BREAKING: The Academy Of Country Music Strikes New Multi-Year Deal With Prime Video

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Chris Stapleton at the 60th Academy Of Country Music Awards held at the Ford Center at The Star on May 8, 2025 in Frisco, Texas

Following its landmark 60th anniversary show last week, the Academy of Country Music and producer Dick Clark Productions (DCP) have announced that the ACM Awards will remain on Prime Video for the next three years, taking the show through its 63rd ceremony in 2028.

Last week’s ACM Awards, which took place on May 8 at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, streamed live for an international audience across 240+ countries and territories exclusively on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch. Hosted by 16-time ACM Award-winning entertainment icon Reba McEntire, the evening featured 16 performances and appearances from 40 artists including Alan Jackson, Backstreet Boys, Blake Shelton, Brooks & Dunn, Chris Stapleton, Ella Langley, Eric Church, Jelly Roll, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, LeAnn Rimes, Lionel Richie, Miranda Lambert, Rascal Flatts, Shaboozey, Wynonna Judd and more.

The show is currently available to stream on demand on Prime Video and can be found at amazon.com/ACMawards.

“Our ongoing partnership with the Academy of Country Music and Dick Clark Productions has been an amazing experience for everyone involved,” says Vernon Sanders, Global Head of Television, Amazon MGM Studios. “With the tremendous success of this year’s 60th anniversary show hosted by the legendary Reba McEntire, we are overjoyed to continue our relationship with the Academy and DCP for the next three years. We look forward to maintaining this success and bringing even more star-studded and captivating shows to our global Prime Video customers.”

“Our powerful partnership with Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video has expanded the reach and accessibility of our show and the country music genre to viewers anytime, anywhere around the world and has redefined what an awards show experience can and should be in today’s environment,” shares Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. “The synergies between Prime Video, Amazon Music, Twitch, and the other divisions of Amazon bring exponential value to our artists, our genre, and our fans through an immersive 360 music experience they can’t get from any other platform. I am so proud of our pioneering first four years in the streaming space, and we are excited to continue to deliver the future of country music and the ACM Awards to fans everywhere over the next three years.”

“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Prime Video through 2028,” adds Jay Penske, CEO, Dick Clark Productions. “The Academy of Country Music Awards made history in 2022 as the first major awards show to exclusively livestream and continues to break new ground, creating a world-class music event and providing dynamic, unparalleled reach through Prime Video, connecting country music with a global audience.”

“I feel like it’s just another way for us to get country music out there to the world,” shares the Academy’s winningest artist of all time, Miranda Lambert, of the partnership between the ACM Awards and Prime Video. “Country music is really popular right now, and I’m so glad more people are understanding what we’re about, and I’m so happy to be part of the ACM history, and that it’s gonna continue for three more years is really exciting.”

The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards was produced by Dick Clark Productions. Raj Kapoor served as Executive Producer and Showrunner, with Patrick Menton as Co-Executive Producer. Whiteside served as Executive Producer for the Academy of Country Music, and Penske and Barry Adelman served as Executive Producers for DCP. John Saade served as Consulting Producer for Amazon MGM Studios.

Dillon Carmichael Is ‘Keepin’ Country Alive’ On Latest Album Due In June

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Dillon Carmichael is gearing up for the release of his third studio album, Keepin’ Country Alive, on June 13 via Riser House Records.

The 14-track collection pays homage to Carmichael’s small-town roots, the hardworking spirit of rural America and the enduring power of community, and builds on the success of previously released singles “Keepin’ Country Alive” and “No Matter How Hard I Try.”

A brand new single from the project, “Raised Up Wrong,” is out now on all streaming platforms. Co-written by Carmichael with Devin Dawson, Josh Phillips and Jared Conrad, the defiant and gritty anthem flips the script on Southern stereotypes and proudly reclaims the rural values that shaped the rising singer.

Keepin’ Country Alive Track List:
1. “Raised Up Wrong” (Dillon Carmichael, Jared Conrad, Devin Dawson, Josh Phillips)
2. “Good Ol’ Day”
3. “When She’s Drinkin’”
4. “She Gone” (Dillon Carmichael, Rhett Akins, Michael Whitworth)
5. “Home” (Dillon Carmichael, Trent Willmon, Phil O’Donnell)
6. “No Matter How Hard I Try” (Jonathan Singleton, Jim Beavers)
7. “Someone Like You” (Dan Wilson, Adele Adkins)
8. “Tiny Little Fiddle” (Dillon Carmichael, Brett Tyler, Brent Anderson)
9. “Keepin’ Country Alive” (Dillon Carmichael, Matt Roy, Paul Sykes)
10. “Hell Freezes Over” (Jonathan Singleton, Josh Dunne, Rob Snyder)
11. “I’d Call Grandpa”
12. “She Likes Me This Way” (Dillon Carmichael, Jimmy Melton, Neal Coty)
13. “Heartbreak Waitin’ To Happen” (Dillon Carmichael, Lindsay Rimes, Neil Medley, Matt Rogers)
14. “Goin’ Places” (Joey Hendricks, Andy Skib, Brett James)

