Pictured (L-R): John Anderson, James Burton and Tricia Covel attend the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Three more outstanding record-makers were added to the historic Country Music Hall of Fame last night (Oct. 20) during a star-studded Medallion Ceremony in the Hall’s CMA Theater. John Anderson, James Burton and Toby Keith became the 153rd, 154th and 155th members of the esteemed institution.
CEO of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Kyle Young speaks onstage at Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Each inductee was honored with heartfelt remarks and performances of some of their enduring songs. The Hall of Fame’s CEO Kyle Young welcomed the crowd of supporters and industry member’s with a Merle Haggard recording from the museum’s archive, as each inductee had a personal connection to Haggard.
Young recognized the Hall of Fame members who had been lost since last year’s ceremony, including Keith, Kris Kristofferson and Joe Bonsall. He also welcomed the Hall’s Circle Guard, including Board chair Jody Williams, who spoke, as well as the Hall of Fame members who were in attendance to support the new additions to the family.
CMA CEO Sarah Trahern shared a few words about giving the news to the inductees, and spoke about finding out that Keith had been selected for induction the day that the news broke that he had passed.
Del McCoury Band performs onstage at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
John Anderson was the first to be heralded. A career video recounted his journey from Apopka, Florida to Nashville, where he made a mark with his unique vocal stylings. Influenced by Country Music Hall of Fame members Lefty Frizzell, Merle Haggard and George Jones as well as Levon Helm of the Band, Anderson fashioned his own breathy, note-bending vocal approach, and created iconic country hits like “Seminole Wind,” “Straight Tequila Night” and his top-selling “Swingin.” Between 1981 and 1995, Anderson notched 20 top 10 country singles and five No. 1 hits.
To honor him, Shawn Camp lended his voice to Anderson’s “I Just Came Home to Count the Memories,” the Del McCoury Band thrilled with a delightfully-bluegrass take on “Would You Catch a Falling Star” and Lucinda Williams shared a favorite of hers, “Wild and Blue.”
Bobby Braddock, John Anderson and Kyle Young pose onstage Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Anderson’s medallion was presented by Country Music Hall of Fame member Bobby Braddock, who shared funny stories about working with the fellow Floridian and commented on his dedication to making his own way in the music industry.
Anderson was emotional and full of gratitude when he stepped up to the podium. He thanked everyone in his village, from his family to friends, band members, business partners and even the doctors who take care of him.
“I can’t say how much this means to me. For an old boy, who took off from his hometown with a guitar and $40, it’s been a long and winding road,” Anderson said. “It’s one of the greatest honors that anybody in our profession could ever have, to be on this stage. I want to thank the good Lord up above for giving me a love of music that has sustained me and kept me living, dreaming and working. I hope I never have to quit.”
Post Malone performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Next, it was time to honor Toby Keith. His video highlighted the Oklahoma native’s consistency as a hit-maker for his nearly 30-year career. Between 1993 and his death in 2024, Keith notched 42 top 10 country hits and 20 chart-toppers, and he sold more than 40 million records. His expertise as a songwriter was frequently underlined, with most of his material being written or co-written. His propensity for the tough, tender and humorous side of life yielded such hits as “As Good as I Once Was,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and “Hope on the Rocks.” Keith’s patriotism was also celebrated. A savvy businessman, he launched his own successful record label and publishing company.
Post Malone thrilled the CMA Theater with the first performance honoring Keith. He humbly took on “I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight,” sharing his love for the icon throughout the performance. Eric Church then appeared and did a beautifully touching cover of “Don’t Let The Old Man In” and Blake Shelton wrapped it up with a delightful mash-up of “I Love This Bar” and “Red Solo Cup,” which turned into a full-hearted sing-along.
Tricia Covel and Randy Owen at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Hall of Fame member Randy Owen gave the Medallion presentation, sharing emotional words about how much love Keith shared for the Alabama group.
