Keith Urban Surprises Tour Manager At Touring Career Workshop With Sam ‘Old Skool’ Harden Award
Chris Lisle, TCW Executive Director; Chuck Hull and Keith Urban. Photo: Jason Davis for TCW
Keith Urban surprised Chuck Hull, his tour manager of more than two decades, at the Touring Career Workshop in Nashville this week, presenting him with the Sam “Old Skool” Harden Award. Named for the late Sam Harden, a beloved lighting designer and technician at Bandit Lites, the award is given to an industry leader who dedicates their time and energy to mentoring and teaching those just starting their careers.
Warner Chappell Music Hosts Third Annual Opry Songwriting Camp
Pictured (L-R): Tommy Acker, Jack Rauton, Heath Warren, Jimi Bell, Tony Lane, KK Johnson, Chandler Brown, Sam Backoff, Benji Amaefule (WCM), Rhett Akins, Sophia Scott, Dipper, Kashus Culpepper, Bryce Sherlow (WCM) and Julie Hess (WCM)
Warner Chappell Music Nashville recently held its third annual songwriting camp at the Grand Ole Opry house, bringing together emerging writers and top artists for a creative experience in Nashville’s iconic music space.
Rodney Atkins Teams With American Red Cross To Encourage Blood Donation
Rodney Atkins and American Red Cross of Tennessee’s Joel Sullivan
Rodney Atkins partnered with the American Red Cross of Tennessee to share a valuable message about the importance of blood donation. Alongside American Red Cross of Tennessee CEO Joel Sullivan, Atkins donated his own blood to support maintaining the blood supply as Hurricane Helene, which ravaged the east coast in September, caused thousands of lifesaving blood donations to go uncollected.
“The opportunity to donate blood is such an easy way to make a really big difference, especially after the devastating storms we’ve seen recently; it’s a lifeline for those in need,” shares Atkins. “When disaster strikes, every drop counts, and this is a way to truly make a difference in saving lives and helping communities that have lost so much. The work the American Red Cross does across the globe is absolutely incredible and I want to help spread awareness of how easy and important it is to donate.”
Mental Health Charities Raise Over 150K At Celebrity Pickleball Tourney
Eric and Jessie James Decker
Fund Recovery, Change Your Brain Foundation, and Generation of Impact hosted a celebrity pickleball tournament at the Nashville Fairgrounds on Nov. 2. Over 250 celebrities and local Nashville residents competed in teams of two in a robin-style pickleball tournament. Featured attendees and players included Jessie James and Eric Decker, Jason Wahler, Shawn Johnson East, Andrew East, Golden Tate, JT Hodges, Chuck Wicks, Caroline Bryan, Hannah Brown, Mike Wolfe, Kasi Rosa Wicks, Jana Kramer, Carlos Whitaker and many more. The event raised over $150,000, which will go towards comprehensive assessments, brain scans, diagnosis, treatment plans, scholarships, prevention, education and mental health services.
T. Graham Brown Inks With Kinkead Entertainment Agency
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Manager Cole Johnstone; Kinkead Entertainment CEO Bob Kinkead; T. Graham Brown; Sheila Brown; Kinkead Entertainment President Julie Devereux; Kinkead Entertainment Executive Assistant Remi Heitzman and Kinkead Entertainment Sr. VP Greg Scott
Newly-inducted Grand Ole Opry member T. Graham Brown has signed with The Kinkead Entertainment Agency for booking.
Brown has captivated audiences for decades with his rich, soulful voice in timeless hits like “Darlene,” “Hell and High Water,” “I Tell It Like It Used To Be,” “Don’t Go To Strangers” and “Wine Into Water,” which have become anthems for country fans worldwide. He is also recognized as the voice in advertising campaigns for McDonald’s, Disneyland, Almond Joy, Coca-Cola, Dodge Truck, Ford, Hardee’s and many others, including the Taco Bell “Run For The Border” TV spots.
Brown was recently surprised on stage at the Grand Ole Opry with a special presentation commemorating his first N0. 1 album, From Memphis to Muscle Shoals. The album debuted at No. 1 on the iTunes Top Blues Album Chart and entered the top 10 of the iTunes Country Albums Chart upon its release. It features collaborations with Bettye LaVette, Sam Moore, Delbert McClinton, Dwight Yoakam, Eddie Floyd, Little Anthony, Randy Houser, Sammy Hagar, Tanya Tucker, Wynonna and Zach Williams, and the 14-song collection has garnered over one million on-demand streams.
