DISClaimer Single Reviews: Riley Green ‘Keeps The Sultry Mood Rolling’

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Riley Green. Photo: Matthew Simmons on behalf of Gildan

The sound of love is in the air this week.

In keeping with the Valentine’s Day holiday, the country stars are full of romance in this column. To get in the mood, lend your ears to Mackenzie Carpenter & Midland, to Thomas Rhett and to Disc of the Day winner Riley Green as well as to our DISCovery Awardee, Adrien Nunez.

For those of you on the losing side of love, I direct your attention to this week’s country heartbreakers Jordan Davis and Karley Scott Collins. Happy listening.

KASHUS CULPEPPER / “Jenni”
Writers: Jacob Durrett/Jordan Dozzi/Kashus Culpepper; Producer: Brian Elmquist; Label: Big Loud Records/Mercury Records
– The groove is set by cool harmonica blowing, simple percussion and full-band production. His vocal yearns for love and exudes honesty. I’m in.

THOMAS RHETT / “After All the Bars Are Closed”
Writers: Jacob Kasher Hindlin/Jaxson Free/John Byron/Julian Bunetta/Thomas Rhett; Producers: Dann Huff, Julian Bunetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– He and his honey want to stay up all night together, to the accompaniment of finger snaps and ringing guitar notes. Jaunty. Pleasant.

VALERIE JUNE / “Joy, Joy!”
Writer: Valerie June Hockett; Producer: M. Ward; Label: Concord Records
– This Americana star leans into a horn-punctuated r&b groove on the lead single from her upcoming album. Her double tracked, lilting vocal has a childlike innocence as she sings of bliss.

JORDAN DAVIS / “In Case You Missed It”
Writers: Jacob Davis/Jordan Davis/Paul DiGiovanni/Travis Wood; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– There’s something warm and endearing in his singing. The hearty tune sounds like a party, but the lyric is a heartbreaker. Loaded with folkie soul.

ADRIEN NUNEZ / “All I Ever Do”
Writers: Adrien Nunez/Cole Miracle/Sam Sumser/Sean Small; Producer: Steinza; Label: Warner Music Nashville/Warner Records
– The happy love song bounces along with joy in each step. His bright lead vocal is joined by a shouting, sing-along chorus on the hooky parts, and the production is admirably understated. Smooth listening.

RILEY GREEN / “Worst Way”
Writer: Riley Green; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
– He has s-e-x on his mind, and he lets her know it. The feel-good, midtempo track keeps the sultry mood rolling right along. Green’s streak of chart-toppers ought to continue with this dandy outing.

KARLEY SCOTT COLLINS / “Runner”
Writers: Ashley Ray/Karley Scott Collins/Sam Backoff/Zane Callister; Producers: Karley Scott Collins, Nathan Chapman; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Her husky drawl is gripping to the max. The ballad describes a heart so broken that it  has made her cynical about love and unwilling to trust anyone. The lyric is wonderfully poetic. This is a very cool sounding track.

CHRIS JANSON / “Stay Rowdy”
Writers: Blake Bollinger/Chris Janson/Michael Tyler/Thomas Archer; Producers: Blake Bollinger, Chris Janson; Label: Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
– This has the country rocking vibe of ’90s country. As usual, Janson knows how to let the good times roll.

BILL MEDLEY / “He Stopped Loving Her Today”
Writers: Bobby Braddock/Curly Putman; Producer: Fred Mollin; Label: Curb Records
– The Righteous Brother has immortalized everything from “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” to “I’ve Had the Time of My Life.” Medley also has a country past, having charted in the genre half a dozen times in the ‘80s. His forthcoming album is devoted to classic country songs. It probably wasn’t the best idea to cover this iconic George Jones number, especially not by making the death ballad sound even more lugubrious. But I’m still a fan.

ANA CHRISTINA CASH / “Last Call”
Writers: Ana Cristina Cash/Jodi Marr/Willie Breeding; Producer: John Carter Cash, Willie Breeding; Label: Avondale Records
– This lady has always been a fiery vocal stylist. This sassy, empowering outing rocks smartly with a snappy rhythm to match her spitfire performance. The artist is also issuing a Spanish-language version, “Tu Ultima Llamada.” She and hubby John Carter Cash are slated for the Opry’s Valentine’s Day edition tomorrow (Feb. 14). The show’s theme is “It Takes Two: The Opry Celebrates Country Duos,” and other guests will include those lovebirds of The War and Treaty

LARRY FLEET / “Hard Work and Holy Water”
Writers: Barry Dean/Larry Fleet/Luke Laird; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: LF
– Fleet remains a mighty strong country vocalist. The blue-collar song is perfect for him, and the clean production couldn’t be more flawless. This is my kinda country. “Can I get a back-road Hallelujah?” he asks. Yes, you can.

