The War And Treaty. Photo: Sophia Matinazad
Black country is well represented in this edition of DISClaimer.
This was arguably the outstanding trend of the genre in 2024, and the new year is showing no slow-down. Kashus Culpepper, Don Louis, Dalton Dover and Disc of the Day award winners The War and Treaty are all on hand with new sounds.
Country music’s women are also flexing their muscles. Hailey Whitters, Caylee Hammack, Ella Langley, Cyndi Thompson and DISCovery Award winner Lanie Gardner show their strengths today.
Vying for supremacy alongside The War and Treaty are competitors Dover, Hammack, Whitters and Culpepper, plus Keith Urban and the Boomtown Saints & Sam Grow collaboration.
This is a very, very good listening day.
ELLA LANGLEY / “Weren’t For The Wind”
Writers: Ella Langley/Johnny Clawson/Joybeth Taylor; Producer: Will Bundy; Label: SAWGOD/Columbia Records
– Her smoky, throaty vocal is captivating. The upbeat, wanderlust song seeks open-road, unencumbered freedom. Roll with it.
DALTON DOVER / “Ain’t It Easy”
Writers: Alex Maxwell/Dalton Dover/Matt McGinn/Matthew McVaney; Producer: Matthew McVaney; Label: Mercury Nashville
– The languid pace, finger snaps and gentle delivery build to a power ballad of True Love. Dover remains one of the finest vocalists among country’s current bumper crop of newcomers. Richly rewarding listening. I remain a big fan of this fellow.
CYNDI THOMPSON / “Acres Of Diamonds”
Writers: Cyndi Thompson/Dan Wilson/Jessica Roadcap; Producer: D.J. Goodman; Label: CT
– This former Capitol act now has a second career as a jewelry designer (Haybelle Co.). Her comeback as a record maker includes this highly engaging, melodic ode to lasting love and family. The ear-catching track blends sighing organ, crunchy percussion and an anthemic chorus roar with her resonant alto vocal.
IRA DEAN & RONNIE DUNN / “Tele-Man”
Writers: Jeffrey Steele/Tony Mullins; Producer: Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment
– This song is a tribute to country music’s favored electric guitar. Who better to join Ira and Ronnie on it than Telecaster masters Vince Gill, John Osborne and Brent Mason? As you might expect, the tempo is lickety split and the licks are hot.
LANIE GARDNER / “Buzzkill”
Writers: Chris Ganoudis/Katie Cecil/Lanie Gardner; Producer: none listed; Label: Broken Bow Records
– Hey buddy, look out for that gorgeous babe. She’s no good. Her sassy, snappy delivery of this bopper is tart and tangy, and the tempo is a delight.
KEITH URBAN / “Straight Line”
Writers: Chase McGill/Greg Wells/Jerry Flowers/Keith Urban; Producers: Greg Wells, Keith Urban; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Utterly irresistible. The perfect open-road country rocker. Ride along, and let the wind blow through your hair.
CAYLEE HAMMACK / “Bed Of Roses”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Caylee Hammack/Jeff Hyde; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– The title tune of her sophomore album is a saucy survival song. Hammack is a totally awesome vocalist, and the tune gives her plenty of space to emote. This woman rules.
THE WAR AND TREATY / “Save Me”
Writers: Kendell Marvel/Michael Trotter Jr./Tanya Trotter; Producers: Andrew Capra, Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter; Label: UMG Nashville
– Can we all just agree that these two are in a completely different class than the rest of the singers in this town? On this vow of love, their thrilling voices are backed by a rock-star track that fills the speakers with electronic power and rhythm. The War and Treaty’s forthcoming album, Plus One, will drop on Valentine’s Day. Somebody say, “Amen.”
BOOMTOWN SAINTS & SAM GROW / “Heart Breaks You”
Writers: Connie Harrington/Houston Phillips/Josh Dunne; Producers: Colt Ford, Gary Kraen, Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment
– Boomtown Saints members Chris Ramos and Ben Chism team with solo artist Sam Grow in the new video for their current collaborative single. Sitting in Dee’s Country Lounge in Madison, the three sing about a heartbreaker who gets his heart broken. By the time they’re drinking their final round together, they’re addressing each other and pouring on splendid vocal harmonies. This record is a shining country jewel. Essential listening. And viewing.
