Ella Langley & Riley Green Make Platinum Debut At Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon
Ella Langley and Riley Green. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Ella Langley and Riley Green celebrated the RIAA Platinum certification of their duet “You Look Like You Love Me” with a debut late night performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Nov. 11. The track is currently top 10 at country radio, plus No. 1 on SiriusXM The Highway’s Top 30 Countdown, has garnered over 230 million worldwide streams and views to date. It is nominated at the CMA Awards for Musical Event of the Year on Nov. 20.
Restless Road Enjoys Gold Opry Surprise
Pictured (L-R): Restless Road’s Colton Pack, Zach Beeken and Garrett Nichols and Lady A’s Charles Kelley. Photo: Janie Whitefield
Restless Road capped off a weekend of milestones with the announcement of their new song “Done It By Now,” arriving this Friday, (Nov. 15). The celebrations began last Friday at the Grand Ole Opry when the band was surprised on stage by Lady A’s Charles Kelley, a co-writer on the track, with their first RIAA Gold-certified plaque for “Growing Old With You.”
The band closed out the weekend with a live broadcast performance on ESPN of the national anthem for the Los Angeles Rams’ Salute to Service game at SoFi Stadium, where the Rams faced the Miami Dolphins for Monday Night Football.
Jordan Fletcher Gets RIAA Gold For ‘Sad Songs For Sad People’
Pictured (L-R, back row): Kevin Herring (TT), Mackenzie Cooper (TT), Chris DeBois (Sea Gayle), Brandon Gregg (Sea Gayle), Ian Christian (Sea Gayle co-writer), Annie Ortmeier (TT), JD Groover (Sea Gayle), Blake Nixon (TT) and Cara Kozulak (Triple 8 Management); (L-R, front row): Raffaella Braun (TT), Kim Wiggins (Sea Gayle), Emily Craig (Sea Gayle), Hope Garrison (TT), Laura Hostelley (TT) and Liz Scherff (TT).
Triple Tigers Records artist Jordan Fletcher received his first Gold certification for his co-written single, “Sad Songs for Sad People,” performed and released by Megan Moroney on her album Lucky. Fletcher, who is published by Sea Gayle, has also penned tracks for Riley Green, Jake Owen and Ella Langley.
Fletcher is stepping into the spotlight with the release of his latest EP, Classic. Produced by rising hitmaker Austin Nivarel, the EP features tracks such as “Fall in the Summer” and “About Jill” which have both amassed over a million streams since release.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Celebrates ‘Heritage: Southern Vernacular’ Exhibit
Pictured (L-R): Paul Barrett, Marlene Bennett Jones, Loretta Pettway Bennett, Claudia Pettway Charley and Haley Gallery Director Daniel Lonow. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Last week, the Haley Gallery at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrated the opening of “Heritage: Southern Vernacular.” The exhibit features quilts made by women in the Gee’s Bend community of Alabama, as well as sculptures and two-dimensional works from Black vernacular artists who are also associated with the state. On Nov. 7, Gee’s Bend quilters Loretta Pettway Bennett, Claudia Pettway Charley and Marlene Bennett Jones participated in a panel discussion about Gee’s Bend’s history and its connection to the museum’s expanded box set of recordings and online experience “From Where I Stand: The Black Experience in Country Music.” The collection spans a century of country music by Black artists, and is illustrated with Gee’s Bend quilts from roughly the same time periods as the music. Following the panel, a public reception was hosted in the Gallery to celebrate the exhibition’s opening.
On Nov. 8, Gee’s Bend quilters Loretta Pettway Bennett, Claudia Pettway Charley, Marlene Bennett Jones, Cathy Mooney, Joe Ann Pettway and Stella Pettway participated in a quilting demonstration in the Haley Gallery in the afternoon. Complementing the quilts are sculptures, paintings and works on paper, by Richard Dial, Thorton Dial, Charlie Lucas, Betty Sue Matthews and Mose Tolliver. The exhibition, which is guest-curated by Paul Barrett, is free and open to the public through Jan. 7.
Eric Church, Kacey Musgraves, More Added To 58th CMA Awards Lineup
/by Liza AndersonEric Church, Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Riley Green, Brooks & Dunn, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Ella Langley, Noah Kahan, Megan Moroney and Bailey Zimmerman have been added to the lineup for the 58th annual CMA Awards.
