Pictured (L-R, top row): Tiffany Kerns, Jordan Minton, Chase McGill, Jim Beavers, Charlie Handsome, Ashley Gorley, Taylor Phillips, Sarah Trahern, David Conrad, Josh Thompson and Jessie Jo Dillon; (L-R, bottom row): John Byron, Rocky Block, Randy Montana, Ben Johnson and Hunter Phelps at the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards. Photo: Acacia Evans/CMA
The Country Music Association gathered some of the genre’s most prolific songwriters earlier this week to celebrate the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. The annual ceremony honors writers who have achieved the rare feat of penning three No. 1 songs within a 12-month span, highlighting the talent and tenacity behind country music’s biggest hits.
David Conrad receives the 2024 CMA Songwriter Advocate Award at the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards. Photo: MultyCam/CMA
16 songwriters were recognized this year, with Ashley Gorley and Charlie Handsome each earning the award twice for their exceptional output. The full list of honorees includes Rocky Block, John Byron, Zach Crowell, Jessie Jo Dillon, Gorley, Handsome, Jelly Roll, Ben Johnson, Chase McGill, Jordan Minton, Randy Montana, Hunter Phelps, Taylor Phillips, Ernest Keith Smith, Josh Thompson and Morgan Wallen.
CMA Board member and acclaimed songwriter Jim Beavers served as host, bringing his signature wit and warmth to the night’s proceedings. CMA CEO Sarah Trahern welcomed guests with heartfelt remarks, stating, “Songwriters are truly the heartbeat of this industry… It’s a joy to be celebrating you tonight in this beautiful room.”
Before the awards were handed out, CMA paid tribute to the late Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Nashville, who passed away earlier this year. A beloved advocate for songwriters, Vaughn’s legacy was honored through a moving video and a powerful writer’s round. Nicolle Galyon performed “Boy,” Thomas Rhett offered a heartfelt rendition of “Beer With Jesus” and Chris Stapleton closed the tribute with “Mountains Of My Mind.” Rhett Akins shared personal memories of Vaughn’s influence, underscoring the depth of his impact on the creative community.
In a major highlight of the night, legendary music publisher David Conrad was presented with the 2024 CMA Songwriter Advocate Award, honoring his decades-long impact on the songwriting world. A heartfelt video montage played before the presentation, featuring messages from artists, songwriters, and industry colleagues who’ve been shaped by Conrad’s mentorship and vision. Appearances included Gillian Welch, Mary Del Scobey, Thom Schuyler, Annie Roboff, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Marty Stuart, Jody Williams and Vince Gill.
Surprise performances from John Anderson (“Seminole Wind”) and Emmylou Harris (“Red Dirt Girl”) added to the moment, with both Hall of Fame artists acknowledging the role Conrad played in shaping their careers. Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Conrad reflected on his early days in Nashville and the mentors who guided him, before closing with an emotional, “I feel that I’m right where I was supposed to be.”
In another first for the event, CMA recognized 72 songwriters who earned their very first No. 1 hit since the last Triple Play celebration. Many of these rising talents were in attendance, marking a major career milestone and signaling the next wave of country music hitmakers.
With emotional tributes, unforgettable performances, and long-overdue recognition for those behind the scenes, the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards offered a poignant and powerful reminder of the songwriters who give country music its soul.
Ryan Hurd To Release ‘Midwest Rock & Roll (Deluxe)’ May 30
/by Lauryn SinkRyan Hurd. Photo: Brown Bear of Country Night
Ryan Hurd is set to release a deluxe edition of his March 2025 record, Midwest Rock & Roll, on May 30 via Big Machine Records. His new track, “Paul. (London Sessions),” is available now.
Produced by Aaron Eshuis, the deluxe album was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London earlier this year and features a brand-new original song with Carter Faith (“JP’s Hard Luck Diner, Permanently Closed”), a reimagined version of the fan-favorite track “Paul.” and two Paul McCartney-inspired covers: The Beatles’ “In My Life” and Paul McCartney and Wings’ “Let Me Roll It.”
“Midwest Rock & Roll has been such a special project for me, and I wasn’t ready to close the door on that chapter just yet,” shares Hurd. “I’m excited to release the deluxe record featuring four new songs, all of which I recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London.”
