Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson host The 58th Annual CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The 58th annual CMA Awards took over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 20) and included performances of some of the past year’s biggest hits and record-breaking wins.
Chris Stapleton accepts the award for Single of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Morgan Wallen won his first ever Entertainer of the Year trophy, while Megan Moroney was crowned New Artist of the Year. Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton tied for winning the most CMA Awards of all time, each with 19 total wins.
The night’s program kicked off with a rowdy bang, as Post Malone and Stapleton traded snarling verses of “California Sober” from Post’s blockbuster country album released this summer.
Post Malone performs “Yours” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Co-hosts Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning then appeared to get the show started. The shared banter about each of their roles as co-host, pointed out a guest of honor George Strait and shared that there were 31 first-time nominees.
Soon it was time to present the first award, Single of the Year. The trophy went to Stapleton, Dave Cobb and Vance Powell for “White Horse.”
“There are so many great and very popular songs in this category. I’m very humbled,” Stapleton said, marking the first of many acceptances speech he would go on to give last night.
Shaboozey performs a medley of “Highway” and “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Moroney turned Bridgestone Arena blue for her performance of new single “Am I Okay?” before the hosts returned. They shared a red-solo-cup toast to the late Toby Keith and then introduced Shaboozey to the CMA stage. The hitmaker played a bit of his new single “Highway” before thrilling the room with his record-breaking “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
The next award, Song of the Year, was presented to Stapleton and Dan Wilson for “White Horse.” Stapleton kept it brief, thanking his family and the voters, and then passed it on to Wilson.
Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims perform “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Woman” and “Lose Control” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“Nashville, thank you for letting me come visit and write songs,” Wilson said. “Thanks to Dave, Chris and Morgane Stapleton for producing such a rocking version of the song.”
Ella Langley started her Musical Event-winning breakout hit “You Look Like You Love Me” seated in the audience next to its co-writer Aaron Raitiere. She strutted up to the stage with the ease of a veteran. When Riley Green joined her for his part, it was already a highlight of the evening.
Megan Moroney accepts the award for New Artist of the Year at the CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Another duo, Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims, joined voices for “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman.” They sounded great together as the tune morphed into Swims’ “Lose Control.” Luke Combs brought the house down with his Grammy-nominated “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma” from the Twisters movie.
The New Artist prize went to Moroney. She was emotional as she looked around the arena. “This means so much to me. I have an incredible team,” she shared, recognizing her team members. “I’m freaking out! Thank you!”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan took the stage for a beautiful rendition of their “Cowboys Cry Too.” Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood brought the power for “I’m Gonna Love You.” The Stapletons blended their voices in perfect harmony on “What Am I Gonna Do.”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan perform “Cowboys Cry Too” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Kacey Musgraves performed her Grammy-nominated “The Architect,” before The Oak Ridge Boys appeared onstage to tribute their lost member Joe Bonsall. They then presented Vocal Group of the Year to Old Dominion. It was their seventh time clinching the trophy, the longest consecutive stretch of Group of the Year wins in CMA history.
“We just made history, that’s crazy,” Old Dominion frontman Matthew Ramsey said. “If you are an artist of any type or a creator or a musician, this is when the world needs you the most, when it’s weird like it is right now. Get out there and get together and create.”
Cody Johnson accepts the award for Album of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll joined Brooks & Dunn for a moving performance of “I Believe,” complete with a choir and string section, leading many artists in the audience to wine tears from their eyes. Post Malone then touched hearts with “She’s Yours.”
Album of the Year went to Cody Johnson for Leather. “There’s no way I could have created an album like this without great songwriters, without people that pour their heart and soul out every day on Music Row,” Johnson said before introducing producers Trent Willmon and Jack Clark to speak.
Wilson took a break from her hosting duties to perform “4x4xU” with a string section backing her. Bailey Zimmerman brought the WWE energy for his performance of “New To Country,” dropping onto his stage from the ceiling.
Brooks & Dunn accepts the award for Vocal Duo of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The next award, Vocal Duo of the Year, went to Brooks & Dunn for the 15th time. They were clearly shocked, smiling as the crowd cheered them up to the podium.
“Time is undefeated. Not yet I guess,” Kix Brooks said.
The Strait tribute started with Wilson singing a bit of “Amarillo By Morning,” with Jenee Fleenor and Charlie Worsham backing her. Jamey Johnson shared his version of “Give It Away,” a song he and Bill Anderson co-wrote for “The King of Country Music.” Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum joined Johnson on stage for “Troubadour.”
Strait then hit the stage with Stapleton for “Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame.” All the artists joined together for Stapleton to present the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award to “true country music royalty.”
George Strait performs “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
When the crowd gave Straight time to talk, he thanked God, his team, band and crew and his family. He spoke about the longtime team members he’s lost over the past year, including manager Erv Woolsey, road manager Tom Foote and band member Gene Elders.