Keith’s widow Tricia Covel shared words about her husband in his honor. She did a beautiful job, letting the crowd in on his dedication to songwriting, to the troops, his family and resisting to play the Nashville game and sticking to his guns. The crowd supported her, wiping tears from their eyes.
“Thank you to the Country Music Hall of Fame for honoring him with this induction. He didn’t get the chance to hear the news that he had been inducted,” Covel said with a soft cry. “I have a feeling, in his words, he thought ‘I shoulda been.’ Toby, we know you know—you are in the Country Music Hall of Fame.”
Brad Paisley performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Finally, it was time to honor James Burton. The guitar slinger’s impact on musicians, regardless of genre, was made clear in his career video. By age 14, Burton counted himself as a Louisiana Hayride staff musician and created the memorable guitar lick for “Susie-Q” by Dale Hawkins. He then impressed a young star on the rise, Ricky Nelson, and joined his band where he crafted influential rockabilly licks and solos on more than 40 hits. As an in-demand studio picker, he played on records for artists ranging from Merle Haggard to the Beach Boys. He then led Country Music Hall of Fame member Elvis Presley’s band from 1969 to 1977, followed by stints backing John Denver, Country Music Hall of Fame member Emmylou Harris and others in bands and on records.
To honor him, Elvis Costello and John Jorgenson rocked out on “Believe What You Say.” Brad Paisley, who commended Burton for making Paisley guitars cool, showed off his skills with “Workin’ Man Blues.” Country Music Hall of Fame members Vince Gill and Emmylou Harris along with Rodney Crowell shared their admiration with “Til I Gain Control Again,” and then Gill and Harris reappeared with none other than Keith Richards for a infectiously fun performance of “I Can’t Dance.”
Emmylou Harris, Keith Richards and Vince Gill perform at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Gill had the honor of presenting Burton’s Medallion. He told funny stories about Burton, and also emotionally shared how much working with the guitar hero has meant to him.
Burton approached the podium with two of his grandchildren. He kept it short and sweet, sharing his shock and gratitude for the honor.
“All the guys I worked with are my heroes. Thank you God for giving me a small part to be with these people,” Burton said. “I’m so honored.”
The ceremony concluded with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” led by Country Music Hall of Fame member Tanya Tucker.
The Medallion All-Star Band consisted of Jen Gunderman (keyboards), Tania Hancheroff (vocals), Mike Johnson (steel guitar), Rachel Loy (bass), Jeff King (electric guitar), Jerry Pentecost (drums), Deanie Richardson (fiddle and mandolin), Mica Roberts (vocals), Biff Watson (bandleader and acoustic guitar) and Charlie Worsham (acoustic guitar, banjo and vocals).
Tucker Wetmore Visits Montana Tech As Part Of Spotify’s RADAR Program
/by Liza AndersonTucker Wetmore visiting Montana Tech as a part of Spotify’s RADAR program. Photo: Courtesy of Spotify
Tucker Wetmore visited his alma mater, Montana Tech, last week for a special Q&A and meet-and-greet with select fans on campus as a part of Spotify’s RADAR program for emerging talent.
During his visit, the newest RADAR artist spent time with current players of the university’s football team and Coach Doug Schleeman, took pictures in the locker room and enjoyed quality time with mentors. Later, he gave a live acoustic performance to a crowd off campus at Slainte Butte America Pub. The event served as the latest extension of the program, which seeks to engage students on university and college campuses.
“I’m so grateful to Spotify’s RADAR program for making this whole day possible,” shared Wetmore. “I told them I wanted to go back to Butte and Montana Tech, and Spotify said ‘Well let’s go!’ It feels like an eternity since being here, especially with how my music has taken off recently, but being back on campus makes me think about my younger self. I’d tell him that if football doesn’t work out, you’ll still be alright. I’m so happy I found my path making music and doing what I love.”
Additionally, he recently released a rendition of single “Silverado Blue” for Spotify’s RADAR Sessions.