2020 Entertainer of the Year Church will take the stage for a powerful performance, and two-time Entertainer of the Year and three-time nominee Combs will treat the crowd to his hit “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma.” Five-time nominee Johnson will also perform, along with three-time nominee Moroney, who is set to sing her chart-climbing single “Am I Okay?” and three-time nominee Musgraves, who will perform her tune “The Architect.” First-time nominee and performer Zimmerman will be on hand to deliver “New to Country” to the CMA Awards audience.
Additionally, Ballerini and first-time nominee and performer Kahan will unite for their nominated duet “Cowboys Cry Too.” Vocal Duo this year nominee Brooks & Dunn will welcome three-time nominee Jelly Roll to the stage to perform “Believe” and first-time performers Langley and Green will deliver their nominated hit “You Look Like You Love Me.”
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.
The awards ceremony will air live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena this coming Wednesday (Nov. 20) from 7 p.m.–10 p.m. CT on ABC, and will be available next day on Hulu.
Dolly Parton Teams With Kendra Scott On New ‘Butterfly’ Collection
/by Lorie HollabaughDolly Parton
Dolly Parton has launched a limited-edition collection designed in partnership with jewelry designer Kendra Scott inspired by her iconic 1974 song, “Love Is Like a Butterfly.”
The collection marks the beginning of a multi-year collaboration that blends Parton’s larger-than-life style with Scott’s signature gemstones and silhouettes. Inspired by Scott’s admiration of Parton, each piece is a limited-edition and embodies the Country Music Hall of Famer’s spirit as a beacon of creativity and philanthropy.
Among the unique pieces are the Dolly Parton x Kendra Scott 1974 Necklace, with exactly 1,974 statement Butterfly necklaces created, inspired by Scott’s personal connection to Parton’s iconic 1974 song, “Love Is Like a Butterfly,” which was released the year she was born. Featuring 10 unique designs, the collection captures the themes of love, joy and self-expression at the heart of Parton’s legacy. It celebrates a lifetime of inspiration while marking the 50th anniversary of Parton’s beloved Love is Like a Butterfly album.
“Before I ever met Kendra, I was aware of her reputation as a self-made woman, her kind heart and of course, her wonderful jewelry line. I was honored to learn she was a fan of mine and even more honored when she asked me if I wanted to partner on a jewelry collection based on my song ‘Love Is Like A Butterfly.’ Naturally, I said yes. The more I get to know Kendra, the more I love her. She’s the real deal, beautiful inside and out. I hope you enjoy our collection as much as we’ve enjoyed each other while putting it together for you,” says Parton.
“It’s hard to put into words what Dolly Parton means to me. She’s the ultimate role model: a prime example of staying true to yourself, believing in the power of art and creativity, and giving back along the way. I’ve admired and looked up to Dolly my whole life, and working with her has truly been a full circle, pinch-me moment. I’ve looked to her—as so many of us can and do—for inspiration, humor, and kindness. This collection captures that beautifully and I’m so proud for fans to explore a jewelry collection that can live up to the absolutely singular Dolly Parton,” shares Scott.
To celebrate the new collection, there will be launch events and elevated shopping experiences at select stores across the country.
ACM Announces Submissions & Voting Timeline For 2025 Awards
/by Liza AndersonThe Academy of Country Music has announced the submissions and professional membership voting timeline for the 60th ACM Awards, taking place on May 8.
To vote for the ACM Awards, you must be an ACM member. The window to apply for membership or renew membership closes this Friday (Nov. 15) at 10 a.m. CT/8 a.m. PT. Applications must be submitted online within this window to qualify to obtain or maintain voting eligibility for the upcoming awards. Additionally, accepted and active ACM members are given early access to tickets for ACM events, discounts on industry partner events, industry data insights, monthly educational events, networking events and more.
The eligibility period for submissions for the 60th ACM Awards is Jan. 1, 2024–Dec. 31, 2024. Submissions will open at 11 a.m. CT/9 a.m. PT on Jan. 6, 2025. The Academy will accept entries through Jan. 17, 2025 at 7 p.m. CT/5 p.m. PT.
All submission and voting windows close at 7 p.m. CT/5 p.m. PT. For more information, click here.