“I want to thank the CMAs for adding my name to the incredible artists on this small list of recipients carrying the name of the icon, Willie Nelson,” Strait said. “I want to thank these great artists who performed some of the songs I’ve recorded over the years. It’s amazing to hear y’all do them—I’m so glad I got them before you.”
Ashley McBryde sang Kris Krisofferson‘s “Help Me Make It Through the Night” in tribute of the late legend.
Male Vocalist of the Year went to Stapleton, his eighth time claiming the honor.
“I’m out of things to say. I love all of y’all so much. Thank you CMAs for giving this award and all of y’all for voting for me,” the entertainer said.
Eric Church performs “Darkest Hour” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Host Bryan took to the stage for a performance of “Love You, Miss You, Mean It” before Combs appeared on stage to introduce the next performer, Eric Church. He shared that the two North Carolinians raised $24 million for hurricane relief with their benefit concert, and praised Church for donating royalties for his next song in perpetuity for the cause. Church then performed the philanthropic song, “Darkest Hour.”
Olympian Simone Biles presented Female Vocalist of the Year to Wilson, her third time winning the honor.
“Man, this community has wrapped its arms around me and lifted me up from the get-go,” Wilson said. “I’ve always been told if you feel like you’ve got a gift, you’re supposed to share it, and I think that means whether you drive a tractor or pour coffee, make people smile or laugh, whatever that is I think you’re supposed to share that gift.”
Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll and Keith Urban came together for a fiery performance of “Liar.” Bluegrass virtuosos Molly Tuttle, Sierra Hull and Bronwyn Keith-Hynes appeared alongside Dierks Bentley for his cover of Tom Petty‘s “American Girl.”
The night’s top honor, Entertainer of the Year, went to Morgan Wallen. It was his first time receiving the honor, but he was not in attendance.
The 58th CMA Awards will be available to watch on Hulu today (Nov. 21).
2024 CMA Awards Crowns New Winners, Showcases Fun Collaborations [Recap]
/by LB CantrellLuke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson host The 58th Annual CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The 58th annual CMA Awards took over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 20) and included performances of some of the past year’s biggest hits and record-breaking wins.
Chris Stapleton accepts the award for Single of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Morgan Wallen won his first ever Entertainer of the Year trophy, while Megan Moroney was crowned New Artist of the Year. Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton tied for winning the most CMA Awards of all time, each with 19 total wins.
The night’s program kicked off with a rowdy bang, as Post Malone and Stapleton traded snarling verses of “California Sober” from Post’s blockbuster country album released this summer.
Post Malone performs “Yours” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Co-hosts Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning then appeared to get the show started. The shared banter about each of their roles as co-host, pointed out a guest of honor George Strait and shared that there were 31 first-time nominees.
Soon it was time to present the first award, Single of the Year. The trophy went to Stapleton, Dave Cobb and Vance Powell for “White Horse.”
“There are so many great and very popular songs in this category. I’m very humbled,” Stapleton said, marking the first of many acceptances speech he would go on to give last night.
Shaboozey performs a medley of “Highway” and “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Moroney turned Bridgestone Arena blue for her performance of new single “Am I Okay?” before the hosts returned. They shared a red-solo-cup toast to the late Toby Keith and then introduced Shaboozey to the CMA stage. The hitmaker played a bit of his new single “Highway” before thrilling the room with his record-breaking “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
The next award, Song of the Year, was presented to Stapleton and Dan Wilson for “White Horse.” Stapleton kept it brief, thanking his family and the voters, and then passed it on to Wilson.
Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims perform “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Woman” and “Lose Control” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“Nashville, thank you for letting me come visit and write songs,” Wilson said. “Thanks to Dave, Chris and Morgane Stapleton for producing such a rocking version of the song.”
Ella Langley started her Musical Event-winning breakout hit “You Look Like You Love Me” seated in the audience next to its co-writer Aaron Raitiere. She strutted up to the stage with the ease of a veteran. When Riley Green joined her for his part, it was already a highlight of the evening.
Megan Moroney accepts the award for New Artist of the Year at the CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Another duo, Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims, joined voices for “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman.” They sounded great together as the tune morphed into Swims’ “Lose Control.” Luke Combs brought the house down with his Grammy-nominated “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma” from the Twisters movie.
The New Artist prize went to Moroney. She was emotional as she looked around the arena. “This means so much to me. I have an incredible team,” she shared, recognizing her team members. “I’m freaking out! Thank you!”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan took the stage for a beautiful rendition of their “Cowboys Cry Too.” Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood brought the power for “I’m Gonna Love You.” The Stapletons blended their voices in perfect harmony on “What Am I Gonna Do.”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan perform “Cowboys Cry Too” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Kacey Musgraves performed her Grammy-nominated “The Architect,” before The Oak Ridge Boys appeared onstage to tribute their lost member Joe Bonsall. They then presented Vocal Group of the Year to Old Dominion. It was their seventh time clinching the trophy, the longest consecutive stretch of Group of the Year wins in CMA history.