Industry Ink: NSAI, The Opry, SiriusXM, Key West Brunch, More

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Lee Thomas Miller Participates In Congressional Roundtable Panel

NSAI President and songwriter Lee Thomas Miller performs

NSAI President and songwriter Lee Thomas Miller was a panelist on a Congressional roundtable on Friday (May 9) in Nashville that focused on music and artificial intelligence and oversight of the U.S. Copyright Office. The roundtable was held by the House Administration Committee Chaired by Bryan Steil (WI) who attended along with Ranking Member Joe Morelle (NY).

 

Savannah Bananas & Party Animals Make Grand Ole Opry Debut

The Savannah Bananas and Party Animals make their Opry debut performing with LoCash. Photo: Chris Hollo for Grand Ole Opry

The world-famous Savannah Bananas and Party Animals surprised the crowd at the Grand Ole Opry Friday night (May 9). The Bananas were in Nashville for their sold-out game at Nissan Stadium on Saturday night, and several Savannah Bananas and Party Animals players barreled through the front doors of the Opry House and ran down the aisles greeting fans as they made their way to country music’s biggest stage to make their Opry debut performing with LoCash on their hit “I Love This Life.”

 

Mac McAnally & Kenny Chesney Reflect On Buddy Jimmy Buffett On Special SiriusXM Tribute

Kenny Chesney and Mac McAnally

SiriusXM’s Radio Margaritaville and No Shoes Radio collaborated on a moving tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett with a special episode of Songlines & Stories: Reflections on Jimmy Buffett with Mac McAnally and Kenny Chesney. In the exclusive conversation, McAnally and Chesney shared offstage memories, onstage stories and the enduring impact of their friendship with the freewheeling Jimmy Buffett. From insights into songwriting and music to shows and off-the-cuff laughs, this celebration of legacy, love, and laid-back living offers a few surprises during this session of one of Radio Margaritaville’s best loved programs. Listeners can hear the special on-demand here: sxm.app.link/SonglinesStories.

 

The MLC/NSAI/Bluebird Cafe Host Key West Songwriters Brunch

Pictured (L-R): Jaime Scorby (The Bluebird Cafe), Jill Moody (NSAI), Jennifer Turnbow (NSAI), Lyndsie McClure (NSAI), Jamie Dominguez (The MLC), Ellen Truley (The MLC), Kayla Ott (The MLC) and Erika Wollam Nichols (The Bluebird Cafe)

Songwriters and industry professionals recently gathered in Key West for a special Songwriters Brunch co-hosted by the Nashville Songwriters Association International, the Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) and The Bluebird Café. The event featured intimate live performances and provided an opportunity for music creators and industry professionals to connect and collaborate.

 

Syntax Creative Hires Two New Staffers

Brooke Thielen and Amanda Williams

Syntax Creative has hired two new members to its growing team, including Amanda Williams as Director of Communications, and Brooke Thielen as Release Coordinator. Williams joined Syntax in May 2025 and brings a BA in Creative Writing from Gardner-Webb University, along with a decade of experience in communications and marketing strategy. Thielen came on board in April 2025 as Release Coordinator. A graduate of Azusa Pacific University with a Bachelor of Music, she has served in A&R, Artist Services, booking and marketing.

“Amanda has that rare mix of being a clear thinker, a creative writer, and someone who actually cares. She’s going to help us sharpen our message without losing our soul,” shares Syntax CEO Timothy Trudeau. “Brooke is the kind of person you want on your team when things get chaotic. She jumps into the mess, finds what matters, and delivers. And she does it all with heart.”

 

RBR Entertainment Names New Executive Team

Chris Myers

RBR Entertainment has named a new executive team. At the helm is CEO and President Chris Myers, who is now also leading A&R for the label. Donna Roberts, known for her work in production and live entertainment, is helping shape the label’s operational and creative strategies while playing a central role in artist development. Joining her is MJ Brickey, who now serves as Industry Relations Executive. As the Nashville-based label deepens its roots in bluegrass and Americana, former president Billy Droze shifts focus to his solo career while continuing to influence the label’s creative vision.

“This new chapter is about deepening our commitment to the artists we serve,” says Myers. “We’re blending experience with fresh energy, and building something that honors tradition while making space for innovation.”

Taylor Phillips Re-Enters Top 15 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart

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Taylor Phillips.

