Maddie Lenhart, Jessie Jo Dillon & Todd Cassetty. Photo: Courtesy of Song Suffragettes
Song Suffragettes, Nashville’s only weekly all female singer-songwriter round, held its annual anniversary show on Monday night (March 3) at The Listening Room. Celebrating its 11th year, the night featured performances from Song Suffragettes alumnae spanning genres, and also honored Jessie Jo Dillon with the Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award.
To kick off the night, Song Suffragettes Founder Todd Cassetty and Event Director Maddie Lenhart welcomed the crowd and shared the meaning behind the organization.
“Nashville is a real struggle for women creatives. In 2013, before Song Suffragettes started, there were 8% of females played on country radio,” Cassetty shared. “The idea was to create an environment where women singer-songwriters can come and grow and meet like-minded creatives and work on their craft.”
Photo: Mike Feher
Lenhart then shared some hopeful statistics about the 500+ alumnae who have played the shows over the years, including Laniey Wilson, Kelsea Ballerini, Megan Moroney and many more. She reported that 52 alumnae have received record deals and 76 have signed publishing deals.
After a video highlighting the program’s history flashed across the screens, the crowd cheered as the first round of women took the stage. First up was Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment’s Shaylen. After sharing the story of how she had two failed record deals in L.A., leading her to move to Nashville, she played her breakout hit “What If I Don’t.” Shelby Raye was up next, who used her impressive vocal prowess and honest lyricism to treat the crowd to “Devil’s Daughter.”
Next up was Regan Stewart, who showed off her cleverness with “You Should See The Other Girl.” Abby Cates then added some pop sound into the mix with “Amelia,” before Moriah‘s smooth vocals wowed the crowd on “Whiskey’s His Wife.” The last solo performance of the round was from Song Suffragettes’ resident performer Mia Morris, who has played over 300 shows with the organization. Despite a broken loop pedal, she still mesmerized the crowd with “Everywhere.” The round ended with a group cover of Megan Moroney’s “No Caller ID,” co-penned by Dillon.
Karely Scott Collins, Molly Grace, Summer Joy & Anna Vaus. Photo: Mike Feher
Round two kicked off with Shantia, who got the crowd swooning with “What I Wouldn’t Do.” Sony Music Nashville’s Karley Scott Collins used her signature rock-country sound for the deeply personal “Quit You,” before former Song Suffragettes intern Molly Grace led the crowd in a clap-along for her new single “Mad At Her Forever,” releasing this Friday (March 7).
Summer Joy sent the room into full body chills with her unreleased “Siren,” hitting vocal notes that had the crowd standing on their feet at the end. Anna Vaus brought her storytelling to life with “Scenic Route,” a song she wrote to navigate being in her twenties. Morris then got to treat the crowd to a second song, “The First Move.” To end the round, the group covered another song penned by Dillon, Maren Morris’ “Rich.”
After hearing inspiring stories from the up and coming singer-songwriters, the crowd was buzzing as it was time for the main event. Cassetty introduced MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell to lead the on-stage interview with Dillon. Cantrell gave a highlight of Dillon’s career highlights, which includes 2024 ACM Songwriter of the Year; Billboard Rising Songwriter of the Year; Grammy nominations for Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical and Best Country Song and NSAI’s Songwriter of the Year in 2019, alongside six No. 1 country songs, including “10,000 Hours,” “Break Up In The End,” “Memory Lane,” “Back Then Right Now,” “Halfway To Hell,” and “Lies Lies Lies.” Dillon has also had cuts with Post Malone, Megan Moroney, Kelsea Ballerini, Hardy, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, Tim McGraw, Nate Smith, Jon Pardi, Brothers Osborne, Maren Morris, Darius Rucker and many more.
LB Cantrell & Jessie Jo Dillon. Photo: Mike Feher
The inspiring and honest conversation touched on topics such as Dillon’s journey to becoming a full-time writer, advice she has gotten along the way, her own words of wisdom, how she finds inspiration for her songs, songwriting craft, her favorite career moments and more.
“Female writers here, stick with your girls and be good to them,” Dillon shared when asked about the female writing community in Nashville. “Everybody’s trying to make a living and write the music they love. I think it’s so important to have that sisterhood with people, whether you’re a writer or artist or both. Always pull each other into things when you can.”
A piece of advice Dillon shared for any aspiring songwriter was to get out there and network. “So many things are TikTok or Instagram these days, there’s no fighting that. But in Nashville, nothing beats relationships.”
Alana Springsteen. Photo: Mike Feher
After Cassetty and Lenhart presented Dillon with the Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award, an annual honor given out to someone who has inspired up-and-coming female songwriters, it was time for more honoring for the woman of the hour. Alana Springsteen took the stage to perform a collection of some of Dillon’s tunes, as well as share some personal anecdotes about her experiences with Dillon.