MACKENZIE CARPENTER & MIDLAND / “I Wish You Would”
Writers: Chris Tompkins/Jamie Moore/Jonathan Hutcherson/Mackenzie Carpenter; Producer: Jamie Moore; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– Nice work. The track has a seductive rhythmic roll, guitars twanging gently and beautifully harmonized vocals. Put this sensuous one on “Repeat.”

ACM Promotes Three, Adds Two To Team

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Pictured (clockwise): Christina Bartko, Haley Montgomery, Steve Mekler, Karson Leighton and Jennifer Davis.

The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has elevated Haley Montgomery to Head of Artist Relations & Awards, Steve Mekler to Senior Director, Creative & Marketing and Jennifer Davis to Director, Live Events & Production. Additionally, Christina Bartko has joined as VP, Accounting & Finance and Karson Leighton has joined as Executive Assistant to CEO, CBO and Operations.

Originally from Baltimore, Bartko graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She started her career as an auditor, later earning her CPA license and eventually moved to Nashville to pursue a career in the music industry. Before coming to ACM, she held roles at Warner Music Group and Live Nation Entertainment. In her new role, Bartko will oversee all accounting and finance operations for both the Academy and ACM Lifting Lives. Her responsibilities will include managing financial strategy, budgeting and ensuring the organization’s fiscal health while aligning with its mission. Additionally, she will be in charge of financial reporting, audits and internal controls. Bartko can be reached here.

Montgomery joined ACM in 2020, most recently serving as Director of Industry Relations & Awards. Throughout her career, Montgomery has held various roles across the industry, including in brand partnerships, merchandise, brand development, touring and industry relations. She is also the founder of Family Alliance in Music, an organization that offers community and support to industry members who are parents, caregivers or planning to start a family in the future. In her new role, Montgomery will oversee ACM’s artist and industry relations, lead internal talent strategy, manage membership operations and supervise awards voting, processes and board governance. She can be reached here.

Before joining ACM in 2022 as Director of Brand Marketing & Partnerships, Mekler spent three years as Senior Digital Manager at the Country Music Hall of Fame, where he led creative marketing for owned properties and contributed to content strategies for multi-platform campaigns. He has also held roles at L3 Entertainment and BBR Music Group. In his new role, Mekler will oversee all marketing and creative initiatives, including the development of integrated marketing campaigns, creative direction, content development, strategy, production and more. He can be reached here.

Davis began her career in New York City at Buckley Hall Events, where she organized a variety of non-profit and corporate galas across the city. She then joined the special events team at Madison Square Garden, where she coordinated a range of events, including network television upfronts, the American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards, television and film shoots, NYU graduations and more at MSG venues. Before joining ACM as Manager of Events in 2022, she also led VIP & Fan Experience and Events for FirstBank Amphitheater’s inaugural concert season in Franklin. In her new role, Davis will oversee venue and event operations for the Academy of Country Music Awards, ACM Honors and ACM Lifting Lives events. Her responsibilities will include talent logistics, partnership fulfillment, red carpet management, budgets, AV and more. In her role as lead producer, she will manage event staff and handle vendor and partner relations. She can be reached here.

A native of Schoolcraft, Michigan, Leighton graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in May 2024. He previously interned as the Finance & Operations Intern at ACM during the Spring 2024 semester and later transitioned to assist the Membership and Industry Relations team in the Fall of 2024. In his new role, Leighton will serve as a liaison between the Academy’s CEO (Damon Whiteside), CBO (Gil Beverly), external relations and internal department heads. He will also help coordinate meetings for the board, officers, leadership and committees, manage the CEO’s calendar and handle additional administrative responsibilities. He can be reached here.

Range Music Publishing Signs Four

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Pictured (L-R, top row): Simon Oscroft and Darius Coleman; (L-R, bottom row): Alex Goose and James Maddocks

Range Music Publishing has signed songwriters Darius Coleman, Alex Goose, James Maddocks and Simon Oscroft.

Maddocks signed with Range in partnership with Charlie Handsome, and is known for his versatility across genres from country to hip-hop and R&B. He co-wrote Morgan Wallen’s No. 1 country hit “Cowgirls” (feat. Ernest) and has collaborated with Post Malone, Khalid, Lil Baby and H.E.R., among others.

Coleman was signed in partnership with Tommy Brown and Champagne Therapy Music Group and has worked with artists including Normani, Chris Brown, Renee Rapp, DJ Khaled and Coco Jones. He co-wrote “You See Me” from The Color Purple soundtrack, which was nominated for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media at the 67th Grammy Awards.