Taylor Phillips Re-Enters MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart Top 10
/by Madison HahnenTaylor Phillips
Taylor Phillips has re-entered the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart, sitting at No. 7 this week. “Fix What You Didn’t Break,” “I Am Not Okay,” “Liar” and “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” all helped the songwriter jump five spots.
Zach Bryan remains in the No. 1 spot for the seventh consecutive week with “28,” “American Nights” and “Pink Skies.” Chris Stapleton stays at No. 2 with “Think I’m In Love With You.”
Ashley Gorley (No. 3), Riley Green (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.
Justin Moore Nabs 13th Chart-Topper With ‘This Is My Dirt’
/by Lorie HollabaughJustin Moore. Photo: Cody Villalobos
Justin Moore has made his 13th trip to the top of the charts with his single, “This Is My Dirt,” the title track of his latest album.
The song reached the top spot on the Country Mediabase chart, and also topped the Country Aircheck Chart and is at No. 4 on Billboard Country Airplay. Moore co-wrote “This Is My Dirt” with frequent collaborators Paul DiGiovanni, Randy Montana and Jeremy Stover. The song marks the second No. 1 co-written by Moore alongside DiGiovanni, Montana and Stover—the group’s first was the 2021 No. 1 “With A Woman You Love.”
Moore recently did a show at the Walmart AMP in his home state of Arkansas, where he donated all of the proceeds from the night to the NIL program for the University of Arkansas. He also invited former Razorback and retired NFL running back Darren McFadden on stage to “call the hogs” during the fun.
Country Music Hall Of Fame Inducts John Anderson, James Burton & Toby Keith
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): John Anderson, James Burton and Tricia Covel attend the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Three more outstanding record-makers were added to the historic Country Music Hall of Fame last night (Oct. 20) during a star-studded Medallion Ceremony in the Hall’s CMA Theater. John Anderson, James Burton and Toby Keith became the 153rd, 154th and 155th members of the esteemed institution.
CEO of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Kyle Young speaks onstage at Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Each inductee was honored with heartfelt remarks and performances of some of their enduring songs. The Hall of Fame’s CEO Kyle Young welcomed the crowd of supporters and industry member’s with a Merle Haggard recording from the museum’s archive, as each inductee had a personal connection to Haggard.
Young recognized the Hall of Fame members who had been lost since last year’s ceremony, including Keith, Kris Kristofferson and Joe Bonsall. He also welcomed the Hall’s Circle Guard, including Board chair Jody Williams, who spoke, as well as the Hall of Fame members who were in attendance to support the new additions to the family.
CMA CEO Sarah Trahern shared a few words about giving the news to the inductees, and spoke about finding out that Keith had been selected for induction the day that the news broke that he had passed.
Del McCoury Band performs onstage at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
John Anderson was the first to be heralded. A career video recounted his journey from Apopka, Florida to Nashville, where he made a mark with his unique vocal stylings. Influenced by Country Music Hall of Fame members Lefty Frizzell, Merle Haggard and George Jones as well as Levon Helm of the Band, Anderson fashioned his own breathy, note-bending vocal approach, and created iconic country hits like “Seminole Wind,” “Straight Tequila Night” and his top-selling “Swingin.” Between 1981 and 1995, Anderson notched 20 top 10 country singles and five No. 1 hits.
To honor him, Shawn Camp lended his voice to Anderson’s “I Just Came Home to Count the Memories,” the Del McCoury Band thrilled with a delightfully-bluegrass take on “Would You Catch a Falling Star” and Lucinda Williams shared a favorite of hers, “Wild and Blue.”
Bobby Braddock, John Anderson and Kyle Young pose onstage Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Anderson’s medallion was presented by Country Music Hall of Fame member Bobby Braddock, who shared funny stories about working with the fellow Floridian and commented on his dedication to making his own way in the music industry.
Anderson was emotional and full of gratitude when he stepped up to the podium. He thanked everyone in his village, from his family to friends, band members, business partners and even the doctors who take care of him.
