
Pandora has named its 2025 Artists To Watch-Country list.
For 10 years, Pandora has annually recognized rising country artists, continuing to change the way new music is consumed. The 1o artists that Pandora expect to have a major impact in 2025 include Alexandra Kay, Hannah McFarland, Kashus Culpepper, Lakeview, Preston Cooper, RVSHVD, Ty Myers, Vincent Mason, Waylon Wyatt and Zach Top.
Kay connects deeply with audiences through her authentic voice, heartfelt melodies and evocative storytelling. She released her debut album All I’ve Ever Known in 2023, and has appeared on screen in Netflix’s Westside. With 22 million Pandora streams and frequent airplay on SiriusXM’s The Highway, Kay has firmly established herself as a powerful force in music.
McFarland moved to Nashville in 2016 to pursue a music career rooted in storytelling and captivating performances. Fusing modern flair with traditional country, her authentic lyrics and melodies resonate deeply with listeners. With a growing presence and magnetic charm, her music is set to leave a lasting impact. Her track “Hey Highway” is already getting airplay on SiriusXM’s The Highway and is a standout on Pandora.
Culpepper is a soulful country artist blending southern music, from country and blues to soul and rock. He discovered his voice singing in church at five, but it wasn’t until 2020 that he picked up a guitar while stationed in Rota, Spain, and began performing. Since then, Culpepper has sold out clubs across the south and has opened for artists like Charles Wesley Godwin, Charley Crockett and Needtobreathe. His song “Pour Me Out” recently featured on John Mayer’s SiriusXM show New Music Friday Tuesday.
Tattooed, blue-collar country duo Lakeview are quickly becoming one of Nashville’s hottest newcomers, blending metal-core energy with mainstream country. Following the release of their self-titled debut album, they’ve toured nationwide, opening for acts like Breaking Benjamin, Staind, Chase Matthew and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Currently SiriusXM’s Artist Accelerator and Highway Find, Lakeview is gaining traction across both Pandora Rock and Pandora Country as they make their mark in Nashville.
Cooper started playing guitar and singing in high school before working as a postal worker after graduation. In 2022, he left USPS to pursue music full-time, and in 2023 he connected with Nashville songwriters The Warren Brothers after opening for them. They invited him to Nashville to write, record, and perform at venues like The Bluebird Café. Now living in Music City, he has captured the attention of industry tastemakers, with his soulful voice and heartfelt songs. He’s set to release his debut album in 2025 and made his live radio debut on SiriusXM’s The Highway during Music Row Happy Hour.
Raised on rap and rock, RVSHVD made an unexpected shift to country music, finding his true home. With over 2.5M social followers, including 1.5 million on TikTok, RVSHVD is quickly gaining attention as a rising country/hip hop singer-songwriter. He’s already amassed nearly 16 million streams on Pandora.
Myers, known for his unique sound and authentic storytelling, has become one of country music’s most exciting new stars. With 10s of millions of streams and a growing fanbase, his recent hits “Let ‘Em Talk” and “Ends of the Earth” have fueled a sold-out headline tour and solidified his place in the industry as a rising star to watch.
Mason blends southern country influences with pop sensibilities. Inspired by artists like Parker McCollum and John Mayer, he has earned over 120 million streams across platforms. His breakout single, “Hell Is A Dance Floor,” from his EP Can’t Just Be Me, has garnered 53 million streams and widespread recognition, including airplay on SiriusXM’s The Highway.
Wyatt draws inspiration from the red-dirt tradition. He started writing songs as a child, often crafting melodies during summer days spent working with his father. His debut EP, Til The Sun Goes Down, was entirely self-produced in his parents’ rec room. Blending traditional roots with a modern twist, Wyatt’s sound has earned him recognition as a top artist to watch. His viral hit “Arkansas Diamond” has already collected nearly 40 million streams, bringing a fresh take on 80’s and 90’s country to Nashville.
