Adam James Inks With Sony Music Publishing Nashville

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Pictured (L-R, back row): Jaxon Snipes, Anna Weisband, Taylor Ratkovich, Bella Messina, Synnovea Halsel and Rusty Gaston; (L-R, front row): Adam James and Aubrey Landon

Adam James has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing Nashville.

James has written songs for Luke Combs, Dierks Bentley, Nate Smith and more. Most recently, he co-wrote four songs on Cody Johnson’s CMA Album of the Year-winning Leather, including “Whiskey Bent” featuring Jelly Roll and “C’mon Cowgirl.”

He also co-wrote Kenny Chesney’s No. 1 hit “Knowing You,” which earned a Song of the Year nomination at the 2022 ACM Awards.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity to be at Sony Music Publishing,” says James. “The energy I feel from the team when I walk through the door every day is truly inspiring. I’m sincerely fired up to work with all y’all. It also makes me super happy to know my songs will be hanging out with Roger Miller’s and Dennis Linde’s on a massive cloud storage database somewhere. Dreams do come true!”

“Adam is one of the most exceptional songwriters in this town,” adds Aubrey Landon, Senior Director, Creative A&R, Sony Music Publishing Nashville. “He is carrying the torch for country music and is the kind of writer that can make you laugh, cry and feel emotion in his writing. I’m incredibly grateful and excited to start this creative journey with him!”

Lakelin Lemmings Signs With The Kinkead Entertainment Agency

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Pictured (L-R): Greg Scott (President Head of Live Performance, Kinkead Agency); Remi Heitzman (Executive Assistant to Bob Kinkead and Administrator Manager); Bob Kinkead (Bob Kinkead Co-CEO); Tina Hill (Manager, QHMG/ BSB Management); QHMG / Quartz Hill Records artist Lakelin Lemmings; Julie Devereux (Co-CEO Head of Film/TV, Kinkead Agency); Ash Bowers (Executive Vice President, QHMG); Mark Oliverius (Agent, Kinkead Agency) and Mykal Duncan (Administrative Assistant, Kinkead Agency).

QHMG/Quartz Hill Records artist Lakelin Lemmings has inked with The Kinkead Entertainment Agency for exclusive global booking.

“We’re excited to welcome Lakelin Lemmings to The Kinkead Entertainment Agency’s boutique roster,” says Co-Founder and CEO of The Kinkead Entertainment Agency, Bob Kinkead. “I saw her perform in front of a jaded music industry audience mixed in with invited guests. Lakelin delivered at the highest level with the stage presence of a superstar; she has an incredible voice and a genuine passion for connecting with fans, making the audience want more. Lakelin has all the ingredients to build a long and successful career. We’re looking forward to helping expand her touring business across the country and around the world.”

Lakelin is preparing to release her self-titled 16-track debut album this Friday (July 24). The project highlights the West Tennessee native’s mix of modern country, honest storytelling and youthful perspective, led by her current radio single, “Get Around Boy.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with Team Lakelin and help elevate her career to the top,” shares Greg Scott, President of The Kinkead Entertainment Agency.

Known for her energetic live shows and strong stage presence, Lakelin is quickly making a name for herself in Nashville. With authentic songwriting, a growing fan base, and undeniable charisma, she continues to emerge as one of country music’s rising stars.

“Finding the right partners has been incredibly important as we’ve built this next chapter of Lakelin’s career,” says QHMG Executive Vice President Ash Bowers. “Bob, Greg, and the entire Kinkead team understand not only who Lakelin is as an artist today, but where she is headed. Their passion for developing careers and creating meaningful touring opportunities makes them an ideal fit as we launch this debut album.”

“This is a dream partnership for me,” adds Lemmings. “I’ve always believed the best way to connect with people is through live music, and I’m so excited to work with everyone at Kinkead as we take these songs on the road. I can’t wait to meet fans in cities across the country and beyond.”

Johnny Cash’s Personal Archives Find Permanent Home At Belmont University

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Photo: Courtesy of Belmont University

A collection of Johnny Cash’s personal archive will be permanently housed at Belmont University, in a partnership among the Cash family, the John R. Cash Revocable Trust and Belmont.

The collection will anchor a new Johnny Cash Learning Center at the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business’s forthcoming Music Row building. The $8.6 million acquisition was made possible in part through the support of Scott and Sandi Borchetta, Mike and Linda Curb and the Harper House Music Foundation.

“We are thrilled that our father’s archive has found a home at Belmont University. An enormous body of his work, including unpublished writings, will now be available for scholars and students to more intimately connect with the foundational elements of his artistry for years to come,” says the Cash family.

The archives span Cash’s life and career. Belmont will undertake a digitization process to catalog and preserve this collection ahead of the Cash Learning Center’s opening. The effort will be led by Dr. Mary Ellen Pethel, who will serve as director of the Johnny Cash Learning Center, in partnership with Belmont University Special Collections.

