Randy Travis & Wife Mary Host Trivia Night For CMHOFM’s Troubadour Members
Marie Bradshaw, director of institutional giving at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum;
Zach Farnum, Troubadour Advisory Council chair; Mary Travis; Randy Travis; and Troubadour Advisory Council vice chairs Elizabeth Lombardi, Brenden Oliver and Max Vanberg. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Randy Travis and his wife Mary recently hosted a trivia night for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s Troubadour members. Guests were given after-hours access to the museum galleries and participated in special country music-and museum exhibition-focused trivia. During the evening, Troubadour members were among the first to hear Travis’ “Fish On,” an unreleased original recording from the vault, which is out now. The Troubadour membership program engages young professionals in supporting its mission and the museum hosts quarterly networking events for Troubadour members ranging from concerts to exhibit previews.
Steve Wariner Makes History As First Artist To Have Artwork Featured On The Opry Barn
Steve Wariner at the Opry – Ft. Lower East Side, Looking At Brooklyn In 2020. Photo: Cailee Nace, Grand Ole Opry
Steve Wariner made history during his July 10 performance at the Grand Ole Opry as the first artist ever to have his artwork featured on the iconic Opry barn. Ten individual pieces of Wariner’s art from “The Flip Side: Paintings by Steve Wariner” were featured on the Opry’s barn during the final song of his set, “6120,” his instrumental tribute to Chet Atkins, joined by guest musician, Jimmy Mattingly. A solo exhibit featuring 60 of Wariner’s works in oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media, spanning more than 30 years are now showing at Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center near Nashville through July 26.
Allie Colleen Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary Performing For Troops At Guantanamo Bay
Allie Colleen
Allie Colleen recently completed her first military entertainment tour, performing three full-band shows over eight days for U.S. troops stationed at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The tour marked a meaningful milestone for her as well as her team, who had the opportunity to bring music, connection and a piece of home to service members, military families and base personnel during the Fourth of July holiday week.
“Getting to perform for the men and women serving our country was one of the greatest honors of my career,” says Colleen. “There is nothing like standing in front of our troops, seeing their faces and realizing that music can give them even a small moment of joy, comfort and home. I will never forget this experience.”
Cage The Elephant Inks With Big Loud Rock
Cage The Elephant. Photo: Lewis Evans
Cage The Elephant has signed with Big Loud Rock and has released their new single “Beaches In Tennessee.” “Beaches In Tennessee” arrives after a defining period for Cage The Elephant, who returned from their run as special guests on “Oasis Live ’25” and went straight back into the studio. More than 20 years into their career, the band is still finding new urgency in the creative process and new ways to push the project forward.
“Musically, we always want to reinvent Cage The Elephant,” says Brad Shultz. “We’ve discovered a whole new side to our band, how we look at things, and how we make art. You’re growing constantly as an artist, and I think we’ve tapped into that growth. I do feel like we’re making the best music we’ve ever made. If anything, it’s definitely the most inspired.”
Highway Home Signs With WME
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Braeden Rountree (WME), Doug Neff (WME), Jamie Ernst (underscore works), Eamon Owen, Stanton Langley, Conner Sweeny, Charly Salvatore (underscore works) and Kevin Meads (WME). Photo: Sam Vins
Highway Home, the trio composed of Stanton Langley, Eamon Owen and Conner Sweeny, has signed with WME.
“Whether live or in their recorded music, Highway Home’s distinct trio of lead vocalists harmonizing, authentic songwriting, and genuine connection with audiences makes them a standout,” says WME’s Doug Neff. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to WME and look forward to creating new opportunities as their momentum accelerates.”
The band recently signed to Warner Records following a string of independently released singles including “Missin’ You Goes,” “Ring On Red” and “Look At You.” Highway Home recently made their CMA Fest debut and have shared stages with Luke Combs, Sister Hazel, Sara Evans, Graham Barham and George Birge, among others.
The band has upcoming dates in Kentucky, Ohio, New York and more.
They will continue to be represented by underscore works for management, Shore Fire Media for publicity, Sayles Eagen as their Business Manager and Matt Cottingham as their Attorney.
River House Artists Launches Management Division
/by Lauryn SinkZebb Luster and Lynn Oliver-Cline. Photo: Libby Danforth
River House Artists has launched The House, its new management division.
Founded by River House EVP Zebb Luster and River House Artists’ Founder Lynn Oliver-Cline, The House’s roster includes Hudson Westbrook, Austin Snell (in partnership with Sabrina Butera at Collide Talent), Kenny Whitmire, Tyce Delk, and Matt Lang (in partnership with Joelle Proulx and Vickye Morin at Agence Ranch), as well as Christian singer-songwriter Chevas Phillips.