“Being an ‘outlaw’ in country music today is standing up for yourself and the people you love, and Jessie is the epitome of that,” expressed Springsteen.
The performance began with Morgan Wallen’s “Lies, Lies, Lies” before going into Springsteen’s own “Trust Issues.” She then evoked the emotion behind Dillon’s writing with Brandy Clark’s “Buried,” before ending the night with Dillon’s biggest hit, “10,000 Hours” recorded by Dan + Shay, featuring Justin Bieber, as the evening came to a close.
Song Suffragettes is held every Monday night at The Listening Room at 6 p.m., featuring a new lineup every show.
Industry Ink: Grand Ole Opry, Bradley’s Barn, Dan Seals, Connor Daly, IBMA
/by Lorie HollabaughVince Gill Helps Unveil Opry’s New Mic Stand
Photo: Grand Ole Opry, photos by Chris Hollo
Vince Gill helped the Grand Ole Opry unveil its new Opry mic stand during last Saturday night’s show. In what has become as iconic as the Opry’s esteemed six-foot circle of wood centerstage and the world-famous Opry barn set design, the redo is only the fifth major redesign of the Opry mic stand in the show’s 100-year history.
Bradley’s Barn Celebrates Reopening
John Owen Bradley recently renovated the iconic Bradley’s Barn and reopened it. The studio was founded in the mid-1960s by his great-grandfather, Owen Bradley, in a converted barn on farmland in Mount Juliet, Tennessee and was the site of numerous notable records by artists including Loretta Lynn, Conway Twitty, J. J. Cale, Bill Anderson, k.d. lang, George Jones and others. A writer’s round was held recently to celebrate the reopening of the studio.
Dan Seals Among TX Heritage Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductees
Jim Seals, Holley Seals-Lizarraga and Andrea Seals. Photo: Ted Parker Jr.
The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association celebrated the 2025 Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees at ACL Live at the Moody Theater Feb. 22. The event honored the late Dan Seals, Charlie Robison, David Lee and Leslie Satcher, who have each made profound contributions to Texas’ rich musical legacy. The night was especially poignant as friends, family and fans gathered to pay tribute to Seals, whose career spanned both pop and country music.
A Texas native, Seals first gained recognition as half of the pop duo England Dan & John Ford Coley before transitioning into country, where he amassed eleven No. 1s. Introduced by Dan’s beloved friend and co-writer, Bob McDill, iconic songs “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold) and “They Rage On” were performed by Larry Gatlin and Jon Randall in his honor, highlighting the timeless quality of his songwriting and vocal artistry.
Connor Daly Inks With Burning Ground Entertainment
Connor Daly
Connor Daly has signed with Burning Ground Entertainment for management. Daly exploded onto the Americana music scene last summer with his debut album, Colors Fade, and just released his new single “Curtains Never Close” on Valentine’s Day, with plans to drop more music later this year.
IBMA Songwriter Showcase Applications Now Open
The IBMA Songwriter Showcase will take place during the IBMA Business Conference from Sept. 16-18 in Chattanooga. Up to 10 songwriters (or songwriting teams) will be invited to showcase their work. Songs will be selected through a juried process, with an emphasis on the quality of the work and its appeal to bluegrass audiences.
Applicants don’t need to be IBMA members but must be willing to perform their song live. Each applicant may submit one song per entry, with a maximum of two entries. There is no application fee; however, selected songwriters must register for the IBMA Business Conference to participate. Applications close March 31.
Live In The Vineyard Goes Country Unveils Initial Lineup & Details
/by John Nix ArledgeLive In the Vineyard Goes Country (LITVGC), presented by Visit Napa Valley, has unveiled details of its initial lineup for the event coming April 22-24 in Napa Valley, California.
The list of announced performers include Brett Young, RaeLynn, Linda Perry, Stephen Wilson Jr., Katharine McPhee, Roman Alexander, Dusty Black, Annie Bosko, Gable Bradley, CeCe, Allie Colleen, Canaan Cox, Kashus Culpepper, Adam Doleac, Carter Faith, Lanie Gardner, Harper Grace, Braden Hull, James Barker Band, Caroline Jones, Alexandra Kay, Kalsey Kulyk, Max McNown, Morgan Myles, Stella Prince, Owen Riegling, Shane Stevens and Thelma & James, with more to be revealed.
