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.
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.”
Tennessee Songwriters Week Names Seven Finalists
/by Lorie HollabaughSeven Tennessee Songwriters Week contestants performed their original songs at showcases across the state, impressing the judges to make it to the finals, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development announced today (March 4).
Nearly 50 qualifying rounds were held at venues, cafés, listening rooms, museums and performance stages in late January and early February. Songwriters advanced from qualifying rounds to the seven showcases. Finalists include Rodrick Duran (Memphis), Sarrenna Johnson (Knoxville), Claire Childress (Bristol), Kristina & Jordan (Gatlinburg), Caleb Lovely (Chattanooga), Jon Wayne Hatfield (Portland) and DEK of Hearts (Franklin).
Songwriter showcases were held at Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis, The Bijou Theatre in Knoxville, Paramount Bristol in Bristol, Ole Red in Gatlinburg, Bessie Smith Cultural Center in Chattanooga, Temple Theatre in Portland and The Franklin Theatre in Franklin.
Each of the seven finalists earned the opportunity to perform at The Bluebird Cafe during a private event March 30 with music industry professionals, a branded commemorative Taylor guitar, a two-night stay in Nashville, $100 gift card for travel and a one-year membership to Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI).
Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the seventh annual Tennessee Songwriters Week supports music venues, provides songwriters with performance opportunities, drives visitation and inspires travelers to experience the state’s musical stories, history, attractions and venues. Since its inception in 2019, more than 5,000 songwriters have shared their original songs on Tennessee stages during the annual celebration each February.
Zach Top Brings Country Music Revival To Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium
/by LB CantrellZach Top performs at the Ryman Auditorium. Photo: Citizen Kane Wayne
It’s no secret that Zach Top, the Washington state native whose sound harkens back to the best of ’80s and ’90s country, has been turning heads since his breakout last year.
His rise has been meteoric. His debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music, released last spring via independent label Leo33, racked up over 3.5 million streams in its first week and earned widespread acclaim. His hit “I Never Lie” is climbing toward the top 10 at country radio, and his headline “Cold Beer & Country Music Tour” sold out within hours. Add in a New Artist of the Year nomination at the 58th CMA Awards and a Discovery Artist of the Year win at the 2024 MusicRow Awards, and it’s clear Top is leading country music’s new traditionalist revival.
This weekend, he took the stage for two sold-out shows at the Ryman Auditorium, met by an electric crowd eager for steel guitar, country gold songwriting and vintage style. Jake Worthington opened Friday (Feb. 28), with Cole Goodwin handling Saturday (March 1), proving that Top’s peers share his commitment to making traditional country music mainstream again.
Zach Top and Jake Worthington perform at the Ryman Auditorium. Photo: Citizen Kane Wayne
On Friday night, Worthington kicked things off with his signature country-as-cornbread charm, debuting his upcoming single, “I’m The One” featuring Marty Stuart (out March 14), alongside crowd-pleasers like “State You Left Me In” and “Hello Shitty Day.” He wrapped his set with a one-two punch of George Jones classics, “The Grand Tour” and “White Lightning,” priming the audience for Top’s arrival.
When Top hit the stage in a striped button-down tucked into jeans, topped with a cowboy hat and boots, the Ryman roared. Most of the audience stayed on their feet all night.
He opened with “Sounds Like the Radio” and “I Don’t Mind” before launching into his first of many covers, George Jones—and George Strait’s—“Love Bug.” A well-timed pulse check got the crowd riled up for “Beer for Breakfast,” before he brought them back down to sway along to “Lonely for Long” and “Dirt Turns to Gold.”
With his signature charm, he tossed a wink to the crowd during “Ain’t That a Heartbreak,” and had the women in the audience swooning with “There’s the Sun.” A Merle Haggard classic, “Ramblin’ Fever,” came next.
Then, a curveball: Top and his exceptional band’s performance of “The Kinda Woman I Like” turned into The Commodores‘ “Brick House,” before he shared that they were venturing into a bluegrass section, to highlight the singer-songwriters roots in the genre.
“‘Brick House’ to bluegrass, just how Bill Monroe intended it,” Top joked.
He leaned into the genre with a rootsy rendition of his own “World Gone Wrong,” followed by Ricky Skaggs’ “Don’t Cheat in Our Hometown” and Randy Travis’ “If I Didn’t Have You.” Sending the band off, he performed “Kentucky Bluebird” solo, earning rousing approval.
The energy surged again with fan-favorite “Bad Luck,” and bandmate Cheyenne Dalton took center stage for a fiery rendition of Sara Evans’ “Suds in the Bucket.”
Next up, the crowd—especially the women—erupted for Top’s cheating song “Use Me.” When he sang, “Tell me you love me,” the entire room shouted back, “I love you!”
After a rollicking take on Sammy Kershaw’s “Cadillac Style,” Top welcomed Worthington back for a duet on “Murder on Music Row.” Watching two young artists committed to making traditional country cool again was a moment that felt like history in the making. They grinned at each other and as the audience ate it up.
As the night wound down, he introduced his band with “Justa Jonesin’” before diving into his biggest hits. When the first notes of “I Never Lie” rang out, the crowd blew the roof off the Ryman, making for a special moment as Top’s potential first chart-topper took center stage. He rode that energy through “Things to Do” before closing with the anthemic title track, “Cold Beer & Country Music.”
Top’s “Cold Beer & Country Music Tour” rolls on this weekend in Atlanta, with additional support slots for Alan Jackson and Dierks Bentley throughout the year. With performances like this, it’s clear that Zach Top isn’t just reviving traditional country—he’s making it the hottest thing in town.
Dolly Parton’s Husband Carl Dean Passes
/by Lorie HollabaughDolly Parton and Carl Dean
Carl Dean, longtime husband of Dolly Parton, has passed away. He was 82.
Parton shared the news on her social media on Monday (March 3) in a statement. The two married in 1966 and Dean remained out of the public eye for most of their union. They met when she was 18 after passing each other at a Wishy Washy Laundromat, and married two years later. Dean shied away from the limelight during their marriage, preferring to cheer her on from behind the scenes of Parton’s high-watt career throughout their life together. The two never had children.
In her statement Parton said: “Carl Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away March 3rd in Nashville at the age of 82. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family attending. He is survived by his siblings Sandra and Donnie.
“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”
Weekly Register: Country Charts Hold Steady With Morgan Wallen On Top
/by John Nix ArledgeMorgan Wallen. Photo: Matt Paskert
Morgan Wallen stays atop the country albums and streaming songs charts this week, according to Luminate data. His 2023 album One Thing At A Time accrued 41K in total consumption (1K album only and 52 million song streams) and his newest track “I’m The Problem,” maintains the No. 1 spot on the songs chart with 14 million streams.
Also on the albums chart, Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album keeps its No. 2 position earning 29K in total consumption, Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion stays at No. 3 with 25K in total consumption, Jelly Roll’s Beautifully Broken at No. 4 with 19K and Zach Bryan‘s American Heartbreak with 18K.
On the songs chart, Shaboozey remains in the No. 2 position with “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” earning 13 million streams adding to one billion, Wallen’s “Love Somebody” at No. 3 with 12 million streams, Post Malone’s “I Had Some Help” stays at No. 4 with 12 million streams and Wallen closes the list out at No. 5 with “Smile” garnering 9 million streams.