Key Dates For ACM Professional Members:
Submissions Period: Jan. 6, 2025–Jan. 17, 2025
First Round Voting, Main Awards: Feb. 10, 2025–Feb. 18, 2025
Second Round Voting, Main Awards: March 10, 2025–March 17, 2025
Final Round Voting, Main Awards: March 31, 2025–April 7, 2025
First Round Voting, Radio Awards: Feb. 10, 2025–Feb. 24, 2025
Final Round Voting, Radio Awards: March 10, 2025–March 24, 2025
Industry Ink: Ella Langley & Riley Green, Restless Road, Jordan Fletcher, More
/by Lorie HollabaughElla Langley & Riley Green Make Platinum Debut At Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon
Ella Langley and Riley Green. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Ella Langley and Riley Green celebrated the RIAA Platinum certification of their duet “You Look Like You Love Me” with a debut late night performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Nov. 11. The track is currently top 10 at country radio, plus No. 1 on SiriusXM The Highway’s Top 30 Countdown, has garnered over 230 million worldwide streams and views to date. It is nominated at the CMA Awards for Musical Event of the Year on Nov. 20.
Restless Road Enjoys Gold Opry Surprise
Pictured (L-R): Restless Road’s Colton Pack, Zach Beeken and Garrett Nichols and Lady A’s Charles Kelley. Photo: Janie Whitefield
Restless Road capped off a weekend of milestones with the announcement of their new song “Done It By Now,” arriving this Friday, (Nov. 15). The celebrations began last Friday at the Grand Ole Opry when the band was surprised on stage by Lady A’s Charles Kelley, a co-writer on the track, with their first RIAA Gold-certified plaque for “Growing Old With You.”
The band closed out the weekend with a live broadcast performance on ESPN of the national anthem for the Los Angeles Rams’ Salute to Service game at SoFi Stadium, where the Rams faced the Miami Dolphins for Monday Night Football.
Jordan Fletcher Gets RIAA Gold For ‘Sad Songs For Sad People’
Pictured (L-R, back row): Kevin Herring (TT), Mackenzie Cooper (TT), Chris DeBois (Sea Gayle), Brandon Gregg (Sea Gayle), Ian Christian (Sea Gayle co-writer), Annie Ortmeier (TT), JD Groover (Sea Gayle), Blake Nixon (TT) and Cara Kozulak (Triple 8 Management); (L-R, front row): Raffaella Braun (TT), Kim Wiggins (Sea Gayle), Emily Craig (Sea Gayle), Hope Garrison (TT), Laura Hostelley (TT) and Liz Scherff (TT).
Triple Tigers Records artist Jordan Fletcher received his first Gold certification for his co-written single, “Sad Songs for Sad People,” performed and released by Megan Moroney on her album Lucky. Fletcher, who is published by Sea Gayle, has also penned tracks for Riley Green, Jake Owen and Ella Langley.
Fletcher is stepping into the spotlight with the release of his latest EP, Classic. Produced by rising hitmaker Austin Nivarel, the EP features tracks such as “Fall in the Summer” and “About Jill” which have both amassed over a million streams since release.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Celebrates ‘Heritage: Southern Vernacular’ Exhibit
Pictured (L-R): Paul Barrett, Marlene Bennett Jones, Loretta Pettway Bennett, Claudia Pettway Charley and Haley Gallery Director Daniel Lonow. Photo: Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Last week, the Haley Gallery at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrated the opening of “Heritage: Southern Vernacular.” The exhibit features quilts made by women in the Gee’s Bend community of Alabama, as well as sculptures and two-dimensional works from Black vernacular artists who are also associated with the state. On Nov. 7, Gee’s Bend quilters Loretta Pettway Bennett, Claudia Pettway Charley and Marlene Bennett Jones participated in a panel discussion about Gee’s Bend’s history and its connection to the museum’s expanded box set of recordings and online experience “From Where I Stand: The Black Experience in Country Music.” The collection spans a century of country music by Black artists, and is illustrated with Gee’s Bend quilts from roughly the same time periods as the music. Following the panel, a public reception was hosted in the Gallery to celebrate the exhibition’s opening.
On Nov. 8, Gee’s Bend quilters Loretta Pettway Bennett, Claudia Pettway Charley, Marlene Bennett Jones, Cathy Mooney, Joe Ann Pettway and Stella Pettway participated in a quilting demonstration in the Haley Gallery in the afternoon. Complementing the quilts are sculptures, paintings and works on paper, by Richard Dial, Thorton Dial, Charlie Lucas, Betty Sue Matthews and Mose Tolliver. The exhibition, which is guest-curated by Paul Barrett, is free and open to the public through Jan. 7.
The Familie Adds New Manager & Artist To Nashville Team
/by LB CantrellEmma Kyes, Sadie Bass
The Familie has added manager Emma Kyes and artist Sadie Bass to its expanding Nashville music division.
