeavor (WME), MusicRow has confirmed. Tyler was previously with CAA.
After releasing 15 albums as part of rock band Aerosmith, Tyler’s first solo country album will release this year on Dot Records/Big Machine. The project includes the single “Love Is Your Name,” penned by Eric Paslay and Lindsey Lee, as well as “Red, White and You,” written by Tyler along with Nathan Barlowe, Levi Hummon, and Jon Vella.
Aerosmith will continue to be represented by Paradigm.
Tyler is managed by Rebecca Lambrecht Warfield and Larry Rudolph at Maverick.
Ticketing Company Eventbrite To Triple Space In Cummins Station
/by Jessica NicholsonThe company has been adding to its team in Nashville, which includes more than 100 staffers.
“Since first opening our doors in Nashville two years ago, we’ve found Music City to be home to tremendous tech and support talent,” said Matt Rosenberg, Chief Revenue Officer at Eventbrite. “We look forward expanding our presence in Nashville and bringing on-board the great sales talent that the city has to offer.”
Eventbrite has processed more than $5 billion in gross ticket sales, and serves a broad range of customers including music festivals, marathons, conferences, art shows, sporting events, and food and drink events. In 2015, Eventbrite supported more than two million events in more than 180 countries, and processed more than 100 million tickets.
Eventbrite has offices in San Francisco, Nashville, Mendoza, Sao Paulo, Berlin, Melbourne, Dublin and London.
Eric Paslay Gets ‘Dressed In Black’ For Sophomore Release
/by Jessica NicholsonEric Paslay. Photo: Joseph Llanes
EMI Records Nashville artist Eric Paslay is gearing up to release his sophomore album Dressed In Black. Paslay co-wrote all 12 of the album’s tracks including the first single “High Class.” The album is expected to be released this summer, although a release date has not yet been announced.
The project, produced by Marshall Altman, follows Paslay’s self-titled debut album which produced “Friday Night,” “Song About A Girl,” and “She Don’t Love You.”
Paslay says, “I’m grateful that we are getting to celebrate some life in another album. I always strive for, as an artist and musician, something that lasts. Not just popular now. It’s not just something on a page, but it somehow finds you in a restaurant, or on a dance floor, or in your car alone that makes you go ‘what is that?’”
1. “Angels In This Town” (Eric Paslay, Corey Crowder, Erik Dylan)
2. “All Or Nothin’” (Eric Paslay, Skip Black, Matt Nolen)
3. “Takin’ My Heartbeat Higher” (Eric Paslay, Sarah Buxton, Zach Crowell)
4. “High Class” (Eric Paslay, Corey Crowder, Jesse Frasure)
5. “Dressed In Black” (Eric Paslay, Ross Copperman, Jaren Johnston)
6. “Let You In My Heart” (Eric Paslay, Dylan Altman)
7. “Pretty Girl Fly” (Eric Paslay, Ross Copperman, Jon Nite)
8. “Backstage Pass” (Eric Paslay, Jessi Alexander, Liz Rose)
9. “Fall Apart” (Eric Paslay, Natalie Hemby)
10. “Water Into Wine” (Eric Paslay, Tom Shapiro, Neil Thrasher)
11. “Sun” (Eric Paslay, Nathan Chapman)
12. “Wild And Young” (Eric Paslay, Chris Wallin)
Watch the making of Dressed In Black Below:
Artist Updates: Bobby Bones And The Raging Idiots, Chris Stapleton, Kristian Bush, Allie Louise
/by Jessica NicholsonBobby Bones And The Raging Idiots Make Grand Ole Opry Debut
Bobby Bones And The Raging Idiots, the comedy group composed of Bobby Bones and Producer Eddie from iHeartMedia’s The Bobby Bones Show, made their Grand Ole Opry debut on Friday, March 25.
Pictured (L-R): Gordon Kerr, CEO, Black River Entertainment; Producer Eddie, Bobby Bones; Pete Fisher, VP, Grand Ole Opry.
Chris Stapleton To Play Lollapalooza
Chris Stapleton’s touring schedule keeps getting busier. The singer-songwriter just added a performance slot for Lollapalooza on Saturday, July 30 in Chicago.
Stapleton joins the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ellie Goulding, J. Cole, Radiohead, LCD Soundsystem, Lana Del Ray and more to play the four-day annual festival.
Lollapalooza will be held from July 28-31, with 170 acts performing in Grant Park. For more information on Lollapalooza, visit Lollapalooza.com.
Chris Stapleton
Kristian Bush Pens Songs For ‘Troubadour’
Kristian Bush has composed a set of original songs for Janece Shaffer‘s play Troubadour, which will stage its premiere at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta on Jan. 18-Feb. 12, 2017.
A romantic comedy set in 1950s Nashville, Troubadour follows the son of a country music legend who joins forces with a singer-songwriter and a rodeo tailor to carry on his father’s legacy.
Allie Louise Appears On Nashville Today
Sixth Beat Productions’ Allie Louise celebrated the release of “Stilettos” with WSM-AM Nashville Today hosts Nan Kelley and Devon O’Day. The track from her debut self-titled EP was written by Lindsey Lee, Rachel Proctor and Victoria Banks, and produced by Eddie Gore in Nashville. The singer is scheduled to embark on the second leg of her radio tour Sunday, April 3.
Jerry Duncan Promotions is spearheading the radio promotion campaign.
Pictured (L-R): Tim Riley, Industry Consultant; Nan Kelley, 650 AM WSM; Allie Louise; Devon O’Day, 650 AM WSM.