“We just made history, that’s crazy,” Old Dominion frontman Matthew Ramsey said. “If you are an artist of any type or a creator or a musician, this is when the world needs you the most, when it’s weird like it is right now. Get out there and get together and create.”
Cody Johnson accepts the award for Album of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll joined Brooks & Dunn for a moving performance of “I Believe,” complete with a choir and string section, leading many artists in the audience to wine tears from their eyes. Post Malone then touched hearts with “She’s Yours.”
Album of the Year went to Cody Johnson for Leather. “There’s no way I could have created an album like this without great songwriters, without people that pour their heart and soul out every day on Music Row,” Johnson said before introducing producers Trent Willmon and Jack Clark to speak.
Wilson took a break from her hosting duties to perform “4x4xU” with a string section backing her. Bailey Zimmerman brought the WWE energy for his performance of “New To Country,” dropping onto his stage from the ceiling.
Brooks & Dunn accepts the award for Vocal Duo of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The next award, Vocal Duo of the Year, went to Brooks & Dunn for the 15th time. They were clearly shocked, smiling as the crowd cheered them up to the podium.
“Time is undefeated. Not yet I guess,” Kix Brooks said.
The Strait tribute started with Wilson singing a bit of “Amarillo By Morning,” with Jenee Fleenor and Charlie Worsham backing her. Jamey Johnson shared his version of “Give It Away,” a song he and Bill Anderson co-wrote for “The King of Country Music.” Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum joined Johnson on stage for “Troubadour.”
Strait then hit the stage with Stapleton for “Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame.” All the artists joined together for Stapleton to present the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award to “true country music royalty.”
George Strait performs “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
When the crowd gave Straight time to talk, he thanked God, his team, band and crew and his family. He spoke about the longtime team members he’s lost over the past year, including manager Erv Woolsey, road manager Tom Foote and band member Gene Elders.
“I want to thank the CMAs for adding my name to the incredible artists on this small list of recipients carrying the name of the icon, Willie Nelson,” Strait said. “I want to thank these great artists who performed some of the songs I’ve recorded over the years. It’s amazing to hear y’all do them—I’m so glad I got them before you.”
Ashley McBryde sang Kris Krisofferson‘s “Help Me Make It Through the Night” in tribute of the late legend.
Male Vocalist of the Year went to Stapleton, his eighth time claiming the honor.
“I’m out of things to say. I love all of y’all so much. Thank you CMAs for giving this award and all of y’all for voting for me,” the entertainer said.
Eric Church performs “Darkest Hour” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Host Bryan took to the stage for a performance of “Love You, Miss You, Mean It” before Combs appeared on stage to introduce the next performer, Eric Church. He shared that the two North Carolinians raised $24 million for hurricane relief with their benefit concert, and praised Church for donating royalties for his next song in perpetuity for the cause. Church then performed the philanthropic song, “Darkest Hour.”
Olympian Simone Biles presented Female Vocalist of the Year to Wilson, her third time winning the honor.
“Man, this community has wrapped its arms around me and lifted me up from the get-go,” Wilson said. “I’ve always been told if you feel like you’ve got a gift, you’re supposed to share it, and I think that means whether you drive a tractor or pour coffee, make people smile or laugh, whatever that is I think you’re supposed to share that gift.”
Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll and Keith Urban came together for a fiery performance of “Liar.” Bluegrass virtuosos Molly Tuttle, Sierra Hull and Bronwyn Keith-Hynes appeared alongside Dierks Bentley for his cover of Tom Petty‘s “American Girl.”
The night’s top honor, Entertainer of the Year, went to Morgan Wallen. It was his first time receiving the honor, but he was not in attendance.
The 58th CMA Awards will be available to watch on Hulu today (Nov. 21).
Scot Sherrod Joins Anthem Music Publishing As Senior Director Of Creative [Exclusive]
/by LB CantrellScott Sherrod
Anthem Entertainment has hired industry veteran Scot Sherrod as Senior Director of Creative for the company’s Music Publishing division.
With nearly 30 years in music publishing, Sherrod brings with him a breadth of experience, having spent the past few years consulting for Sony Music Publishing, Jonas Group Publishing, Barry Coburn’s Ten Ten & Banz Music and Moraine Music Group.
“It is so exciting to be part of such an amazing publishing company as Anthem Entertainment–what an amazing catalog,” Sherrod shares. “I have known Noah Dewey and Gilles Goddard for over 20 years, and my respect runs deep for them both. I’m grateful and honored for this opportunity and look forward to working with the entire team to add value to Anthem’s ever-increasing brand.”
