Dustin Lynch celebrating his 10 No. 1s onstage. Photo: Riley Mau
Dustin Lynch celebrated his 10 career chart-toppers at Skydeck on Broadway in Nashville on Wednesday night (Oct. 30).
A slight breeze swept through the air as BMI’s MaryAnn Keen welcomed industry members to the rooftop as the celebration kicked off with a double plaque presentation commemorating his latest No. 1 hits, “Stars Like Confetti” and “Chevrolet (feat. Jelly Roll).” ASCAP, BMI, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Almo Music Corp., MV2 Entertainment, Sony Music Publishing, Studio Bank, UMPG Nashville and Warner Chappell Music teams toasted Lynch and producer Zach Crowell. Crowell also co-wrote “Stars Like Confetti” alongside Josh Thompson and Thomas Rhett, both of whom were unable to attend the event.
“Chevrolet” writers Chase McGill, Jessi Alexander and Hunter Phelps were then praised alongside Lynch, producers Crowell and Ben Phillips, who was not present, and the late Mentor Williams. Williams received a writer credit as the hit samples his classic “Drift Away.”
Keen acknowledged Williams, noting that “his legacy is alive and well” in the tune, due to the respectful way in which Lynch and its creators brought “Drift Away” to new ears. She then handed the mic to BMG’s Jon Loba.
“You’re always grinding, always looking for or trying to write that next hit,” Loba said to Lynch. “Thank you for all of your work on this, and Zach, you’ve been right there with him.”
He faced the crowd and continued, “I won’t say where we’re headed or what’s on the horizon, but I will say that I haven’t been this excited about Dustin’s career in years. We have some really big, compelling, genre-changing music and events coming, and I can’t wait to reveal them.”
Pictured (L–R): Hunter Phelps, Jessi Alexander, Dustin Lynch, Zach Crowell and Chase McGill. Photo: Riley Mau
Crowell, McGill, Alexander and Phelps all expressed their genuine gratitude for every team involved in the success of “Chevrolet,” as well as their friends and families, with McGill sharing that the idea for the reimagined number was sparked while listening his wife’s beach playlist.
The man of the hour then took the floor, first thanking the Sweet Talk Publicity squad for organizing the celebration. Lynch moved on to thank the writers and his label, acknowledging all of the sacrifices that its team members have made, as well as Jelly Roll, who couldn’t make it, and the rest of his crew.
“[This job] is easier when you get to share the stage, studios and writing rooms with the best in the world. I’m just so honored to be up here with you guys,” he said to his collaborators. “These two songs are a testament to the creative community.”
Lynch added, “I’m so excited for this next chapter of music and life. Tonight is about being present and celebrating—not just me, but all of us.”
As the party opened to the public, he took the stage to honor the smash singles in order, starting with Platinum “Where It’s At” and ending with “Chevrolet,” pausing at one point to take a shot with a crowd member. The 11-song set featured his history-making, six-week No. 1 “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter),” which was recognized mid-show with a surprise presentation made by BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s Peter Strickland of a double-Platinum certification plaque. Lynch also played his Platinum, two-week No. 1 “Ridin’ Roads;” Platinum “Good Girl;” triple-Platinum, four-week chart-topper “Small Town Boy;” Gold “Seein’ Red;” Gold “Mind Reader” and Gold “Hell Of A Night.” In addition to the No. 1 hits, Lynch treated everyone to his Platinum breakout “Cowboys and Angels,” sharing a touching note about his grandparents, who inspired the tune.
Trace Adkins Celebrates Emmy Award For ‘Mayfield – Town Of Heroes’ Documentary
/by John Nix ArledgePictured (L-R): Greg Baker (Twang Management), Trace Adkins and Jason Fridenstine (Twang Management). Photo: Thomas Crabtree
Trace Adkins returned to Mayfield, Kentucky on Tuesday (Oct. 29) for the premiere of Mayfield – Town of Heroes, a documentary highlighting the community’s resilience following the devastating 2021 tornado. Narrated by Adkins, the film details the resilience of residents who faced the disaster and showcases their ongoing recovery efforts. The documentary, premiering at Princess Theaters, was honored with an Emmy Award for Outstanding Weather Short Form Content.
