Rock the Country and Pepsi Rock the South are back for 2025, with Kid Rock and Nickelback headlining both festivals.
The festivals will make stops through 11 small towns across America, kicking off on April 4-5 in Livingston, Louisiana. The 11-city tour will feature varying artists per stop including Hank Williams Jr., Lynyrd Skynyrd, 3 Doors Down, Travis Tritt, Gavin Adcock, Tracy Lawrence, Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners, Ella Langley, Upchurch, Diamond Rio, Little Texas, Them Dirty Roses and many more, and will also include a ’90s Happy Hour at Rock The Country including Shenandoah, Mark Chesnutt, Jo Dee Messina, Sammy Kershaw, Deana Carter, Afroman, Ying Yang Twins, Tone Loc and Dee Jay Silver.
Pepsi Rock The South, the flagship event held in Cullman, Alabama, returns for its 13th year as the inspiration and foundation of Rock The Country. Building on its success, Rock The Country now expands to 10 festival dates nationwide, revisiting four markets from 2024 while adding six new locations: Livingston, Louisiana; Knoxville, Tennessee, York, Pennsylvania; Hastings, Michigan; Little Rock, Arkansas and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“It’s this simple, Rock The Country isn’t just a music festival, it’s a movement.” says Kid Rock “It’s a place for hard working, god-fearing patriots to gather as one and celebrate freedom, music and the party of the year.”
Presale tickets for Rock The Country and Pepsi Rock The South begin today, (Nov. 12) with past purchasers and email subscribers getting the first chance at tickets. Public on-sale begins Nov. 15.
Festival organizers Peachtree Entertainment has also teamed up with Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides educational scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s fallen or disabled military service members and first responders, to gather donations upon ticket purchase. All donations will go towards local organizations in Cullman as well as organizations such as Folds of Honor in support of our veterans.
In addition, Rock The Country has also officially launched their 2025 Hometown Hero campaign where local residents can nominate someone who goes above and beyond in serving their community every day. The winner of the Rock The Country 2025 Hometown Hero in each market will receive the ultimate VIP experience at their local show, including a backstage tour and the opportunity to lead the Pledge of Allegiance on stage.
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.”
Gabby Barrett To Share Joy Of ‘Giving For Good’ During Nashville Headline Debut [Interview]
/by Liza AndersonGabby 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
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (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.”
Chase Matthew To Embark On ‘2025 World Tour’
/by Madison HahnenChase Matthew. Photo: David Bradley
Chase Matthew will embark on his “2025 World Tour,” beginning next month and continuing through the spring.
The trek will kick off on Dec. 14 in Ridgefield, and visit Milwaukee, Tulsa and Nashville, where Matthew will make his Ryman Auditorium headline debut, as well as cities in the U.K. and more before the final show in Lake Charles.
Matthew will host a plethora of supporting acts on the journey, including Lakeview, Austin Williams, John Morgan, Trevor Snider and Lecade. The tour also includes festival appearances at C2C in Berlin and Rotterdam. Ticket presales begin at 10 a.m. local time today (Nov. 13), with general sales beginning this Friday (Nov. 15) at the same time. For more information, click here.
The ‘2025 World Tour’ comes after over 145 shows in 2024 alone. Matthew spent the year playing headline shows across the U.S. and Canada, in addition to supporting Jason Aldean on his “Highway Desperado Tour” and Luke Bryan on his “Mind Of A Country Boy Tour.” He has also previously toured with Jelly Roll, Travis Tritt and Lainey Wilson, among others, and is slated to join Keith Urban next summer in Australia.
Additionally, 2024 saw the release of Matthew’s two EPs, We All Grow Up and Always Be Mine. He also released his current single “Darlin,'” which has amassed nearly 50 million streams on Spotify so far, as well as “Backroads Of My Mind” in September and “Missin’ Me Missin’ You” last Friday (Nov. 8).