Sherrod began his publishing career at Muy Bueno Music Group, after which he spent 12 years at Major Bob Music, and Bob Doyle & Associates. In 2012, in conjunction with entrepreneur Suzane Strickland, Sherrod helped launch boutique publishing company, RareSpark Media Group, where he spent 11 years signing and developing a wide array of talent including the likes of Walker Hayes, whose 2021 smash “Fancy Like” topped Billboard‘s year-end country songs chart.
Sherrod was also instrumental in pitching the song “More Than A Memory” to Garth Brooks. The tune became the first country song to enter all charts at No. 1. He has also attained cuts by artists such as Luke Combs, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, George Strait, Blake Shelton, Cody Johnson, Jordan Davis, Jason Aldean, Pentatonix, Carrie Underwood, Ashley McBryde, The Chicks, Rascal Flatts, Kelly Clarkson, Mickey Guyton and Trisha Yearwood, to name a few.
“Scott Sherrod builds careers. He’s the quintessential music publisher with an impressive list of accomplishments that speak for themselves,” says Dewey, Vice President, Creative for Anthem Music Publishing Nashville. “He will be an integral part of the ongoing success of Anthem Entertainment. We’re very lucky to have him join our creative team!”
BREAKING: 2024 CMA Award Winners Revealed [Full List]
/by Liza AndersonCountry music creators and industry members came together for the 58th annual CMA Awards at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday night (Nov. 20).
Morgan Wallen was awarded the night’s big honor of Entertainer of the Year. Co-host Lainey Wilson was crowned Female Vocalist of the Year, and Chris Stapleton was named Male Vocalist of the Year once again. Old Dominion scored their seventh win for Vocal Group of the Year, and Brooks & Dunn took home Vocal Duo of the Year. Stapleton’s “White Horse” rode off with the Single of the Year and Song of the Year honors, and Cody Johnson‘s Leather won Album of the Year.
Read MusicRow‘s recap of the show here.
The full list of winners is below:
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR:
– Luke Combs
– Jelly Roll
– Chris Stapleton
– Morgan Wallen – WINNER
– Lainey Wilson
SINGLE OF THE YEAR:
Award goes to Artist(s), Producer(s) and Mix Engineer(s)
– “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey
Producers: Sean Cook, Nevin Sastry
Mix Engineer: Raul Lopez
– “Dirt Cheap” – Cody Johnson
Producer: Trent Willmon
Mix Engineer: Jack Clarke
– “I Had Some Help” – Post Malone (Feat. Morgan Wallen)
Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins
Mix Engineer: Ryan Gore
– “Watermelon Moonshine” – Lainey Wilson
Producer: Jay Joyce
Mix Engineers: Jason Hall, Jay Joyce
– “White Horse” – Chris Stapleton – WINNER
Producers: Dave Cobb, Chris Stapleton, Morgane Stapleton
Mix Engineer: Vance Powell
ALBUM OF THE YEAR:
Award goes to Artist, Producer(s) and Mix Engineer(s)
– Deeper Well – Kacey Musgraves
Producers: Ian Fitchuk, Kacey Musgraves, Daniel Tashian
Mix Engineers: Shawn Everett, Konrad Snyder
– Fathers & Sons – Luke Combs
Producers: Luke Combs, Chip Matthews, Jonathan Singleton
Mix Engineer: Chip Matthews
– Higher – Chris Stapleton
Producers: Dave Cobb, Chris Stapleton, Morgane Stapleton
Mix Engineer: Vance Powell
– Leather – Cody Johnson – WINNER
Producer: Trent Willmon
Mix Engineer: Jack Clarke
– Whitsitt Chapel – Jelly Roll
Producers: Andrew Baylis, Brock Berryhill, Zach Crowell, Jesse Frasure, David Garcia, Kevin “Thrasher” Gruft, Austin Nivarel, David Ray Stevens
Mix Engineers: Jeff Braun, Jim Cooley
SONG OF THE YEAR:
Award goes to Songwriter(s)
– “Burn It Down”
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Parker McCollum, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose
– “Dirt Cheap”
Songwriter: Josh Phillips
– “I Had Some Help”
Songwriters: Louis Bell, Ashley Gorley, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins, Austin Post, Ernest Keith Smith, Morgan Wallen, Chandler Paul Walters
– “The Painter”
Songwriters: Benjy Davis, Kat Higgins, Ryan Larkins
– “White Horse” – WINNER
Songwriters: Chris Stapleton, Dan Wilson
FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR:
– Kelsea Ballerini
– Ashley McBryde
– Megan Moroney
– Kacey Musgraves
– Lainey Wilson – WINNER
MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR:
– Luke Combs
– Jelly Roll
– Cody Johnson
– Chris Stapleton – WINNER
– Morgan Wallen
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR:
– Lady A
– Little Big Town
– Old Dominion – WINNER
– The Red Clay Strays
– Zac Brown Band
VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR:
– Brooks & Dunn – WINNER
– Brothers Osborne
– Dan + Shay
– Maddie & Tae
– The War And Treaty
MUSICAL EVENT OF THE YEAR:
Award goes to Artists and Producer(s)
– “Cowboys Cry Too” – Kelsea Ballerini (with Noah Kahan)
Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Alysa Vanderheym
– “I Had Some Help” – Post Malone (Feat. Morgan Wallen)