The event included two additional screenings and a Q&A session with Adkins, along with producers Greg Baker and Jason Fridenstine and executive producer Andrew Rozario. Mayor Kathy Stewart O’Nan also presented the documentary creators with an official proclamation from the governor, making them Kentucky Colonels, the highest title of honor state.
Adkins’ history with the town of Mayfield goes back to his “Somewhere In America: A Concert For Mayfield” event in June of 2023. Presented by KIOTI Tractor, the show took place at Mayfield High School’s CFSB War Memorial Stadium which was ground zero for the tornado that ripped across western Kentucky, taking 50 lives and displacing thousands. The artist even provided the soundtrack to the city, filming the “Somewhere In America” music video on site and prompting the making of the documentary.
“When something like this happens, we put our differences aside, and we love each other,” says Adkins.
Adkins is currently on his “Somewhere In America Tour” through the end of the year.
Steven Curtis Chapman Becomes Grand Ole Opry Member
/by Lorie HollabaughLady A and Steven Curtis Chapman. Photo: Chris Hollo
Steven Curtis Chapman officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry family on Nov. 1. He was inducted during his special night by Opry members Lady A.
Along with Lady A, Chapman personally requested Opry members Ricky Skaggs, (who invited Chapman to become an Opry member this summer,) Carly Pearce, Russell Dickerson and rock band Colony House, which featured Chapman’s two sons, front man Caleb Chapman and drummer Will Franklin Chapman, be a part of his special night. For the special occasion, Chapman wore a custom suit designed by Manuel Cuevas’ son Manny Jr.
Herb Chapman Sr., Steven Curtis Chapman and Herb Chapman Jr. Photo: Chris Hollo
Chapman kicked off his performance with “Cinderella” and “He Stopped Loving Her Today” after telling the story about forgetting the words to that song during his Opry debut when he was a teenager performing at Opryland Theme Park. He was then joined by his father and brother to perform “My Redeemer Is Faithful and True,” offering his dad a lifelong dream to sing on the Opry stage. Lady A then joined him to welcome him into the Opry family with words about his life and music.
“More than we can ask or imagine, God has promised,” says Chapman. “I know it doesn’t always look like this moment, but I do believe God has so much more for us. And sometimes we get to see it in very tangible and real ways. Like standing in this circle on stage tonight. As I look down, there is an actual light that glows all the way around it. A full circle, an unbroken circle. God is in front and back and side to side, he has us surrounded.”
Chapman then performed a song he wrote specifically for the occasion, “Grand Ole Opry Stage,” and closed with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” with members of his family, performers from the night’s show and a handful of Opry members who attended the show.
Chapman and the Opry kicked off National Adoption Month by donating $5 from each ticket sold to benefit Show Hope, the nonprofit founded by Chapman and his wife Mary Beth that provides ongoing care and support to orphaned children and families impacted by adoption and foster care.
With 50 No. 1 hits, Chapman is the most-awarded artist in Christian music history. He made his Opry debut 42 years ago at age 19 when he was a performer at the Opryland USA theme park. Chapman is also scheduled to perform on this season’s Opry Country Christmas and will be the Spotlight Artist on Dec. 22.
Riley Green Jumps To No. 1 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenRiley Green. Photo: Jeremy Cowart
Riley Green has claimed the top spot on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart this week. “Damn Good Day To Leave,” “Don’t Mind If I Do” and “Worst Way” from his recently-released album, as well his duet with Ella Langley “You Look Like You Love Me,” all pushed the singer-songwriter to No. 1.
Zach Bryan sits at No. 2 this week with “28,” “American Nights” and “Pink Skies.” Chris Stapleton remains in the No. 3 spot with “Think I’m In Love With You.” Ashley Gorley (No. 4) and Jessie Jo Dillon (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.