“Launching The House Management is an incredibly exciting moment,” Luster shares. “More than anything, it’s about the artists. I’m grateful for the trust they’ve placed in us, and we continue to be inspired by their talent, work ethic, and vision. Each of them has something truly special, and it’s a privilege to help them build lasting careers. We launched this company out of our passion for artists and our belief that great management requires more than strategy. It requires being fully invested in every detail of an artist’s journey. Our goal is simple: to help exceptional talent reach its full potential while creating a team they’re proud to have in their corner.”
“10 years in, I could not be more proud of what we’ve built at River House Artists. I started my career 32 years ago with Hootie & the Blowfish, and it’s amazing to see all the relationships that have been built along the way and how they have helped make RHA what it is — a truly artist-first music company,” Oliver-Cline shares. “We are there from the time a song is being written, to when it’s being played on a global stage.”
Helmed by Luster, The House’s team also includes Ally Ramirez as Manager for Westbrook and Delk, and Zac Brooks as Manager for Snell and Whitmire. Ramirez joined River House in 2023. Brooks is transitioning to the Day-To-Day Manager role following several years on the road as a Tour Manager for Snell.
“Ally and Zac have been instrumental in shaping the culture of our management team. There’s no one I trust more to be in the trenches with our artists every day,” Luster says. “They bring a high level of care, intention, and attention to detail to everything they do, always putting the artist first. Their ability to anticipate needs, solve problems, and execute at a high level is what allows our artists to thrive. This company and the experience we provide our artists would not be the same without them both.”
“I continue to be more and more proud of Zebb and his leadership,” Oliver-Cline continues. “He has learned every channel of this business, and not only has passion and grace for our roster of clients, but comes armed with the knowledge to help them become globally-reaching talent.”
Kruse Brothers Sign With Sony Music Publishing Nashville
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (Back Row, L-R): Rusty Gaston (SMP), Tom Luteran (SMP) and Scott Mason (Saddle Up Management). (Front Row, L-R): Dan Couch (Saddle Up Management), Chandler Kruse, Miles Kruse, Emily Carignan (SMP). Photo: Courtesy of Sony Music Publishing Nashville
The Kruse Brothers have signed with Sony Music Publishing Nashville.
“It is rare when you meet artists for the first time and their incredible talent moves you to the point where you know you want to work together, and that’s what happened when we met Chandler and Miles,” shares Sony Music Publishing Nashville Vice President, Creative A&R Tom Luteran. “We couldn’t be more excited to join these amazing brothers for the next chapter of their musical journey.”
The duo, composed of Chandler and Miles Kruse, have amassed over 6.8 million streams on Spotify on their 2025 single, “White on the Ground.” After touring alongside Dylan Gossett and Larry Fleet last year, the duo has upcoming dates in Oregon, Utah, Texas and more. They released their debut album Heartbreak & Honky Tonk earlier this year.
“We’re extremely grateful for the opportunity to continue to chase great songs with such a great team at Sony Music Publishing,” the duo says. “We started writing songs together in high school, and it has become one of the most important parts of Kruse Brothers. We can’t wait to get to work!”
“Chandler and Miles have undeniable talent, but their bond as brothers gives them a level of authenticity and musical chemistry that’s impossible to manufacture, making them truly stand out. Their songwriting and musicianship are going to take them to the next level,” adds Sony Music Publishing Nashville Manager, Creative A&R Emily Carignan.
Celebrated Session & Touring Keyboardist Jimmy Nichols Passes
/by Lauryn SinkJimmy Nichols.
Jimmy Nichols, a gifted pianist known for his work with artists including Faith Hill, Reba McEntire, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood, Elton John and countless others, has passed away.
A native of Columbus, Ohio, Nichols was one of eight children in a close-knit family that shaped his love of music from an early age. Alongside three of his brothers, he spent 24 years touring the country as a member of the Nichols Brothers. Two weeks before his passing, Nichols was inducted into the Ohio Country Music Hall of Fame. Throughout his career, his work extended beyond country music into pop, gospel and television.
Nichols is survived by his beloved wife, Tonya, who he spent the last few years caring for through a difficult illness.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sept. 2 at Ray Stevens’ CabaRay Showroom. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with the celebration starting at 6:30 p.m.