DON LOUIS / “XO”
Writers: Don Louis/Kipp Williams; Producer: Kipp Williams; Label: EMPIRE
– I like him, but I like him better when he’s singing in a country manner rather than in this quasi-rapped hip-hop style. Also: check out his bi-lingual collaboration with Latino country artist Sammy Arriaga on the deluxe version of his album Liquor Talkin.
HAILEY WHITTERS / “Casseroles”
Writers: Hillary Lindsey/James Slater/Tom Douglas; Producer: Jake Gear; Label: Pigasus Records/Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters
– This is a ballad about grief, and it hits an emotional bullseye. How do your process anguish and loss after the other mourners depart and the casseroles stop coming? Whitters suggests that eventually hope will emerge from the pain. Brilliantly done.
KASHUS CULPEPPER / “After Me?”
Writers: Kashus Culpepper/Mark Addison Chandler; Producer: Brian Elmquist; Label: Big Loud/Mercury Records
– This honky-tonking twanfest is wailed with raw, sandpapery power by this gifted newcomer. He’s moaning the blues, because she’s happy after breaking up with him. Listen to his gripping delivery, and believe in this man.
Grand Ole Opry House To Host Duane Eddy Tribute Event
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Grand Ole Opry House will host “Titan of Twang: A Celebration of Duane Eddy,” a one-night-only tribute to the legendary musician on April 13 in Nashville.
Presented by Opry Entertainment Group, the tribute concert will feature an all-star lineup of special guests and musical performances by Peter Frampton, Vince Gill, Albert Lee, Joe Bonamassa, Steve Earle, Buddy Miller, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Molly Tuttle, JD McPherson, Slim Jim Phantom, Jennie Vee and Toby Lee, each honoring the influence of Eddy, whose groundbreaking guitar style has influenced generations of artists.
Jim Lauderdale will host the special evening, which will be anchored by a house band led by Musical Director Jim Hoke, with Mark Beckett, Dave Pomeroy, Randy Leago, Garry Tallent, Dan Dugmore, Terry Adams, Richard Bennett, The McCrary Sisters and Siobhan Maher-Kennedy. Tickets go on sale to the general public tomorrow (Jan. 17) at opry.com.
Eddy is regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in modern music, credited with creating the signature “twang” that became synonymous with rock and roll. His unique sound, shaped by the reverberating tones of his Gretsch guitar, produced iconic hits like “Rebel Rouser,” “Peter Gunn” and “Forty Miles of Bad Road,” influencing a diverse range of artists, from George Harrison and Hank Marvin to Keith Richards and Jimmy Page. Over his career, Eddy has collaborated with Paul McCartney, Elvis, The Everly Brothers, Phil Everly, George Harrison, Carl Perkins, Brian Setzer, Waylon Jennings, Emmylou Harris, Ry Cooder, Foreigner, Johnny Cash, Chet Atkins and more, solidifying his place as a pioneering force in rock and roll.
Black River Entertainment Promotes Micah McNair To Creative Director
/by Madison HahnenMicah McNair. Photo: Courtesy of Black River Entertainment
Black River Entertainment has elevated Micah McNair to Creative Director.
“Micah’s thoughtful and thorough approach in bringing the visual narrative to life for each of our projects has elevated our game in immeasurable ways,” says Tanya Schrage, Black River Vice President, Marketing. “Having his direction in-house allows us to be more comprehensive in our planning and more flexible as projects ebb and flow. He works collaboratively within our team to ensure what people see is an accurate, authentic, and meaningful reflection of the music our artists are making.”
McNair began his career as a photographer alongside his wife in 2010 and now has over 250 million views across his video portfolio. His work includes multiple live worship albums, performances at the GMA Dove Awards and more. Over the course of his career, the Chattanooga native has collaborated with prominent artists in both the country and Christian music scenes such as Kelsea Ballerini, Riley Green, Luke Laird, Lori McKenna, Steve Moakler and Kirk Franklin.
