Grand Ole Opry’s ‘Opry Live’ Now Reaches 53 Million

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Lainey Wilson and Wynonna Judd perform at the Grand Ole Opry. Photo: Chris Hollo

The Grand Ole Opry’s Opry Live show has expanded its broadcast reach and is now available to more than 53 million households across the U.S.

The expanded reach of weekly performances from the Opry stage in Nashville on ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox networks in markets including Indianapolis, Austin and Oklahoma City marks a significant milestone in the Opry’s mission to showcase country to a broader audience than ever before. With this increased availability, more fans than ever can witness the unforgettable performances, hear the stories behind the songs and feel the energy that only the Opry stage can deliver. The Opry has been seen by audiences in more than 70 countries worldwide, and in addition to its broadcast reach, it already reaches a wide audience via livestream where weekly streams see an average of 300,000 viewers.

“We’re dedicated to offering greater accessibility and creating a deeper connection between our audience and the artists who define country music,” says Dan Rogers, SVP & Executive Producer of the Grand Ole Opry. “With Opry Live now reaching more homes, we’re continuing to build on the Opry’s legacy of uniting fans through the shared experience of live country music.”

Opry Live Schedule:
Oct. 12: Reba McEntire, Ashley McBryde, Carly Pearce
Oct. 19: Little Big Town 10th Anniversary Show ft. Little Big Town, Vince Gill, Oak Ridge Boys, The Castellows, Ashley Ray, Shelby Lynn
Oct. 26: Big & Rich, Don McClean, Gretchen Wilson
Nov. 2: Gabby Barrett, Ashley Cooke, Carrie Underwood
Nov. 9: Veterans Day Special ft. Justin Moore, Trace Adkins, Craig Morgan
Nov. 16: The Judds Tribute ft. Wynonna, Trisha Yearwood, Mandy Barnett, Emily West, Lainey Wilson, Jamey Johnson ft. Ella Langley, The Isaacs, O.N.E. The Duo ft. Wendy Moten
Nov. 23: Cody Johnson, Ian Munsick, Drake Milligan
Nov. 30: Kelsea Ballerini, Jelly Roll, Carin Leon
Dec. 7: Forrest Gump 30th Anniversary ft. Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band, Scotty McCreery, Jamey Johnson, Mandy Barnett, Madeline Edwards, Gary LeVox
Dec. 14: Opry Country Christmas: Scotty McCreery, The War And Treaty, Jon Pardi
Dec. 21: Lainey Wilson (Induction), Wynonna
Dec. 28: Tom Petty Tribute ft. Dierks Bentley, Lady A, Steve Earle

‘Christmas At Belmont’ To Stream Live On Amazon Music For The First Time

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Pictured (L–R): Ashley Cooke, Cody Fry and Dwan Hill

Belmont University’s annual “Christmas at Belmont” will stream live on the Amazon Music channel on Twitch and Prime Video from the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, marking the concert tradition’s first appearance on a global streaming service, on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. CT. The event will also be available throughout the holiday season via video on demand.

This year’s show will feature over 600 student musicians and vocalists as well as performances by alumni Ashley Cooke, Cody Fry and Dwan Hill.

Since graduating with a corporate communications degree in 2019, rising artist Cooke has won a CMT Music Award for Breakthrough Female Video of the Year and celebrated her first No. 1 hit, “Your Place.” After studying commercial music and graduating in 2012, singer-songwriter and composer Fry garnered attention for his approach to music production and has since earned a Grammy nomination for his orchestral version of “Eleanor Rigby,” collaborated with major symphony orchestras around the world and achieved success on platforms like TikTok. A 2008 music education graduate and 2013 master of music graduate, Multi-Grammy and GMA Dove Award winner and adjunct songwriting professor Hill recently established a partnership and funding from Belmont University’s Creative Arts Collective for Christian Life and Faith for his nonprofit organization, The Choir Room, which seeks to bring together a diverse mix of singers and musicians to exemplify a commitment to inclusive, community-driven music.

“This global showcase with Amazon Music is a testament to the extraordinary talent and dedication of our students and faculty. It’s a moment of celebration for our entire community as we share the joy of music and the spirit of Christmas with people around the world,” says Belmont University President Greg Jones. “As viewers tune in from across the globe, they’ll see our students and alumni applying years of rigorous training and collaborative creativity in real-time, illustrating why Belmont, located in the heart of Nashville, is a premier destination for aspiring artists and musicians.”