The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.
Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.
Billy Ray Cyrus Inks Partnership With EMPIRE Publishing [Exclusive]
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): Scott Adkins (Adkins Entertainment), Eric Hurt (EMPIRE), Vinny Kumar (EMPIRE), Billy Ray Cyrus, Al “Butta” McLean (EMPIRE), Jack Johns (EMPIRE) and Derrek Kupish (Adkins Entertainment). Photo: Adkins Entertainment
Two-time Grammy winner Billy Ray Cyrus has entered into a partnership with EMPIRE Publishing, the publishing arm of independent record label EMPIRE.
“EMPIRE is a record company that harnesses the power, beauty and healing element of music–made and shared for the pure love of it and honestly believes music changes everything,” says Cyrus of the deal.
The company’s label roster currently boasts breakout country star Shaboozey, who topped the Hot 100 for 15 weeks and holds the Canadian Hot 100 record at 22 weeks with “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” EMPIRE Publishing also boasts multi-genre producers James Maddocks and Yung Lan, who collaborated on Morgan Wallen’s chart-topping album One Thing At a Time and earned a No. 1 at country radio for “Cowgirls.”
The publishing arm is led by industry veterans Al Mclean and Vinny Kumar. EMPIRE Publishing A&R, Eric Hurt, helped secure the deal.
“We’re excited to welcome Billy Ray Cyrus to the EMPIRE Publishing family,” says Kumar, SVP, Global Head of Business. “Billy Ray’s legacy in music is legendary and his influence spans generations and genres. Partnering with an artist of his caliber reflects our commitment to bringing timeless talent and new, exciting works to audiences worldwide. We look forward to supporting his creative vision and collaborating with him on future projects.”
“Billy Ray Cyrus’ legacy has had a global impact on music and culture,” says McLean, SVP, Global Head of Music, EMPIRE Publishing. “He has seamlessly and successfully blended genres and taken listeners into new sonic landscapes. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome him to EMPIRE and represent his publishing on a global level.”
Cyrus exploded onto the music scene with Some Gave All, with its title track that debuted on the all-genre Billboard 200 album chart at No. 1 and stayed there for a record-breaking 17 weeks in 1992. The lead single off Some Gave All, “Achy Breaky Heart,” became a phenomenon and went multi-Platinum. Cyrus knocked himself out of the top Billboard position with his second No. 1 album, It Won’t Be The Last, featuring smash hits “In the Heart of a Woman,” “Words By Heart” and “Somebody New.”
In recent years, Cyrus has celebrated monumental success as a co-writer and featured artist on the Diamond-certified song “Old Town Road,” which still reigns as the longest Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 record for 19 consecutive weeks.
“Billy Ray Cyrus has always said that he’s a singer-songwriter from Flatwoods, Kentucky, but the truth is he’s an international icon who’s written the most influential songs over the last three decades,” says Hurt, VP A&R, EMPIRE Publishing. “He’s only scratched the surface and we’re thrilled to be partners with him.”
Cryus will release a new single, “Remember Why You’re Here,” on Nov. 22, which he co-wrote with James Slater.
The Lede Company Establishes Music Division In Nashville
/by Liza AndersonCara Hutchison & Jess Anderson (Photo: Brayln Kelly Smith)
Global full-service strategy, communications, integrated marketing and social impact consulting firm The Lede Company has established a Music division in Nashville.
The division, which represents Sabrina Carpenter, Post Malone, Rihanna, Pharrell Williams, Rosalía, Shakira, A$AP Rocky and more, will be led by newly-appointed Head of Music Cara Hutchison.
Additionally, Jess Anderson has joined the new division. Reporting to Hutchison and Co-Founder & Co-CEO Amanda Silverman, she intends to help the firm expand its presence in the music space.
Anderson most recently served as Senior Director of Media at Big Loud Records, founding and building the label’s in-house Publicity department, and currently serves on PR Task Forces for both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association. Her previous career stops include Sweet Talk Publicity, The Press House and Big Machine Label Group.