Midwest Rock & Roll (Deluxe) Track List:
1. “Midwest Rock & Roll” (Ryan Hurd, Mark Holman, Randy Montana)
2. “Single In The Same Town” (Ryan Hurd, Brinley Addington, Aaron Eshuis)
3. “Die For It” (Ryan Hurd, Mark Holman, Randy Montana)
4. “Lighthouse” (Ryan Hurd, Aaron Eshuis, Mark Holman)
5. “This Party Sucks” (Ryan Hurd, Brinley Addington, Ryan Beaver, David Garcia)
6. “Youth” (Ryan Hurd, Aaron Eshuis, Joey Hyde, Matt McGinn)
7. “All Night Long Days” (Ryan Hurd, Aaron Eshuis, Joey Hyde, Matt McGinn)
8. “Funerals” (Ryan Hurd, Mark Holman, Randy Montana)
9. “California 1972” (Ryan Hurd, Ryan Beaver, Joe Clemmons, Aaron Eshuis)
10. “Go To Bed Sober (featuring Sasha Alex Sloan)” (Ryan Hurd, Sasha Alex Sloan, King Henry)
11. “Paul.” (Ryan Hurd, Summer Overstreet, Jordan Reynolds)
12. “The Last Song I’ll Ever Write” (Ryan Hurd, Joe Clemmons, Dave Cohen, Aaron Eshuis)
13. “Paul. (London Sessions)” (Ryan Hurd, Summer Overstreet, Jordan Reynolds)
14. “JP’s Hard Luck Diner, Permanently Closed (London Sessions) (featuring Carter Faith)” (Ryan Hurd, Tofer Brown, Carter Faith)
15. “In My Life (London Sessions)” (John Lennon, Paul McCartney)
16. “Let Me Roll It (London Sessions)” (Paul McCartney, Linda McCartney)
Heather Vassar Exits EMPIRE
/by Madison HahnenHeather Vassar
EMPIRE Nashville SVP of Operations Heather Vassar has exited her role, her last day being today (May 2). Vassar first joined EMPIRE in 2019, and was behind the breakout career of Shaboozey.
Upon exit, Vassar has launched her new venture Casual Records and Casual Media Partners. With this new company, she will continue signing and developing artists with the goal of breaking barriers and making history.
Vassar can be reached at heather@casualmediapartners.com.
Dylan Gossett Readies Debut Album, ‘Westward’
/by Lauryn SinkDylan Gossett. Photo: Tanner Johnson
Dylan Gossett is set to release his debut album, Westward, on July 18 via Big Loud Texas/Mercury Records. The 17-track, self-produced record explores themes of love, family, faith and chasing one’s dreams. In celebration of the announcement, Gossett’s newest single, “American Trail,” is available today (May 2).
Currently on the second leg of his headline “The Back 40 Tour” across the U.S. and Canada, he recently announced he’ll hit the road once again this July on “The American Trail Tour.” His festival run will continue, with performances at Lonestar Smokeout Festival, Carolina Country Festival, Bourbon & Beyond, Windy City Smokeout and Under The Big Sky. In addition, Gossett announced his debut at the Grand Ole Opry on June 4th as part of their “Opry 100 Celebrates CMA Fest” event.
Amassing over 800 million streams total, Spotify and Amazon pegged Gossett as an Artist To Watch in 2024. He is among MusicRow’s Next Big Thing Artist Class of 2025. His breakout single “Coal” picked up a Platinum certification in the United States, in addition to going Silver in the U.K., Platinum in Australia, double-Platinum in Canada and double-Platinum in Ireland.
“This album is a collection of stories that I wrote during the craziest two years of my life. I hope everyone can find something for themselves in it,” says Gossett.
Carrie Underwood, Scotty McCreery, More Set For CMA Fest Week Opry Shows
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Grand Ole Opry is celebrating CMA Fest with a star-packed lineup of shows featuring performances throughout the week from Opry members Carrie Underwood, Bill Anderson, Scotty McCreery, Old Crow Medicine Show and Mark Wills.
Other special guests appearing during the week include Brandon Lake, Colbie Caillat, Mitchell Tenpenny, Ben Fuller, Justin Moore, Mt. Joy and more. Tickets for all shows are on sale here.
– Opry shows at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. featuring Opry members Carrie Underwood and Bill Anderson as well as Ben Fuller and more.
– Opry show at 7 p.m. featuring another superstar lineup including Opry member Scotty McCreery as well as Colbie Caillat, Justin Moore, Mitchell Tenpenny and Opry debut of Mt. Joy and more.