Peachtree Entertainment Expands Team

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Holly Doscher & Justin Andrews

Peachtree Entertainment has made several key hires and strategic developments to account for its growth.

Among the newest additions are Holly Doscher and Justin Andrews, who join Peachtree’s leadership team. The company has also introduced a new territory system, expanding its regional presence with the appointment of Chris Drizen, Thomas Trainer and Charlsie Grace to oversee key markets.

Doscher joins the team as SVP of of Marketing, bringing over a decade of experience leading high-impact marketing campaigns for established live entertainment brands like Danny Wimmer Presents and Live Nation.

Andrews has been appointed to VP of Ticketing & Revenue. He comes to the company with 10 years of experience in ticket sales and revenue optimization, most recently working with Danny Wimmer Presents. His experience also includes key roles with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Live Nation.

In the new territory system, Drizen will cover the West Coast region, bringing with him a decade of experience from Madison Entertainment, where he was instrumental in driving event success on the West Coast. Trainer, a long-time member of the Peachtree team, will now manage the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic territories, including Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia. Grace will oversee Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Iowa.

In accordance with Peachtree’s expansion, they will open a new office in the T3 Finery Building in Nashville’s Wedgewood Houston neighborhood in January 2025.

“We are thrilled to welcome Holly, Justin, Chris, Thomas and Charlsie to the Peachtree family. Each of these individuals brings unique expertise and a passion for live entertainment that will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence across key markets,” shares Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment. “With these strategic hires and our new office in Wedgewood, we are positioning Peachtree for our next phase of growth and success.”

Shane Quick, President of Touring for Peachtree Entertainment, adds, “Peachtree is at a pivotal moment, and having this caliber of talent on board sets us up to deliver even more exceptional live experiences. I’m excited to see the impact these new team members will make as we continue to innovate and elevate our offerings in the touring space.”

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Eric Church Benefit Track Is A ‘Moving, Spiritual, Uplifting Recording’

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Eric Church. Photo: Robby Klein

The Disc of the Day competition is intense today.

There are at least six contenders—Tyler Hubbard, Zach Top, Steve Earle, Kane Brown, the Madeline Merlo & Dustin Lynch collab and the winner, Eric Church. He’s already the most awarded artist in this column’s history, but with this new soul sound and the generosity of his spirit, he’s undeniable.

Give a DISCovery Award to Annie Bosko for her sterling work alongside the mighty Joe Nichols.

DASHA / “Bye Bye Bye”
Writers: Anna Dasha Novotny/Bardo William Novotny/Cole Hutzler/Kenneth Travis Heidelman; Producers: Bardo, Travis Heidelman; Label: Warner Records
– Country’s new dance princess has equalled the Platinum-selling “Austin” with this latest ear worm. It’s a kiss-off tune with a ridiculously catchy hook plus a feisty video that features her dragging the ex, feet-first, behind her John Deere tractor. Love her bopping charms.

ERIC CHURCH / “Darkest Hour”
Writer: Eric Church; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: EMI Music Nashville
– The Chief has stepped up to the plate to extend a helping hand to the devastated victims of Hurricane Helene in his home state. He is donating his songwriting royalties from this moving, spiritual, uplifting recording of falsetto blue-eyed soul to provide aid today and forever to his fellow North Carolinians. The social responsibility is as admirable as the beautiful song is. Applause, applause.

MADELINE MERLO & DUSTIN LYNCH / “Broken Heart Thing”
Writers: James McNair/Lalo Guzman/Madeline Merlo/Michael Tyler/Zach Crowell; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– The two-time CCMA winner and 2024 CMT Next Woman of Country honoree unfurls a radiant, powerful delivery of this ultra melodic heartache tune. She’s simply sensational. Lynch offers vocal support and his own verse, but this is her show all the way. Absolutely play this. Merlo will make her Grand Ole Opry debut on the 16th.