Top is quickly becoming an artist to watch after the release of his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music, a sold-out headlining tour, and his first CMA nomination for New Artist of the Year. Pandora has been a key supporter, with heavy airplay across stations, while SiriusXM’s The Highway has also featured his music. His viral single, “I Never Lie,” debuted on the Billboard Hot 100, adding to his breakout year. Top has toured with Lainey Wilson on her Country’s Cool Again tour and will support select Alan Jackson dates in 2025.
Warner Chappell Music & Ned Cameron Sign Hallie
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L–R): Christian Barker & Co.’s Christian Barker, Ned Cameron, Hallie, Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe and Page 1 Management’s Nina Musolino. Photo: Gina Di Maio
Warner Chappell Music and Ned Cameron have signed emerging producer and songwriter Hallie to a global publishing deal.
Spanning genres like pop, K-pop, country, rock and hip-hop, the Cleveland native started her music career in Los Angeles in 2014. Since moving to Nashville in 2022, she has collaborated with Maddox Batson, Chase Wright and Struggle Jennings, among others.
“We are grateful to partner with Ned in signing Hallie,” shares Spencer Nohe, VP, A&R, Warner Chappell Music Nashville. “Her skillset as a producer is incredibly impressive, and the feedback from the writing community has been both validating and encouraging. She is quickly building a reputation as a fresh talent who is capable of producing at a high level across all genres.”
“Hallie is immensely talented and versatile. I’m fired up to be her publisher alongside Warner Chappell,” adds Cameron. “She’s making waves in multiple genres, and with her work ethic, it will only go up from here.”
Tailgate N’ Tallboys Returns To Iowa & Illinois In June
/by Lorie HollabaughTailgate N’ Tallboys is back for 2025, bringing its festival experience to two cities this summer: June 5-7 in Clinton, Iowa and June 12-15 in Bloomington, Illinois.
Headlining Clinton’s Tailgate N’ Tallboys festival are Whiskey Myers (Friday), Riley Green (Saturday) and Jason Aldean (Sunday). In Bloomington, the lineup of headliners will include Koe Wetzel (Thursday), Hardy (Friday), Cody Johnson (Saturday) and Bailey Zimmerman (Sunday).
The Clinton lineup will also feature Wyatt Flores, Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Bayker Blankenship, Ole 60, Lily Rose, Joe Stamm Band, Preston Cooper, Dylan Schneider and Graham Barham.
Artists set to perform in Bloomington also include Treaty Oak Revival, Gavin Adcock, Jessie Murph, Kip Moore, Ole 60, Josh Ross, Maddie & Tae, Tucker Wetmore, Hudson Westbrook, Graham Barham, Vincent Mason, Lakeview, Joe Stamm Band, Isaac Durst, Taylor Bruninga and more to be announced. Bloomington will also feature the beloved Truck Show. Weekend and single day festival admission, camping tickets and hotel packages for both festivals go on sale this Friday, (Dec. 13.)
“At Peachtree Entertainment, we’re all about creating unforgettable experiences for music fans, and partnering with USA Concerts & Events is an incredible opportunity to build on the success of Tailgate N’ Tallboys,” says Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment. “We can’t wait to bring these festivals to life and deliver the best music, energy, and memories for our fans.”
“Tailgate N’ Tallboys has always been about bringing people together through great music and unforgettable moments. Partnering with Peachtree Entertainment allows us to take these festivals to the next level and deliver the biggest and best Tailgate N’ Tallboys events yet. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone there!” echoes Wayne Klein, President of USA Concerts & Events.
Stars Unite For Annual #ThisShirtSavesLives Movement For St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
/by Lorie HollabaughArtists, actors, media personalities, influencers and more have joined together this year for St. Jude’s 8th annual #ThisShirtSavesLives program to help encourage the public to become monthly donors to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
This year’s movement is receiving support from Carrie Underwood, H.E.R., Old Dominion, Lainey Wilson, A Great Big World, Megan Moroney, Cody Johnson, Dierks Bentley, Jacqie Rivera, Bailey Zimmerman, Dasha, Ruben Blades, Sam Hunt, Scotty McCreery, Ricardo Munoz, Justin Moore, Banda El Recodo, Lee Brice, Jordan Davis, Intocable, Parker McCollum, Dustin Lynch and more, all sporting the official gray t-shirt to help the cause.