Kyes established herself in the music industry by simultaneously managing Bass while working in corporate logistics. Her dedication and strategic approach led to Bass’ booking deal with WME and a publishing deal with Sony Music. Under her management, she has successfully orchestrated approximately 200 shows, demonstrating her capabilities in both artist and tour management. Kyes founded her own artist management company in 2023.
“We are absolutely pumped to have Emma join the Familie,” says Royce Risser, Executive Vice President of Music. “Her drive and commitment are simply extraordinary. Cannot wait to have her energy in the office!”
“I could not be more excited to join The Familie,” says Kyes. “It is an honor to work side by side with some of the best minds in the business. The collaborative and entrepreneurial culture they have established is exhilarating to me. I can’t wait to be a part of this new Nashville office’s achievements in the years to come!”
Bass, a Michigan-born singer-songwriter, has already made significant waves in the industry through her appearances on NBC’s The Voice and high-profile festival performances. This year she has appeared on the lineups for Rock the Country Festival with Kid Rock and Jason Aldean, while also serving as direct support for Randy Houser and Justin Moore’s “Country Round Here Tonight” tour. She has garnered over 400,000 followers across platforms, showcasing her ability to connect with fans.
“Sadie is the perfect embodiment of what we look for in an artist,” says Steve Astephen, The Familie CEO. “She brings complete authenticity both to country music and to herself as an artist. She’s the real deal–a true talent with a distinct voice and compelling story. We’re excited to help guide her journey and welcome her to The Familie.”
“I am eager to embrace everything and anything that comes my way with The Familie by my side,” says Bass. “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter in my career, all the things I’ve wanted to do are on the brink of being revealed and I couldn’t be more grateful to have such a sharp team that shares my vision and passion.”
Post Malone & Morrison Hotel Gallery Partner For Nashville Pop-Up Collection
/by Liza AndersonPost Malone. Photo: Adam DeGross
Post Malone has partnered with Morrison Hotel Gallery, known for its fine art music photography, to bring a curated pop-up collection to Nashville, handpicking a selection of images of himself, taken by his personal photographer Adam DeGross. Sponsored by Visa, the collection will be on display at Prima, the new development tower in the South Gulch neighborhood, from Nov. 22–24.
Having captured the Grammy-nominated star on camera since 2017, DeGross’ work has appeared in Rolling Stone, GQ and Inked Magazine. The compilation will feature snapshots of Post Malone both onstage and behind the scenes, including two photos captured this summer at a private tour of the Louvre in Paris prior to his performance at Visa Live at le Louvre, to give fans a closer look into the artist’s world.
The pop-up collection will also showcase rare music photography from Morrison Hotel Gallery.
For more information or to make an appointment, reach out to info@morrisonhotelgallery.com or click here.
Mike Parker Signs With Withrow Street Music & CTM Publishing
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Thomas Deelder (CTM), Michael Thomas (Withrow Street Music), Bob Squance (Withrow Street Music), Mike Parker, MaryAnn Keen (BMI), Sophie Moll Ziegler (Mailbox Money Records) and Jenn Alexander (Truist Bank). Photo: Robert Moroni
Mike Parker has signed an exclusive publishing deal with Withrow Street Music and CTM Publishing.
Originally hailing from a small town in Virginia, Parker gained a loyal fanbase while competing in the 20th season of American Idol, where he made it to the top 10 under the guidance of Luke Bryan. Since moving to Nashville in 2022, Parker has been working with songwriter and producer Jimmy Robbins, releasing 15 songs to date including his new single “Just Like Me” which came out on Nov. 8. He is signed to Mailbox Money Records, which is led by Jimmy and Sarah Robbins, and is distributed through EMPIRE.
“The first time we met Mike, we knew he was something special,” says Withrow Street Music’s Bob Squance and Michael Thomas. “His personality and energy can fill up any room and he has a voice that makes people stop in their tracks. We’re thrilled to be working together and believe big things are on the way!”
“I wrote my first song in youth choir when I was 9 years old,” says Parker. “It didn’t hit me until I started pursing my dream, that it was a sign from God that this is what I was meant to do. He has strategically placed the right people in my life at the right time. Not only is songwriting what I love to do, but now I get to call it my job, although it’ll never feel like one because music is my passion, heart and soul.
“Thank you to Withrow Street Music and CTM for giving me the shot of a lifetime.”
CRS Now Offering Reduced Registration Rate To Displaced Industry Members
/by Liza AndersonCountry Radio Seminar (CRS) 2025 is offering a reduced registration rate to support displaced industry members as they reconnect and pursue new opportunities within the country radio and music world.