“I can’t say how much this means to me. For an old boy, who took off from his hometown with a guitar and $40, it’s been a long and winding road,” Anderson said. “It’s one of the greatest honors that anybody in our profession could ever have, to be on this stage. I want to thank the good Lord up above for giving me a love of music that has sustained me and kept me living, dreaming and working. I hope I never have to quit.”
Post Malone performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Next, it was time to honor Toby Keith. His video highlighted the Oklahoma native’s consistency as a hit-maker for his nearly 30-year career. Between 1993 and his death in 2024, Keith notched 42 top 10 country hits and 20 chart-toppers, and he sold more than 40 million records. His expertise as a songwriter was frequently underlined, with most of his material being written or co-written. His propensity for the tough, tender and humorous side of life yielded such hits as “As Good as I Once Was,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and “Hope on the Rocks.” Keith’s patriotism was also celebrated. A savvy businessman, he launched his own successful record label and publishing company.
Post Malone thrilled the CMA Theater with the first performance honoring Keith. He humbly took on “I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight,” sharing his love for the icon throughout the performance. Eric Church then appeared and did a beautifully touching cover of “Don’t Let The Old Man In” and Blake Shelton wrapped it up with a delightful mash-up of “I Love This Bar” and “Red Solo Cup,” which turned into a full-hearted sing-along.
Tricia Covel and Randy Owen at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Hall of Fame member Randy Owen gave the Medallion presentation, sharing emotional words about how much love Keith shared for the Alabama group.
Keith’s widow Tricia Covel shared words about her husband in his honor. She did a beautiful job, letting the crowd in on his dedication to songwriting, to the troops, his family and resisting to play the Nashville game and sticking to his guns. The crowd supported her, wiping tears from their eyes.
“Thank you to the Country Music Hall of Fame for honoring him with this induction. He didn’t get the chance to hear the news that he had been inducted,” Covel said with a soft cry. “I have a feeling, in his words, he thought ‘I shoulda been.’ Toby, we know you know—you are in the Country Music Hall of Fame.”
Brad Paisley performs at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Finally, it was time to honor James Burton. The guitar slinger’s impact on musicians, regardless of genre, was made clear in his career video. By age 14, Burton counted himself as a Louisiana Hayride staff musician and created the memorable guitar lick for “Susie-Q” by Dale Hawkins. He then impressed a young star on the rise, Ricky Nelson, and joined his band where he crafted influential rockabilly licks and solos on more than 40 hits. As an in-demand studio picker, he played on records for artists ranging from Merle Haggard to the Beach Boys. He then led Country Music Hall of Fame member Elvis Presley’s band from 1969 to 1977, followed by stints backing John Denver, Country Music Hall of Fame member Emmylou Harris and others in bands and on records.
To honor him, Elvis Costello and John Jorgenson rocked out on “Believe What You Say.” Brad Paisley, who commended Burton for making Paisley guitars cool, showed off his skills with “Workin’ Man Blues.” Country Music Hall of Fame members Vince Gill and Emmylou Harris along with Rodney Crowell shared their admiration with “Til I Gain Control Again,” and then Gill and Harris reappeared with none other than Keith Richards for a infectiously fun performance of “I Can’t Dance.”
Emmylou Harris, Keith Richards and Vince Gill perform at the Class of 2024 Medallion Ceremony. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Gill had the honor of presenting Burton’s Medallion. He told funny stories about Burton, and also emotionally shared how much working with the guitar hero has meant to him.
Burton approached the podium with two of his grandchildren. He kept it short and sweet, sharing his shock and gratitude for the honor.
“All the guys I worked with are my heroes. Thank you God for giving me a small part to be with these people,” Burton said. “I’m so honored.”
The ceremony concluded with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” led by Country Music Hall of Fame member Tanya Tucker.