He then joined the Black River Marketing team in August of 2023 as Video Content Manager. In just under a year and a half with the label, he has introduced a fresh creative vision, contributing to multiple Telly Awards for the work of MaRynn Taylor, Scotty Hasting and Pryor Baird.
“I’m so excited to continue to grow with my Black River family. My time here has been nothing short of incredible and I so look forward to the future,” shares McNair.
McNair will continue to operate from Black River’s Nashville office and can be contacted at mmcnair@blackriverent.com.
Tim McGraw To Headline ‘Field Of Dreams’ Concert
/by Lorie HollabaughTim McGraw
Tim McGraw will headline the first-ever, all-day concert event at the legendary Field of Dreams field in Dyersville, Iowa on Aug. 30.
Located on a picturesque 193-acre farm, the Field of Dreams has become a symbol of American culture, drawing visitors from around the world to relive the magic of the 1989 film and celebrate America’s pastime. Set on the same iconic field made famous by the movie, the event will also pay tribute to MLB legend Tug McGraw, Tim’s father, on what would have been his 81st birthday. Tug, who played for the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies, left an indelible mark on the game, and his legacy will be honored in this unforgettable celebration.
USCA has partnered with StubHub as the Official Ticket Partner for the event, and starting Jan. 20, tickets will be available through StubHub’s platform, offering fans access to a variety of ticket options, including exclusive Home Run VIP packages. Pre-sales for the event will begin on Jan. 20 with general sales launching on Jan. 24. The concert marks the beginning of a multi-year partnership between USCA and StubHub, with plans for future events that will bring fans even more unforgettable live experiences.
“We are beyond excited to kick off this partnership with StubHub,” says Nick Abate, Founder of USCA. “With their world-class technology and reach, it will be easier than ever for fans to access tickets to this unforgettable event, as well as many more in the years to come. We always strive to curate memorable and impactful events, and this tribute to Tug McGraw’s legacy is no exception. It’s a huge moment not only for the fans but for Tim as well, and it’s just the beginning of something truly special.”
“We’re thrilled to partner with USCA to bring Tim McGraw’s performance to such a historic and beloved venue,” adds Adam Budelli, Head of North America Partnerships at StubHub. “This event is going to be an incredible experience for both country music fans and baseball lovers, and we’re proud to provide fans with easy access to tickets through StubHub’s global platform.”
DISClaimer Single Reviews: The War And Treaty Proclaim A ‘Vow Of Love’
/by Robert K OermannThe War And Treaty. Photo: Sophia Matinazad
Black country is well represented in this edition of DISClaimer.
This was arguably the outstanding trend of the genre in 2024, and the new year is showing no slow-down. Kashus Culpepper, Don Louis, Dalton Dover and Disc of the Day award winners The War and Treaty are all on hand with new sounds.
Country music’s women are also flexing their muscles. Hailey Whitters, Caylee Hammack, Ella Langley, Cyndi Thompson and DISCovery Award winner Lanie Gardner show their strengths today.
Vying for supremacy alongside The War and Treaty are competitors Dover, Hammack, Whitters and Culpepper, plus Keith Urban and the Boomtown Saints & Sam Grow collaboration.
This is a very, very good listening day.
ELLA LANGLEY / “Weren’t For The Wind”
Writers: Ella Langley/Johnny Clawson/Joybeth Taylor; Producer: Will Bundy; Label: SAWGOD/Columbia Records
– Her smoky, throaty vocal is captivating. The upbeat, wanderlust song seeks open-road, unencumbered freedom. Roll with it.
DALTON DOVER / “Ain’t It Easy”
Writers: Alex Maxwell/Dalton Dover/Matt McGinn/Matthew McVaney; Producer: Matthew McVaney; Label: Mercury Nashville
– The languid pace, finger snaps and gentle delivery build to a power ballad of True Love. Dover remains one of the finest vocalists among country’s current bumper crop of newcomers. Richly rewarding listening. I remain a big fan of this fellow.
