Buddy Miller is releasing his new 12-track, self-titled album on Sept. 11 via New West Records.
The self-produced project is Miller’s first solo album in 15 years, and features appearances by Emmylou Harris, The War & Treaty, Lee Ann Womack, Shawn Colvin, Ashley Monroe, Elizabeth Cook, Jim Lauderdale, Dan Penn and Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams.
When compiling the songs for the new collection, Miller started with 50-odd possibilities before winnowing it down to include an early Temptations hit, a Jesse Winchester track,“Till the Wheels Come Off,” which Ashley Monroe, Elizabeth Cook, Angaleena Presley and Meg McRee wrote about Buddy and his wife Julie, and more.
“The intention was to make a country soul record,” Miller says, “but then I kept running into songs Julie had written that I wanted to put in.”
“Don’t Look Back” features Dan Penn, the legendary co-writer of “The Dark End of the Street,” “I’m Your Puppet,” “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man,” and countless other classics.
“I met Dan around 1994 when he came over to look at a Studer 24-track tape machine I’d listed in the PennySaver,” says Miller. “He passed on the Studer, but I gained a hero as a friend. He sang on my first record and I played a few sessions at his studio. His songs have been recorded by Aretha, Otis, Janis, Linda Ronstadt, and so many more — and his singing is as soulful as ever.”
Buddy Miller follows In the Throes, Miller’s 2023 collaboration with his wife Julie. The core band on the new album includes Fred Eltringham (drums, percussion), Viktor Krauss (bass), Tim Lauer (keyboards), and Steve Fishell (pedal steel), with frequent appearances from The McCrary Sisters.
Miller is a Grammy winner who has been named “Instrumentalist of the Year” multiple times by the Americana Music Association, and is also a highly sought-after and respected producer and guitarist who has worked with Willie Nelson, Linda Ronstadt, Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, John Fogerty, Solomon Burke, Richard Thompson, Patty Griffin, Frank Black of the Pixies, Steve Earle, and many more.
Buddy Miller Track List:
1. “As Long as I Have You”
2. “You Never Really Get Over It” (with Shawn Colvin)
3. “Strange Desire” (with Jim Lauderdale)
4. “Ruby Hang On” (with Regina McCrary)
5. “Don’t Look Back” (with Dan Penn)
6. “Not Enough Time to Change”
7. “Losers’ Celebration”
8. “Lay Down the Burden of Your Heart” (with The War & Treaty)
9. “Stop Me” (with Lee Ann Womack)
10. “Till the Wheels Come Off” (with Ashley Monroe and Elizabeth Cook)
11. “The Inner Sanctum of God” (with Emmylou Harris and Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams)
12. “Masterpiece in the Sand”
Mo Pitney Slates ‘Outskirts Of Town’ For March
/by Lorie HollabaughCurb Records artist Mo Pitney has released a new single “Happy Hour,” from his upcoming third studio project, Outskirts of Town, due March 26, 2027.
“Happy Hour” is the third advance track previewing the full set bowing next year, and Pitney trades a drink with the boys for a night at home with the family on the new single. The father of three knows the days are long, but the years are short; and he intends to make the most of it, soaking up every minute with his wife and kids. The track serves as a mid-tempo reminder of what matters most, and was written by Adam Wright and Clint Daniels; and was produced by Jim “Moose” Brown and Pitney.
Pitney embraces a slower, simpler pace of life on Outskirts of Town. The 11-track collection is built on emotional storytelling and wholesome living, and is a celebration of the country music that raised him and the small town that anchors him. The Cherry Valley, Illinois native’s project captures the strength and security of family, enduring love and time-tested faith, and “Happy Hour” joins previously released singles “Fiddle Around” and “Wake Up and Smell the Country (with Jake Worthington).” Fans can anticipate a steady stream of new music from Pitney throughout 2026.