Industry Ink: Randy Travis, Steve Wariner, Allie Colleen, Cage The Elephant
/by Lorie HollabaughRandy Travis & Wife Mary Host Trivia Night For CMHOFM’s Troubadour Members
Marie Bradshaw, director of institutional giving at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum;
Zach Farnum, Troubadour Advisory Council chair; Mary Travis; Randy Travis; and Troubadour Advisory Council vice chairs Elizabeth Lombardi, Brenden Oliver and Max Vanberg. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Randy Travis and his wife Mary recently hosted a trivia night for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s Troubadour members. Guests were given after-hours access to the museum galleries and participated in special country music-and museum exhibition-focused trivia. During the evening, Troubadour members were among the first to hear Travis’ “Fish On,” an unreleased original recording from the vault, which is out now. The Troubadour membership program engages young professionals in supporting its mission and the museum hosts quarterly networking events for Troubadour members ranging from concerts to exhibit previews.
Steve Wariner Makes History As First Artist To Have Artwork Featured On The Opry Barn
Steve Wariner at the Opry – Ft. Lower East Side, Looking At Brooklyn In 2020. Photo: Cailee Nace, Grand Ole Opry
Steve Wariner made history during his July 10 performance at the Grand Ole Opry as the first artist ever to have his artwork featured on the iconic Opry barn. Ten individual pieces of Wariner’s art from “The Flip Side: Paintings by Steve Wariner” were featured on the Opry’s barn during the final song of his set, “6120,” his instrumental tribute to Chet Atkins, joined by guest musician, Jimmy Mattingly. A solo exhibit featuring 60 of Wariner’s works in oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media, spanning more than 30 years are now showing at Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center near Nashville through July 26.
Allie Colleen Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary Performing For Troops At Guantanamo Bay
Allie Colleen
Allie Colleen recently completed her first military entertainment tour, performing three full-band shows over eight days for U.S. troops stationed at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The tour marked a meaningful milestone for her as well as her team, who had the opportunity to bring music, connection and a piece of home to service members, military families and base personnel during the Fourth of July holiday week.
“Getting to perform for the men and women serving our country was one of the greatest honors of my career,” says Colleen. “There is nothing like standing in front of our troops, seeing their faces and realizing that music can give them even a small moment of joy, comfort and home. I will never forget this experience.”
Cage The Elephant Inks With Big Loud Rock
Cage The Elephant. Photo: Lewis Evans
Cage The Elephant has signed with Big Loud Rock and has released their new single “Beaches In Tennessee.” “Beaches In Tennessee” arrives after a defining period for Cage The Elephant, who returned from their run as special guests on “Oasis Live ’25” and went straight back into the studio. More than 20 years into their career, the band is still finding new urgency in the creative process and new ways to push the project forward.
“Musically, we always want to reinvent Cage The Elephant,” says Brad Shultz. “We’ve discovered a whole new side to our band, how we look at things, and how we make art. You’re growing constantly as an artist, and I think we’ve tapped into that growth. I do feel like we’re making the best music we’ve ever made. If anything, it’s definitely the most inspired.”
Lydia Vaughan Enters Top 20 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenLydia Vaughan
Lydia Vaughan has moved into the top 20 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. Jason Aldean’s “Don’t Tell On Me” and Corey Kent’s “Empty Words” put the songwriter at No. 20 this week.
Ella Langley remains in the No. 1 spot for the 12th 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), HARDY (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.
Ingrid Andress Plots Fall ‘Nowhere Else To Go Tour’
/by Lorie HollabaughIngrid Andress
Ingrid Andress has revealed she’ll launch her “Nowhere Else To Go Tour” this fall.
The trek includes stops in Washington, DC, New York, Salt Lake City, Denver, Boston and more through Oct. 11. She is also set to play a Music City date at Nashville Underplay this Wednesday (July 15).
Tickets for the new tour go on sale this Friday (July 17) here.
The “Nowhere Else To Go Tour” comes on the heels of her “Low-Key Sessions,” a series of stripped-down acoustic performances across the country, where Andress shared new music and the stories behind it with fans. She’ll release her upcoming third studio album soon, and has racked up more than 1.5 billion global streams.
“Nowhere Else To Go Tour” Dates:
Sept 9 – Knitting Factory – Boise, ID
Sept 10 – The Commonwealth Room – Salt Lake City, UT
Sept 11 – Bluebird Theatre – Denver, CO
Sept 12 – Washington’s – Fort Collins, CO
Oct 7 – The Atlantis – Washington, DC
Oct 8 – Mercury Lounge – New York, NY
Oct 9 – The Sinclair – Boston, MA
Oct 11 – The Foundry – Philadelphia, PA
Mitchell Tenpenny Extends ‘Speed Of Light Tour’
/by Lorie HollabaughMitchell Tenpenny. Photo: Matthew Berinato
Mitchell Tenpenny is extending his headlining “Speed of Light Tour” through the fall.