CYNDI THOMPSON / “Acres Of Diamonds”
Writers: Cyndi Thompson/Dan Wilson/Jessica Roadcap; Producer: D.J. Goodman; Label: CT
– This former Capitol act now has a second career as a jewelry designer (Haybelle Co.). Her comeback as a record maker includes this highly engaging, melodic ode to lasting love and family. The ear-catching track blends sighing organ, crunchy percussion and an anthemic chorus roar with her resonant alto vocal.
IRA DEAN & RONNIE DUNN / “Tele-Man”
Writers: Jeffrey Steele/Tony Mullins; Producer: Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment
– This song is a tribute to country music’s favored electric guitar. Who better to join Ira and Ronnie on it than Telecaster masters Vince Gill, John Osborne and Brent Mason? As you might expect, the tempo is lickety split and the licks are hot.
LANIE GARDNER / “Buzzkill”
Writers: Chris Ganoudis/Katie Cecil/Lanie Gardner; Producer: none listed; Label: Broken Bow Records
– Hey buddy, look out for that gorgeous babe. She’s no good. Her sassy, snappy delivery of this bopper is tart and tangy, and the tempo is a delight.
KEITH URBAN / “Straight Line”
Writers: Chase McGill/Greg Wells/Jerry Flowers/Keith Urban; Producers: Greg Wells, Keith Urban; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Utterly irresistible. The perfect open-road country rocker. Ride along, and let the wind blow through your hair.
CAYLEE HAMMACK / “Bed Of Roses”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Caylee Hammack/Jeff Hyde; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– The title tune of her sophomore album is a saucy survival song. Hammack is a totally awesome vocalist, and the tune gives her plenty of space to emote. This woman rules.
THE WAR AND TREATY / “Save Me”
Writers: Kendell Marvel/Michael Trotter Jr./Tanya Trotter; Producers: Andrew Capra, Michael Trotter Jr., Tanya Trotter; Label: UMG Nashville
– Can we all just agree that these two are in a completely different class than the rest of the singers in this town? On this vow of love, their thrilling voices are backed by a rock-star track that fills the speakers with electronic power and rhythm. The War and Treaty’s forthcoming album, Plus One, will drop on Valentine’s Day. Somebody say, “Amen.”
BOOMTOWN SAINTS & SAM GROW / “Heart Breaks You”
Writers: Connie Harrington/Houston Phillips/Josh Dunne; Producers: Colt Ford, Gary Kraen, Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment
– Boomtown Saints members Chris Ramos and Ben Chism team with solo artist Sam Grow in the new video for their current collaborative single. Sitting in Dee’s Country Lounge in Madison, the three sing about a heartbreaker who gets his heart broken. By the time they’re drinking their final round together, they’re addressing each other and pouring on splendid vocal harmonies. This record is a shining country jewel. Essential listening. And viewing.
DON LOUIS / “XO”
Writers: Don Louis/Kipp Williams; Producer: Kipp Williams; Label: EMPIRE
– I like him, but I like him better when he’s singing in a country manner rather than in this quasi-rapped hip-hop style. Also: check out his bi-lingual collaboration with Latino country artist Sammy Arriaga on the deluxe version of his album Liquor Talkin.
HAILEY WHITTERS / “Casseroles”
Writers: Hillary Lindsey/James Slater/Tom Douglas; Producer: Jake Gear; Label: Pigasus Records/Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters
– This is a ballad about grief, and it hits an emotional bullseye. How do your process anguish and loss after the other mourners depart and the casseroles stop coming? Whitters suggests that eventually hope will emerge from the pain. Brilliantly done.
KASHUS CULPEPPER / “After Me?”
Writers: Kashus Culpepper/Mark Addison Chandler; Producer: Brian Elmquist; Label: Big Loud/Mercury Records
– This honky-tonking twanfest is wailed with raw, sandpapery power by this gifted newcomer. He’s moaning the blues, because she’s happy after breaking up with him. Listen to his gripping delivery, and believe in this man.
