Pictured (L-R): Aaron Rice (Rice and Neely), Evan Bartels, Cindy Mabe (Joan of Arc Music) and Rico Csabai (Intelligent Noise). Photo: Seth Holland
Evan Bartels has inked with Joan Of Arc Records.
Hailing from Nebraska, the Nashville-based singer-songwriter is known for his rich baritone voice and honest storytelling. He pens songs inspired by rural life, faith, hope and redemption. His music tells heartfelt stories about everyday people with warmth, depth and authenticity. Bartels began writing songs, playing guitar and performing at age 13, developing his craft in a backyard studio his father built called Coop Studio.
He gained national attention with his 2017 debut album, The Devil, God & Me, followed by Promised Land (2019), Lonesome (2021), and his 2025 EP, To Make You Cry. Recorded live in his handmade cabin outside Nashville with just acoustic guitar and vocals, the EP reflects the raw, personal style that defines his music.
Bartels has toured with Charles Wesley Godwin, Brothers Osborne and Paul Cauthen, and has performed at festivals including AmericanaFest, Mile of Music, C2C: Country to Country, BST Hyde Park and The Long Road Festival.
“The minute I heard Evan Bartels perform, I felt every lyric he sang, and I wanted to join his journey,” says Cindy Mabe, Founder and CEO of Joan of Arc Music. “He is such a needed artist. He paints portraits of yearning for something more, deep rooted in American rural grit and his lyrics connect to the spirit of the journey of being a human. I am so proud to welcome him to the Joan of Arc Music family, and I can’t wait to see the impact he will continue to make with his music.”
“Cindy Mabe is a champion of songs and stories,” adds Bartels. “With her guidance along with the entire Joan of Arc Music team, I truly am standing among giants that I’m inspired by and immensely grateful to work with. I believe to have a lasting and impactful career in this business one of the most important things is being in the right place at the right time. There is no better time than now and there is no better place than Joan of Arc Music.”
Bartels will release his first single with the label, “Thunder” on August 14.
John Morgan Enters Top 10 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenJohn Morgan. Photo: Matthew Berinato
John Morgan has moved into the top 10 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. His own “Kid Myself” along with Jason Aldean’s “Don’t Tell On Me” push the singer-songwriter to No. 10 this week.
Ella Langley remains in the No. 1 spot for the 13th consecutive week with “Be Her,” “Bottom Of Your Boots,” “Choosin’ Texas,” “Dandelion,” “I Can’t Love You Anymore” and “Loving Life Again.” Austin Goodloe stays at No. 2 with “Dandelion,” “Empty Words,” “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” “No Need For Leavin’” and “Rocky Mountain Low.”
Joybeth Taylor (No. 3), Riley Green (No. 4) and Chase McGill (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.
Stephony Smith Inks With SMACKSongs
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Lee Krabel, Carly Sater, Stephony Smith, Robin Palmer, Jeremy Groves and Sam Sarno.
Stephony Smith has inked with SMACKSongs.
A native of Memphis, Tennessee, the Grammy-nominated writer has amassed a catalog of hits including the solo penned “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, “Yes!” by Chad Brock, “How Was I To Know” by Reba McIntire, and “Perfect Love” by Trisha Yearwood. She has earned two BMI Pop awards, nine BMI Million-Air Awards, been named Billboard’s Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year and earned the Guild Of Music Supervisors Best Song TV Sync for “Look At Us Now,” featured in Daisy Jones and the Six.
“I’ve always been a fan of Stephony Smith’s writing and love how she keeps bringing her best into every room every day,” says Robin Palmer, Chief Creative Officer at SMACKSongs. “We worked together a while back at EMI and it feels like we just picked up where we left off with a whole new cast of characters! We are all excited to welcome her into our SMACK family.”
“I am thrilled and excited to be at SMACK with some of the best writers on the planet!” shares Smith. “Can’t wait to do this all again with my friend Robin Palmer and the amazing crew at SMACKSongs.”
Jon Pardi To Kick Off ‘GAMBLIN’ MAN TOUR 2026′ In September
/by Lorie HollabaughJon Pardi
Jon Pardi will launch his “GAMBLIN’ MAN TOUR 2026” this fall beginning in September with support from Alexandra Kay and Sadie Bass.