– Opry show at 7 p.m. featuring Brandon Lake
– Opry show at 7 p.m. featuring Opry members Old Crow Medicine Show, Mark Wills and more.
Saturday, June 7:
– Opry matinee performance at 2 p.m. featuring The Gatlin Brothers and more will be presented at the Ryman Auditorium during CMA Fest.
– Opry show at 7 p.m. featuring Opry members Old Crow Medicine Show, Bill Anderson and more.The Grand Ole Opry’s popular Opry Plaza Summer Concert Series returns on May 23-24 and continues every Friday and Saturday through Labor Day weekend. The Opry will kick off the celebration of CMA Fest week with the Opry House’s Plaza Party on June 3, continuing with shows each night and the Summer Concert Series Plaza Parties on June 6-7. The Opry Plaza Party and Summer Concert Series will include food trucks, multiple photo ops, vendors and feature live performances and more to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Hardy Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut; Releases New EP
/by Madison HahnenHardy performs at the Grand Ole Opry. Photo: Tanner Gallagher
Hardy made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Tuesday night (April 29). Lainey Wilson provided a video introduction before the singer-songwriter took the stage. During the debut, Ella Langley joined Hardy on stage for a performance of him and Wilson’s hit “Wait In The Truck.”
Additionally, Hardy released his new EP Country! today (May 2) via Big Loud Records. The five-track project includes the previously released “Favorite Country Song” and “Buck On The Wall.”
Hardy co-wrote four out of the five tracks on the project, with additional writing credits from Ashley Gorley, Carson Wallace, Drew Parker, Jameson Rodgers, Zach Abend and more, with Joey Moi on production.
Hardy will also kick off his “Jim Bob World Tour” this month in Chula Vista, California. The tour will take him across the country and abroad with stops in Las Vegas, Kansas City, Atlanta, London, Glasgow, Dublin and more. Hardy also has several festival bills this summer, including Sand In My Boots Festival, Country Thunder Wisconsin, Boots & Hearts and more.
Country! Track List:
1. “Buck On The Wall” (Jameson Rodgers, Jeb Gipson, Matt Dragstrem, Michael Hardy)
2. “Car That Drove You Away” (Drew Parker, Geoff Warburton, Matt Roy, Zach Abend)
3. “Girl With A Gun” (Carson Wallace, Greylan James, Jordan Schmidt, Michael Hardy)
4. “Luckiest Man Alive” (Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps, Michael Hardy)
5. “Favorite Country Song” (Ashley Gorley, Beau Bailey, Michael Hardy, Zach Abend)
Cody Jinks Slates New Album ‘In My Blood’ For July
/by Lorie HollabaughCody Jinks has announced he’ll release his new album, In My Blood, on July 25 via Late August Records. He debuted the first track from the new project, “Found,” today (May 2).
Penned by Ward Davis, Brett Sheroky and Andrew Peebles, “Found” is a song that encourages listeners to embrace their journey of self-discovery no matter the obstacles they face, and sets the tone for a record rooted in authenticity, hard-earned wisdom, and the redemptive power of self-awareness.
Produced by Joshua Thompson and Charles Godfrey, In My Blood blends the raw storytelling of traditional honky-tonk with the intensity of Southern rock. Marked by Jinks’ signature sound and packed with emotionally charged lyrics exploring themes of redemption, resilience, and the working-class struggle, the record is an exploration into a new chapter of the country singer’s life. The title track features a special collaboration with longtime friend Charlie Starr of Blackberry Smoke, marking the first time the two artists have come together on a recording.
“I think that In My Blood, the song itself could be taken as the next chapter of Change the Game,” says Jinks. “We know what we did. We know where we’ve been. We know what we’ve done. In My Blood is why we keep doing it.”
Jinks will kick off his “Hippies and Cowboys Tour” on May 29 in Columbia, Missouri.
In My Blood Track List:
1. “Better Than the Bottle” (Cody Jinks / Tom McELvain)
2. “Lost Highway” (Cody Jinks)
3. “The Others” (Cody Jinks / Tennessee Jet / Ray Wylie Hubbard)
4. “In My Blood” (ft. Blackberry Smoke) (Cody Jinks / Charlie Starr)
5. “Something Wicked This Way Comes” (Cody Jinks)
6. “See the Man” (Cody Jinks)
7. “When You Can’t Remember” (Cody Jinks)
8. “Lonely Man” (Cody Jinks)
9. “Monster” (Cody Jinks / Ward Davis)
10. “Found” (Ward Davis / Brett Sheroky / Andrew Peebles)
11. “When Time Didn’t Fly” (Cody Jinks)
Riley Green Tops The MusicRow Radio Chart With ‘Worst Way’
/by John Nix ArledgeRiley Green. Photo: Matthew Simmons on behalf of Gildan
Riley Green tops the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart this week with his solo-penned track “Worst Way.”