Clint Daniels Signs With Major Bob Music
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R, back row): Mike Doyle (Major Bob), Emily Hasty (Major Bob), Andy Friday (Major Bob) and Denise Shackelford (The Primacy Firm); (L-R, front row): Aubrey Daniels (Major Bob), Clint Daniels and Bob Doyle (Major Bob)
Singer-songwriter Clint Daniels has signed a publishing deal with Major Bob Music.
First signed to Arista Nashville as a solo artist in 1998, Daniels decided to hone in on his songwriting after landing his first No. 1 single for co-writing “Brokenheartsville” for Joe Nichols. He also signed a label deal with Epic Records in 2003. Most recently, Daniels was nominated for both a Grammy Award for Best Country Song and an ACM Award for Song of the Year with Eric Church’s “Some Of It” in 2020.
Throughout his songwriting career Daniels has also had songs recorded by George Strait, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Montgomery Gentry, Clay Walker, Easton Corbin, Jon Pardi, Brandy Clark, Cody Johnson and more.
“Clint is the type of songwriter that made me want to be a publisher. I feel every chord played, and every word written down in his songs because it was either experienced or observed with heart,” reflects Aubrey Daniels, Major Bob’s Head of Publishing. “His writing is timeless and his love for country music is admired. I’m so excited that after all this time, we’ll officially be working together.”
Restless Road Slates ‘Goin’ Out Like That Tour’ For Spring
/by Lorie HollabaughRestless Road. Photo: Robby Klein
Restless Road is heading back out on the road on their new “Goin’ Out Like That Tour” beginning March 27 in Salt Lake City.
Special guest Kelsey Hart will join the trio on the new headlining trek, which features 20 stops across North America this spring to markets including Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago and more. Public ticket on sale begins Friday, Jan. 17, and more information is available at restlessroad.com.
“We’re so excited to hit the road again in 2025,” shares Restless Road. “This past year on tour was incredible, and we were blown away by the energy from everyone who came out to our shows. Seeing fans show up from all around the world meant so much to us. We’re so thankful and can’t wait to do it all over again this spring!”
The new tour follows a run of headlining shows in 2024 on their “Last Rodeo Tour.” The group wrapped up the year with sold-out shows across Europe and the U.K., including stops in Berlin, Munich and London, and kicked off 2025 with the release of their latest single, “Work On Me” earlier this month.
“Goin’ Out Like That Tour” with special guest Kelsey Hart:
March 27, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah at The Depot
March 28, 2025 in Denver, Colo. at Grizzly Rose
March 29, 2025 in Grand Junction, Colo. at Warehouse2565
April 2, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif. at Troubadour
April 3, 2025 in San Diego, Calif. at House of Blues
April 4, 2025 in Roseville, Calif. at Goldfield Trading Post
April 8, 2025 in Boise, Idaho at Knitting Factory
April 10, 2025 in Seattle, Wash. at The Showbox
April 11, 2025 in Spokane, Wash. at Knitting Factory
April 12, 2025 in Vancouver, BC at Hollywood Theatre
April 24, 2025 in Boston, Mass. at Paradise Rock Club
April 25, 2025 in Philadelphia, Penn. at Union Transfer
April 30, 2025 in New York, N.Y. at Irving Plaza
May 1, 2025 in Toronto, ON at Adelaide Hall
May 2, 2025 in London, ON at London Music Hall
May 3, 2025 in Montreal, QC at Le Studio TD
May 15, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio at House of Blues
May 16, 2025 in Chicago, Ill. at Joe’s on Weed Street
May 17, 2025 in Grand Rapids, Mich. at The Intersection
May 31, 2025 in Fort Myers, Fla. at The Ranch
Justin McIntosh Signs Kristin Chenoweth, Launches JTMC Entertainment
/by LB CantrellJustin McIntosh, Kristin Chenoweth
Artist manager Justin McIntosh has formed JTMC Entertainment, and signed actress, singer and New York Times bestselling author Kristin Chenoweth. She joins multi-media entertainment mogul Reba McEntire, whom he’s represented since 2023, on McIntosh’s roster.