The Medallion All-Star Band consisted of Jen Gunderman (keyboards), Tania Hancheroff (vocals), Mike Johnson (steel guitar), Rachel Loy (bass), Jeff King (electric guitar), Jerry Pentecost (drums), Deanie Richardson (fiddle and mandolin), Mica Roberts (vocals), Biff Watson (bandleader and acoustic guitar) and Charlie Worsham (acoustic guitar, banjo and vocals).
Ryan Hurd Signs With Big Machine Records
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R, back row): Big Machine Records’ Erik Powell and Kris Lamb, songwriter/producer Aaron Eshuis; (L-R, front row): Big Machine Music’s Mike Molinar, Big Machine Label Group’s Scott Borchetta, Ryan Hurd and Big Machine Label Group’s Megan Joyce. Photo: Eden Gerlock for Big Machine Records
Singer-songwriter Ryan Hurd has signed with Big Machine Records.
“Ryan has been part of our extended Big Machine family for quite some time as he’s been a significant writer and contributor to our publishing company, Big Machine Music,” says Scott Borchetta, Chairman & CEO, Big Machine Label Group. “Adding his recorded artistry to the Big Machine Records roster is truly an honor.”
Throughout his career, Hurd has amassed over one billion on-demand career streams, has notched numerous nominations for CMA Awards, ACM Awards, CMT Music Awards and more, including two Grammy Award nominations. He has also had multiple No. 1s as singer and a songwriter, including Platinum-certified hits for Blake Shelton, Jordan Davis, Luke Bryan and Lady A as well as Diplo and Morgan Wallen. He has also had cuts by Conner Smith, Breland and more. Additionally, Hurd’s debut album, Pelago, reached landed among the top five most-streamed country albums on Spotify.
“I’m beyond excited to welcome Ryan Hurd to the Big Machine Records family,” adds Kris Lamb, EVP/General Manager, Big Machine Records. “As a massive fan of Ryan’s music for over a decade, I’m thrilled to represent his exceptional artistry and share his music with the world. This is more than just a milestone—it’s a full-circle moment.”
Hurd will release his brand new song “This Party Sucks” this Friday (Oct. 25). This will be his third single release this year, with a full-length album expected in 2025.
“I am incredibly excited to have a fresh start with everyone at Big Machine,” shares Hurd. “Having worked with the publishing team the past few years and seeing first-hand the care that this company has taken with my songs just makes me even more excited about this album coming out with this label. Thank you to Scott, Allison, Kris, Mike, Alex and the entire team for believing in this project.”
Unreleased George Jones Recordings Resurface On ‘The Lost Nashville Sessions’
/by Lorie HollabaughA collection of previously-unreleased George Jones songs are available for the first time on George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions, set to release on Nov. 15 on Country Rewind Records.
Originally recorded for radio airplay in the 1970s, the tracks have been enhanced, bringing the audio quality up to modern-day standards by adding instrumentation and backing vocals where needed. The recordings were initially made exclusively for artist promotion, often completed in just one or two takes with an announcer’s voice between songs. Once aired, the tapes were often discarded or destroyed by the stations. Country Rewind Records President and Executive Producer Thomas Gramuglia discovered the original boxed masters and knew true fans would appreciate hearing the timeless recordings despite their poor condition after years of neglect.
The 16 tracks on George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions include a mix of both beloved hits and lesser-known recordings, including iconic songs like “The Race Is On,” “The Grand Tour,” “White Lightnin'” and “Tender Years,” as well as rare recordings of “Old Brush Arbors,” “She’s Mine,” “Four-O-Thirty-Three” and “The Honky Tonk Downstairs.”
“Music truly is the gift that keeps giving,” shares Nancy Jones. “Even after all these years, we’re still releasing new music from George. This collection features 16 songs, and while some may be familiar hits, these versions are ones you’ve never heard before. I’m thrilled to share them with all of his devoted fans.”