Producers: Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome, Hoskins
– “I Remember Everything” – Zach Bryan (feat. Kacey Musgraves)
Producer: Zach Bryan
– “Man Made A Bar” – Morgan Wallen (feat. Eric Church)
Producer: Joey Moi
– “You Look Like You Love Me” – Ella Langley (feat. Riley Green) – WINNER
Producer: Will Bundy
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR:
– Tom Bukovac – Guitar
– Jenee Fleenor – Fiddle
– Paul Franklin – Steel Guitar
– Rob McNelley – Guitar
– Charlie Worsham – Guitar – WINNER
MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR:
Award goes to Artist(s) and Director(s)
– “Dirt Cheap” – Cody Johnson
Director: Dustin Haney
– “I Had Some Help” – Post Malone (Feat. Morgan Wallen)
Director: Chris Villa
– “I’m Not Pretty” – Megan Moroney
Directors: Jeff Johnson, Megan Moroney
– “The Painter” – Cody Johnson
Director: Dustin Haney
– “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” – Lainey Wilson – WINNER
Director: Patrick Tracy
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR:
– Megan Moroney – WINNER
– Shaboozey
– Nate Smith
– Mitchell Tenpenny
– Zach Top
– Bailey Zimmerman
Tucker Wetmore Extends ‘Waves On A Sunset Tour’ Into 2025
/by Lorie HollabaughTucker Wetmore. Photo: Jarrod Anthonee
Tucker Wetmore has extended his “Waves On A Sunset Tour” into 2025 with 17 dates.
The new leg will kick off in Berlin on March 8 and move on to a Country To Country (C2C) Festival appearance and a special headline show at The Garage in London, before hitting the west coast with Jacob Hackworth.
“You guys sold out the entire ‘Waves On A Sunset Tour,’ and it was incredible! I’m so thankful for each of you. Seeing you out there singing along and partying with us was unforgettable—I didn’t want it to end,” shares Wetmore. “That’s why I’m excited to announce ‘Waves On A Sunset’ part two, kicking off next spring in Berlin and Europe! From there, we’re heading west to California, New Mexico, Texas, Colorado and a few other stops along the way. I’m so beyond blessed. Thank you all so much. I’ll see y’all out there.”
An artist presale is taking place now until tomorrow (Nov. 21) at 10 p.m. local time. Tickets will be available to the public starting this Friday (Nov. 22) at 10 a.m. local time. For more information, click here.
Rob Mills Receives 2024 CMA Founding President’s Award
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L–R): Sarah Trahern, Luke Bryan, Rob Mills, Lainey Wilson, Peyton Manning
and Robert Deaton. Photo: Drew Noble/CMA
Walt Disney Television’s EVP, Unscripted & Alternative Entertainment Rob Mills received the 2024 CMA Founding President’s Award, created in honor of Connie B. Gay, yesterday (Nov. 19) during rehearsals for the 58th annual CMA Awards in Nashville.
This year’s CMA Awards hosts Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson joined CMA CEO Sarah Trahern and CMA Awards Executive Producer Robert Deaton to surprise Mills with the news. He has been a key voice in CMA’s long-standing relationship with ABC. Through CMA’s partnership with ABC and across a broader content landscape, including Hulu and Disney+, Mills seeks to promote the genre by aiding in creating unique and dynamic avenues to bring country music to audiences everywhere.
“The CMA Founding President’s Award, determined by our Board of Directors, celebrates individuals who have shown exceptional dedication and service to CMA,” says Trahern. “Over the past decade, Rob’s outstanding leadership has been instrumental to the growth and success of CMA’s television properties. As we look forward to our next decade of collaboration, we are grateful to have a partner who not only champions country music, but also continuously seeks innovative opportunities within the network to elevate our genre.”
The longtime television executive first joined the Alternative division in 2003, and oversees unscripted development and current production for ABC Entertainment and Hulu Originals, including American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, The Bachelor franchise, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Kardashians, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and more. He has also shepherded numerous high-profile network events.
BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville Honors Four At Pre-CMA Party
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): Peter Strickland (BMG), Thomas Coesfeld (BMG), Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Dustin Lynch, Jon Loba (BMG), JoJamie Hahr (BMG) and Katie Kerkhover (BMG). Photo: Keith Griner
BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville celebrated its roster, team, partners and fans at their 2024 Pre-CMA Awards Party last night (Nov. 19) at Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville. BMG’s Americas President Jon Loba led the event, celebrating career milestones for label stars Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, Dustin Lynch and Parmalee.