STEVE EARLE / “Sister Angelina”
Writer: David Olney; Producer: Gwil Owen; Label: New West Records
– Can’t Steal My Fire: The Songs of David Olney is a tribute album that drops next week. Earle’s track from it is the advance listen. The Latin rhythms play beautifully against the dark-night-of-the-soul lyric. If you don’t know who Olney was, you need remedial Nashville-music education, because he is one of the greatest songwriters the city has ever produced. Just ask Lucinda Williams, the McCrary Sisters, Mary Gauthier, Jim Lauderdale, Buddy Miller, Janis Ian and the rest of the stellar cast of this 17-track double album salute. “David Olney was the best of us,” says Earle. Amen, brother.

KANE BROWN / “Backseat Driver”
Writers: Jacob Davis/Jordan Walker; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Sony Music Nashville/Zone 4
– He listens to his adorable daughter babbling about the passing scene from the backseat of his car. He wishes he had her wonder, her curiosity and her innocence. Warmth and love in every note. If you can’t get behind this, you’re made of stone.

ZACH TOP / “Beer For Breakfast”
Writers: Carson Chamberlain/Kevin Denney/Zach Top; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: Leo33
– The surprise CMA nominee this year is this indie-label traditionalist. He’s getting my vote, because there has not been a by-God COUNTRY singer this fine in ages. On top of that, his current single is a hillbilly hoot. Sign me up for this fan club. Oh, and give Lainey Wilson a rose for taking him out on tour with her. Make this man a star.

BRETT YOUNG / “Say Less”
Writers: Ben Caver/Brett Young/Justin Ebach; Producers: Dann Huff, Jimmy Harnen; Label: BMLG Records
– He’s always a romantic guy. This time, the swoon-y lyric is backed by some kick-butt percussion and ringing guitar work. Swirling energy—grab her hand and dance into the bedroom.

KIP MOORE / “Live Here To Work”
Writer: Kip Moore; Producers: Jaren Johnston, Kip Moore; Label: Virgin Music
– Moore tries on some rocking “outlaw” duds, and they fit just fine. Backbeats and guitar snarling abound. This is fire. Waylon would be pleased.

TYLER HUBBARD / “Heroes”
Writers: Chase McGill/Jordan Schmidt/Tyler Hubbard; Producers: Jordan Schmidt, Tyler Hubbard; Label: EMI Nashville
– Single moms, farmers, teachers, first responders, coaches and everyday citizens who make the world go ‘round. These are the real-life heroes, sings Hubbard. Written with insight and sung with conviction.

JOE NICHOLS & ANNIE BOSKO / “Better Than You”
Writers: Derek George/John Pierce; Producers: Derek George, Mickey Jack Cones; Label: Quartz Hill Records
– Terrific listening. The charismatic Nichols takes charge from the opening notes while the production throbs subtly behind him. Then Bosko gets her turn, and she holds her own. Then she locks in a harmony vocal as they take the power ballad home. Goosebump-thrilling sounding.

THE COWARD BROTHERS / “Always”
Writers: Henry Coward/Howard Coward; Producers: Henry Coward, Howard Coward; Label: New West Records
– Ethereal and echoey, with whispery backing vocals and ghostly guitar. It’s more of a sonic slab than an actual country song. The imaginary “Coward” duo is comprised of Elvis Costello and T-Bone Burnett, and this is drawn from their 20-song soundtrack of their audio “biography.” Just so you know, Elvis is “Howard Coward” and T-Bone is “Henry Coward.”

CONOR CLEMMONS / “Growin’ To Do”
Writers: Conor Clemmons/Griffen Palmer/Will Hoge; Producer: Derek Drye; Label: 1929 Records
– Don’t be so much in a hurry to grow up. You only get to be young once. Clemmons sings with confidence, and the song is wonderfully written. The track is poorly mixed, with the electric guitars competing with his vocal to the point where you have to strain to catch the lyrics.

Shania Twain & More Among Lineup For Brandi Carlile’s Girls Just Wanna Weekend

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Brandi Carlile has revealed the lineup for her sixth annual Girls Just Wanna Weekend, taking place Jan. 16–20 at Barceló Maya Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

In addition to multiple sets from the host herself, the weekend will include performances by Shania Twain, Muna, Maren Morris, Lucius, Brandy Clark, Brittney Spencer, Jensen McRae, Allison Ponthier, Arroba Nat, Tish Melton, SistaStrings, Yasmin Williams, The Carlile Family Band and The Marshgrass Mamas as well as comedian Kristen Key.