LITVGC is a three-day showcase that merges musical artists, new talent, Napa Valley wineries and world-class chefs to form a fusion of music, wine and culinary expertise. Attendees, such as music supervisors, radio programmers, DSP curators, label executives, VIPs and corporate hospitality groups, will get an exclusive listen to brand new music from these rising stars in an intimate setting. Additionally, VIP performances will be made available for programmers, music supervisors and DSPs in wineries throughout Napa Valley.
The event, in collaboration with EqualizeHer, will celebrate female talent and encourage industry leaders to take action toward greater inclusivity. As part of this initiative, Linda Perry, a driving force behind EqualizeHer, will make an appearance and use her platform to advocate and further the conversation around equal representation.
“Live In The Vineyard Goes Country continues to be a place where the industry comes together to experience music in its purest form—up close and personal, surrounded by the beauty of Napa Valley,” says Bobbii Jacobs, Founder of Live In The Vineyard Goes Country. “This year’s lineup showcases a dynamic mix of established artists and rising stars, all set to deliver unforgettable performances in an intimate setting. We are also proud to partner with EqualizeHer, reinforcing our commitment to amplifying female voices in country music. LITVGC isn’t just an event; it’s a community and a celebration of artistry, storytelling, and connection.”
LITVGC is a private event open only to invited industry guests, including previously mentioned parties, corporate partners, Ensemble club members and sweepstakes winners. Fans can enter national radio promotions for a chance to attend.
In 2022, Visit Napa Valley became the official title sponsor for LITVGC and LITV, committing to a three-year partnership to promote Napa Valley as a premier destination for music and culture. For 15 years, LITV and LITVGC have brought major artists to Napa Valley, boosting tourism and supporting the local community. Event organizers remain dedicated to giving back to the region.
LITVGC, LITV, and Elevation are produced by Forefront Networks/FF Entertainment. For more information, click here.
Stella Prince Announced As Featured Performer For 2025 Rising Women On The Row
/by MusicRow StaffStella Prince will bring her musical talents to MusicRow‘s Rising Women on the Row breakfast on Thursday, March 20 at 8:30 a.m. at the Omni Nashville Hotel. The performance is presented by supporting sponsors AB Hillsboro Village and Chao Nail + Bar.
The Rising Women on the Row Class of 2025, who will be honored at the breakfast, includes Lydia Schultz Cahill, Rakiyah Marshall, Michelle Tigard Kammerer, Katie Kerkhover, Jessi Vaughn Stevenson and Julie Sturdivant. Read more about them here.
City National Bank is Presenting Sponsor for the 2025 Rising Women on the Row.
As previously announced, music industry veteran Jennie Smythe will be the featured speaker at the event.
Tickets for Rising Women on the Row are now closed. Tickets will not be sold at the door, as the event is sold out.
Woodstock-raised, Nashville-honed and Laurel Canyon inspired, Stella Prince creates soul-baring, pop-infused folk for a new generation.
Shaping her emotions into powerful songs and performances that put her visceral voice at center stage, Stella has forged her own genre. Her Gen Z folk has earned her sold-out shows across North America and Europe, history-making Nashville performances at AMERICANAFEST and Tin Pan South, a tireless in-studio radio tour of the U.S. and a No. 1 on the Official Folk Charts. Her Dear Future Me EP was named one of the best of 2024 by No Depression. Stella capped her rocket ride of a year with her first residency, at Nashville’s only woman-owned music venue, AB Hillsboro Village. She strides into 2025 set to record her debut album.
Stella is already used to claiming musical firsts. The Woodstock N.Y.-born artist was the first solo artist to headline France’s Bluegrass in La Roche Music Festival, as well as the youngest headliner at many of the venues on her sold-out U.K. tour. Stella launched Nashville’s only all-female folk showcase sponsored by Change the Conversation, and took it on the road to New York City, Boston, Maine, Connecticut, Berkeley, CA and London. Her music has been heard on 200 American radio stations and her performances featured on CBS, NBC and FOX, among others.
Winner of the 2023 Folk Alliance First Timers Scholarship and one of the youngest artists to be given an Official Showcase at Folk Alliance 2025, and a recent finalist for the 2024 John Cirillo Songwriting Award, Stella has co-written with pros such as Steve Dean (Dolly Parton, Reba, George Strait), Lynn Chater (Tanya Tucker, JoDee Messina) and Brent Baxter (Alan Jackson, Randy Travis). She currently resides in Nashville.
Michael Lewan Named Executive Director Of Music Fights Fraud Alliance
/by Lorie HollabaughMichael Lewan
The Music Fights Fraud Alliance has appointed Michael Lewan as its first Executive Director.
A seasoned leader with a wealth of experience in industry advocacy, Lewan will lead the Alliance’s strategic initiatives and operations from Washington, D.C. With a strong background in government relations and advocacy, Lewan most recently held the position of Managing Director of State and Federal Advocacy at the Recording Academy.