A rate of $299 is available to those who have faced unemployment since the last CRS, and includes full access to all three days of workshops, networking opportunities, luncheons and scheduled events, except the New Faces of Country Music Show. The 2025 agenda specifically features targeted professional advancement sessions focused on recognizing transferable skills and assets as well as monetizing radio strengths for opportunities beyond the industry.
The deadline to apply for the special rate is Jan. 17. “Unemployed Registration” should be selected as the registration type when applying. To apply, click here. For questions about eligibility or the application process, contact Ashley Bourque at ashley@crb.org.
New Short Documentary On Making Of Willie Nelson’s New Album Out Now
/by Lorie HollabaughWillie Nelson. Photo: Pamela Springsteen.
Rooted in Time: Willie, Micah and the Making of Last Least on the Tree, a new short film documenting the creation of Willie Nelson‘s latest studio album, is out now.
The short documentary by filmmaker Jeremy Steinberger pairs intimate scenes of Willie and his son Micah recording with meditative reflections on making the album and its themes, and delves into the deep emotional and musical bond between father and son. The film’s closeness is captured by Jeremy’s mother, Randi Malkin Steinberger, who documented many studio moments as the album was recorded at Hen House Studios operated by her husband Harlan Steinberger. Since 2001, Hen House has been a creative home for the album’s producer, Micah.
On Last Leaf on the Tree, Willie covers an eclectic array of songs by rock legends, singer-songwriters, alt-rock heroes and indie folk artists. He also offers a new recording of his 1967 song, “The Ghost,” and a new song written by him and Micah. Last Leaf on the Tree is available to stream, download, on CD and on amber swirl double LP vinyl.
Also out today is Willie and Annie Nelson‘s Cannabis Cookbook: Mouthwatering Recipes and the High-Flying Stories Behind Them. In the cookbook, Willie and wife Annie share their favorite recipes infused with cannabis drawn from meals enjoyed on tours, at their ranch, at home and in their favorite cities, which are accompanied by Willie’s personal food-related stories.
Also on tap this month is the airing of The Willie Nelson 90th Birthday Celebration, which comes to select public TV stations and the member streaming platform Passport on the PBS App beginning Nov. 28. The star-studded special celebrates the country legend’s milestone 90th birthday and his contributions to pop culture and music. The historic concert event, recorded live on Willie’s 90th birthday before a sold-out audience at the Hollywood Bowl in L.A., features interpretations of his classics performed by Beck, Gary Clark Jr., Sheryl Crow, Snoop Dogg, Norah Jones, Miranda Lambert, Dave Matthews, Willie’s sons (Lukas Nelson and Micah Nelson), Keith Richards, George Strait, Chris Stapleton and Willie himself.
Gary Scott Joins Opry Entertainment Group As COO
/by LB CantrellOpry Entertainment Group (OEG) has appointed Gary Scott as Chief Operating Officer.
With over 25 years of experience in hospitality operations, asset management and strategic leadership, Scott brings extensive expertise to OEG as the business continues to grow and innovate.
A subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, OEG produces multi-platform entertainment experiences through its growing portfolio of entertainment venues, including the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, WSM Radio, the Blake Shelton-inspired Ole Red brand, ACL Live at Moody Theater and Category 10, Luke Combs’ new live music venue, bar and restaurant in downtown Nashville. OEG connects music fans with their favorite artists through concerts, tours, music-inspired restaurants, retail, publishing, digital content and more.
Scott joins OEG from Ridgeline Hospitality Group, where he was Principal and Owner, providing comprehensive counsel to clients in the hotel, gaming, food and beverage and hospitality industries. Prior experience includes key roles at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and MGM Resorts/The Mirage Hotel & Casino, where he directed business, marketing, growth and operations strategies.
Scott will work closely with retiring COO Pete Weien during his transition.
“We are thrilled to have Gary join the OEG team at such an exciting time for the business,” says Patrick Moore, CEO of Opry Entertainment Group. “His focus on driving operational excellence, employee engagement and workplace culture within fast-paced entertainment environments makes him a great addition to our organization as our growth continues to accelerate.”
“From the expansion of Ole Red to the launch of Category 10 and everything in between, OEG has experienced extraordinary growth over the past decade thanks to bold strategy and strong leadership,” shares Scott. “It is an honor to join this dynamic and talented team as we shape the future of Opry Entertainment Group together.”