George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions Track List:
1. “Window Up Above”
2. “I’ll Share My World With You”
3. “The Race is On”
4. “The Grand Tour”
5. “Once You’ve Had The Best”
6. “Love Bug”
7. “She Thinks I Still Care”
8. “Four O Thirty Three”
9. “The Honky Tonk Downstairs”
10. “Old Brush Arbors”
11. “A Picture Of Me Without You”
12. “Walk Through This World With Me”
13. “Tender Years”
14. “She’s Mine”
15. “White Lightnin’”
16. “Hey Good Lookin’”
Apple Music Adds Set List Feature To Artists Dashboard
/by Liza AndersonApple Music has added a set list feature to its Apple Music for Artists dashboard that allows artists to create Set List playlists that they can publish on Apple Music and Shazam concert pages as well as share on social media.
The tool aims to provide artists with new ways to create engaging experiences to promote their live shows. They can now create a Set List playlist using any track in their Apple Music catalog, leverage their existing static artist image to create a Set List playlist artwork, display multiple Set Lists playlists based on events and set a specific publication date for their Set Lists playlist. For more information, click here.
Last year, Apple Music launched a dedicated space for set lists, spotlighting a selection of major ongoing tours, letting fans listen to set lists, read about the productions and browse artists’ upcoming shows in their area. Since then, over 450 set lists from artists like Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Sabrina Carpenter and Post Malone have been available on the dashboard.
Jordan Harvey Inks With Edgehill Music Publishing
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R, top row): Josh Joseph, Tyler Corrado and Chris Kappy. (L-R, bottom row): Tara Joseph, Jordan Harvey and Julia Keefe. Photo: Katie Larson
Singer-songwriter Jordan Harvey has signed a global partnership with Edgehill Music Publishing, where he will work closely with Josh and Tara Joseph, Co-Founders of Edgehill Music Publishing, and Julia Keefe, Head of A&R.
“We are so thrilled to welcome Jordan to the Edgehill family,” shares Keefe. “His ability to craft any emotion or situation into a captivating song is what truly sets him apart as a writer and artist. He’s one of the hardest workers I’ve met and is going to be an amazing addition to the roster!”
In celebration of the signing, Harvey will release his new single “This Is What It Feels Like” this Friday (Oct. 25). The track gives a glimpse into the feelings Harvey had while exchanging vows with his now wife Madison Fendley in an intimate ceremony in Midlothian, Scotland earlier this year.
“‘This Is What It Feels Like’ is about falling in love with your person,” says Harvey. “This song was written days after I proposed to my now wife and captures my emotions surrounding that time. A euphoric high.”
Harvey is managed by Make Wake Artists and booked by UTA.
Morgan Wallen Unveils Sand In My Boots Festival’s Eclectic Lineup
/by Lorie HollabaughMorgan Wallen has revealed the lineup for his Sand In My Boots Festival, taking place May 16-18 in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The 2025 iteration will be headlined by Wallen, Post Malone, Brooks & Dunn and Hardy.
The festival’s eclectic lineup will also include Diplo, Riley Green, Bailey Zimmerman, Chase Rice, Ernest, Ian Munsick, Nate Smith, Ella Langley, Kameron Marlowe, Josh Ross, Morgan Wade, Lauren Watkins, John Morgan and more.
Sand In My Boots will also feature hip-hop’s T-Pain, Wiz Khalifa, 2 Chainz, Three 6 Mafia, Moneybagg Yo and BigXthaPlug, plus indie alternative bands including The War on Drugs, 3 Doors Down, Future Islands, Real Estate, Wild Nothing and more—all hand-picked from Wallen’s personal playlist.
Registration is now open for access to passes beginning Friday, Oct. 25 AT 10 a.m. CST.
Sand In My Boots is a reflection of Wallen’s signature sound, a unique blend of traditional country with elements of rock and hip-hop. Fans can expect surprise artist collaborations all weekend long.