“There is no parallel for what this means for our students and scholars,” shares Brittany Schaffer, Dean, Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business. “Direct access to the personal papers and lyrics of one of the most important artists in American history is something most institutions can only dream of. The Johnny Cash Learning Center will be a place where his story is not just preserved but experienced.”

“As Trustee, it’s been an honor and pleasure to work with the family to find a home for this archive,” adds Catherine Sullivan, John R. Cash Revocable Trust. “As a lifelong resident of Nashville, Tennessee, I’m proud to know that generations of Belmont students will be able to study Johnny’s legacy.”

Colton Dawson Signs With WME

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Pictured (L-R): WME’s Ryan Hofstetter, Colton Dawson, TKO Artist Management’s Jordan Bernal and WME’s Barry Jeffrey. Photo: Courtesy of WME

Colton Dawson has signed with WME.

Dawson first garnered attention after an appearance opening for Clay Walker at his sold-out show at the Ryman Auditorium, where Dawson received two standing ovations performing with only his guitar. He has since opened for Lainey Wilson, Cole Swindell, Braxton Keith, Jake Worthington and Josh Turner. Drawing inspiration from Merle Haggard, Keith Whitley, Randy Travis and Vince Gill, Dawson recently signed with Warner Records Nashville and is managed by TKO Artist Management.

“Colton has a voice and presence that immediately grabs your attention,” says WME’s Barry Jeffrey. “There’s an authenticity to what he does that feels deeply rooted in country music while still connecting with a new generation of fans. We’re excited to be part of what’s ahead.”

“Signing with WME is a huge milestone for me,” adds Dawson. “I grew up loving country music and dreaming about playing these kinds of stages, so to now have a team that believes in what I’m building means the world. I’m ready to get out there and keep earning it every night.”

The Arizona native has released three new tracks over the past few months, “Might Be In It,” “It’s Gonna Rain” and “Piece of Heaven” and is slated to release more music soon.

Kierra Sheard, J Drew Sheard II, Kerry Douglas & More Honored At BMI’s 2026 Trailblazers Of Gospel Music Awards

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Pictured (L-R): Mike O’Neill, CEO of BMI, Catherine Brewton, VP of Creative, BMI Atlanta, Kierra Sheard, 2026 BMI Impact Award recipient, Wardell Malloy, Assistant VP of Creative, BMI Atlanta and Mike Steinberg, BMI, EVP, Chief Revenue & Creative Officer. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for BMI)

The 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards, held yesterday (July 21) at BMI’s Nashville office, honored Kierra Sheard, J Drew Sheard II, Kerry Douglas and more for their contributions to Gospel music over the last year.

Kierra Sheard received the BMI Impact Award in recognition of her impact on the future of gospel music. Sheard was also honored as BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Year in a three-way tie with her brother J Drew Sheard II and Douglas.

BMI’s Gospel Song of the Year went to “Lead Me On,” and Publisher of the Year went to Capitol CMG Publishing. The most-performed Gospel songs of the previous year were also announced at the private ceremony hosted by BMI’s CEO, Mike O’Neill; EVP, Chief Revenue & Creative Officer Mike Steinberg and Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.

“God has a way to reward faithfulness before He rewards popularity… and this is a reminder that if you keep saying yes, He knows exactly where to find you,” Kierra Sheard shared during her speech. “I want to thank you for pushing gospel music forward. You make this industry worth staying in. What matters is what you represent, that someone still believes in a song that is worth protecting and paying for.”

Kierra Sheard. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for BMI

Pictured (L-R): Michael O’Neill, CEO of BMI, Kierra Sheard, 2026 BMI Impact Award and Gospel Songwriter of the Year recipient, Catherine Brewton, VP of Creative, BMI Atlanta, Wardell Malloy, Assistant VP of Creative, BMI Atlanta, J. Drew Sheard II, Gospel Songwriter of the Year recipient and Michael Steinberg, BMI, EVP, Chief Revenue & Creative Officer. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for BMI

Keyla Richardson. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for BMI

Thomas Rhett To Play Two Caesars Palace Shows In December

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Thomas Rhett. Photo: Josh Aikin

Thomas Rhett has revealed he’ll play two shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace during the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas on Dec. 10 and Dec. 12.

Caesars Rewards members, Caesars Entertainment’s loyalty program, as well as Live Nation All Access customers will have access to a presale beginning today (July 22), with all presales ending July 23. General tickets will go on sale this Friday (July 24).

In addition to his current headlining “The Soundtrack To Life Tour,” Rhett will continue to join Morgan Wallen for more “Still The Problem Tour” stadium dates and will make his return to the U.K., appearing with Luke Combs for a three-night run at Wembley Stadium.