“Nashville has earned its place at the center of the conversation across entertainment because of the quality of talent and authentic sense of community that’s rooted here,” says Anderson. “The opportunity to help introduce a powerhouse agency like Lede to our town is a true thrill. Storytelling is the heartbeat of Nashville, and Lede crafts campaigns that elevate and highlight artistry in all of its forms. There’s no limit to what we’ll be able to accomplish with this partnership, and I’m honored to step into this role.”
“With Nashville at the heart of the music industry, we are incredibly excited to be launching this division,” shares Hutchison. “We’re thrilled to have Jess, a savvy music publicist with deep roots in Nashville, join us for this next chapter. We look forward to leveraging Lede’s relationships, storytelling, and communications expertise to help amplify the careers of such outstanding artists in this community.”
Dustin Lynch Commemorates 10 No. 1s With Broadway Celebration
/by Liza AndersonDustin Lynch celebrating his 10 No. 1s onstage. Photo: Riley Mau
Dustin Lynch celebrated his 10 career chart-toppers at Skydeck on Broadway in Nashville on Wednesday night (Oct. 30).
A slight breeze swept through the air as BMI’s MaryAnn Keen welcomed industry members to the rooftop as the celebration kicked off with a double plaque presentation commemorating his latest No. 1 hits, “Stars Like Confetti” and “Chevrolet (feat. Jelly Roll).” ASCAP, BMI, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Almo Music Corp., MV2 Entertainment, Sony Music Publishing, Studio Bank, UMPG Nashville and Warner Chappell Music teams toasted Lynch and producer Zach Crowell. Crowell also co-wrote “Stars Like Confetti” alongside Josh Thompson and Thomas Rhett, both of whom were unable to attend the event.
“Chevrolet” writers Chase McGill, Jessi Alexander and Hunter Phelps were then praised alongside Lynch, producers Crowell and Ben Phillips, who was not present, and the late Mentor Williams. Williams received a writer credit as the hit samples his classic “Drift Away.”
Keen acknowledged Williams, noting that “his legacy is alive and well” in the tune, due to the respectful way in which Lynch and its creators brought “Drift Away” to new ears. She then handed the mic to BMG’s Jon Loba.
“You’re always grinding, always looking for or trying to write that next hit,” Loba said to Lynch. “Thank you for all of your work on this, and Zach, you’ve been right there with him.”
He faced the crowd and continued, “I won’t say where we’re headed or what’s on the horizon, but I will say that I haven’t been this excited about Dustin’s career in years. We have some really big, compelling, genre-changing music and events coming, and I can’t wait to reveal them.”
Pictured (L–R): Hunter Phelps, Jessi Alexander, Dustin Lynch, Zach Crowell and Chase McGill. Photo: Riley Mau
Crowell, McGill, Alexander and Phelps all expressed their genuine gratitude for every team involved in the success of “Chevrolet,” as well as their friends and families, with McGill sharing that the idea for the reimagined number was sparked while listening his wife’s beach playlist.
The man of the hour then took the floor, first thanking the Sweet Talk Publicity squad for organizing the celebration. Lynch moved on to thank the writers and his label, acknowledging all of the sacrifices that its team members have made, as well as Jelly Roll, who couldn’t make it, and the rest of his crew.
“[This job] is easier when you get to share the stage, studios and writing rooms with the best in the world. I’m just so honored to be up here with you guys,” he said to his collaborators. “These two songs are a testament to the creative community.”
Lynch added, “I’m so excited for this next chapter of music and life. Tonight is about being present and celebrating—not just me, but all of us.”