L.A.-based producer/songwriter Goose has collaborated with Childish Gambino, Vince Staples, Brockhampton, Aaron Frazer, Adrian Quesada (Black Pumas), Freddie Gibbs and Kevin Gates. He’s also composed music for global brands Nike, Apple, Samsung, Google and Target, and produced the iconic Ghostbusters theme for the 2016 soundtrack Ghostbusters (Answer the Call).

New Zealand songwriter Oscroft, signed in partnership with Baxter House, is now based in Los Angeles. A long-term close collaborator with Almost Monday, he co-wrote and produced their current No. 1 Alternative hit, “Can’t Slow Down.” Other cuts he’s garnered include songs with Pale Waves, The Aces and OneRepublic.

“We’re excited to introduce the latest additions to Range Publishing,” says Casey Robison, Head of Range Music Publishing. “These exceptional writers bring remarkable talent, creativity, and expertise, further elevating our roster. Their contributions will play a vital role in our continued growth as we build on the momentum of our first year.”

Kane Brown Slates European Leg Of ‘The High Road Tour’

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Kane Brown. Photo: Dennis Leupold

Kane Brown has revealed the European leg of his “The High Road Tour,” kicking off on Sept. 30 in Cologne, Germany.

Brown will visit Dublin, Manchester, London, the Netherlands and more on the overseas dates, with Dasha and Dylan Schneider serving as direct support on the European shows. Public on-sale for the dates begins Feb. 21, and tickets and more information can be found at kanebrownmusic.com/tour.

The U.S. leg of “The High Road Tour” kicks off on March 13 in San Diego. The upcoming dates support Brown’s latest album, The High Road, released last month. The project includes Brown’s 12th No. 1, “Miles On It” with Marshmello, as well as his current single, “Backseat Driver.”

“The High Road Tour” Dates:
March 13, 2025 – San Diego, CA – Pechanga Arena
March 14, 2025 – Ontario, CA – Toyota Arena
March 15, 2025 – Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center
March 20, 2025 – Portland, OR – Moda Center
March 21, 2025 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Arena
March 22, 2025 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Arena
March 27, 2025 – Winnipeg, MB – Canada life Centre
March 29, 2025 – Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome
March 30, 2025 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place
April 3, 2025 – Quebec City, QC – Videotron Centre
April 4, 2025 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre
April 5, 2025 – Providence, RI – Amica Mutual Pavilion
April 10, 2025 – Evansville, IN – Ford Center
April 11, 2025 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
April 12, 2025 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
April 24, 2025 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena
April 25, 2025 – Jacksonville, FL – VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
May 1, 2025 – State College, PA – Bryce Jordan Center
May 2, 2025 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
May 3, 2025 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
May 9, 2025 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena
May 10, 2025 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena
May 15, 2025 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena
May 16, 2025 – Belmont Park, NY – UBS Arena
May 17, 2025 – Atlantic City, NJ – Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall
May 22, 2025 – Canandaigua, NY – CMAC
May 23, 2025 – Canandaigua, NY – CMAC
May 24, 2025 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion
May 25, 2025 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion
June 26, 2025 – Lake Tahoe, NV – Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys
July 25, 2025 – Southaven, MS – BankPlus Amphitheater at Snowden Grove
July 26, 2025 – Ridgedale, MO – Thunder Ridge Nature Arena
Sept. 30, 2025 – Cologne, Germany – E-Werk
Oct. 1, 2025 – Tilburg, Netherlands – Poppodium 013
Oct. 3, 2025 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena
Oct. 5, 2025 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro
Oct. 7, 2025 – Birmingham, UK – Utilita Arena
Oct. 8, 2025 – Manchester, UK – O2 Apollo
Oct. 10, 2025 – London, UK – OVO Arena Wembley

Zach Bryan To Play The First-Ever Show At Michigan Stadium

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Zach Bryan

Zach Bryan has revealed plans for a historic show at the largest stadium in the United States, Michigan Stadium, on Sept. 27, 2025, with special guest John Mayer. Joining the two on the venue’s inaugural evening are Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen. Tickets go on sale this Friday (Feb. 14) at 9 a.m. local time here.

Michigan Stadium, home to the University of Michigan Wolverines, is the largest football stadium in the Western Hemisphere, and the third largest in the world. While the venue has held sporting events such as soccer matches and hockey games, this will be the The Big House’s inaugural concert.