“We are thrilled to have Michael Lewan join Music Fights Fraud as our first Executive Director,” says Andreea Gleeson, CEO of TuneCore. “When TuneCore and Believe co-founded the Music Fights Fraud Alliance together with Downtown, our goal was to unite the music industry, foster collaboration, and take smarter, more impactful action to tackle fraud in all its forms. Michael’s extensive experience in government relations, policy advocacy, and building stakeholder partnerships makes him the ideal leader to guide MFFA’s mission forward. His leadership and vision will be crucial as we continue working toward a more equitable and transparent music industry.”
“As streaming fraud increasingly threatens the livelihoods of artists and right holders and undermines the integrity of the music economy, the Alliance’s work has never been more critical,” shares Lewan. “I am excited to lead this dedicated group of industry leaders in our mission to create a fairer, more secure, and more transparent music ecosystem. Together, we will continue to build on the progress we’ve made, strengthen our collaboration, and drive impactful solutions that protect artists and ensure they are fairly compensated for their work.”
Founded in June 2023, the Music Fights Fraud Alliance marks the first time the music industry has come together as a unified force to combat fraud. The Alliance includes companies such as CD Baby, FUGA, and its parent company Downtown, along with TuneCore and its parent company Believe, Amazon Music, Spotify, EMPIRE, Symphonic, United Masters and other distributors. This groundbreaking collaboration spans multiple platforms to address fraud. The founding members have established working groups and task forces to develop best practices for fraud identification, mitigation and enforcement. Issues once viewed in isolation are now being tackled collectively by the founding members, with plans for further expansion under Lewan to build a united front among industry leaders in the fight against fraud.
Since its inception, a major achievement of the Alliance’s collective efforts has been the creation of a comprehensive, shared database of identified fraud indicators across various platforms and members. In collaboration with the National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance, the database allows members to securely exchange and access crucial data on fraudulent activities in an anonymized format. This data-sharing initiative empowers the Alliance to consolidate resources and expertise, offering a coordinated approach to identifying, monitoring and combating fraud in real time.
By leveraging the expertise of its members alongside the resources of the NCFTA, the Alliance is strengthening its capacity to detect and prevent fraud on an industry-wide scale, ensuring all members have the necessary tools and insights to take effective action against fraud. Acknowledging that not all members can contribute to data sharing in the same way, Lewan will collaborate with the founding members to create member tiers that will cater to the diverse needs of members, allowing them to support MFFA in different ways.
The MFFA has also added new members, including YouTube, SoundCloud, Meta, OneRPM, STEM, Revelator and Too Lost. These new members join the Alliance’s current partners in a collective effort to detect, prevent, mitigate, and enforce anti-fraud measures, all working toward a music industry free from fraudulent streaming practices.
“Fairness and transparency are central to our mission at SoundCloud,” says Ama Walton, EVP & General Counsel for Soundcloud. “By joining the Music Fights Fraud Alliance, we’re reinforcing our commitment to supporting artists and contributing to a safer, more sustainable music industry. Combating streaming fraud requires a unified effort, and we’re proud to stand together to uphold authenticity and ensure artists receive the compensation they deserve.”
Song Suffragettes Honors Jessie Jo Dillon & Celebrates Community During Anniversary Show
/by Madison HahnenMaddie Lenhart, Jessie Jo Dillon & Todd Cassetty. Photo: Courtesy of Song Suffragettes
Song Suffragettes, Nashville’s only weekly all female singer-songwriter round, held its annual anniversary show on Monday night (March 3) at The Listening Room. Celebrating its 11th year, the night featured performances from Song Suffragettes alumnae spanning genres, and also honored Jessie Jo Dillon with the Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award.
To kick off the night, Song Suffragettes Founder Todd Cassetty and Event Director Maddie Lenhart welcomed the crowd and shared the meaning behind the organization.
“Nashville is a real struggle for women creatives. In 2013, before Song Suffragettes started, there were 8% of females played on country radio,” Cassetty shared. “The idea was to create an environment where women singer-songwriters can come and grow and meet like-minded creatives and work on their craft.”
Photo: Mike Feher
Lenhart then shared some hopeful statistics about the 500+ alumnae who have played the shows over the years, including Laniey Wilson, Kelsea Ballerini, Megan Moroney and many more. She reported that 52 alumnae have received record deals and 76 have signed publishing deals.