Outskirts of Town Track List:
1. “Outskirts of Town” (Mo Pitney, Jim “Moose” Brown)
2. “Wake Up and Smell the Country (with Jake Worthington)” (Mo Pitney, Wyatt McCubbin)
3. “I Think I Know” (Mark Nesler, Tom Shapiro, Tony Martin)
4. “Fiddle Around” (Mo Pitney, Wil Nance, Johnny Dailey)
5. “Loving You” (Mo Pitney, Wyatt McCubbin)
6. “Heart Made for You” (Melissa Peirce, Tony Lane, Ben West)
7. “Happy Hour” (Clint Daniels, Adam Wright)
8. “God Speaks Through the Radio” (Mo Pitney, Wil Nance, Matt Wynn)
9. “Black Suit” (Colton Venner, Dan Wilson, JoyBeth Taylor)
10. “Can’t You Hear A Brother Calling” – Mo Pitney, Sonya Isaacs, & Ben Isaacs (Mo Pitney)
11. “Hole in His Heart (JoJo’s Song)” (Mo Pitney, “Jim Moose” Brown, Erin Enderlin, Davis Corley)
Tyce Delk Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by Lauryn SinkTyce Delk. Photo: Emma Kate Golden
Tyce Delk made his Grand Ole Opry debut last Thursday night (July 16).
The New Mexico native performed his breakthrough track “Adeline” and an unreleased original called “Up There Down Here,” dedicated to one of his lifelong friends from New Mexico who passed away in February. Delk received a standing ovation after each song. Later in the evening, Delk popped up during Ashland Craft’s set to perform their just-released duet, “Doesn’t Have To Be That Way.”
Delk released his second EP Everything But Gone last month. On the road now, Delk continues a nationwide run of fairs, festivals, rodeos, support slots, and headline gigs with upcoming stops in Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska and more.
Tyce Delk and Ashland Craft. Photo: Emma Kate Golden
Photo: Emma Kate Golden
Photo: Emma Kate Golden
Buddy Miller Slates New Self-Titled Solo Album For September
/by Lorie HollabaughBuddy Miller is releasing his new 12-track, self-titled album on Sept. 11 via New West Records.
The self-produced project is Miller’s first solo album in 15 years, and features appearances by Emmylou Harris, The War & Treaty, Lee Ann Womack, Shawn Colvin, Ashley Monroe, Elizabeth Cook, Jim Lauderdale, Dan Penn and Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams.
When compiling the songs for the new collection, Miller started with 50-odd possibilities before winnowing it down to include an early Temptations hit, a Jesse Winchester track,“Till the Wheels Come Off,” which Ashley Monroe, Elizabeth Cook, Angaleena Presley and Meg McRee wrote about Buddy and his wife Julie, and more.
“The intention was to make a country soul record,” Miller says, “but then I kept running into songs Julie had written that I wanted to put in.”
“Don’t Look Back” features Dan Penn, the legendary co-writer of “The Dark End of the Street,” “I’m Your Puppet,” “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man,” and countless other classics.
“I met Dan around 1994 when he came over to look at a Studer 24-track tape machine I’d listed in the PennySaver,” says Miller. “He passed on the Studer, but I gained a hero as a friend. He sang on my first record and I played a few sessions at his studio. His songs have been recorded by Aretha, Otis, Janis, Linda Ronstadt, and so many more — and his singing is as soulful as ever.”
Buddy Miller follows In the Throes, Miller’s 2023 collaboration with his wife Julie. The core band on the new album includes Fred Eltringham (drums, percussion), Viktor Krauss (bass), Tim Lauer (keyboards), and Steve Fishell (pedal steel), with frequent appearances from The McCrary Sisters.
Miller is a Grammy winner who has been named “Instrumentalist of the Year” multiple times by the Americana Music Association, and is also a highly sought-after and respected producer and guitarist who has worked with Willie Nelson, Linda Ronstadt, Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, John Fogerty, Solomon Burke, Richard Thompson, Patty Griffin, Frank Black of the Pixies, Steve Earle, and many more.
BREAKING: ACM Taps Andy Schuon As CEO
/by Lauryn SinkAndy Schuon. Photo: Jeff Lipsky/Courtesy of the Academy of Country Music
The Academy of Country Music has selected Andy Schuon as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will officially take the position on Sept. 1, 2026.
Schuon has held senior leadership roles at MTV, VH1, Warner Bros. Records, Universal Music Group, Ticketmaster and CBS Radio, while launching platforms and networks including MTV2, Farmclub.com, Pressplay and REVOLT TV.