As the party opened to the public, he took the stage to honor the smash singles in order, starting with Platinum “Where It’s At” and ending with “Chevrolet,” pausing at one point to take a shot with a crowd member. The 11-song set featured his history-making, six-week No. 1 “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter),” which was recognized mid-show with a surprise presentation made by BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville’s Peter Strickland of a double-Platinum certification plaque. Lynch also played his Platinum, two-week No. 1 “Ridin’ Roads;” Platinum “Good Girl;” triple-Platinum, four-week chart-topper “Small Town Boy;” Gold “Seein’ Red;” Gold “Mind Reader” and Gold “Hell Of A Night.” In addition to the No. 1 hits, Lynch treated everyone to his Platinum breakout “Cowboys and Angels,” sharing a touching note about his grandparents, who inspired the tune.
More Deserving Stars Added To Music City Walk Of Fame [See Photos]
/by LB CantrellMaster of Ceremonies Kelly Sutton speaking in front of inductees and guests at the Music City Walk of Fame Ceremony. Photo: Courtesy of NCVC
The Music City Walk of Fame inducted a new group of honorees on Wednesday (Oct. 30), with the late “tropical troubadour” Jimmy Buffett, iconic gospel quartet The Fairfield Four, visionary hospitality leader Colin Reed of Ryman Hospitality Properties and beloved Grand Ole Opry announcer and host Bill Cody receiving the 105th, 106th, 107th and 108th stars.
The Music City Walk of Fame is an official project of Music City Inc., the charitable foundation of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp, and recognizes inductees for their significant work of preserving the musical heritage of Nashville and for contributing to the world through song.
Southern gospel singer-songwriter Larry Gatlin helped present Cody’s star to the crowd. Mac McAnally and Delaney Buffett, the late singer’s daughter, were on hand to accept Jimmy’s honor.
The Fairfield Four were in attendance for their induction, as was Reed. All were recognized for their significant work of preserving the music heritage of Nashville for contributing to the world through song. Read more about each inductee here.
Grand Ole Opry announcer and WSM host Bill Cody poses in front of his star during induction ceremony into the Music City Walk of Fame. Photo: Courtesy of NCVC
Delaney Buffett, on behalf of her father Jimmy Buffett alongside singer-songwriter and member of the Music City Walk of Fame Mac McAnally, pose at the late Buffett’s star. Photo: Courtesy of NCVC
The Fairfield Four pose in front of their star after induction into the Music City Walk of Fame. Photo: Courtesy of NCVC
Governor Bill Haslam and Colin Reed pose in front of Reed’s star during induction ceremony into the Music City Walk of Fame. Photo: Courtesy of NCVC
Megan Moroney Gets In The Holiday Spirit With New ‘Blue Christmas…Duh’ EP
/by Lorie HollabaughMegan Moroney. Photo: CeCe Dawson
Megan Moroney kicks off the holiday season with Blue Christmas …duh—a surprise EP featuring two new original songs and a rendition of the timeless holiday heartbreak classic “Blue Christmas.”
With its title nodding to the signature color for Moroney’s blockbuster sophomore album Am I Okay?, Blue Christmas …duh begins with the hip-swinging anthem “All I Want for Christmas is a Cowboy,” which was written by Moroney, Ben Williams, Mackenzie Carpenter and Micah Carpenter, and serves up a bit of feel-good holiday honky-tonk as Moroney reveals what’s at the top of her wishlist.
The collection also includes the slow-burning ache of “Christmas Morning,” a new addition to country’s time-honored lineage of holiday heartbreak songs, and closes out with Moroney’s cover of “Blue Christmas.”
Each song is accompanied by a specially-created lyric video, and the EP follows the recent release of Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine), the deluxe edition of Moroney’s sophomore album. A No. 1 hit on Apple Music’s Top Country Albums chart (and No. 3 hit on Apple Music’s all-genre Top Albums chart), Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) includes three new tracks, “Bless Your Heart,” “I’ll Be Fine” and “Break It Right Back”—a piano-laced ballad streamed over a million times on its very first day of release.