Taylor Phillips has re-entered the top 15 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. Nate Smith’s “Fix What You Didn’t Break,” Jelly Roll’s “Liar” and Chris Janson’s “Me & A Beer” push the songwriter to No. 12 this week. 

Riley Green remains in the No. 1 slot with solo-penned “Worst Way.” Ashley Gorley stays at No. 2 with “Favorite Country Song,” “Fix What You Didn’t Break,” “I Had Some Help,” “Liar,” “Love Somebody,” “Me & A Beer,” “Not At This Party,” “Park” and “She Hates Me.”

Charlie Handsome (No. 3), Morgan Wallen (No. 4) and Ernest (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.

The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.

Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

Lee Brice Plots ‘What You Know About That Tour’

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Lee Brice has revealed his upcoming “What You Know About That Tour,” set to kick off in Clearwater, Florida on Sept. 11.

Fellow artists joining the tour include Ashley Cooke, Jackson Dean, Corey Kent, Lewis Brice and Grace Tyler. The 15-date tour will visit Fort Lauderdale, Indianapolis, Virginia Beach and more, wrapping on Oct. 25 in Raleigh.

Tickets go on sale this Friday (May 16) here.

“What You Know About That Tour” Dates:
9.11.25- Clearwater, FL- The BayCare Sound
9.12.25- Fort Lauderdale, FL- War Memorial Auditorium
9.13.25- Saint Augustine, FL- The St. Augustine Amphitheater
9.18.25- Youngstown, OH- Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre
9.19.25- Rochester Hills, MI- Meadow Brook Amphitheatre
9.20.25- Rosemont, IL- Rosemont Theatre
9.25.25- Indianapolis, IN- Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park
9.26.25- Waukee, IA- Vibrant Music Hall
9.27.25- Fargo, ND- Scheels Arena
10.16.25- Bridgeport, CT- Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater
10.17.25- New York, NY- Hammerstein Ballroom
10.18.25- Portland, ME- Cross Insurance Arena
10.23.25- Fairfax, VA- EagleBank Arena
10.24.25- Virginia Beach, VA- The Dome
10.25.25- Raleigh, NC- Red Hat Amphitheater

Ashley McBryde Recognized With Doctorate of Music From Alma Mater

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Doctor Ashley McBryde. Photo: Rebecca Worthington

Ashley McBryde received an honorary Doctorate of Music on Saturday (May 10) from her alma mater, Arkansas State University, during the university’s Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony.

Chancellor Todd Shields recognized during the ceremony that McBryde’s “determination and contributions to American Music is a testament to the opportunities that higher education can open and inspire for generations of Arkansas State University alums.”

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“Earning a degree in music has always been something I’ve placed a lot of value in,” said McBryde. “It was something I felt I needed to accomplish. In my time here at A-State, I found my passion not only for performing, but for creating other musicians. The music education program is priceless. I’m so thankful for educators that pushed me to strive for excellence: Greg and Hope Bruner, Robin Dauer, Ed Alexander, Doctor Ken Carroll, Doctor Tom O’Connor and so many more. While my path to music education wound up looking a little different than a traditional one, I never lost my passion for music education, and I work alongside music educators every chance I get. Thank you for shaping me into the advocate I became, the musician I am today and the entrepreneur I didn’t know I was going to have to be.”

McBryde will perform tomorrow (May 13) at Opry 100 Honors: Loretta Lynn, and is also set to perform at CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium, at Country Thunder Wisconsin and Alberta, at WE Fest, and more this summer, along with her headlining dates.

Chris Lane Slates New Record For June

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Chris Lane.

Chris Lane will release his next album, Shade Tree, on June 20 via Red Street Records. Alongside the announcement, the record’s title track is available now.

The 12-track project marks Lane’s first full album since his 2018 Laps Around The Sun. Produced by Dann Huff and Jay DeMarcus, the album features four previously-released songs, including Lane’s country radio single, “If I Die Before You,” “What Am I Supposed to Tell The Dog” and his latest release with CMT Next Women of Country’s Abby Anderson, “Fire We Found.”