Aldean celebrated 28 No. 1 hits at country radio, while Shelton received praise for 156 first-week radio adds for his latest single “Texas.” Lynch was honored for his 10 No. 1 country radio songs, and Parmalee were recognized for their three consecutive No. 1 singles.
Hosted by Austin & Colin, the party featured performances by Aldean, Shelton, Lynch, Parmalee, The Frontmen, Haven Madison, Dylan Schneider, Madeline Merlo, Frank Ray, John Morgan, Tim Montana, K. Michelle, Drew Baldridge, Chayce Beckham and Lanie Gardner.
Pictured (L-R): Adrian Michaels (SCR), Stan Marczewski (SCR), Parmalee’s Barry Knox, Peter Strickland (BMG), JoJamie Hahr (BMG), Jon Loba (BMG), Parmalee’s Matt Thomas, Shelley Hargis (BMG), David Fanning (33 Creative), Krista Hayes (BMG), Tina Crawford (33 Creative), Regan Donato (BMG), Matt Vieira (SCR), Parmalee’s Josh McSwain and Parmalee’s Scott Thomas. Photo: Terry Wyatt for Getty
The party served as a kickoff to the CMA Awards, airing tonight (Nov. 20) on ABC, where fellow label singers and 2025 Grammy nominees Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll are both nominated for the night’s highest honor of Entertainer of the Year. Wilson is also nominated for Single of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year and Music Video of the Year, while Jelly Roll boasts additional nominations for Album of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year.
Lanco Slates Sophomore Album, Tour For 2025
/by Lorie HollabaughLanco will kick off the New Year with the release of their sophomore album, We’re Gonna Make It, releasing on Jan. 17 via Riser House Records.
Fans can pre-save the new album, which was produced by Jay Joyce, Jared Conrad and Lanco, beginning Nov. 22. The project features 14 tracks, including previously-released hits “Low Class Lovers” and “Sound of a Saturday Night,” along with the new song “We Grew Up Together” featuring Grammy-nominated Christian artist Cory Asbury, which will drop on Nov. 22.
“We often think our parents have it all together, but they’re just people who met each other, fell in love, and had a kid,” says Lanco lead vocalist Brandon Lancaster of the new song. “I realized in raising my own children that we’re all learning as we go. There are so many times when I’m teaching my kids a lesson, and I’m thinking about how it applies to me, too.”
The band will hit the road in support of the new music with the “We’re Gonna Make It Tour 2025,” which kicks off Feb. 27 in Minneapolis. The tour will run through March, with additional dates to be announced soon.
We’re Gonna Make It Track List:
“We’re Gonna Make It” – Brandon Lancaster / Chandler Baldwin / Tripp Howell / Jared Hampton / Ben Williams *
“Memories (We Didn’t Know)” – Brandon Lancaster / Tripp Howell / Craig Wiseman *
“Where I Belong” – Brandon Lancaster / Chandler Baldwin / Tripp Howell / Jared Hampton / Jason Nix *
“Low Class Lovers” – Brandon Lancaster #
“We Grew Up Together” featuring Cory Asbury – Brandon Lancaster / Chandler Baldwin / Tripp Howell / Jared Hampton / Cory Asbury *
“Honey I Lost My Job Today” – Brandon Lancaster / Jeremy Spillman #
“You’ll Always Be” – Brandon Lancaster / Chandler Baldwin / Tripp Howell / Jared Hampton / Joey Hyde *
“Come Over” – Brandon Lancaster / Chandler Baldwin / Jared Hampton / Tripp Howell / Wyatt Durrette #
“Beer With Younger Me” – Brandon Lancaster / Jared Conrad / Keelan Donovan / Chandler Baldwin *
“Sound of a Saturday Night” – Brandon Lancaster / Tripp Howell / Tate Howell / Jeremy Spillman #
“Leaving Looks Good On You” – Brandon Lancaster / Tripp Howell / Chandler Baldwin / Tommy Cecil #
“Million Dollar Memory” – Brandon Lancaster / Tripp Howell / Grant Vogel #
“Last Call” – Brandon Lancaster / Mike Walker / Rian Ball #
“Nothing That You Could Do” – Brandon Lancaster / Chandler Baldwin / Tripp Howell / Seth Alley *
* Produced by Jared Conrad and LANCO
# Produced by Jay Joyce
Willie Jones Signs With Gravel Road Records
/by Madison HahnenWillie Jones. Photo: Jabari Jacobs
Country artist Willie Jones has signed with independent record label Gravel Road Records.
Recognized for his mix of country, hip-hop and soul alongside his unique voice, Jones’ tracks “Down by the Riverside” and “American Dream” have garnered over 200 million streams. The Louisiana native was also featured on Beyoncé’s “Just For Fun” earlier this year.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Willie to the Gravel Road family,” says Rich Barner, Co-Founder of Gravel Road. “With his authentic storytelling and unique sound, we believe Willie will resonate deeply with country music fans and continue to push the boundaries of the genre. Together, we’re excited to embark on this journey and create music that speaks to the heart and soul of our listeners.”