“We are excited to have award-winning artist Zach Bryan perform the very first concert at Michigan Stadium,” shares Warde Manuel, U-M’s Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics. “I would like to thank the Board of Regents, President Ono, the Executive Officers of the University, and many of our athletic department staff as well as AEG Presents for all the work that has brought us to this point in the process. We have been studying and evaluating what it takes to host a concert at Michigan Stadium for a couple of years and today marks that next step in the venture with great partners.”

Bryan was most recently on the road on his “The Quittin’ Time Tour,” where he played 85 arenas and stadiums across North America. Upcoming events for Bryan include headlining Stagecoach in Indio, California, BST Hyde Park Festival in London, England, performing at Phoenix Park in Dublin, Ireland, Metlife Stadium in Rutherford, New Jersey and Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, California.

Universal Music Group & Music Health Alliance Establish Mental Health Fund

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Universal Music Group (UMG) and Music Health Alliance (MHA) have partnered to launch the Music Industry Mental Health Fund. The initiative aims to offer comprehensive, high-quality outpatient mental health services to music industry professionals across the country.

This program will offer a variety of mental health services, including personalized referrals to suitable mental health counselors and psychiatrists, grants to help cover costs and mental health support to ensure ongoing care. The Music Industry Mental Health Fund is designed to support all members of the music industry. Its services will be available to both current and former music professionals.

“We have been working on ways to establish a streamlined pathway for mental health access, funding, and care planning,” shares UMG’s Chief Impact Officer Susan Mazo. “Growing and continuing our partnership with Tatum and the Music Health Alliance was the most natural way to ensure continuous and effective mental health support for anyone working in our industry.”

“Music Health Alliance possesses the comprehensive resources necessary to address the full spectrum of mental health needs for music industry professionals,” adds Music Health Alliance Founder/CEO Tatum Hauck Allsep. “This includes financial assistance, a continuum of care for both mental and physical health, and wraparound services such as psychiatric support, facilitation of intensive outpatient and inpatient programs, and data collection. MHA’s holistic approach ensures a long-term commitment to the health, well-being, and sustainability of the music industry workforce.”

Along with the new program, MHA provides a comprehensive range of mental health and healthcare advocacy services, including dental care resources, group health services, healthcare advocacy, confidential guidance, individual/family health insurance, senior care support and vision care resources.

The mental health program builds on a four-year healthcare partnership between the two companies. This program, which offers a Music Health Alliance healthcare concierge to clients, has already assisted nearly 1,000 individuals and saved them over $12.5 million in healthcare expenses.

Dan Killian Joins FBMM Ownership Team

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Dan Killian

Dan Killian has been named an owner and shareholder of FBMM, after nearly 15 years in the business and over a dozen at the entertainment business management firm.

“Becoming an owner of FBMM is more than sitting in an equity position,” shares FBMM Owner and Chairman Julie Boos. “We are true partners in every sense of the word and take this decision very seriously. Dan becoming an owner is a testament to the trust and mutual respect we all have for him. We are excited to have him alongside us in the trenches of overseeing the firm’s operations and setting the vision for its future.”

Killian started his career at FBMM in an entry-level position and worked his way up to business manager, the firm’s highest position, faster than anyone in company history. He is now the youngest owner in the firm’s 35-year history.

Killian works with FBMM’s teams in Nashville and Los Angeles, advising Grammy- and Emmy-award-winning headlining arena acts, spanning virtually every genre of music. He has also played a key role in spearheading internal initiatives, including creating a health and wellness program, leadership training and mentorship and business development.

“From celebrating successes to navigating ‘foxhole moments,’ I have seen FBMM’s owners consistently operate with the highest level of integrity,” says Killian. “I could not be more honored to take this next step and lock arms with each of them. To have worked my way to ownership from an entry-level position makes this an especially proud accomplishment for me.”

“I have had a front row seat to witness Dan’s growth into a first-class business manager and champion for both our employees and clients. I couldn’t be prouder of him and am grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside him,” shares Duane Clark, FBMM owner and president. “More than two decades ago, our founders put into place plans for FBMM to live well beyond any one owner by investing in future generations and providing a path for all of us. As we celebrate 35 years in business this year, we’re excited to see our founders’ vision continue to come to fruition by welcoming Dan to the table.”

Angie K Releases Personal, Reflective New Self-Titled EP

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Rising singer-songwriter Angie K has released her self-titled EP.

Angie K is a co-writer on all six tracks of the independent release, which was produced by songwriter/producer Stephony Smith. The EP features two unreleased tracks “Games” and “I’m Going Under,” as well as recent releases “Stay,” “Death of Me” and “Red Dirt on Mars.”