After a video highlighting the program’s history flashed across the screens, the crowd cheered as the first round of women took the stage. First up was Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment’s Shaylen. After sharing the story of how she had two failed record deals in L.A., leading her to move to Nashville, she played her breakout hit “What If I Don’t.” Shelby Raye was up next, who used her impressive vocal prowess and honest lyricism to treat the crowd to “Devil’s Daughter.”
Next up was Regan Stewart, who showed off her cleverness with “You Should See The Other Girl.” Abby Cates then added some pop sound into the mix with “Amelia,” before Moriah‘s smooth vocals wowed the crowd on “Whiskey’s His Wife.” The last solo performance of the round was from Song Suffragettes’ resident performer Mia Morris, who has played over 300 shows with the organization. Despite a broken loop pedal, she still mesmerized the crowd with “Everywhere.” The round ended with a group cover of Megan Moroney’s “No Caller ID,” co-penned by Dillon.
Karely Scott Collins, Molly Grace, Summer Joy & Anna Vaus. Photo: Mike Feher
Round two kicked off with Shantia, who got the crowd swooning with “What I Wouldn’t Do.” Sony Music Nashville’s Karley Scott Collins used her signature rock-country sound for the deeply personal “Quit You,” before former Song Suffragettes intern Molly Grace led the crowd in a clap-along for her new single “Mad At Her Forever,” releasing this Friday (March 7).
Summer Joy sent the room into full body chills with her unreleased “Siren,” hitting vocal notes that had the crowd standing on their feet at the end. Anna Vaus brought her storytelling to life with “Scenic Route,” a song she wrote to navigate being in her twenties. Morris then got to treat the crowd to a second song, “The First Move.” To end the round, the group covered another song penned by Dillon, Maren Morris’ “Rich.”
After hearing inspiring stories from the up and coming singer-songwriters, the crowd was buzzing as it was time for the main event. Cassetty introduced MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell to lead the on-stage interview with Dillon. Cantrell gave a highlight of Dillon’s career highlights, which includes 2024 ACM Songwriter of the Year; Billboard Rising Songwriter of the Year; Grammy nominations for Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical and Best Country Song and NSAI’s Songwriter of the Year in 2019, alongside six No. 1 country songs, including “10,000 Hours,” “Break Up In The End,” “Memory Lane,” “Back Then Right Now,” “Halfway To Hell,” and “Lies Lies Lies.” Dillon has also had cuts with Post Malone, Megan Moroney, Kelsea Ballerini, Hardy, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, Tim McGraw, Nate Smith, Jon Pardi, Brothers Osborne, Maren Morris, Darius Rucker and many more.
LB Cantrell & Jessie Jo Dillon. Photo: Mike Feher
The inspiring and honest conversation touched on topics such as Dillon’s journey to becoming a full-time writer, advice she has gotten along the way, her own words of wisdom, how she finds inspiration for her songs, songwriting craft, her favorite career moments and more.
“Female writers here, stick with your girls and be good to them,” Dillon shared when asked about the female writing community in Nashville. “Everybody’s trying to make a living and write the music they love. I think it’s so important to have that sisterhood with people, whether you’re a writer or artist or both. Always pull each other into things when you can.”
A piece of advice Dillon shared for any aspiring songwriter was to get out there and network. “So many things are TikTok or Instagram these days, there’s no fighting that. But in Nashville, nothing beats relationships.”
Alana Springsteen. Photo: Mike Feher
After Cassetty and Lenhart presented Dillon with the Yellow Rose of Inspiration Award, an annual honor given out to someone who has inspired up-and-coming female songwriters, it was time for more honoring for the woman of the hour. Alana Springsteen took the stage to perform a collection of some of Dillon’s tunes, as well as share some personal anecdotes about her experiences with Dillon.
“Being an ‘outlaw’ in country music today is standing up for yourself and the people you love, and Jessie is the epitome of that,” expressed Springsteen.
The performance began with Morgan Wallen’s “Lies, Lies, Lies” before going into Springsteen’s own “Trust Issues.” She then evoked the emotion behind Dillon’s writing with Brandy Clark’s “Buried,” before ending the night with Dillon’s biggest hit, “10,000 Hours” recorded by Dan + Shay, featuring Justin Bieber, as the evening came to a close.
Song Suffragettes is held every Monday night at The Listening Room at 6 p.m., featuring a new lineup every show.
Breland To Launch “Truth Telling UK & EU Tour 2025” In May
/by Lorie HollabaughBreland sits on the steps outside of Historical Brown Chapel Ame Church in Selma, Alabama where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood in front of a crowd of seven hundred people in 1965. Photo: Johnnie Izquierdo
Breland will return to Europe for his new “Truth Telling UK & EU Tour 2025,” kicking off May 29 in Glasgow.