“I’ve been a Willie Jones fan for a long time, he’s a rockstar in every sense,” adds Anthony Martini, Co-Founder of Gravel Road. “He’s authentic, bold, and speaks to the next generation of country music fans. Gravel Road welcomes artists who aren’t afraid to break the mold – and Willie epitomizes that.”
“Beyond excited to partner with Gravel Road and get this music out,” shares Jones. “The past year has been one of the greatest years of my life, and now to have a team of people who believe in me and my vision who can help expand help the vibration of the world through music is truly an honor.”
Jones is currently working on his next project set to release in early 2025.
Eric Church Honors Influences At One-Night-Only SiriusXM Event
/by John Nix ArledgeEric Church performs during SiriusXM event. Photo: Catherine Powell/Getty Images for SiriusXM
Eric Church returned to the Neon Steeple stage last night (Nov. 19) at his venue, Chief’s on Broadway, for a one-night-only event with SiriusXM. The show, originally scheduled for late September, was postponed by the North Carolina native in response to the disastrous effects of Hurricane Helene stating, “I’m devastated by the destruction in the mountains of western North Carolina…To all the families and first responders, you are in our prayers and we are doing everything we can to get you the help you need now.”
In the two months since the storm, Church has made good on that promise, helping raise nearly $25 million for relief efforts with “Concert For Carolina” and bringing awareness to the situation through his track “Darkest Hour.”
Eric Church performs during SiriusXM event. Photo: Catherine Powell/Getty Images for SiriusXM
With relief efforts well underway, Church’s focus returned to music for the night as he took the stage in a packed room of SiriusXM listeners and fans. He kicked off the show by explaining to the crowd that this full-band performance would be a tribute to his musical influences, “The [stained glass] windows you see behind you are the influences of my life. So tonight, we are going to do something different and play these influences and how they relate to what we do.”
He started the night by weaving in his first inspiration, Johnny Cash’s “Long-Legged Guitar Pickin’ Man” between his own tracks,“How ‘Bout You” and “Lotta Boot Left to Fill.” Next, with the Stone’s tongue and lip stained glass behind him, Church segued into The Rolling Stone’s “Gimme Shelter” and his hit “Chattanooga Lucy.”
“I wouldn’t be here today without the face you now see behind me, Mr. Bob Seger. He saved my life at a time when my life needed saving and has inspired a lot of my life and music, including that last song. So, we are going to do a couple of Bob songs.”
In a fiery performance alongside his longtime backup singer, Joanna Cotten, Church chose “Ramblin’ Gamblin Man” and “Get Out Of Denver” to pay homage to who he referred to as his “desert island artist”—an artist he could listen to every day were he stranded on a desert island.
Eric Church performs with Joanna Cotton during SiriusXM event. Photo: Catherine Powell/Getty Images for SiriusXM
Next, he nodded to artists Hank Williams Jr., Tina Turner and The Band with tracks “Country Boy Can Survive,” “Proud Mary” “The Weight,” “Ophelia,” “Atlantic City,” while seamlessly blending in his hits “Homeboy” and “Bad Mother Trucker.”
For his final tribute of the night, Church spoke about one of the biggest influences in his life, “I want to throw it back to a guy that has the center window back here, Bruce Springsteen. Over the years, we have become friends and we are going to try to pay homage to him, you guys and what we have built here at Chief’s.”
As Springsteen’s “Thunder Road” faded out, the familiar chords of Church’s hit song “Springsteen” took center stage, bringing the crowd to their feet and an end to the special performance.
Fans can listen to the show on SiriusXM when Eric Church Outsiders Radio takes over Y2Kountry (Channel 57) on Nov. 22 at 4 p.m. CT, Nov. 23 at 6 p.m. CT and Nov. 24 at 12 p.m. CT. The concert will also be available to stream via the SiriusXM app.
BMI Celebrates 2024 Country Award Winners, Honors Randy Owen With Icon Award
/by LB CantrellPictured (L–R): BMI’s Clay Bradley, Riley Green, BMI Icon Award winner Randy Owen, Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton and BMI’s Mike O’Neill. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
Hundreds of industry members gathered at BMI’s Nashville headquarters last night (Nov. 19) for the 72nd annual BMI Country Awards.
Transforming the building’s parking garage into an extravagant ballroom, the evening was full of special celebrations and music for what BMI Nashville’s VP of Creative, Clay Bradley, called the “greatest parking lot party in country music.”
Songwriters, publishers and other industry executives swarmed the elegant room and caught up over crafted cocktails. Once guests found their seats, they were greeted with a beautiful table display of flowers, candle light and a yummy chocolate cake topped with the BMI logo.
A dinner of steak, a cheesy potato soufflé cake and sautéed vegetables was served. Wine bottles on the table were passed around, and the night was off.