“This is definitely one of the toughest projects I’ve ever made,” shares Angie K. “Not so much in the studio with the band but writing these songs and deciding on what made the cut. Purposely choosing the most vulnerable ones…that took a lot of emotional work. Putting something so personal out requires letting go of the way people might react to it, as an artist that’s hard to do.

“‘Red Dirt’ and ‘Death of Me’ are songs about deep grief,” she continues. “‘While ‘Games’ and ‘I’m Going Under’ have repressed anger and frustration coursing through them. ‘Stay’ and ‘Golden’ are both about me finding my way out of those darker feelings. This EP is a snapshot of my life when I wrote these songs. I’m so proud of it and excited for folks to go on this emotional journey.”

The release of the EP comes on the heels of a major personal life moment for the out, country artist as well, her engagement to longtime love Marissa Boucher. She is set to return to the Opry stage on Feb. 15 to celebrate the new EP.

Morgan Wade Shines On Ryman Auditorium Stage

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Morgan Wade. Photo: Erika Rock

Morgan Wade returned to the Ryman Auditorium stage on Friday night (Feb. 7) for a thrilling performance as part of her “Obsessed Tour.”

Amy Ray Band kicked off the evening with tunes such as “Sure Feels Good Anyway,” “Joy Train” and “Oyster And Pearl.” The nine-piece band also made a tribute to Duane Allman with their song of the same name, getting the crowd to sing along. They also set up the vibe of the night with “Cowboys And Pirates,” “Muscadine” and “Didn’t Know A Damn Thing.”

The anticipation was high as the lights dimmed and Wade stormed the stage to a classic rock n’ roll beat. Right from the start, her powerful energy and presence set the tone for an unforgettable night. She was singing with striking teal microphone stand, and the crowd went wild as she opened with the raw and gripping “Total Control.” The night only got better from there as she transitioned into “Time to Love, Time to Kill,” showcasing her emotional depth and rock prowess.

Morgan Wade. Photo: Erika Rock

The audience was swept up in every note, especially as Wade delivered “Last Cigarette,” sending waves of nostalgia through the crowd. The setlist was stacked with fan favorites as “Reckless” had everyone singing along, while “Losers Look Like Me” and “Matches and Metaphors” proved that Wade’s songwriting resonates deeply with her fans. The hauntingly beautiful “Juliet” brought a moment of reflection before diving into “When the Dirt All Settles.”

A special moment came with the slower, heart-wrenching “Don’t Cry,” allowing the crowd to catch their breath before Wade picked up the pace with the heavy rock beat of “Roses.” The energy was palpable as she surged into “Carry Me Home,” leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement. But it was the trumpet solo by one of her band members in “Mend” that got the crowd going and made the night feel uniquely special, offering a rare moment of instrumental flair in a rock-heavy set.

Wade continued to impress with “Take Me Away.” During a guitar solo, she stood on an amp, turning the performance into an interactive moment as the crowd took over, singing along to the powerful track. The rawness continued as Wade’s band stepped off stage for “Obsessed,” “Department Store” and “Moth To A Flame” for a stark moment of vulnerability. Then, the band returned for a slower, reflective performance of “2AM in London,” creating a poignant contrast to the high-energy songs earlier in the set.

Morgan Wade. Photo: Erika Rock

The night culminated with “Met You” and “The Night,” which boasted a big musical intro that had the crowd on the edge of their seats before Morgan disappeared offstage. The encore was nothing short of spectacular, as she returned to cover The Outfield’s “Your Love” and Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl,” energizing the crowd for a final burst of adrenaline. The closer, “Wilder Days,” brought the night to an epic end, leaving everyone with a sense of exhilaration and fulfillment.

Wade’s “Obsessed Tour” will head to the west coast this weekend for stops in Portland, Seattle, San Francisco and more.

Mtheory Expands Team

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Branden Bosler & Carine Abraham

Manager and artist services company Mtheory has welcomed two new team members to its Nashville office.

Branden Bosler joins as Vice President of Artist Services and Business Development. Previously the Director of Strategic Partnerships for Stand Together Music, he brings a wealth of experience from past roles at BMI and Warner Music Nashville. In his new position, Bosler will focus on strategic campaign marketing and label services within Mtheory’s Artist Services Division.

Carine Abraham has been appointed as the company’s first day-to-day manager, overseeing the career of four-time Grammy-nominated artist Mickey Guyton. She previously served as a Project Manager at UMG Nashville and as a Personal Assistant to Grammy-winning artist Mandisa.

Both Bosler and Abraham are based in Mtheory’s Nashville office and can be reached at branden@mtheory.com and carine@mtheory.com, respectively.