Titled after a fan-favorite track from his fifth studio album, Honkytonk Hollywood, the tour will hit 19 arenas and amphitheaters in cities across the U.S. including Richmond, Atlantic City, Wilmington, Biloxi, Laredo, Cedar Rapids and more through Nov. 14.
Tickets go on sale this Friday, (July 24), with presale beginning tomorrow, (July 21).
With four top 5 albums under his belt, Pardi has solidified his place in country with 20 RIAA-certified singles featuring six No. 1s, and has also earned international headlining acclaim, racking up 9.3 billion global career streams and counting. The spiritual successor to his fearless breakout hits, Honkytonk Hollywood features 17 tracks including his current top 25 single and multi-week UK Radio Chart hit “Boots Off.”
“GAMBLIN’ MAN TOUR 2026” Dates:
9/17/26 – Richmond, VA – Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront
9/18/26 – Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena *
9/24/26 – Fort Wayne, IN – Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
9/25/26 – Youngstown, OH – Covelli Centre
9/26/26 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center
10/1/26 – Wilmington, NC – Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park
10/2/26 – Macon, GA – Atrium Health Amphitheater
10/3/26 – Biloxi, MS – Mississippi Coast Coliseum
10/8/26 – Loveland, CO – Blue Arena
10/9/26 – West Valley, UT – Maverik Center
10/10/26 – Nampa, ID – Fort Idaho Center
10/23/26 – Tuscaloosa, AL – Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater
10/24/26 – Athens, GA – Akins Ford Arena
11/5/26 – Laredo, TX – Sames Auto Arena
11/6/26 – Corpus Christi, TX – Concrete Street Amphitheater
11/7/26 – Round Rock, TX – Round Rock Amp
11/12/26 – Cedar Rapids, IA – Alliant Energy PowerHouse
11/13/26 – Peoria, IL – Peoria Civic Center
11/14/26 – Independence, MO – Cable Dahmer Arena
Ryan Kennedy Inks With Fair Trade Services & One:eight Entertainment
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Bella Miller, Taylor Niemi, Alex Whiten, Derek Spirk, Ryan Kennedy, Charity Gayle, Greg Ham, Madeline Halm and Elyse Mead
Songwriter, worship leader and musician Ryan Kennedy has signed a record deal with Fair Trade Services and a management deal with one:eight entertainment.
Along with the announcement, Kennedy has released his debut single, “Be My,” marking the beginning of a new chapter as a solo artist. Written by Kennedy, Charity Gayle and LA Strother, “Be My” is a heartfelt prayer for anyone walking through uncertainty, and reminds listeners that while God never promised life would be easy, He has promised His presence, His peace and His strength through every period.
“I’ve carried these songs in my heart for nearly a decade,” says Kennedy. “There were definitely seasons when the waiting wasn’t easy, but more than anything, I wanted this record to come in The Lord’s timing, not mine. I’m incredibly grateful that the time has finally come and that this new chapter begins with ‘BE MY.’ The song is about trusting the Lord to be everything He’s promised to be and knowing that He’s present and at work all the time. The journey to releasing this record has been a testimony of that truth.”
“Ryan is one of those rare artists whose songwriting, musicianship and heart for the Church are equally compelling,” says Greg Ham, founder and owner of one:eight entertainment. “His gifts as a songwriter are well established, but what excites us most is introducing people to Ryan as an artist. The one:eight team is honored that Ryan has entrusted us with this next chapter of his career and we look forward to stewarding it well.”
‘Songwriters Under the Stars’ Returns To Cheekwood
/by Lorie HollabaughUnder the Stars Concert Series 2024. Photo: Diana Rosales
Chris DeStefano and The Warren Brothers are set to share the stories behind their biggest hits at this year’s “Songwriters Under the Stars” concert series, which returns to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in Nashville on Aug.21-22.
The writers will be accompanied by the Music City Symphony, and the concerts will also include a special tribute to the late singer-songwriter and producer Brett James, a beloved fixture of “Songwriters Under the Stars” for many years.