The nine city tour will include stops in Manchester, London, Amsterdam, Cologne and Hamburg, among others, through June 12. The tour will also feature a festival appearance at the American Speedfest in Kent, UK on June 7.
Breland previously toured overseas with Shania Twain and performed for crowds at the C2C Festival, where he also hosted. He also made history by selling out London’s iconic Electric Ballroom. He recently announced his fourth annual Breland & Friends benefit at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on April 22. This year’s concert will feature Jordan Davis, Graham Barham, Grace Bowers, Mackenzie Carpenter, Madeline Edwards, Tigirlily Gold, and more, with proceeds benefiting Middle Tennessee’s at-risk youth through the Oasis Center.
Presale tickets will be available starting tomorrow (March 6) with general tickets going on sale Friday (March 7) here.
“Truth Telling UK & EU Tour 2025” Dates:
May 29 – Glasgow, UK – SWG3 Warehouse
May 31 – Birmingham, UK – O2 Institute 2
June 1 – Manchester, UK – Club Academy
June 3 – Bristol, UK – Fleece
June 5 – London, UK – Islington Assembly Hall
June 9 – Amsterdam, NL – Melkweg OZ
June 11 – Cologne, DE – Helio37
June 12 – Hamburg, DE – Turmzimmer
CMA Touring Awards: Luke Combs’ Crew Celebrates Wins, Ben Farrell Honored
/by John Nix ArledgeKeith Urban hosts “The 19th Annual CMA Touring Awards.” Photo: John Russell/CMA
On Monday (March 3), the Country Music Association hosted its annual CMA Touring Awards at Marathon Music Works in Nashville. The event, emceed by Keith Urban, honored the leading professionals in country music touring with awards in 20 different categories.
Alongside industry executives, crews and families, several artists attended the event to support their nominated team members. Luke Combs, Kenny Chesney, Caylee Hammack and Old Dominion were among those who joined the celebration to honor the hard work and dedication of their touring teams.
Luke Combs’ “Growin’ Up And Gettin’ Old Tour” Crew accepts the award for Crew of the Year at “The 19th Annual CMA Touring Awards.” Photo: John Russell/CMA
The biggest winner of the night was Combs whose “Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old” team managed to accrue a whopping seven of the 20 awards, including Lighting Director, Tour Video Director, Tour Videographer/Photographer, Front of House Engineer, Monitor Engineer and Tour Manager of the Year, prompting Urban to jokingly refer to the event as “The Luke Combs Touring Awards,” warning other crews in the crowd to watch out if they were in the same category.
Keeping with the theme, Combs’ team also took home the night’s most prestigious award, Crew of the Year. “This is one of the coolest nights of my career, and I mean that very sincerely. Over the years I have played so many incredible shows and been to so many incredible places and none of that would have been possible without these guys,” shared Combs.
He continued, “I feel like an outsider in this room in the best way possible. I have one percent of the talent that you guys have. From putting on these shows, climbing up in the rafters, programming the lights, running the sound, working out the logistics—I honestly owe everything I have to you guys. From every artist in country music I want to say a sincere thank you to everyone here tonight.”
The late Ben Farrell was honored with the 2024 CMA Touring Lifetime Achievement Award at the 19th CMA Touring Awards. Photo: John Russell/CMA
Other big wins of the night included Morris Higham’s Clint Higham who took home the award for Manager of the Year, The Neal Agency’s Austin Neal as Talent Agent of the Year, Sacks & Co.’s Carla Sacks as Publicist of the Year and Charlie Worsham who received Touring Musician of the Year.
At the end of the night, CMA posthumously honored promoter Ben Farrell with the Lifetime Achievement Award. This award is given to an individual who has positively impacted and contributed to the growth of touring in country music and has proven to have a historical impact on fans and the industry alike.
Farrell dedicated 52 years of his life to the country music industry. Throughout his career, he played a pivotal role in shaping the live music landscape, working with legendary artists such as Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Merle Haggard, Alan Jackson and George Strait.
Higham presented the award to Farrell’s wife, Autumn Farrell, and daughter, Ella Farrell, alongside Jim Varnell. Farrell is only the seventh person to receive this award.
Full List of CMA Touring Awards Winners:
Business Manager of the Year: Julie Boos (Flood, Bumstead, McCready & McCarthy Inc.)
Coach/Truck Driver of the Year: Wendy Holt (Lainey Wilson)
Venue of the Year: Ryman Auditorium, Nashville
Publicist of the Year: Carla Sacks (Sacks & Co.)