Blue Christmas…duh Track List:
1. “All I Want for Christmas is a Cowboy” (Megan Moroney, Ben Williams, Mackenzie Carpenter, Micah Carpenter)
2. “Christmas Morning” (Megan Moroney, Ben Williams, Mackenzie Carpenter, Micah Carpenter)
3. “Blue Christmas” (Billy Hayes, Jay Johnson)
David Nail Rings In The Holiday Season With New EP
/by John Nix ArledgeGrammy-winning artist David Nail has released his first holiday EP, A Campfire Christmas. The five-track project, featuring Christmas classics “Silver Bells,” “White Christmas” and “Silent Night,” arrives today (Nov. 1).
“This project is the brainchild of my wonderful wife, something she has asked for since we got married. And like most of my career, it came to be very natural and organically! I’m tremendously proud of how simple yet classic these songs sound,” explains Nail.
Additionally, Nail and special guest Jacob Tolliver will hit the road on his “A Campfire Christmas Tour” starting Nov. 30 through the end of December. The trek kicks off at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum in Knoxville, Tennessee and includes stops in major cities in Florida, Illinois and Connecticut before wrapping up at Bull Run in Shirley, Massachusetts on Dec. 21.
A Campfire Christmas Track Listing:
1. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
2. I’ll Be Home For Christmas
3. Silent Night
4. Silver Bells
5. White Christmas
“A Campfire Christmas Tour” Dates:
*with special guest Jacob Tolliver
Nov. 30 – Knoxville, Tenn. – Knoxville Civic Coliseum
Dec. 5 – Stuart, Fla. – Lyric Theatre*
Dec. 6 – Boca Raton, Fla. – The Studio at Mizner Park*
Dec. 7 – Brooksville, Fla. – Jack Daniels Amphitheatre – Florida Cracker Kitchen
Dec. 8 – Middleton, Fla. – The Tracy Performing Arts Center*
Dec. 12 – Lexington, Ky. – Manchester Music Hall*
Dec. 13 – Bloomington, Ill. – The Castle Theatre*
Dec. 14 – Indianapolis, Ind. – 8 Seconds Saloon*
Dec. 15 – McHenry, Ill. – The Vixen*
Dec. 18 – Fairfield, Conn. – The Warehouse at FTC*
Dec. 19 – Old Saybrook, Conn. – The Kate*
Dec. 20 – Syracuse, N.Y. – The Westcott Theater*
Dec. 21 – Shirley, Mass. – Bull Run*
The Store To Host Second Annual Toy Store In December
/by Lorie HollabaughBrad Paisley and Kimberly Williams-Paisley at the 2023 Toy Store. Photo: Derek Cressman
The Store will host its second annual Toy Store presented by Edward Jones in mid-December.
The free, referral-based grocery store co-founded by Brad Paisley and Kimberly Williams-Paisley will help more than 800 families facing food insecurity currently supported by the Store shop choose toys for their family through generous donations from sponsors and donors across the U.S. Those in attendance at the event will also be treated to on-site gift wrapping and holiday party festivities for all ages.
More than 5,000 toys, countless rolls of wrapping paper, tape, bows and other supplies are needed to ensure families enjoy a day filled with holiday shopping and dignity. The Store is once again partnering with the First Responders Children’s Foundation to support some of the toys needed for the younger kids, but many needs still exist.
The donation drive launches today and contributions can be made in three ways: purchasing items from the wish list, donating financially at thestore.org or volunteering your time. Toys and gift-wrapping supplies may also be purchased and dropped off at The Store by Dec. 11.
“We were so thrilled to see the success of the Toy Store last year. We appreciate the help and support from the community and our partners who worked together to make it a reality,” share the couple. “With this continued generosity our hope is to aid the families we serve with toys every year.”
The Store operates with the mission of allowing people to shop for their basic needs in a way that protects dignity and fosters hope. They may shop for food to supplement their income during times of crisis and as they work toward self-sufficiency. There is no charge to those referred or to the people and agencies that send them. The Store regularly serves over 700 households weekly and recently announced expansion to a second location on Tri-Star Centennial’s campus opening summer 2025.