Added shows beginning in September include Des Moines, Bowling Green, Ocean City, Hampton Beach and more through Nov. 21. Jake Banfield will join as the special guest.
Pre-sale tickets for members of Mitchell’s Night Owl fan club will become available tomorrow, (July 14) and tickets go on sale to the general public this Friday, (July 17).
Tenpenny has topped the country charts three times, with singles “Drunk Me,” “Truth About You” and “At The End Of A Bar,” and has had eight No. 1s on SiriusXM/The Highway’s Hot 30 Countdown. He’s surpassed 2.5 billion career global on-demand streams, and has a growing list of RIAA certifications including quadruple Platinum “Drunk Me,” and the Platinum “We Got History.”
“Speed of Light Tour” Newly Added Dates:
9-18 Des Moines, IA- Val Air Ballroom
9-19 Walker, MN- Northern Lights Casino – Events Center
9-25 Bowling Green, KY- SKyPAC
9-27 Crown Point, IN- Bulldog Park
10-3 Columbus, OH- The Bluestone
11-6 Orillia, ON- Casino Rama Resort
11-7 Windsor, ON- The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor
11-12 Effingham, IL- Effingham Performance Center
11-13 Bloomington, IL- Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts
11-14 East Moline, IL- The Rust Belt
11-19 Wantagh, NY- Mulcahy’s
11-20 Bensalem, PA- Xcite Center at Parx Casino
11-21 Hampton Beach, NH- Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
Grammy Membership Invitations Sent To Over 4,000 Creators & Industry Professionals
/by Lorie HollabaughThe invitations sent offer each potential new member an opportunity to power the Recording Academy’s mission of serving the music community by amplifying their voices on a global stage, protecting their rights, creating opportunities for advancement, and providing direct assistance when it is needed most. New Grammy members Cash Cobain, Ejae, Lola Young, Raveena Aurora, Sleeping with Sirens and Sombr are among those celebrating their invitations.
“Every year, we look forward to welcoming a new group of dedicated music creators and professionals through our membership invitations,” says Grammys CEO Harvey Mason jr. “Our membership is the engine of the Grammys, and we’re excited for invitees to join our vibrant community, engage with their peers and help shape the future of the music industry.”
New Grammy members have access to mentorship, professional development and networking opportunities designed to support their creative and professional journeys. Opportunities include participating in many of the Academy’s initiatives, such as driving meaningful DEI progress and impact through the DREAM Network; advocating and recognizing the creators behind the music through federal and state Advocacy efforts; engaging in programming with the Producers & Engineers Wing and Songwriters & Composers Wing; shaping the organization’s leadership on a local and national level; and more.
The Online Entry Process where all eligible recordings, videos and more are submitted for consideration for the Grammy Awards is open from July 7- Aug. 21. To participate in the Online Entry Process, invitees must accept by July 31.
Australia’s Lasso Country Music Festival Wraps Third Year
/by Lauryn SinkPhoto: Jake Davey Studios/Courtesy of Lasso Country Music Festival
Lasso Country Music Festival, taking place at Distillery Road Market in Eagleby, Queensland, wrapped its third year on Saturday (July 11).
Headlined by Drake Milligan, this year marked the festival’s first-ever international headline performance and capped off a major Australian tour for Milligan, following headline shows in Melbourne and Sydney.
Joining Milligan on the lineup was The Wet Whistles, Austin Mackay, Tyla Rodrigues, Briana Dinsdale, Michael Honan, Jaydin Shingleton, Riley Ziskey, Jay Santilli, Beau Shearer and Phoebe Rose, with performances across two stages throughout the festival.
“Seeing Lasso grow from where we started into an event of this scale has been incredibly rewarding.” Ken Dinsdale, Festival Co-Director, shares. “We built this festival around creating opportunities for Australian artists, bringing something fresh to the country music space, and making country music more convenient and accessible for audiences. Having Drake Milligan headline our 2026 festival was a huge moment for us, but what made the day so special was seeing the crowd embrace every artist across the lineup.”
Photo: Jake Davey Studios/Courtesy of Lasso Country Music Festival
Photo: Jake Davey Studios/Courtesy of Lasso Country Music Festival
Photo: Jake Davey Studios/Courtesy of Lasso Country Music Festival
Photo: Jake Davey Studios/Courtesy of Lasso Country Music Festival