Jenny Tolman Celebrates Her Roots On New Album ‘Music City Mutt,’ Due In August

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Singer-songwriter Jenny Tolman is set to release her third studio album, Music City Mutt, on Aug. 28.

Inspired by her own story as a Nashville native with roots stretching from Boston to California, Music City Mutt explores identity, family, motherhood, and the people and places that shape who we become. The album blends heartfelt storytelling with colorful characters and Tolman’s signature sharp wit, and brings together several fan-favorite releases that have already showcased the album’s depth and personality.

“Music City Mutt is my most personal album yet,” shares Tolman. “I started calling myself the ‘Music City Mutt’ because I’m a Nashville native with parents from two completely different worlds. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that’s really what Nashville is – a city full of people who came here from somewhere else, all chasing the same dream. This album is about finding home, embracing every part of your story, and celebrating the beautiful patchwork that makes us who we are.

“It’s also my first album since becoming a mom, so that naturally found its way into these songs,” she continues. “Getting to include my three-year-old son, Bear, on the record made this project even more special…he might just be the youngest drummer ever credited on an album. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it.”

The project features the rowdy anthem “Honky Tonk Songs” featuring Gretchen Wilson, a boot-stomping celebration of country’s roots born from the pair’s friendship developed during The Road. It also includes the heartfelt “Baby Steps,” a poignant reflection on life’s journey from heartbreak to motherhood, alongside the witty, unapologetic, sharp-tongued “Show Pony,” packed with Tolman’s signature storytelling and humor.

To celebrate the new album, Tolman will play a special show at City Winery Nashville on Aug. 24, with tickets going on sale this Friday (July 24) here.

Music City Mutt Track List:
1. “Live From Jennyville Studios” (Dave Brainard/ Jenny Tolman)
2. “Music City Mutt” (Dave Brainard/ Jenny Tolman/ Aaron Raitierre)
3. “Make Up My Mind” (Jenny Tolman)
4. “Show Pony” (Dave Brainard/ Jenny Tolman/ Matt Willis)
5. “Baby Steps” (Dan Harrison, Emily Kroll, Jenny Tolman)
6. “Sweet Love” (Jenny Tolman)
7. “Retail Therapy” (Dave Brainard/ Jenny Tolman/ Aaron Raitierre)
8. “Honky Tonk Songs” (feat. Gretchen Wilson) (Dave Brainard/ Jeff Silbar/ Jenny Tolman)
9. “His Hands” (Dave Brainard/ Jenny Tolman/ Matt Willis)
10. “Two Ring Circus” (Dave Brainard/ Dan Harrison/ Jenny Tolman)
11. “My California Girl” (Dave Brainard/Jenny Tolman/ Bill Whyte)
12. “Troubleshooter” (Dave Brainard/ Jeff Silbar/ Jenny Tolman)
13. “Big Mama” (feat. Brandon Ratcliff & Suzanne Cox) (Morgan Lee Powers/ Jenny Tolman)
14. “Showbiz Baby” (ft. Bear Brainard) (Bear Brainard/ Dave Brainard/ Jenny Tolman)
15. “Maybe Next Month” (Jenny Tolman)

Industry Ink: Bill Anderson, Brad Paisley, Kane Brown, Sony Music Publishing, Rylie Bourne, More

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Bill Anderson Celebrates 65th Opry Anniversary

Photo: Chris Hollo/Courtesy of the Grand Ole Opry

Bill Anderson recently celebrated his 65th Opry anniversary. He is the longest-serving member, and the first artist in the 100-year history of the Opry to mark 65 years. Anderson was officially inducted as a member of the Opry on July 15, 1961.

“The Opry is the home of country music, and thankfully for 65 years now the show has been home to Whisperin’ Bill Anderson,” says Opry Executive Producer Dan Rogers. “We’re so thankful that through all the stages of his career—all the hits, all the songwriting successes, all the TV appearances, all the tour dates, and more, Bill has always come home to this Opry he loves. We’re so honored, we’re so proud, and we’re looking forward to the next 65.”

 

Brad Paisley Makes Surprise Appearance At Whiskey Jam

Brad Paisley and David Lee Murphy. Photo: Sean O’Halloran

Brad Paisley made a surprise appearance at Whiskey Jam last night (July 20) to celebrate his recently released project, Tacklebox – Disc 1.

He performed “Hi Ho Silverado” from the project before bringing David Lee Murphy on stage for a rendition of “Dust On The Bottle.”

 

Kane Brown Performs At Dak Prescott’s Faith Fight Finish Foundation Gala

Nikki Boon, Kane Brown, Dak Prescott, and Martha Earls. Photo: Carol Vig Photography

Kane Brown took the stage Friday (July 17) at the fifth annual Faith Fight Finish Foundation Gala in Dallas, delivering a live performance of his hit “Miles On It” for guests at the charity event hosted by Dak Prescott.

