ACM Announces Submissions & Voting Timeline For 2025 Awards

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The 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

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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.

The Familie Adds New Manager & Artist To Nashville Team

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Emma 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

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Post 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

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Pictured (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

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Country 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

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Willie 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.

YouTube video

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

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Opry 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.”

Gabby Barrett To Share Joy Of ‘Giving For Good’ During Nashville Headline Debut [Interview]

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Gabby Barrett. Photo: Robby Klein

Gabby Barrett is set to host her “Giving For Good Show” and make her Nashville headline debut at the Country Music Hall of Fame’s CMA Theater tonight (Nov. 13).

Barrett and her husband, Cade Foehner, who will join her for a special acoustic set, created the event two years ago as a way to give back and support those in need. This year, all of the proceeds will benefit 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.

Aaron Murphy founded MurphsLife after an impactful experience in the region, when he was trapped in a border town of Ecuador with only $200 to his name during the early days of the pandemic. He selflessly used the money to purchase a hotdog stand for a struggling family and showed them how to operate it and generate income. After the gesture garnered significant attention on social media, and prompted donations from people across the globe, Murphy was inspired to further the efforts and create MurphsLife. Barrett herself came across the foundation on her Instagram Explore page, and was instantly moved by its work, leading her to choose it as the 2024 “Giving For Good Show” cause.

“There’s people sleeping on thin, dirty mattresses and cement floors as well as people who have disabled children and are struggling and stressed,” she tells MusicRow. “I saw how [MurphsLife] gets them on their feet by taking them to the store, buying them furniture and redoing their houses.

“These people are so grateful, and they’re thanking God. It’s so beautiful and so moving,” Barrett continues. “I’m so thankful that I saw it on my Explore page. To be able to do something for them is awesome.”

After an opening set from special guest Rachel Purcell, Barrett will take the stage tonight to perform tunes from her sophomore project, Chapter & Verse, and potentially a few tracks from her newly-released, first-ever Christmas album, Carols and Candlelight, among others. A large portion of the tracklist for Carols and Candlelight was selected by fans, with Barrett sprinkling in a few of her cherished favorites like “A Christmas To Remember.”

“Anytime from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, my dad would crank that song up in the mornings when we were all just waking up,” she shares. “So, naturally, it holds a lot of memories for me, and I love getting to sing it.

“I hope people enjoy the music from the new album, and from the show,” she sums. “I hope the takeaway is that giving is always good and to always strive to give. It’s better to give than to receive, and to bless other people—especially those who need it.”

The event starts at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. For more information, click here.

Braxton Keith Inks With Liz Rose Music

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Pictured (L-R, top row): Kate Shirley, Scott Ponce, Emily Vincent (Torrez Music Group), Dave Pacula, Gracie Glass and Matt Cottingham (Lewis Brisbois); (L-R, bottom row): Alex Torrez (Torrez Music Group), Braxton Keith and Liz Rose.

Singer-songwriter Braxton Keith has signed an exclusive publishing deal with Liz Rose Music.

The Texas native recently signed with Warner Music Nashville after building a following with independent releases, including his fan-favorite song “Cozy,” which currently has over 26 million streams. Keith spent the last few years bringing his energetic live shows to venues across the Lone Star state, opening for artists like Randall King. He has been on the road this fall, sharing stages with Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson and Corey Kent.

“Liz Rose Music is thrilled to welcome Braxton Keith to our family. His talent and passion for music are unmatched and we look forward to celebrating many successes together,” says Scott Ponce, Creative Director at Liz Rose Music.

“Liz has always been a true, constant friend in my life, so it’s fitting that we’re getting to work together again! Emily Vincent and I at TMG are excited for Braxton to join the Liz Rose Music crew,” adds Alex Torrez, CEO of Torrez Music Group, Keith’s management team.

“Liz Rose Music is a tight-knit crew and I’m grateful to have found a place that feels like home for my first publishing deal,” says Keith. “Their dedication to artistic integrity and leading with the music made it an easy decision to join such a talented team.”