DeStefano is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist who has penned multiple No. 1s for artists including Carrie Underwood, Brett Eldredge, Luke Bryan, Rascal Flatts and Jason Aldean.
Brothers Brett Warren and Brad Warren are Grammy, CMA, and Emmy-nominated songwriters with 10 No. 1 singles. Their songs have been recorded by Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, Keith Urban, Faith Hill and more.
Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for the evening while enjoying seasonal beers, wine by the bottle, craft cocktails, and offerings from local food trucks and Perenn at Cheekwood.
Tickets are on sale now.
CMA Hosts Annual Meeting Of The Members
/by Lauryn SinkPhoto: Samuel Harris/CMA
The Country Music Association welcomed over 300 members from across the industry to its annual Meeting of the Members last Monday (July 14), at 6th and Peabody in Nashville.
The event brought together artists and industry professionals for an evening of networking and community. Throughout the evening, CMA Members enjoyed experiences and giveaways from 6th & Peabody, The Peach Truck, Nashville Smile Bar, the Nashville Sounds, GiGi Pip + Two Roads Hat Co., Wags & Walks and Delta.
More information on CMA Membership is available here.
Photo: Samuel Harris/CMA
Photo: Samuel Harris/CMA
Photo: Samuel Harris/CMA
Photo: Samuel Harris/CMA
Photo: Samuel Harris/CMA
‘Opry 100 Honors Charley Pride’ Tribute Set For Sept. 22
/by Lorie HollabaughThe tribute show will feature performances by Darius Rucker, Pam Tillis, Neal McCoy, Pride’s son, Dion Pride, and more.
Tickets for “Opry 100 Honors Charley Pride” are on sale now, and $5 from every ticket sold will go directly to the Opry Trust Fund, which has supported country music professionals in times of need with financial assistance for medical bills, emergencies and other hardships.
Pride was a lifelong admirer of the Grand Ole Opry and grew up listening to WSM radio broadcasts, and he made his Opry debut in 1967. He officially became an Opry member in 1993, and remained one of its most respected ambassadors throughout his career. As one of country’s most successful and beloved artists across more than five decades, Pride recorded 29 No. 1 hits and 52 top 10 singles throughout his career. He also earned three Grammys, sold tens of millions of records worldwide, and became one of RCA Records’ best-selling artists.
His unmistakable voice and timeless catalog, which included classics such as “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’,” “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” “All I Have to Offer You (Is Me),” “Mountain of Love,” “Burgers and Fries,” and “Roll On Mississippi,” helped define country music for generations. As one of country’s first Black superstars, Pride broke barriers and opened doors for generations of artists while bringing audiences together through the universal power of his music.
“Every single night Charley Pride came home to the Opry was an event,” says Opry Executive Producer Dan Rogers. “His performances were amazing. The crowd response was like no other. And the backstage area was always, always buzzing. Charley’s spirit and songs live on, and we’re so looking forward to celebrating both on the Opry stage in September.”
Riser House Entertainment Adds Paul Grosser As Director Of Regional Promotion
/by Lauryn SinkPaul Grosser.
Riser House Entertainment has added Paul Grosser as Director of Regional Promotion.
A graduate of Belmont University’s Entrepreneurship program, Grosser began his career with an internship at Sony Music Nashville before advancing through the ranks in promotion and artist development. During his tenure, he served as Specialist of Promotion & Artist Development, Manager of National Promotion, and most recently, Associate Director of National Promotion.
“I’m extremely excited to welcome Paul to the Riser House family,” shares Shane Allen, EVP of Promotion & Artist Brand Strategy. “His broad skill set, creativity, authenticity and passion make him the perfect fit for our strategic vision moving forward.”
“I’m incredibly grateful to Jennifer Johnson and Shane Allen for the opportunity to join the Riser House team,” adds Grosser. “I’m excited to be part of such a forward-thinking company and to help grow the careers of an incredibly talented and hardworking roster of artists.”
Cavendish Beach Music Festival Wraps Successful 2026 Weekend
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Bell Presents Cavendish Beach Music Festival wrapped its 2026 edition last weekend with three days of boot-stomping country and top-tier entertainment.