The foundation focuses on four main pillars: colon cancer research, mental health and suicide prevention, bridging the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve and providing assistance for individuals and families facing life-challenging hardships.

 

Sony Music Publishing Hosts Parking Lot Party

Bobby Braddock, Mark Wills and Rusty Gaston. Photo: Peyton Hoge

Sony Music Publishing hosted a parking lot party last week (July 16) honoring legendary songwriter Bobby Braddock.

During the celebration, Mark Wills performed “He Stopped Loving Her Today” and “19 Somethin’.”

 

Rylie Bourne Signs Management Deal With Todd Wilkes Entertainment

Todd Wilkes and Rylie Bourne. Photo: Jessie Addleman

Rylie Bourne has signed a management deal with Todd Wilkes Entertainment.

Bourne recently earned two cuts with Sister Sadie, and her recent single “Company I Keep” was added into rotation on SiriusXM’s Bluegrass Junction. Bourne is currently on the road playing acoustic guitar and singing background vocals for Mae Estes.

“I’m really excited to work with Rylie,” says Todd Wilkes, owner of Todd Wilkes Entertainment. “She’s one of the most talented female singers I’ve ever met. When I first heard her sing, I knew I had to sign her. Her vocals and her songs are simply amazing.”

 

Dollar General Literacy Foundation, Bobby Bones & iHeartRadio Kick Off The Yellow Glasses Project


The Dollar General Literacy Foundation has partnered with Bobby Bones and iHeartRadio to kick off The Yellow Glasses Project.

“I know firsthand how education can impact your life,” says Bones. “I was the first person in my family to graduate high school, and that opened a door I didn’t know was there, which is why I’m so passionate about partnering with the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. A little bit of support at the right moment can open a world of possibilities. Literacy isn’t just about learning to read. It’s about having the confidence to dream bigger.”

Customers can now purchase their own pair of yellow sunglasses for $2 at participating Dollar General stores across the country through International Literacy Day on Sept. 8 to benefit the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, which funds literacy and education programs at schools, libraries and non-profit organizations in DG’s hometowns.

 

CMHOFM Celebrates New Art Exhibition ‘We’re Still Here’

Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Last week, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrated the opening of “We’re Still Here,” an art exhibition by Jeremy Salazar in collaboration with The Forge and IndigeNash.

“We’re Still Here” includes painted and photographic works. Raised on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico, Salazar is a self-taught artist who has gained national recognition for contemporary Native artwork that centers Indigenous perspectives, celebrates lived experience and expands conventional narratives surrounding Native identity through his studio moniker, Three Feather Studios.

The exhibition is free and open to the public now through Sept. 11.

Chris Palmer Joins Triple Tigers Records/AKANDO Music

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Chris Palmer

Chris Palmer has joined Triple Tigers Records/AKANDO Music as VP of National Promotion, filling the role previously held by Raffaella Braun following her promotion to Co-President. A 28-year radio promotion veteran, Palmer has helped earn 56 No. 1 hits throughout his career.

“Having Chris Palmer part of this ambush of tigers is so exciting. He brings the experience and creative juices, but most of all, the passion and fun we all love about this job,” says Braun.

”I can’t wait to join an already incredible team, many of whom I’ve already worked with, that are firing on all cylinders with arguably Nashville’s hottest artist roster,” adds Palmer.

Most recently, Palmer served as VP of Promotion at The Valory Music Company. He previously held promotion roles at Warner Music Nashville and Lyric Street Records, where he began his career in 1998.

In his new role, Palmer will oversee radio promotion for both Triple Tigers Records and AKANDO Music. He begins with the label on July 27.

Palmer can be reached here.

Country Thunder Wisconsin Draws Thousands For Four Days Of Music In Twin Lakes

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Photo: Anthony Houle/Country Thunder

Thousands of fans gathered in Twin Lakes for Country Thunder Wisconsin from July 16-19, marking the festival’s 30th year.

Headlined by Gavin Adcock, Riley Green, Keith Urban and The Red Clay Strays, the powerhouse lineup also included Gretchen Wilson, Mark Chesnutt, Ian Munsick, Nate Smith, Shaboozey, George Birge, Dasha, Corey Kent, Mae Estes and many more.

Highlights from the weekend included Adcock calling two young fans to the stage during his set, a surprise appearance from Dasha to perform “Don’t Mind If I Do” with Green, “Nate Smith Karaoke” and more.

The Buckin’ Thunder Pro Bull Riding Event, new to the festival this year, crowned Jake Morinec as champion. The Songwriter Stage featured performances from Ryan Beaver, Neil Medley, Chase McDaniel, Benjy Davis and Trent Wayne, among others.

Ticket information for Country Thunder Wisconsin 2027 is available here.

Photo: Anthony Houle/Country Thunder

Photo: Anthony Houle/Country Thunder