“The most rewarding moments of my career have come from building for the future and embracing innovation while honoring the artists and creative communities that make music so powerful. Throughout every chapter, from radio and television to streaming, digital media and the music business, the constant has been the transformative power of music to bring people together,” says Schuon. “The Academy of Country Music has long set the standard for recognizing excellence while championing the evolution of Country Music. The organization has a remarkable legacy of celebrating the artists, songwriters, and industry professionals who define Country Music. As the genre continues to reach new audiences around the world, I see an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen the Academy’s impact, deepen engagement with our members, artists, partners and fans while ensuring the organization continues to lead the industry through its next era of growth and innovation and help shape an even brighter future for Country Music.”
“Andy Schuon’s remarkable career reflects a lifelong commitment to innovation, creativity, and serving artists. The ACM Board of Directors are excited to partner with Andy as we continue to strengthen the Academy’s impact, expand its reach, and create even greater value for our members and the Country Music community.” adds Cris Lacy, Chair of the ACM Board of Directors.
Schuon follows former CEO Damon Whiteside, who will continue to serve as the CEO Emeritus for the remainder of the year.
Ella Langley’s ‘Choosin’ Texas’ Makes History With 14th Week Atop Billboard Hot 100
/by Lauryn SinkElla Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” has notched a 14th week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, tying Mariah Carey’s “We Belong Together” and Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” for the most weeks at No. 1 among non-holiday titles by women with no male-billed acts, as noted by Billboard.
Featured on her sophomore album Dandelion, “Choosin’ Texas” was co-penned by Langley, Luke Dick, Miranda Lambert and Joybeth Taylor, with production from Langley, Lambert and Ben West.
Langley is currently amidst her her sold-out “The Dandelion Tour” through October with upcoming stops in Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina and New Hampshire.
Centricity Music Elevates Matt Ewald To Head Of A&R
/by Lauryn SinkMatt Ewald.
Centricity Music has elevated Matt Ewald to Head of A&R.
Ewald joined Centricity in 2016 and serves as Vice President of A&R. In his expanded role, he will oversee the company’s A&R strategy, including artist discovery, signing, development, song selection, repertoire direction and long-term creative planning while simultaneously working closely with Centricity’s label, publishing, marketing and executive teams.
“Matt has been a trusted creative voice and steady advocate for Centricity’s artists and writers,” says Caren Seidle, CEO of Centricity Music. “He understands the heart of our mission, the importance of long-term artist development and the responsibility we carry in offering music that encourages and inspires people. His role in A&R reflects both the leadership he has already demonstrated and the vision he brings for shaping the future of our roster.”
Ewald succeeds outgoing President of A&R John Mays in leading the A&R department.
“There was so much to learn from Matt during my decade of working alongside him,” says Mays. “How to be a better A&R person, sure, but also how to be a better man. Centricity is fortunate to move into the future with Matt heading up the A&R team and contributing more involved leadership to the company’s mission, vision and direction.”
John Morgan Enters Top 10 On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenJohn Morgan. Photo: Matthew Berinato
John Morgan has moved into the top 10 on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. His own “Kid Myself” along with Jason Aldean’s “Don’t Tell On Me” push the singer-songwriter to No. 10 this week.
Ella Langley remains in the No. 1 spot for the 13th consecutive week with “Be Her,” “Bottom Of Your Boots,” “Choosin’ Texas,” “Dandelion,” “I Can’t Love You Anymore” and “Loving Life Again.” Austin Goodloe stays at No. 2 with “Dandelion,” “Empty Words,” “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” “No Need For Leavin’” and “Rocky Mountain Low.”
Joybeth Taylor (No. 3), Riley Green (No. 4) and Chase McGill (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.
Stephony Smith Inks With SMACKSongs
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Lee Krabel, Carly Sater, Stephony Smith, Robin Palmer, Jeremy Groves and Sam Sarno.
Stephony Smith has inked with SMACKSongs.
A native of Memphis, Tennessee, the Grammy-nominated writer has amassed a catalog of hits including the solo penned “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, “Yes!” by Chad Brock, “How Was I To Know” by Reba McIntire, and “Perfect Love” by Trisha Yearwood. She has earned two BMI Pop awards, nine BMI Million-Air Awards, been named Billboard’s Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year and earned the Guild Of Music Supervisors Best Song TV Sync for “Look At Us Now,” featured in Daisy Jones and the Six.