Lighting Director of the Year: Kevin Northrup (Luke Combs)
Tour Video Director of the Year: Tyler Hutcheson (Luke Combs)
Tour Videographer/Photographer of the Year: Andy Barron (Luke Combs)
Talent Agent of the Year: Austin Neal (The Neal Agency)
Front of House Engineer of the Year: Todd Lewis (Luke Combs)
Monitor Engineer of the Year: Michael Zuehsow (Luke Combs)
Support Services Company of the Year: Dega Catering, Nashville
Backline Technician of the Year: Derek Benitez (Chris Stapleton)
Touring Musician of the Year: Charlie Worsham (Guitar, Dierks Bentley)
Talent Buyer of the Year: Adam Weiser (AEG Presents)
Manager of the Year: Clint Higham (Morris Higham Management)
Stage Manager of the Year: Donnie Floyd (Morgan Wallen)
Tour Manager of the Year: Ethan Strunk (Luke Combs)
Unsung Hero of the Year: Robin Majors (Kenny Chesney)
Crew of the Year: “Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old Tour” crew
Randy Travis Extends ‘More Life Tour’ Into Fall
/by Lorie HollabaughRandy Travis. Photo: Robert Tractenberg
Randy Travis is extending his “More Life Tour” into the fall with additional dates.
Currently in the midst of a successful spring run, Travis, his original touring band and special guest vocalist James Dupré, will bring the unique musical experience to fans across the country with an unforgettable journey through Travis’ chart-topping hits, enhanced by video highlights from his celebrated career in music, film and TV.
The newly added dates will begin on Aug. 21 in Denver, and will make stops in Cedar Rapids, San Antonio, Green Bay and more before wrapping up on Nov. 22 in Orono, Maine.
Although Travis no longer performs vocally due to the effects of the stroke he survived in 2013, he joins his wife, Mary, on stage, interacting with fans and celebrating the music throughout the show. Dupré and the band play all of his No. 1 hits, including “On the Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever, Amen” and “Three Wooden Crosses.”
“The ‘More Life Tour’ celebrates something so much more than a musical moment in time—it’s a gift to me to spend time with my fans, and my band, as James Dupré perfectly presents the songs that best define my career,” shares Travis. “We look forward to seeing you all somewhere along the way.”
“I’m thrilled and honored to hit the road again with my hero and friend, Randy Travis,” adds Dupré. “I’m looking forward to meeting and singing along with all the Randy Travis fans in 2025.”
Tickets for the newly announced dates go on sale this Friday (March 7) here.
“More Life Tour” Newly Added Dates:
Aug. 21 – Denver, Colo. – Paramount Theatre
Aug. 23 – Cheyenne, Wyo. – Cheyenne Civic Center
Aug. 25 – Gillette, Wyo. – CAM-PLEX Heritage Theatre
Aug. 26 – Butte, Mont. – Mother Lode Theatre
Aug. 27 – Missoula, Mont. – Dennison Theatre
Aug. 28 – Boise, Idaho – Morrison Theatre
Aug. 29 – Salt Lake City, Utah – Kingsbury Hall
Sept. 18 – Peoria, Ill. – Peoria Civic Center
Sept. 19 – Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Paramount Theatre
Sept. 21 – Branson, Mo. – Clay Cooper Theater
Sept. 26 – Hiawassee, Ga. – Dailey & Vincent Music Fest
Sept. 27 – Dothan, Ala. – Dothan City Civic Center
Oct. 1 – San Angelo, Texas – Murphy Hall
Oct. 2 – Waco, Texas – Hippodrome
Oct. 3 – San Antonio, Texas – Majestic Theatre
Oct. 16 – Hagerstown, Md. – Maryland Theatre
Oct. 17 – Reading, Pa. – Santander PAC
Oct. 18 – Morristown, N.J. – Mayo Performing Arts Center
Oct. 23 – Lexington, Ky. – Lexington Opera House
Oct. 24 – Tiffin, Ohio – Ritz Theatre
Oct. 25 – Roanoke, Va. – Berglund Performing Arts Theatre
Nov. 5 – Green Bay, Wis. – Meyer Theatre
Nov. 6 – Rochester, Minn. – Mayo Civic Center
Nov. 7 – St. Cloud, Minn. – Paramount Center for the Arts
Nov. 8 – Grand Forks, N.D. – Chester Frtiz Auditorium
Nov. 13 – Roanoke Rapids, N.C. – Weldon Mills Theatre
Nov. 14 – Maryville, Tenn. – Clayton Center for the Arts
Nov. 20 – Binghamton, N.Y. – Forum Theatre
Nov. 21 – Concord, N.H. – Chubb Theatre
Nov. 22 – Orono, Maine – Collins Center for the Arts
Country Music Hall Of Fame & Museum Celebrates Latest ‘American Currents: State Of The Music’ Exhibit
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R, back row): Kyle Nix, Evan Felker and RC Edwards from Turnpike Troubadours, Wyatt Flores and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young; (L-R, middle row): Jessi Alexander, Kaitlin Butts, Wyatt Ellis and Shelby Lynne; (L-R, front row): Shannon Sanders, Molly Tuttle, Jamey Johnson, Ella Langley and Rosie Flores. PHoto: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The new “American Currents: State of the Music” opened at The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum last night (March 4) with a special celebration.