“I have had a long history with T. Graham Brown,” shares CEO Bob Kinkead. “Starting in 1986, I had the privilege of working with T. throughout the mid/late 80s to the early 2000s, achieving many goals together in his live performance career. Now, 20 years later, we’ve come full circle. My team, including Julie Devereux and Greg Scott, are extremely excited to work with T., his manager Cole Johnstone, and Sheila, as his exclusive agents.”
Gabby Barrett Makes Nashville Headline Debut While ‘Giving For Good’
/by Liza AndersonGabby Barrett making her Nashville headline debut during her “Giving For Good Show.” Photo: Annelise Loughead
Gabby Barrett made her Nashville headline debut while hosting her “Giving For Good Show” at the Country Music Hall of Fame CMA Theater on Wednesday night (Nov. 13). All proceeds from the milestone event benefitted MurphsLife, a foundation focused on creating sustainable solutions that empower individuals and communities in Central America to break free from the poverty cycle and build a better future for themselves.
Songstress Rachel Purcell warmed up the crowd with her incredibly strong, stunning vocals while showcasing her keyboard skills. After a brief intermission, Barrett bursted onstage, grasping her glittering mic to welcome everyone as she rocked out.
Cade Foehner & Gabby Barrett. Photo: Annelise Loughead
“It was a tug on my heart to do something, especially around the holiday time, for others. And we were like, ‘Let’s create a charity show.’ So, we called it the ‘Giving For Good Show,’ and this is our second time doing it, so we’re really excited and thankful that you guys came out to help us give back,” Barrett shared alongside her husband and lead guitarist in her band, Cade Foehner.
The Warner Music Nashville star kicked things off with “Glory Days,” and jammed out with her band, holding a red tambourine, before moving into “Chapter” from her sophomore album, Chapter & Verse, and a cover of Keith Urban’s “Love Somebody” and her Platinum single “Pick Me Up,” among others.
A beautiful sunset bonfire scene blazed behind Barrett and Foehner as the performed an acoustic round of cover songs, including Johnny Cash and June Carter’s “Jackson” and Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide.” Foehner also treated the crowd to Glen Campbell’s “Gentle On My Mind,” sharing that it reminds him of his wife.
Barrett went on to perform quadruple-Platinum three-week No. 1 “The Good Ones,” along with one of her favorite Chapter & Verse tracks, “Growin’ Up Raising You,” and more. She then brought the house down with powerful renditions of Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On A Prayer” and Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin,'” giving the audience the mic for various verses. Foehner and a fellow guitarist had heads banging with their crazy guitar solo, as Barrett changed into a fiery black and red assemble to close out the night with eight-time Platinum chart-topper “I Hope.”
Lineup Set For Country Thunder Saskatchewan 2025
/by Lorie HollabaughJason Aldean, Bailey Zimmerman and Def Leppard are set to headline the Country Thunder Saskatchewan Festival in Craven July 10-13.
The festival is celebrating its 42nd year, and merging rock ‘n’ roll royalty with country’s top talent. The bold 2025 lineup bridges genres and generations, promising an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages.
“We’re thrilled to bring this incredible list of talent to Saskatchewan this year!” says Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhoffer. “Not only can we boast that Jason Aldean and Bailey Zimmerman, two of the biggest names in country music, will be headlining our main stage but we also have Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Def Leppard stepping onto our stage for the first time. Without question, this will be the most epic rock’n’roll party this valley has ever seen!”
In addition to the headliner announcement today, Nate Smith, Tyler Hubbard, Kip Moore, Sara Evans, Mackenzie Carpenter and Canadian country artists Tim Hicks, James Barker Band, The Road Hammers, Jess Moskaluke, Owen Riegling, Tommy Charles and Hailey Benedict will join the fun. Juno-nominated country group Hunter Brothers will headline the annual Kick-Off Party. Tickets are available at countrythunder.com/sk.
Adrien Nunez Signs With Warner Music Nashville/Warner Records
/by LB CantrellAdrien Nunez
Adrien Nunez has signed a record deal with Warner Music Nashville and Warner Records. His major-label debut track, “Apology Song,” is available everywhere now and follows his recent viral hit alongside label-mate Avery Anna, “Low Road.”