More than 200 radio stations around the nation are hosting events throughout December to support the campaign, asking listeners to become a Partner in Hope, where a monthly donation of $19 to St. Jude earns them a #ThisShirtSavesLives tee. The Bobby Bones Show, Steve Harvey, iHeartMedia, Audacy, TelevisaUnivision/UFORIA, along with other ownership groups, are all taking part.
The digital fundraising program has grown to involve thousands of supporters taking to their social channels to share images and messages with #ThisShirtSavesLives in effort to raise awareness and funds for research and treatment at St. Jude. The movement has distributed nearly one million shirts to date.
Pandora Names 2025 Artists To Watch-Country [Exclusive]
/by Madison HahnenPandora has named its 2025 Artists To Watch-Country list.
For 10 years, Pandora has annually recognized rising country artists, continuing to change the way new music is consumed. The 1o artists that Pandora expect to have a major impact in 2025 include Alexandra Kay, Hannah McFarland, Kashus Culpepper, Lakeview, Preston Cooper, RVSHVD, Ty Myers, Vincent Mason, Waylon Wyatt and Zach Top.
Kay connects deeply with audiences through her authentic voice, heartfelt melodies and evocative storytelling. She released her debut album All I’ve Ever Known in 2023, and has appeared on screen in Netflix’s Westside. With 22 million Pandora streams and frequent airplay on SiriusXM’s The Highway, Kay has firmly established herself as a powerful force in music.
McFarland moved to Nashville in 2016 to pursue a music career rooted in storytelling and captivating performances. Fusing modern flair with traditional country, her authentic lyrics and melodies resonate deeply with listeners. With a growing presence and magnetic charm, her music is set to leave a lasting impact. Her track “Hey Highway” is already getting airplay on SiriusXM’s The Highway and is a standout on Pandora.
Culpepper is a soulful country artist blending southern music, from country and blues to soul and rock. He discovered his voice singing in church at five, but it wasn’t until 2020 that he picked up a guitar while stationed in Rota, Spain, and began performing. Since then, Culpepper has sold out clubs across the south and has opened for artists like Charles Wesley Godwin, Charley Crockett and Needtobreathe. His song “Pour Me Out” recently featured on John Mayer’s SiriusXM show New Music Friday Tuesday.
Tattooed, blue-collar country duo Lakeview are quickly becoming one of Nashville’s hottest newcomers, blending metal-core energy with mainstream country. Following the release of their self-titled debut album, they’ve toured nationwide, opening for acts like Breaking Benjamin, Staind, Chase Matthew and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Currently SiriusXM’s Artist Accelerator and Highway Find, Lakeview is gaining traction across both Pandora Rock and Pandora Country as they make their mark in Nashville.
Cooper started playing guitar and singing in high school before working as a postal worker after graduation. In 2022, he left USPS to pursue music full-time, and in 2023 he connected with Nashville songwriters The Warren Brothers after opening for them. They invited him to Nashville to write, record, and perform at venues like The Bluebird Café. Now living in Music City, he has captured the attention of industry tastemakers, with his soulful voice and heartfelt songs. He’s set to release his debut album in 2025 and made his live radio debut on SiriusXM’s The Highway during Music Row Happy Hour.
Raised on rap and rock, RVSHVD made an unexpected shift to country music, finding his true home. With over 2.5M social followers, including 1.5 million on TikTok, RVSHVD is quickly gaining attention as a rising country/hip hop singer-songwriter. He’s already amassed nearly 16 million streams on Pandora.