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Shade Tree Track List:
1. “Shade Tree” (Chris Lane, Randy Montana, Mark Trussell)
2. “Can’t Buy Time” (Chris Lane, Jared Keim, Micah Carpenter, Travis Wood)
3. “What Am I Supposed To Tell The Dog” (Chris Lane, Seth Mosley, Jameson Rodgers, Lydia Vaughan)
4. “Fire We Found feat. Abby Anderson” (Chris Lane, Cameron Bedell, Mark Trussell)
5. “2x4s and 4x6s” (Chris Lane, Ben Williams, Casey Brown)
6. “Whiskey Wanted” (Jeb Gipson, Smith Ahnquist, Will Bundy)
7. “Shootin’ Stars” (Chris Lane, Michael Lotten, Michael Whitworth)
8. “Problematic” (Chris Lane, Jameson Rodgers, Lydia Vaughan, Seth Mosley)
9. “If I Die Before You” (Emily Weisband, James McNair, Seth Mosley)
10. “Nothin’ To Wear” (Jerry Flowers, Emily Weisband, Seth Mosley, Jordan Walker)
11. “Bar Without A Beer” (Chris Lane, Hunter Phelps, Andy Sheridan, Ashley Gorley)
12. “She’s Got A Type” (Jesse Frasure, Hillary Lindsey, Michael Hardy)

The Red Clay Strays Add European Dates To ‘Get Right Tour’

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The Red Clay Strays. Photo: Marcie Coleman

The Red Clay Strays will head overseas on their “2025 Get Right European Tour.”

The 2025 ACM New Duo/Group Of The Year will begin the European trek on Oct. 1o in Stockholm, and made additional stops in Zurich, Glasgow, Dublin and more before wrapping up on Nov. 13 in Belfast. Early James will join the tour as direct support.

The new run of dates will follow their “2025 Get Right U.S. Tour,” which kicks off July 3 with a three night run in Orange Beach, Alabama. The group is currently gearing up for their first Australian run, kicking off May 17 with a sold-out show in Brisbane.

Tickets for the European run will be available starting tomorrow (May 13) at 5 p.m. local time via pre-sale, with general on-sale beginning this Friday (May 16) at 10 a.m. local time here.

“2025 Get Right European Tour” Dates:
Oct. 20 – Debaser – Stockholm, Sweden
Oct. 22 – Sentrum Scene – Oslo, Norway
Oct. 23 – Vega Main – Copenhagen, Denmark
Oct. 24 – Fabrik – Hamburg, Germany
Oct. 26 – Carlswerk Victoria – Cologne, Germany
Oct. 27 – X-Tra – Zurich, Switzerland
Oct. 29 – Paradiso – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Oct. 31 – Elysee Montmartre – Paris, France
Nov. 2 – De Roma – Antwerp, Belgium
Nov. 4 – O2 Academy – Glasgow, UK
Nov. 6 – O2 Academy – Birmingham, UK
Nov. 9 – Roundhouse – London, UK
Nov. 11 – National Stadium – Dublin, Ireland
Nov. 13 – Ulster Hall – Belfast, UK

Randy Rogers Band, Pat Green, Josh Abbott Band, More To Play Feels Like Home Festival

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Randy Rogers Band, Pat Green and Josh Abbott Band are among the lineup for the second annual Feels Like Home Festival, which returns October 4 to the Brownwood Event Center in Brownwood, Texas.

Stoney LaRue, Bottomland, Graham St. Clair Band and Joe Peters will also perform at the outdoor celebration of rural Texas, country music and authentic Texas BBQ, and a number of artists from the greater Brownwood area will also perform on a secondary stage to help shine a light on the local music talent in the region.

“We are thrilled with this year’s music lineup for the second annual Feels Like Home Festival,” says Brownwood Mayor Stephen E. Haynes. “We encourage residents and visitors to enjoy this year’s event and experience all the great things Brownwood has to offer.”

GA and VIP tickets for the festival will go on sale May 16 at FeelsLikeHomeFest.com.

Celebration Of Life Set For Ben Vaughn

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Ben Vaughn

A celebration honoring the life and legacy of Warner Chappell Nashville President & CEO Ben Vaughn will take place on June 9 at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University.

Doors will open at 9:00 a.m., with light refreshments available. The Performance Hall will open at 9:30 a.m., and the service will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Guests may enter through the doors off Belmont Boulevard. Parking is available in the South Garage (1521 Compton Avenue) and the Curb Garage (1520 Bernard Avenue).

Vaughn passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 30 at age 49.

He spent over a decade at the helm of Warner Chappell Nashville, overseeing all creative and commercial activities across A&R, administration, business development, finance and human resources. Vaughn also worked with staff songwriters, while actively engaging in songwriter advocacy and rights protection initiatives.

Under his leadership, the company earned multiple Country Publisher of the Year honors from ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC, achieving the prestigious Triple Crown in 2019 by sweeping all three PRO awards. His songwriters amassed 19 CMA, ACM, Grammy, or PRO Songwriter of the Year honors, 35 Song of the Year titles, and eight inductions into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Vaughn was a fierce advocate for songwriters in and outside of Nashville, whether they were affiliated with Warner Chappell or not. He often spoke of the plight of the craft and lent his expertise to those in the community.

Read Vaughn’s full obituary here.