Pictured (L–R): Aaron Raitiere, Ella Langley and Lukas Nelson perform onstage during the 2024 BMI Country Awards. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for BMI
BMI’s President & CEO Mike O’Neill started the program by welcoming everyone and highlighting all the work that the country music community has done for others in need over the past year. He introduced Ella Langley, Lukas Nelson and Aaron Raitiere for the night’s first bit of music, who gave an electrifying performance of “With a Little Help from My Friends” as headlines of the community’s charitable efforts flashed on the screens.
O’Neill then welcomed Bradley, and the two started handing out the awards for the 50 most-performed country songs of the previous year. Songwriters and publishers came from all directions to the stage in the middle of the room to collect their prizes and grab a group picture as the rest of the room cheered them on.
After presenting half of their most-performed song awards, O’Neill and Bradley changed gears to begin honoring the iconic Alabama frontman Randy Owen with the BMI Icon Award, an honor bestowed on songwriters who have had an indelible influence on music makers over generations.
O’Neill detailed Owen’s lasting mark on country music with the Alabama band, as well as his philanthropic impact, most notably with St. Jude. A video featuring Troy Tomlinson, Tony Conway, Kenny Chesney and Dolly Parton was played with remarks about Owen.
Warner Chappell Music accepts the Publisher of the Year award onstage during the 2024 BMI Country Awards. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
Fellow Alabama native Riley Green soon appeared on stage to honor the BMI Icon with a performance of “My Home’s in Alabama.” Owen wiped tears from his eyes as Green sang.
Luke Bryan performed his own rendition of “Feels So Right” and then Blake Shelton led the whole room in a sing-along of the Alabama classic, “Mountain Music,” a jam so fun that Bryan had to join him onstage.
Before BMI presented the award to Owen, they invited up his wife Kelly up to speak. She shared about the first song he played her, “Feels So Right,” and about his love of the music.
“Thank you for honoring Randy while he is living,” Kelly said. “So that his children and grandchildren can see his legacy.”
When Owen took the microphone, he first invited up bandmate Teddy Gentry and the two embraced.
“BMI, thank y’all for the call. When you said, ‘the Icon Award,’ I cried. It’s so special,” Owen shared. “Thank y’all for this night. It’s a highlight.”
Pictured (L–R): BMI’s Mike O’Neill, BMI Country Songwriter of the Year Chase McGill and BMI’s Clay Bradley. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
More BMI executives took the stage to continue giving out awards for the most-performed songs of the year until it was time to present the big honors.
The Publisher of the Year accolade went to Warner Chappell Music, which published 34 of the 50 most-performed songs of the year, including megahits like Parker McCollum’s “Burn It Down,” Tyler Hubbard’s “Dancin’ in the Country,” Riley Green’s “Different ‘Round Here,” Warren Zeiders’ “Pretty Little Poison” and Bailey Zimmerman’s “Religiously.”
BMI Songwriter of the Year was a tie between Chase McGill and Zach Bryan, who was not present. Bryan serves as a writer of “Burn, Burn, Burn,” “Dawns,” “Hey Driver,” “I Remember Everything,” “Oklahoma Smokeshow” and “Sun to Me.” McGill co-wrote Morgan Wallen’s “Ain’t That Some,” Luke Bryan’s “But I Got a Beer in My Hand,” Conner Smith’s “Creek Will Rise,” Russell Dickerson’s “God Gave Me A Girl,” Jordan Davis’ “Next Thing You Know” and Thomas Rhett and Morgan Wallen’s “Mamaw’s House.”
McGill spoke about the people who have supported him in his songwriting career, calling special attention to UMPG’s Terry Wakefield, who is battling health struggles but was in the room to celebrate.
Pictured (L–R): Warner Chappell’s Spencer Nohe, BMI’s Mike Steinberg, Sony ATV Music Publishing’s Katie Welle, BMI’s Leslie Roberts, songwriter John Byron, Big Loud’s Seth England and Stacey Blythe, BMI’s Mike O’Neill and Clay Bradley onstage with the 2024 BMI Country Award for Song of the Year. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for BMI
“Terry came to my house the day we started working together, about four years ago. We hung out a bit, and he asked me what my goals were as a songwriter,” McGill said. “I said, ‘I have one goal. I want to be the BMI Songwriter of the Year.’ He helped me lay out a plan and here we are.”
Morgan Wallen’s “Last Night” was named 2024 BMI Country Song of the Year, published by Big Loud Mountain, John Byron Music, Sony/ATV Songs LLC and Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. The tune was written by John Byron and Charlie Handsome, and was No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 16 nonconsecutive weeks—the most ever for a solo song.
The evening wore on with snacks, drinks and coffee in the BMI lobby. With all three PRO awards done for the year, the publishing community has a new legion of winners, and will go into the 58th CMA Awards tonight (Nov. 20) proud of the songs they’ve been a part of.