Produced by 100x Hospitality, the all-inclusive function seeks to create a safe space for all attendees, with an emphasis on fostering a welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community.

“Each year, Girls Just Wanna Weekend grows into something even more special—a space where music, love and inclusivity shine,” shares Carlile. “This lineup is a dream come true, and I’m so proud to share it with a community that means the world to me!”

For more information, including booking details and payment plans, click here.

Kane Brown Slates New Album, Tour For Early 2025

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Kane Brown’s The High Road. Photo: Dennis Leupold

Multi-Platinum entertainer Kane Brown will start 2025 with a bang, slating his new album The High Road for a Jan. 24 release via Sony Music Nashville/Zone 4. He will also hit the road on a 23-city tour of the same name on March 13 in San Diego, California.

As his fourth studio album, The High Road includes already-released tracks “Fiddle In the Band” and “Miles On It,” his latest collaboration with Marshmello. Brown will debut another tune from the album, “Backseat Driver,” tonight (Oct. 10) on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Written by Jacob Davis and Jordan Walker and produced by Dann Huff, “Backseat Driver” will be available on Friday (Oct. 11) along with the album’s pre-order/pre-save.

“The High Road Tour” will hit Portland, Montreal, Nashville and more before wrapping in Gilford, New Hampshire on May 25. Scotty McCreery, Mitchell Tenpenny, Ashley Cooke and Dasha will serve as support. Tickets will go on sale to the general public Friday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m. local time.

Brown, a five-time American Music Award winner, was recently recognized with the Country Champion Award at the second annual People’s Choice Country Awards. He was also included in the American Music Awards 50th Anniversary Special on Sunday evening (Oct. 6), where he performed “Miles On It.”

“The High Road Tour” Dates:
Thurs March 13 – San Diego, CA – Pechanga Arena *^
Fri March 14 – Ontario, CA – Toyota Arena *^
Sat March 15 – Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center *^
Thurs March 20 – Portland, OR – Moda Center *^
Fri March 21 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Arena *^
Sat March 22 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Arena *^
Thurs March 27 – Winnipeg, MB – Canada life Centre +^
Sat March 29 – Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome +^
Sun March 30 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place +^
Thurs April 3 – Quebec City, QC – Videotron Centre +^
Fri April 4 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre +^
Sat April 5 – Providence, RI – Amica Mutual Pavilion +^
Thurs April 10 – Evansville, IN – Ford Center +^
Fri April 11 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena +^
Sat April 12 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena *=
Thurs April 24 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena *=
Fri April 25 – Jacksonville, FL – VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena *=
Thurs May 1 – State College, PA – Bryce Jordan Center +=
Fri May 2 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena +=
Sat May 3 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena +=
Fri May 9 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena *=
Sat May 10 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena *=
Thurs May 15 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena *=
Fri May 16 – Belmont Park, NY – UBS Arena *=
Sat May 17 – Atlantic City, NJ – Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall *=
Thurs May 22 – Canandaigua, NY – CMAC *=
Fri May 23 – Canandaigua, NY – CMAC *=
Sat May 24 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion *=
Sun May 25 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion *=
Sat June 21 – Columbus, OH-Buckeye Country Superfest
July 10-13 – Chicago, IL- Windy City Smokeout

* Mitchell Tenpenny
+ Scotty McCreery
^ Dasha
= Ashley Cooke

ACM Lifting Lives Launches Mental Health Hotline

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ACM Lifting Lives have revealed their newest initiative, the ACM Lifting Lives Hope Line. The new call line offers on-demand support and access to mental health resources for all working professionals in the country music industry.

“Our team at ACM Lifting Lives is constantly exploring new ways to support those within our tight-knit country music family, and the ACM Lifting Lives Hope Line is just one more way for us to extend help to those who need it among our community,” shares Lyndsay Cruz, Executive Director of ACM Lifting Lives. “Whether you’re touring across the nation or working a 9-5 on Music Row, mental health is so important, and this call line will hopefully streamline the process of finding the right providers and general mental health support whenever needed.”