Industry Ink: Randy Travis, Bailey Zimmerman, Dylan Marlowe, More
/by Madison HahnenRandy Travis Exceeds Over 23 Million RIAA Certified Units
Pictured (L-R): RIAA’s Mitch Glazier, Randy Travis and Mary Travis. Photo: Mike Shaw, Mondo.NYC
RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier presented Randy Travis with a plaque commemorating 23 million RIAA certified units throughout his career. The presentation happened during the Mondo.NYC keynote interview, featuring Glazier, Travis and Mary Travis. The plaque also spotlights his five-times Platinum album Always & Forever.
“Randy Travis is a legend whose instantly recognizable baritone has impacted generations of fans,” says Glazier. “As he uses his voice and responsible AI technology to create new music with Warner Music Nashville, Randy and wife Mary have also become advocates for establishing guardrails that protect artists and songwriters’ rights as they use new innovative tools. The RIAA is honored to celebrate Randy and present this career plaque commemorating over 23 million certified units, including the 5x Platinum album Always & Forever!”
Bailey Zimmerman Named A Pandora Billionaire
Pictured (L-R): Victoria Alfonso, Cody Alan, Gregg Nadel, Bailey Zimmerman, Cris Lacy, Tracy Martin and Johnny Chiang. Photo: Ryan Green
Bailey Zimmerman was surprised with a Pandora Billionaire Plaque earlier this week marking the achievement of over one billion streams on the platform.
The multi-Platinum artist has unveiled his new song, “Holding On,” an introspective anthem about finding resilience in the face of adversity. “No matter who you are or where you’re at in life, everybody goes through hard times. I hope this song reminds you guys to keep going when you’re faced with adversity because you never know what tomorrow may have in store for you. KEEP GOING, KEEP HOLDING ON,” says Zimmerman.
Dylan Marlowe Receives First Ever Gold Certification
Pictured (L-R): Jen Way (SVP, Marketing, SMN), Randy Goodman (Chairman & CEO, SMN), Caryl Atwood, (SVP, Commercial Partnerships, SMN), Lauren Zimmerman (Assoc. Director, Digital Marketing & Artist Development, SMN), Ken Robold (EVP & COO, SMN), Dylan Marlowe, Jason McColl (Sr. Director, A&R, SMN), Taylor Lindsay (SVP, A&R, SMN), Dallas Davidson (Play It Again), Cade Price (Play It Again), Nathan Thomas (Director, A&R, SMN) and Alyssa Ramsey (Play It Again). Photo: Jacob Powers
Dylan Marlowe received his first-ever RIAA Gold certification with “Boys Back Home” (feat. Dylan Scott). Marlowe was surprised with the plaque ahead of his headline Nashville show last night (Oct. 17) in front of family, friends and his team. The track has amassed over 138 million global streams and is top 25 and climbing at country radio.
Madeline Merlo & Dustin Lynch Make Live Duet Debut On Grand Ole Opry Stage
Pictured (L-R): Mark Logsdon, Lexi Willson, Shelley Hargis, Dan Rogers, Madeline Merlo, Dustin Lynch, Ellen Ford, Camille Kenny, Lindsay Hyslop, and John Carroll. Photo: Riley Mau
Madeline Merlo made her Grand Ole Opry debut last night (Oct. 16), where she was joined by Dustin Lynch to perform their duet “Broken Heart Thing” live for the first time from. The track is off her newly released EP, One House Down (From The Girl Next Door).
Granger Smith Brings Supplies To Hurricane Victims
Eddie Fox & Granger Smith.
Granger Smith partnered with HopeFound.org to deliver resources to areas affected by the recent hurricanes. The group drove a semi-truck full of supplies to Knoxville on Monday (Oct. 14) where they were divided the supplies between 10 4×4 trucks that headed to remote areas of Eastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina.
Smith continued to host After MidNite With Granger Smith and Mornings With Granger On iHeartCountry from the road this week, detailing a first-hand account of the ongoing relief efforts to encourage donations and volunteer support. Smith also stopped to visit Eddie Fox in Asheville at 99.9 Kiss Country to share the efforts of the mission.
His River Kelly Fund is currently accepting donations that will continue to aid affected communities. Visit riverkellyfund.org for more information or to make a donation.