“I’ve always been a fan of Stephony Smith’s writing and love how she keeps bringing her best into every room every day,” says Robin Palmer, Chief Creative Officer at SMACKSongs. “We worked together a while back at EMI and it feels like we just picked up where we left off with a whole new cast of characters! We are all excited to welcome her into our SMACK family.”
“I am thrilled and excited to be at SMACK with some of the best writers on the planet!” shares Smith. “Can’t wait to do this all again with my friend Robin Palmer and the amazing crew at SMACKSongs.”
Jon Pardi To Kick Off ‘GAMBLIN’ MAN TOUR 2026′ In September
/by Lorie HollabaughJon Pardi
Jon Pardi will launch his “GAMBLIN’ MAN TOUR 2026” this fall beginning in September with support from Alexandra Kay and Sadie Bass.
Titled after a fan-favorite track from his fifth studio album, Honkytonk Hollywood, the tour will hit 19 arenas and amphitheaters in cities across the U.S. including Richmond, Atlantic City, Wilmington, Biloxi, Laredo, Cedar Rapids and more through Nov. 14.
Tickets go on sale this Friday, (July 24), with presale beginning tomorrow, (July 21).
With four top 5 albums under his belt, Pardi has solidified his place in country with 20 RIAA-certified singles featuring six No. 1s, and has also earned international headlining acclaim, racking up 9.3 billion global career streams and counting. The spiritual successor to his fearless breakout hits, Honkytonk Hollywood features 17 tracks including his current top 25 single and multi-week UK Radio Chart hit “Boots Off.”
“GAMBLIN’ MAN TOUR 2026” Dates:
9/17/26 – Richmond, VA – Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront
9/18/26 – Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena *
9/24/26 – Fort Wayne, IN – Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
9/25/26 – Youngstown, OH – Covelli Centre
9/26/26 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center
10/1/26 – Wilmington, NC – Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park
10/2/26 – Macon, GA – Atrium Health Amphitheater
10/3/26 – Biloxi, MS – Mississippi Coast Coliseum
10/8/26 – Loveland, CO – Blue Arena
10/9/26 – West Valley, UT – Maverik Center
10/10/26 – Nampa, ID – Fort Idaho Center
10/23/26 – Tuscaloosa, AL – Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater
10/24/26 – Athens, GA – Akins Ford Arena
11/5/26 – Laredo, TX – Sames Auto Arena
11/6/26 – Corpus Christi, TX – Concrete Street Amphitheater
11/7/26 – Round Rock, TX – Round Rock Amp
11/12/26 – Cedar Rapids, IA – Alliant Energy PowerHouse
11/13/26 – Peoria, IL – Peoria Civic Center
11/14/26 – Independence, MO – Cable Dahmer Arena
Ryan Kennedy Inks With Fair Trade Services & One:eight Entertainment
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Bella Miller, Taylor Niemi, Alex Whiten, Derek Spirk, Ryan Kennedy, Charity Gayle, Greg Ham, Madeline Halm and Elyse Mead
Songwriter, worship leader and musician Ryan Kennedy has signed a record deal with Fair Trade Services and a management deal with one:eight entertainment.
Along with the announcement, Kennedy has released his debut single, “Be My,” marking the beginning of a new chapter as a solo artist. Written by Kennedy, Charity Gayle and LA Strother, “Be My” is a heartfelt prayer for anyone walking through uncertainty, and reminds listeners that while God never promised life would be easy, He has promised His presence, His peace and His strength through every period.
“I’ve carried these songs in my heart for nearly a decade,” says Kennedy. “There were definitely seasons when the waiting wasn’t easy, but more than anything, I wanted this record to come in The Lord’s timing, not mine. I’m incredibly grateful that the time has finally come and that this new chapter begins with ‘BE MY.’ The song is about trusting the Lord to be everything He’s promised to be and knowing that He’s present and at work all the time. The journey to releasing this record has been a testimony of that truth.”
“Ryan is one of those rare artists whose songwriting, musicianship and heart for the Church are equally compelling,” says Greg Ham, founder and owner of one:eight entertainment. “His gifts as a songwriter are well established, but what excites us most is introducing people to Ryan as an artist. The one:eight team is honored that Ryan has entrusted us with this next chapter of his career and we look forward to stewarding it well.”