“As part of our commitment to supporting the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to the music industry, we’re excited to introduce the new mental health support program for the country music community through ACM Lifting Lives,” adds Ryan Cain, CEO of the Hope Desk. “This initiative is designed to ensure they have access to professional, confidential resources whenever needed, whether they’re facing anxiety, depression, stress, or any form of addiction. No one should feel alone when dealing with these challenges, and we’re here to provide the support they need.”

Features of the ACM Lifting Lives Hope Line include a dedicated concierge hot line available by calling 833-ACM-1855, access to clinical programs for professionals and their families, a broad and nationwide range network of mental health providers and discounted provider pricing on mental health services.

The ACM Lifting Lives Hope Line is managed by The Hope Desk and is available from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CT daily for immediate crisis support and assistance with the programs. Non-crisis communication can also be accessed by emailing liftinglives@hopedesk.co.

Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban & Bailey Zimmerman Added To ‘Concert For Carolina’ Lineup

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The “Concert for Carolina” lineup continues to grow, as Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban and Bailey Zimmerman joining the star-studded Hurricane Helene relief benefit, taking place Oct. 26 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.

As previously announced, James Taylor, Luke Combs, Eric Church and Billy Strings will headline the event, hosted by ESPN’s Marty Smith and Barstool Sports’ Caleb Pressley and presented by Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority. Additional artists are set to be announced soon.

All proceeds, including sponsorships, will be split evenly between Combs and Church’s Chief Cares Foundation. Combs’ portion will be distributed between Samaritan’s Purse, Manna Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC and Eblen Charities, and Church’s Chief Cares Foundation is focused on helping established charities and organizations that are well-managed, organized and can expedite aid directly to the families affected by Hurricane Helene.

Tickets are available now. For more information, click here. For those unable to attend the concert but still looking to support, donations can be made the North Carolina Community Foundation Disaster Relief Fund or to various organizations listed on the “Concert for Carolina” website.

CAA Announces 2024 Young Nashville Party Date & Details

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CAA will host its annual Young Nashville Party on Thursday, Oct. 24 at Acme Feed & Seed.

The gathering of next-generation professionals from across the entertainment and sports industries seeks to raise money and awareness in support of Communities In Schools of Tennessee (CISTN).

Starting at 8 p.m., this year’s event will feature three floors of entertainment, including an open bar, complimentary food, a mechanical bull and a rooftop view. Additionally, VIP ticket holders will have access to complimentary tattoos, a private rooftop bar and a gifting suite featuring a custom hat bar from JRT as well as products from Dibs, Kingmakers Cigars, Casetify, Hanx Coffee Co. and more.

Tickets are available now. For more information, click here.

Ben Johnson Renews With Tape Room & Artist Publishing Group, Adds Runner Music To Team

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Ben Johnson. Photo: Dusty Barker

Award-winning songwriter Ben Johnson has extended his publishing deal with Tape Room Music and Artist Publishing Group, and has added Ryan Tedder’s Runner Music to the team.

Originally from Meridian, Mississippi, Johnson has earned nine No. 1 singles, including Nate Smith’s “Bulletproof,” Dierks Bentley’s “Gone,” Paramalee’s “Take My Name” and Dylan Scott’s “New Truck.” His 2021 co-written No. 1 “One of Them Girls” by Lee Brice had an unprecedented sweep across ASCAP, BMI and SESAC for Country Song of The Year.

Johnson has landed cuts across genres, from Justin Timberlake, Meek Mill, Diplo, Weezer and David Guetta to Morgan Wallen, Hardy, Thomas Rhett and more. He also writes and records music with his two sisters, Jenna and KK, in their band Track45.

“Ben has established himself as one of the top songwriters and producers across all genres and formats,” says Tape Room President Blain Rhodes. “We couldn’t be more excited to continue our partnership with him alongside APG and Runner moving forward.”

“We are so excited to be working with Ben alongside our friends at Tape Room and APG,” adds Runner Music’s Amanda Hill and Tedder. “Ben is an incredible songwriter who we’ve admired for years and are so happy to now call family.”

“I could not be more excited to be extending my publishing deal with Tape Room/APG and adding Runner to the team,” Johnson shares. “It’s so special to be able to work with people who have been my heroes for so long—first Ashley and now Ryan. I’m grateful for the support of Tape Room, APG and Runner, and can’t wait to get to work together!”