The song, which is already certified Platinum, is off of Green’s recent, third studio album Don’t Mind If I Do.
Following his sold-out shows in Canada, Green has added eight dates to his “Damn Country Music Tour.” The U.S. leg of the tour kicked off last night (May 1) in Athens, Georgia with upcoming dates featuring special guests such as Jamey Johnson, Drake White and Hannah McFarland.
“Worst Way” currently sits at No. 12 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 14 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
CMA Honors Songwriting Excellence At 2025 Triple Play Awards [Recap]
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R, top row): Tiffany Kerns, Jordan Minton, Chase McGill, Jim Beavers, Charlie Handsome, Ashley Gorley, Taylor Phillips, Sarah Trahern, David Conrad, Josh Thompson and Jessie Jo Dillon; (L-R, bottom row): John Byron, Rocky Block, Randy Montana, Ben Johnson and Hunter Phelps at the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards. Photo: Acacia Evans/CMA
The Country Music Association gathered some of the genre’s most prolific songwriters earlier this week to celebrate the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. The annual ceremony honors writers who have achieved the rare feat of penning three No. 1 songs within a 12-month span, highlighting the talent and tenacity behind country music’s biggest hits.
David Conrad receives the 2024 CMA Songwriter Advocate Award at the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards. Photo: MultyCam/CMA
16 songwriters were recognized this year, with Ashley Gorley and Charlie Handsome each earning the award twice for their exceptional output. The full list of honorees includes Rocky Block, John Byron, Zach Crowell, Jessie Jo Dillon, Gorley, Handsome, Jelly Roll, Ben Johnson, Chase McGill, Jordan Minton, Randy Montana, Hunter Phelps, Taylor Phillips, Ernest Keith Smith, Josh Thompson and Morgan Wallen.
CMA Board member and acclaimed songwriter Jim Beavers served as host, bringing his signature wit and warmth to the night’s proceedings. CMA CEO Sarah Trahern welcomed guests with heartfelt remarks, stating, “Songwriters are truly the heartbeat of this industry… It’s a joy to be celebrating you tonight in this beautiful room.”
Before the awards were handed out, CMA paid tribute to the late Ben Vaughn, President & CEO of Warner Chappell Nashville, who passed away earlier this year. A beloved advocate for songwriters, Vaughn’s legacy was honored through a moving video and a powerful writer’s round. Nicolle Galyon performed “Boy,” Thomas Rhett offered a heartfelt rendition of “Beer With Jesus” and Chris Stapleton closed the tribute with “Mountains Of My Mind.” Rhett Akins shared personal memories of Vaughn’s influence, underscoring the depth of his impact on the creative community.
In a major highlight of the night, legendary music publisher David Conrad was presented with the 2024 CMA Songwriter Advocate Award, honoring his decades-long impact on the songwriting world. A heartfelt video montage played before the presentation, featuring messages from artists, songwriters, and industry colleagues who’ve been shaped by Conrad’s mentorship and vision. Appearances included Gillian Welch, Mary Del Scobey, Thom Schuyler, Annie Roboff, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Marty Stuart, Jody Williams and Vince Gill.
Surprise performances from John Anderson (“Seminole Wind”) and Emmylou Harris (“Red Dirt Girl”) added to the moment, with both Hall of Fame artists acknowledging the role Conrad played in shaping their careers. Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Conrad reflected on his early days in Nashville and the mentors who guided him, before closing with an emotional, “I feel that I’m right where I was supposed to be.”
In another first for the event, CMA recognized 72 songwriters who earned their very first No. 1 hit since the last Triple Play celebration. Many of these rising talents were in attendance, marking a major career milestone and signaling the next wave of country music hitmakers.
With emotional tributes, unforgettable performances, and long-overdue recognition for those behind the scenes, the 2025 CMA Triple Play Awards offered a poignant and powerful reminder of the songwriters who give country music its soul.