Chenoweth is widely celebrated for originating the iconic role of Glinda the Good Witch in Broadway’s smash hit Wicked and recently made a cameo in the 2024 blockbuster film adaptation, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. She also starred in the 2024 Netflix holiday film Our Little Secret alongside Lindsay Lohan and Ian Harding, which debuted at No. 1 on the platform with over 32 million views.
Chenoweth will make her return to Broadway with The Queen of Versailles, reuniting with Wicked composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. The production is inspired by the true story of Jackie Siegel, a wealthy socialite who set out to build a home modeled after the Palace of Versailles.
“2025 marks my 20-year anniversary of working in this business, and I am thrilled to start the next chapter of my career with an artist like Kristin Chenoweth,” shares McIntosh. “Much like Reba, she reaches far beyond just one medium of entertainment, and I am so excited to continue expanding upon the incredible legacy she is building.”
Alongside McIntosh, McEntire has seen career highlights such as her role as a coach on multiple seasons of NBC’s The Voice, performing the national anthem at Super Bowl LVII, unveiling a best-selling book Not That Fancy, releasing new music and debuting the critically acclaimed sitcom Happy’s Place on NBC.
The two have worked together for more than a decade, starting with his role as VP of Marketing & Creative at Starstruck Entertainment, where he also worked with Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton. A Belmont University alumnus, his professional experience also includes time with Big Machine Label Group and Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc., in addition to his own creative consulting agency.
Reach McIntosh at Justin@jtmcent.com.
AIMP Nashville Chapter Elects John Ozier As President
/by Madison HahnenJohn Ozier
The Nashville Chapter of the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) has appointed its officers for the 2025-2026 term, with John Ozier (EVP, Creative at Reservoir Media Management) named chapter President. Ozier will succeed Ree Guyer (Wrensong Music), who is stepping down from the role but will continue to serve on the board. Additionally, the Chapter has elected Courtney Crist (Eclipse Music Group) as Vice President, Janine Ebach (Ebach Entertainment) as Secretary and Kari Barnhart (Studio Bank) as Treasurer.
“I am honored to be back on the AIMP Nashville leadership team,” shares Ozier, who previously served as Nashville Chapter President from 2015-2022. “The Chapter has done an amazing job under Ree’s leadership, putting on standout educational programming and strengthening our indie publisher community here in Nashville. I’m excited to dive back in and build on those accomplishments in 2025 and beyond.”
As previously announced, the AIMP Nashville Chapter Board of Directors will also include newly-elected members Duane Hobson (ASCAP), Dave Pacula (Liz Rose Music), Leslie DiPiero (Jonas Group Publishing), Megan Pekar (Loeb & Loeb LLP) and Melissa Spillman (Concord). They will join Guyer and current board members ET Brown (SESAC), Leslie Roberts (BMI), Shannan Hatch (SESAC), Keithan Melton (Combustion Music), Alex Heddle (Big Machine Music), Tim Hunze (Big Machine Music) and Robert Carlton (SMACKSongs). Kendall Lettow (peermusic) will serve as the chapter’s Administration Director, with Alex Tamashunas (Creative Nation) taking on the role of Administration Assistant.
The AIMP Executive Board, made up of the Presidents and Vice Presidents from each chapter, will meet soon to elect the Association’s National Chair.
JUST IN: River House Artists Elevates Leadership Team With Key Promotions
/by LB CantrellZebb Luster, Lance Houston and Raines Edenfield
River House Artists has promoted Zebb Luster to Executive Vice President, Lance Houston to General Manager and Vice President of Streaming and Radio, and Raines Edenfield to Director of A&R.