“2025 World Tour” Dates:
12/14/24- Ridgefield, WA- Ilani Casino
1/24/25- Milwaukee, WI- UWM Panther Arena
1/25/25- Carlton, MN- Black Bear Casino Resort
2/7/25- Fort Worth, TX- Billy Bob’s Texas △
2/8/25- Baton Rouge, LA- Texas Club *
2/21/25- Nashville, TN- Ryman Auditorium #
2/22/25- Columbus, OH- The Bluestone +
3/3/25- Belfast, UK- Limelight
3/4/25- Glasgow, UK- King Tut’s
3/5/25- Manchester, UK- Deaf Institute
3/7/25- London, UK- Oslo
3/8/25- Berlin, DE- C2C Berlin x
3/9/25- Rotterdam, NL- C2C Rotterdam x
3/27/25- Grand Rapids, MI- The Intersection $+
3/28/25- Pittsburgh, PA- Rivers Casino $
3/29/25- Binghamton, NY- Touch Of Texas $+
4/24/25- Tulsa, OK- Cain’s Ballroom &
4/25/25- Lake Charles, LA- Golden Nugget Lake Charles &
Brendan Cooney Signs With UMPG Nashville
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): Matt Cottingham (Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP), Brendan Cooney, TC Courtney (UMPG) and Don Glista (UMPG). Photo: Universal Music Publishing Group
Songwriter Brendan Cooney has signed a worldwide, exclusive publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Nashville.
Hailing from New England, Cooney moved to Nashville in 2016 after 10 years writing, recording and touring with alternative rock act The Gallery. After his move to Music City, Cooney began sharpening his passion and craft for songwriting, developing his compelling hooks and skillful lyricism. In 2020, he had his first radio single with “Something You Ain’t Ever Had” recorded by Waterloo Revival. Since then, Cooney’s cuts have amassed over 40 million streams worldwide.
“Brendan embodies an exceptionally rare combination of talent and tenacity, making him exactly the kind of songwriter UMPG is proud to partner with,” says TC Courtney, Manager, A&R, UMPG Nashville. “He’s a true student of the craft, with a reverence for the rich history of Nashville as well as a hand on the pulse of where the industry is headed.”
“I’m very grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with TC and the entire UMPG team,” adds Cooney. “Their love of songs and passion for developing songwriters was evident from our first meeting. I’m excited for what the future holds and couldn’t ask for a better team to help me get there.”
Rock The Country & Pepsi Rock The South Announce 2025 Lineups
/by Lorie HollabaughRock the Country and Pepsi Rock the South are back for 2025, with Kid Rock and Nickelback headlining both festivals.
The festivals will make stops through 11 small towns across America, kicking off on April 4-5 in Livingston, Louisiana. The 11-city tour will feature varying artists per stop including Hank Williams Jr., Lynyrd Skynyrd, 3 Doors Down, Travis Tritt, Gavin Adcock, Tracy Lawrence, Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners, Ella Langley, Upchurch, Diamond Rio, Little Texas, Them Dirty Roses and many more, and will also include a ’90s Happy Hour at Rock The Country including Shenandoah, Mark Chesnutt, Jo Dee Messina, Sammy Kershaw, Deana Carter, Afroman, Ying Yang Twins, Tone Loc and Dee Jay Silver.
Pepsi Rock The South, the flagship event held in Cullman, Alabama, returns for its 13th year as the inspiration and foundation of Rock The Country. Building on its success, Rock The Country now expands to 10 festival dates nationwide, revisiting four markets from 2024 while adding six new locations: Livingston, Louisiana; Knoxville, Tennessee, York, Pennsylvania; Hastings, Michigan; Little Rock, Arkansas and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“It’s this simple, Rock The Country isn’t just a music festival, it’s a movement.” says Kid Rock “It’s a place for hard working, god-fearing patriots to gather as one and celebrate freedom, music and the party of the year.”
Presale tickets for Rock The Country and Pepsi Rock The South begin today, (Nov. 12) with past purchasers and email subscribers getting the first chance at tickets. Public on-sale begins Nov. 15.
Festival organizers Peachtree Entertainment has also teamed up with Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides educational scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s fallen or disabled military service members and first responders, to gather donations upon ticket purchase. All donations will go towards local organizations in Cullman as well as organizations such as Folds of Honor in support of our veterans.
In addition, Rock The Country has also officially launched their 2025 Hometown Hero campaign where local residents can nominate someone who goes above and beyond in serving their community every day. The winner of the Rock The Country 2025 Hometown Hero in each market will receive the ultimate VIP experience at their local show, including a backstage tour and the opportunity to lead the Pledge of Allegiance on stage.