Belmont University Expands Dolly U
/by LB CantrellDolly U fellows Margo Dobbs, Mackenzie Thompson, Elise Olson, Ellie Thompson and Cece Twohey. Not pictured: Rachel Phinney, Jude Whalen, Hudson Blake and Riley McConnell. Photo: Sam Simpkinsr
Belmont University is growing its Dolly U initiative with new course offerings, a fresh cohort of student fellows, and the debut of exclusive merchandise, deepening its groundbreaking partnership with Dolly Parton and CTK Enterprises.
Building on the momentum of its inaugural spring 2025 semester, the Fall 2025 Dolly U curriculum will include four immersive courses that explore various aspects of Dolly Parton’s life, artistry, and the upcoming Broadway-bound Dolly: An Original Musical, which premieres this summer at Belmont’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.
New classes include:
– Documentary Project, led by Annie Price, where journalism students will script “Dolly: The Making of a Musical” using behind-the-scenes footage from CTK Enterprises.
– Dolly: Documentary Editing, taught by Jennifer Bergen, a motion pictures course focusing on editing the same film in collaboration with writers.
– Dolly Parton: Songteller, co-taught by Jodi Marr and Victoria Banks, exploring the songwriting craft and cultural legacy of Parton’s most impactful works.
– Market Research, taught by Dr. Brandon Holle, which includes a hands-on research project tied to the development and marketing of the musical.
In addition to the fall courses, Belmont announced nine undergraduate students as the latest Dolly U Fellows. From June 2 to Aug. 8, the fellows will be embedded in various departments of the Dolly: An Original Musical production team, gaining real-world experience in roles spanning stage management, sound, costumes, video production, music direction and more. Each will work 28–40 hours per week, contributing to the musical’s development at the Fisher Center.
This summer’s fellows include:
– Ellie Thompson (music, musical theatre emphasis, ’26): general/company management
– Margo Dobbs (fashion design, ’26): costumes
– Rachel Phinney (theatre production design, ’26): costumes
– Elise Olson (theatre & drama, ’25): costumes
– Jude Whalen (music business with production emphasis, ’27): stage management
– Cece Twohey (audio engineering technology, ’26): sound
– Hudson Blake (musical theatre, music theory, ’25): music
– Riley McConnell (theatre performance, ’27): directing
– Mackenzie Thompson (motion picture production, ’27): video
“The expansion of Dolly U marks the next chapter in our innovative partnership with Dolly Parton and CTK Enterprises,” said Sarah Cates, Belmont’s VP for Imagination, Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships. “By expanding both our curriculum and the fellowship program, we’re creating unparalleled opportunities for students to develop professional skills alongside one of music’s most iconic figures.”
Timed with National College Decision Day, Dolly U merchandise has also been unveiled for the first time, available exclusively through Dolly Parton’s official online store this month. Several student ideas from the spring classes helped shape the first batch of merch.
Launched in January 2025, the Dolly U partnership provides hands-on, cross-disciplinary experiences while honoring Parton’s enduring cultural legacy. With new academic pathways and industry-facing opportunities, Belmont continues to redefine applied learning at the intersection of entertainment, creativity and community impact.
Lainey Wilson To Make Feature Film Debut
/by LB CantrellLainey Wilson
Lainey Wilson is set to make her feature film acting debut in Reminders of Him, the upcoming adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel.
Wilson joins a cast that reportedly includes Maika Monroe, Tyriq Withers, Rudy Pankow, Lauren Graham, Bradley Whitford and Nicholas Duvernay. Directed by Vanessa Caswill, the film is slated for release on Feb. 13, 2026, via Universal Pictures.
The Grammy, CMA and ACM Award-winning artist is no stranger to the screen, having previously appeared as Abby, a musician, in the hit series Yellowstone. She also recently teamed up with Universal on last year’s blockbuster Twisters, contributing the original song “Out of Oklahoma” to its soundtrack.
Wilson’s acting news follows a string of major milestones for the Louisiana native. Her latest track, “Bell Bottoms Up,” dropped April 5 in celebration of National Bell Bottoms Day. Recorded at London’s historic Abbey Road Studios, the high-energy anthem nods to her signature style and shares its name with her Nashville bar. The fan favorite is currently featured on her “Whirlwind World Tour.”
Wilson is nominated for seven honors at the upcoming 60th Annual ACM Awards, including Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for Whirlwind.