Prince Edward Island was abuzz with approximately 50,000 country music lovers over the three-day festival, which is one of the Island’s biggest summer parties. Festival-goers experienced two firsts, including the launch of Highwater Show Hall, and the Sunset Viewing Deck that offered some of the best views of the festival. Ashley McBryde‘s first-ever Canadian pop-up Redemption Bar delivered a curated space for sober and sober-curious attendees, and the new additions earned rave reviews from attendees all weekend long.
Attendees were also treated to a special appearance by Canadian actor and comedian Pat Roach, best known for his role in Trailer Park Boys, who introduced Margo Price to the Main Stage. The Kickoff Party featured performances by Lawrence Maxwell, Jake Vadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys and Julia Cole, who ended the night with a high-energy performance that kept the crowd dancing.
The North Sound set the tone on day one with a captivating performance, followed by CeCe, who brought an infectious energy to the Main Stage. VAVO packed the dance floor at Highwater Show Hall’s Kitchen Stage with a crossover Country EDM DJ set before festival goers hit the dance floor to stomp their boots for Line Dancing with Madelaine Mae. As the sun set, Dylan Gossett took over the main stage before HARDY capped off the night with a jaw-dropping performance.
Anna Graves opened day two and kept the momentum going, while Hirtle hooked crowds at the Tailgate Stage. Margo Price brought her signature style to Cavendish before Muscadine Bloodline delivered a powerhouse performance. Tucker Wetmore also charmed fans with a headlining set packed with country anthems that had everyone belting out every lyric.
On the final day, Deana Carter brought a wave of nostalgia with timeless country hits before Ashley McBryde lit up the Main Stage with her gritty, heartfelt performance. Ethan Miller commanded one of the weekend’s biggest crowds at the Tailgate Stage, transforming his set of beloved country classics into one giant sing-along. The final bow belonged to Cody Johnson, who turned Cavendish into a honky-tonk with a hit-filled finale for the crowd, bringing Bell Presents Cavendish Beach Music Festival to an unforgettable close.
The Bell Presents Cavendish Beach Music Festival 2027 is set to take place July 8-10.
Evan Bartels Signs With Joan Of Arc Records
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): Aaron Rice (Rice and Neely), Evan Bartels, Cindy Mabe (Joan of Arc Music) and Rico Csabai (Intelligent Noise). Photo: Seth Holland
Evan Bartels has inked with Joan Of Arc Records.
Hailing from Nebraska, the Nashville-based singer-songwriter is known for his rich baritone voice and honest storytelling. He pens songs inspired by rural life, faith, hope and redemption. His music tells heartfelt stories about everyday people with warmth, depth and authenticity. Bartels began writing songs, playing guitar and performing at age 13, developing his craft in a backyard studio his father built called Coop Studio.
He gained national attention with his 2017 debut album, The Devil, God & Me, followed by Promised Land (2019), Lonesome (2021), and his 2025 EP, To Make You Cry. Recorded live in his handmade cabin outside Nashville with just acoustic guitar and vocals, the EP reflects the raw, personal style that defines his music.
Bartels has toured with Charles Wesley Godwin, Brothers Osborne and Paul Cauthen, and has performed at festivals including AmericanaFest, Mile of Music, C2C: Country to Country, BST Hyde Park and The Long Road Festival.
“The minute I heard Evan Bartels perform, I felt every lyric he sang, and I wanted to join his journey,” says Cindy Mabe, Founder and CEO of Joan of Arc Music. “He is such a needed artist. He paints portraits of yearning for something more, deep rooted in American rural grit and his lyrics connect to the spirit of the journey of being a human. I am so proud to welcome him to the Joan of Arc Music family, and I can’t wait to see the impact he will continue to make with his music.”
“Cindy Mabe is a champion of songs and stories,” adds Bartels. “With her guidance along with the entire Joan of Arc Music team, I truly am standing among giants that I’m inspired by and immensely grateful to work with. I believe to have a lasting and impactful career in this business one of the most important things is being in the right place at the right time. There is no better time than now and there is no better place than Joan of Arc Music.”
Bartels will release his first single with the label, “Thunder” on August 14.