In his new, expanded role, Luster will continue overseeing all River House Artists’ divisions, including both the label and publishing arms. As the company’s first hire, Luster has played a pivotal role in signing and developing talent, including artists like Hudson Westbrook and Austin Snell. He also played a key role in launching River House’s publishing arm, which has grown to represent a roster of talented writers, including Knox Morris, Nicolette Hayford, Neil Medley, Connie Harrington and songwriting legend Dean Dillon. He will now take on broader strategic responsibilities to shape the organization’s future.
Houston, who joined River House in 2022 after nearly 30 years of experience in country radio, will remain the driving force behind River House’s relationships with radio and streaming partners while taking on additional responsibilities as General Manager. His new role will see him manage the company’s day-to-day operations, including artist development, marketing, budget management, distribution and internal functions.
Edenfield joined the company in 2020 after completing an internship, and has since become a driving force behind the success of artists such as Zach Seabaugh, John Harvie, Knox and many more. In addition to his role as artist manager, Edenfield has served as a manager of A&R, where he was instrumental in signing pop sensation Knox to the publishing division of River House and helping grow his digital streaming presence early on. As Director of A&R, Edenfield will continue to nurture new talent while overseeing the creative development of River House’s artist roster.
“Promoting these dedicated executives shows the hard work and commitment to our artists and each other,” says Lynn Oliver-Cline, Owner/Founder, River House Artists. “It’s been almost 10 years since starting River House and this is the most vibrant and excellent team to date. The future is more exciting than ever with them in charge!”
Luke Combs, Kacey Musgraves, More Among New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2025 Lineup
/by Madison HahnenLuke Combs & Kacey Musgraves.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell has unveiled its music lineup for the 2025 event, taking place April 24 – May 4 at the at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The festival is an annual celebration of New Orleans and Louisiana’s rich culture and heritage, featuring performances by artists from across the globe. It showcases one of the most diverse musical lineups in the world with over 5,000 musicians performing across 14 stages over the course of 8 days. The event highlights nearly every genre of American music, offering an immersive experience.
This year’s lineup includes Luke Combs, Kacey Musgraves, Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, Margo Price, Kenny Wayne Shepherd with Bobby Rush, Chapel Hart, The Castellows, Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, Lil Wayne & The Roots, Lenny Kravitz, John Fogerty, Burna Boy, Haim, Cage The Elephant, Laufey, Bryson Tiller, Harry Connick Jr., Patti LaBelle, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, My Morning Jacket, Gladys Knight, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Cheap Trick, Babyface, Diana Krall, Goose, The Revivalists, Irma Thomas, Tank and the Bangas, Branford Marsalis, Kamasi Washington, The Wailers feat. Julian Marley, Big Freedia, Ledisi Sings Nina, PJ Morton and many more.
Jazz Fest will also spotlight Mexico’s vibrant music and culture at the Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavilion. Headlining the celebration are Santana, Banda MS and Lila Downs, alongside nineteen bands from both Mexico and the United States. The Pavilion will showcase a wide range of genres, from Mexico’s iconic Mariachi bands to the string-driven Son Jarocho of Veracruz, the traditional marimba music of Chiapas, and the rhythms of Norteño. Attendees can immerse themselves in Mexican culture through craft demonstrations, parades, photography exhibits and educational displays. Additionally, the Cultural Exchange Food stand will offer festival-goers a chance to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and beverages.
The fest will kickoff with the Jazz & Heritage Gala at Generation Hall in New Orleans on April 23. The gala celebrates music and culture while raising funds to support the foundation’s educational initiatives. Proceeds from the event help provide free music education to over 250 students in Louisiana, including those at the Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music. The event also contributes to the Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s ongoing work to benefit communities throughout New Orleans and Louisiana, including the distribution of more than $2 million in Community Partnership Grants aimed at strengthening the region’s arts and culture.
Weekend passes and VIP packages are on sale now, with single day tickets available at a later date. This year, Jazz Fest is offering special general admission pricing for Louisiana residents, featuring lower rates. Additionally, Jazz Fest 2025 will once again host the “Locals Thursday” on both weekends, April 24 and May 1, where Louisiana residents can enjoy tickets for just $50. Tickets for Locals Thursday will be available for purchase at a later date. For more information, click here.