Myers, known for his unique sound and authentic storytelling, has become one of country music’s most exciting new stars. With 10s of millions of streams and a growing fanbase, his recent hits “Let ‘Em Talk” and “Ends of the Earth” have fueled a sold-out headline tour and solidified his place in the industry as a rising star to watch.
Mason blends southern country influences with pop sensibilities. Inspired by artists like Parker McCollum and John Mayer, he has earned over 120 million streams across platforms. His breakout single, “Hell Is A Dance Floor,” from his EP Can’t Just Be Me, has garnered 53 million streams and widespread recognition, including airplay on SiriusXM’s The Highway.
Wyatt draws inspiration from the red-dirt tradition. He started writing songs as a child, often crafting melodies during summer days spent working with his father. His debut EP, Til The Sun Goes Down, was entirely self-produced in his parents’ rec room. Blending traditional roots with a modern twist, Wyatt’s sound has earned him recognition as a top artist to watch. His viral hit “Arkansas Diamond” has already collected nearly 40 million streams, bringing a fresh take on 80’s and 90’s country to Nashville.
Top is quickly becoming an artist to watch after the release of his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music, a sold-out headlining tour, and his first CMA nomination for New Artist of the Year. Pandora has been a key supporter, with heavy airplay across stations, while SiriusXM’s The Highway has also featured his music. His viral single, “I Never Lie,” debuted on the Billboard Hot 100, adding to his breakout year. Top has toured with Lainey Wilson on her Country’s Cool Again tour and will support select Alan Jackson dates in 2025.
Luke Combs, Eric Church, Shaboozey, More Added To ‘New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash’
/by Lorie HollabaughNew performers have been added to New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash set to air on CBS.
Joining the growing lineup for the CBS special are Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, Post Malone, Shaboozey, Big & Rich, Tyler Hubbard, Miranda Lambert, Brittney Spencer, Zach Top and Lainey Wilson.
The five-hour broadcast hosted by Keith Urban and Entertainment Tonight’s Rachel Smith will feature more than 40 back-to-back performances, live from the epicenter of country music. Nashville will count down with the east coast at midnight and keep the party going through midnight central time with the city’s Music Note Drop at the Bicentennial Mall stage. The show will feature once-in-a-lifetime collaborations with artists inviting special guests and artist friends to perform together throughout the night. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.
The celebration will air live Dec. 31 (8-10 p.m., ET/PT, 10:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+.
L-Acoustics To Establish Americas Headquarters At Nashville Yards
/by John Nix ArledgeRendering of Nashville Yards
L-Acoustics, a global leader in audio innovation, has announced plans to establish its Americas headquarters at Nashville Yards, joining other entertainment leaders such as AEG Presents and CAA. Expected to launch this summer, the fourth-level creative office space will join the company’s global hubs in Paris, Los Angeles, London and Singapore.
“The opening of our Americas headquarters in Nashville, the Music City, marks a significant milestone for L-Acoustics globally, and reinforces our commitment to serving our partners throughout North America from a central location,” explains Laurent Vaissié, Co-CEO of L-Acoustics. “Being part of this dynamic creative hub perfectly aligns with our ambition to connect people through the best-shared sound experience, building a vibrant community with the most creative artists and entertainment professionals alongside industry leaders like AEG Presents and CAA.”
“We are thrilled that L-Acoustics has selected Nashville Yards as its southeastern U.S. home and showcase,” adds Ted Tanner, Executive Vice President of Real Estate Development for AEG. “Joining companies such as AEG Presents and CAA as anchors of our creative office building in the heart of our vibrant new entertainment district will further establish Nashville Yards as the City’s newest hub for innovative organizations.”
L-Acoustics technology is at play in over 10,000 venues across the globe and utilized by a majority of music festivals tours and venues, including Adele’s Las Vegas residency and The Pinnacle, as well as some of the world’s largest sports events.