Presented annually, “American Currents” gives a broad view of the genre over the past year exploring musical developments, artist achievements and notable events, as determined by the museum’s curators and editorial staff.
Ella Langley and Jamey Johnson attend the opening of “American Currents: State of the Music” at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Artists represented in this year’s exhibit include Jessi Alexander, Kelsea Ballerini, Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Hardy, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Amythyst Kiah, Carín León, Shelby Lynne, Megan Moroney, Orville Peck, Post Malone, The Red Clay Strays, Shaboozey, Chris Stapleton, Billy Strings, Taylor Swift, Turnpike Troubadours, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson.
A section of the exhibit titled “Unbroken Circle” highlights musical connections between artists, including those who share musical perspectives or have been influential to their paired artist. Featured pairings include Wyatt Ellis and Sierra Hull; Ella Langley and Jamey Johnson; Zach Top and Keith Whitley and Kaitlin Butts and Miranda Lambert.
Megan Moroney attends the opening of “American Currents: State of the Music.” Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
“American Currents” also explores important country music moments in 2024, including Beyoncé’s release of Cowboy Carter, as well as the year’s chart-topping albums, singles and highest-grossing tours. The exhibit features a video compilation of significant performances and events from the past year, including some of the artists mentioned above as well as Zach Bryan, Chappell Roan, Dasha, Sierra Ferrell, Rosie Flores, Wyatt Flores, the “From Where I Stand: The Concert Celebration,” Sturgill Simpson and Country Music Hall of Fame members Joe Bonsall, Toby Keith and Kris Kristofferson, as well as a touchscreen interactive highlighting key awards show moments.
The exhibit runs through January 2026 in the museum’s ACM Gallery.
Cleto Cordero and Kaitlin Butts attend the opening of “American Currents: State of the Music.” Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Jessi Alexander attends the opening of “American Currents: State of the Music.” Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Wyatt Flores attends the opening of “American Currents: State of the Music.” Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
Forward Artists Holds Strong Launch Of Nashville Office
/by Madison HahnenForward Artists is marking one year in Nashville with 10 hair and makeup artists and stylists on their roster. With offices in Los Angeles, New York and London, the boutique agency opened its doors in Nashville last year, led by Nashville’s Director of Forward Artists, Morgan Feldman.
Feldman’s first signing was celebrity hair and makeup artist Tarryn Feldman, before curating the entire talent roster by July 2024, just six months after opening their doors in the city. Nashville’s Forward Artists specializes in country glam and male grooming, partnering with some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Kelsea Ballerini, Tucker Wetmore, Megan Moroney, Carly Pearce, Little Big Town, Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson and more.
“We’re incredibly proud of the strong launch of Forward Artists’ Nashville office!” says Alex Polillo, Forward Artists Managing Partner. “Expanding into this deep-rooted creative hub has been a long-held goal, and it took finding the right leader in Morgan to bring it to life. Collaborating with the talented artists, musicians and creative professionals here is an exciting step in our mission to support the industry’s top beauty and style talent. We look forward to building new relationships and contributing to Nashville’s dynamic creative community.”
The Nashville roster includes hair and makeup artists Amber Cannon, Chris Bear, Jessica Candage, Jessica Miller, Mari Brown, Marz Collins and Tarryn Feldman, as well as stylists Lindsey Dupuis and Olivia Rose, and male groomer and stylist Kelly Henderson.
“Over the past 16 years in Nashville, the relationships I’ve built have been integral to my personal and professional growth,” shares Morgan Feldman. “These relationships have guided me through each season of my career, shaping the path I’m on today. A key relationship that has greatly influenced my journey is with Tarryn Feldman, whose trust and support have been invaluable. Tarryn not only entrusted me with her career but also introduced me to Forward Artists, a relationship that has opened countless doors and led me into an exciting new chapter. The relationships among the artists on our Nashville roster are rooted in mutual respect and genuine support, creating an environment where we all cheer each other on as a true team. At Forward Artists, we place great emphasis on nurturing meaningful relationships—whether it’s the bond between clients and artists or between clients and our internal team. This focus on cultivating authentic relationships is something our clients immediately feel and recognize, making it a cornerstone of our work.”