A native of Brooklyn, New York, Nunez turned to his original passion for music after his time as a basketball star at the University of Michigan. With his blend of country, pop and hip-hop influences, he quickly earned a following once he put his focus on music. The social media launch of his artist project accumulated over 50 million views across platforms in the first weekend and over five million streams in the first two weeks. He has since garnered over 250,000 new TikTok fans.
Nunez will release more new music in 2025. He is managed by Dillon Goldberg of FNGRPRNT and represented by Braeden Rountree at WME.
Langley & Green Notch A Third Week At No. 1 On The MusicRow Radio Chart
/by John Nix ArledgeElla Langley notches a third week at No. 1 on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart with her song “You Look Like You Love Me” featuring Riley Green.
The track is a part of her debut studio album Hungover and was written by Langley, Green and Aaron Raitiere.
Langley and Green were recently added to the 58th CMA Awards lineup and are set to perform their nominated duet. Other performers added include Eric Church, Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Brooks & Dunn, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Noah Kahan, Megan Moroney and Bailey Zimmerman. They all join previously-announced performers Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan, Sierra Hull, Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, Ashley McBryde, Post Malone, Shaboozey, Chris Stapleton, Teddy Swims, Thomas Rhett, Molly Tuttle and Lainey Wilson.
“You Look Like You Love Me” currently sits at No. 7 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 6 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
W.O. Smith Music School Announces Leadership Change
/by Lorie HollabaughJonah Rabinowitz. Photo: Eric England
W.O. Smith Music School Executive Director Jonah Rabinowitz is leaving his role after three decades to pursue a new opportunity in Vermont. The school will soon begin the search for a new leader.
Rabinowitz’s leadership has established W.O. Smith as a cornerstone of Nashville’s educational and cultural landscape, bringing the joy of music to low-income families in the area. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated a profound commitment to the school’s mission of making music education accessible to Nashville’s underserved youth. During his leadership, the school completed a successful $6 million capital campaign to construct its facility on 8th Avenue, expanding its reach, enhancing programming and fostering a strong community of students, volunteer teaching artists and supporters.
“Jonah’s leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on W.O. Smith Music School,” says Greg Hill, Chair of the Board of Directors. “His unwavering passion for our mission has built a legacy that will inspire and uplift generations to come.”
“Serving W.O. Smith Music School and watching our students grow and thrive has been the privilege of a lifetime,” says Rabinowitz. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together—creating a place where every child can discover the joy and transformative power of music. I know the school’s mission and future are in dedicated hands, and I look forward to seeing its impact continue to expand.”
To ensure a successful leadership transition, the W.O. Smith Board of Directors has appointed a dedicated search committee and retained recruiting firm Nonprofit Leadership LLC to identify the next Executive Director. This nationwide search aims to find a visionary leader who will champion the school’s mission while supporting its growth and long-term sustainability. Read more about the role here.
CMA Foundation To Host Official CMA Awards After Party
/by Madison HahnenThe Country Music Association has announced The Official CMA Awards After Party, hosted by the organization’s nonprofit sector, the CMA Foundation. Exclusively for CMA members and industry professionals, the party will take place Nov. 20 from 9:30 p.m.–1 a.m.
Attendees will be able to begin the night by taking a photo on The Official CMA Awards Red Carpet. They will also be enjoying music from Lawrence and DJ Grant Fisher. A first for the after party, guests will also watch the night’s biggest winners have their CMA Awards trophies engraved on-site.
Additional perks will include complimentary beer, wine, select cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, an after-party menu from Sonic, an artist lounge, a photo studio and 360 photo experience, a custom airbrush studio, flash tattoos and gifting stations.
A limited number of tickets for The Official CMA Awards After Party are available for CMA members and industry professionals here.
Tyler Childers Announces 2025 Tour
/by Lorie HollabaughTyler Childers. Photo: Sam Waxman
Tyler Childers will embark on his new headlining tour, “Tyler Childers: On The Road,” next year.
“Tyler Childers: On The Road” will feature special guests Wynonna Judd, Charley Crockett, Robert Earl Keen, Th
Tickets will be available for presale starting this coming Tuesday (Nov. 19) at 10 a.m. local time, with general sales following next Friday (Nov. 22) at the same time. A dollar from every ticket sold will benefit both the Hickman Holler Appalachian Relief Fund (HHARF) and REVERB. Established in 2020 by Childers and his wife, fellow artist Senora May, HHARF brings awareness to and provides financial support for philanthropic efforts in the Appalachian region. REVERB’s efforts seek to reduce environmental impact in live music, engage fans and fund carbon impact programs. For more information, click here.