“L-Acoustics is the industry leader in premium sound technology, and their innovative equipment elevates the experience at venues across the globe,” says Cary Mack, Managing Partner at Southwest Value Partners. “They are the perfect embodiment of our vision for Nashville Yards as a dynamic and unique environment where the entertainment, tech, finance, and creative classes intersect. We are excited to have them join the other world-class tenants calling Nashville Yards home.”
Natalie Grant & Curb Records Part Ways After 23 Years
/by Liza AndersonNatalie Grant
Natalie Grant and Curb Records have parted ways after 23 years.
With more than 800 million career streams and nine Grammy nominations, Grant has continuously impacted the Christian format. While partnered with the label, she received 43 GMA Dove Award nominations, including five wins for Female Artist of the Year.
Following the release of her self-titled debut album, Grant signed with Curb Records on Dec. 21, 2001 and went on to share other projects, including Awaken (2005), Love Revolution (2010) and Hurricane (2013) and more. Last year, she unveiled her Seasons collection, which marked her third No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Christian Albums chart. Season tracks “You Will Be Found” with Cory Asbury and “Step By Step” with Dolly Parton also landed in the top 10 at adult contemporary (AC) radio.
Grant expressed her gratitude for the partnership as well as her excitement for upcoming ventures in a recent Instagram post, stating, “Though our professional chapter has closed, we are forever family.”
Blake Shelton, Hardy, More Join ‘Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ Lineup
/by Lorie HollabaughBlake Shelton, Ernest, Dasha and Hardy
Blake Shelton, Ernest, Hardy, Dasha and more have been added to Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2025 on ABC.
Additional performances on the show from the West Coast Party will include Alanis Morissette, with special guest Reneé Rapp, Dasha, DJ Cassidy’s Pass The Mic Live! starring Ja Rule, Fat Joe, Slick Rick & Doug E. Fresh, Kesha, Laufey, Natasha Bedingfield and T-Pain. Shelton will perform from Las Vegas, Luis Fonsi from his native Puerto Rico, and TLC joins the star-studded Times Square lineup in New York.
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2025 will air Dec. 31 live on ABC beginning at 8 p.m. ET and streaming next day on Hulu. The show, which marks its 54th year, celebrates the year’s very best in music with hours of dynamic performances, America’s favorite personalities and a look at New Year’s celebrations around the globe.
Lineup Announced For 2025 CRS New Faces Show
/by LB CantrellThe Country Radio Broadcasters have unveiled the lineup for the New Faces of Country Music Show at CRS 2025. Next year’s class includes Drew Baldridge (Lyric Ridge/BMG/Stoney Creek), Ashley Cooke (Big Loud/Back Blocks), Dasha (Warner Records), Zach Top (Leo33) and Warren Zeiders (Warner Records).
For over five decades, the New Faces of Country Music Show has served as a platform to showcase five emerging artists who have achieved notable success on country radio during the qualification period. The period for this class spanned from Nov. 1, 2023 to Oct. 31, 2024.
Co-partnered by the Academy of Country Music and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the New Faces of Country Music Show will take place during CRS 2025, to be held from Feb. 19 to Feb. 21, 2025.
BREAKING: Ben Kline Joins Red Light Management
/by LB CantrellBen Kline
Industry veteran Ben Kline has joined the Red Light Management Executive Leadership Team in Nashville.
In his new role, Kline will help oversee Red Light’s Nashville operations as well as focus on new business opportunities for the company and its artists. He reports to the company’s founder, Coran Capshaw.
“I’m beyond excited for this incredible next chapter. What Coran and team have built is one of a kind, and I look forward to being a part of its continued evolution and success” shares Kline.
Capshaw says, “We are very happy to welcome Ben. His experience and reputation within the Nashville music community make him a great addition to the Red Light team.”
Prior to joining Red Light, Kline spent 10 years at Warner Music Nashville, where he was most recently Co-Chair and Co-President. He has held various senior leadership roles in his near 30-year career, including at Ingrooves, Rostrum Records and Universal Music Group Nashville.