2911 Media Promotes Scott Sexton
/by Liza AndersonScott Sexton
2911 Media has promoted Scott Sexton to Vice President of Publicity.
Sexton joined the company in 2018 and most recently served as Director of Publicity.
“I’ve enjoyed having Scott become an integral part of 2911 Media, and he’s grown considerably in his six years here,” says Jeremy Westby, President & CEO of 2911 Media. “He’s put some major points on the board for our clients during his tenure—publicizing major events and projects, winning awards for our work and earning respect throughout the industry for his efforts. Scott is tireless, efficient and well-liked, and I’m really looking forward to where we grow from here!”
At the age of 19, Sexton began freelance writing for various country music blogs and sites, including CountryMusicReport.com, CountryMusic.About.com and Today’s Country Magazine. During this time, he interviewed artists, such as Trisha Yearwood, Marty Stuart, Chuck Wicks, Jo Dee Messina and Steve Wariner. Sexton also represented Jack Greene for seven years, until his passing in 2013. In 2014, he founded Country For A Cause, which now partners annually with Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and raised over $220,000.
“I’m truly honored to step into the role of Vice President of Publicity at 2911 Media,” shares Sexton. “My top priority has always been to help our clients reach their full potential, and that will never change. Watching their dreams come to life is what drives me, and I couldn’t be more excited to take on this new role with 2911 Media.”
Industry Ink: Touring Career Workshop, Warner Chappell, Rodney Atkins, More
/by Lorie HollabaughKeith Urban Surprises Tour Manager At Touring Career Workshop With Sam ‘Old Skool’ Harden Award
Chris Lisle, TCW Executive Director; Chuck Hull and Keith Urban. Photo: Jason Davis for TCW
Keith Urban surprised Chuck Hull, his tour manager of more than two decades, at the Touring Career Workshop in Nashville this week, presenting him with the Sam “Old Skool” Harden Award. Named for the late Sam Harden, a beloved lighting designer and technician at Bandit Lites, the award is given to an industry leader who dedicates their time and energy to mentoring and teaching those just starting their careers.
Warner Chappell Music Hosts Third Annual Opry Songwriting Camp
Pictured (L-R): Tommy Acker, Jack Rauton, Heath Warren, Jimi Bell, Tony Lane, KK Johnson, Chandler Brown, Sam Backoff, Benji Amaefule (WCM), Rhett Akins, Sophia Scott, Dipper, Kashus Culpepper, Bryce Sherlow (WCM) and Julie Hess (WCM)
Warner Chappell Music Nashville recently held its third annual songwriting camp at the Grand Ole Opry house, bringing together emerging writers and top artists for a creative experience in Nashville’s iconic music space.
Rodney Atkins Teams With American Red Cross To Encourage Blood Donation
Rodney Atkins and American Red Cross of Tennessee’s Joel Sullivan
Rodney Atkins partnered with the American Red Cross of Tennessee to share a valuable message about the importance of blood donation. Alongside American Red Cross of Tennessee CEO Joel Sullivan, Atkins donated his own blood to support maintaining the blood supply as Hurricane Helene, which ravaged the east coast in September, caused thousands of lifesaving blood donations to go uncollected.
“The opportunity to donate blood is such an easy way to make a really big difference, especially after the devastating storms we’ve seen recently; it’s a lifeline for those in need,” shares Atkins. “When disaster strikes, every drop counts, and this is a way to truly make a difference in saving lives and helping communities that have lost so much. The work the American Red Cross does across the globe is absolutely incredible and I want to help spread awareness of how easy and important it is to donate.”
Mental Health Charities Raise Over 150K At Celebrity Pickleball Tourney
Eric and Jessie James Decker
Fund Recovery, Change Your Brain Foundation, and Generation of Impact hosted a celebrity pickleball tournament at the Nashville Fairgrounds on Nov. 2. Over 250 celebrities and local Nashville residents competed in teams of two in a robin-style pickleball tournament. Featured attendees and players included Jessie James and Eric Decker, Jason Wahler, Shawn Johnson East, Andrew East, Golden Tate, JT Hodges, Chuck Wicks, Caroline Bryan, Hannah Brown, Mike Wolfe, Kasi Rosa Wicks, Jana Kramer, Carlos Whitaker and many more. The event raised over $150,000, which will go towards comprehensive assessments, brain scans, diagnosis, treatment plans, scholarships, prevention, education and mental health services.