The country stars are swinging into spring in wildly diverse ways.
In this edition of DISClaimer, you’ll find flavors ranging from hip-hop to reggae, from rockabilly to pop.
You might think that one of the big star contenders would rule the listening session — Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Lee Brice or Dylan Scott. But you would be wrong. The Disc of the Day belongs to Kassi Ashton. She’s been musically all over the map during the past five years, but it sounds like with “Bitches” she has found her groove.
The DISCovery Award goes to Kelli Belles, who is billed with her last name only. She’s an old-school country singer duet-ing with a Living Legend. More power to her.
THE HEATHERLYS / “Maybe Baby”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: American Love Affair
– What a complete and utter blast. Merriment simply leaps out of the speakers as Eric and Lindsey strut their stuff on this deliciously retro rockabilly tune. Everly harmonies, stinging guitar, slappin’ bass, rollicking rhythm. What more could you want from a springtime single?
LEE BRICE / “Truck Bed Mixtape”
Writers: Andy Sheridan/Brian Davis/Lee Brice; Producers: none listed; Label: Curb Records
– He vows to make love to her in his truck all night. Which doesn’t sound all that comfy. The production of this love anthem is somewhat muddy.
LAUREN LUCAS / “Bringing Me Home”
Writer: Lauren Lucas; Producer: none listed; Label: LL
– Moody and contemplative. She has been wandering lost, but now she has found her way, thanks to the power of love. Lucas dips into her low alto range here, which adds to the languid atmosphere.
JASON ALDEAN / “Don’t Tell on Me”
Writers: John Morgan/Kurt Allison/Lydia Vaughan/Tully Kennedy; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: Broken Bow Records
– The track rocks mightily as he wails. His well-hidden secret is that he’s still in love with his ex. No one knows, but he’s afraid his heart will give him away. The new album is Songs About Us, and the title tune is a duet with Luke Bryan.
KASSI ASHTON / “Bitches”
Writers: Bryan Simpson/Kassi Ashton/Oscar Charles/Ryan Tyndell; Producers: Kassi Ashton, Oscar Charles; Label: MCA
– This is a wonderfully cool sound. A spare, thumping rhythm track features twang guitar and a splendidly drawled lyric. Ashton has never sounded better as she lays on the sass and admits that every gal in her family is as big a spitfire as she is. This delightfully refreshing track deserves massive exposure.
KEITH URBAN & MICHAEL McDONALD / “We Go Back”
Writers: BRELAND/Keith Urban/Sam Sumser/Sean Small; Producers: Dann Huff, Keith Urban; Label: MCA
– Urban’s forthcoming album is a collection of yacht-rock oldies (”Summer Breeze,” “How Much I Feel,” “Baby Come Back,” “I Just Wanna Stop,” etc.). Its lone original song is this collaboration with Rock & Roll Hall of Famer McDonald. The breezy ode appropriately recalls an old love from the 1970s. McDonald’s velvety voice shines on the choruses.
SMOKIN’ OTIS / “Trail Ride”
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Label: TS
– Also known as Tennessee Slick, handsome Smokin’ Otis is a Clarksville, TN native who stirs together his country raps, cowboy imagery and gang-sung choruses on this stoner anthem. Hooky and listenable.
DYLAN SCOTT / “Slow Down Ol’ Son”
Writers: Dylan Scott/Matt Alderman/Will Weatherly; Producers: Andrew Baylis, Will Weatherly; Label: Curb Records
– The inevitable passage of time and the fleeting hours we have to live are the themes of this powerfully delivered, thoughtful power ballad. Heartily recommended.
RAY BENSON / “Highway 61 Revisited”
Writer: Bob Dylan; Producer: none listed; Label: Tafari Records
– And now for something completely different. Durable Asleep at the Wheel leader Ray Benson is releasing a collection titled Swingin’ and Skankin’ that fuses western swing with reggae. Guitarist Warren Haynes joins him on this funky reworking of the Dylan classic. Believe it or not, the musical melange works. Also on board on the album are Willie Nelson, jazz legend Stanley Jordan and reggae superstar Sly Dunbar. Ear opening.
BELLES & DOLLY PARTON / “Son of Jolene”
Writers: Dolly Parton/Dan Harrison/Kelli Belles/Tyler Bank; Producers: Austin Luther, Johnny Gates, Kent Wells; Label: East Music Row Records
– The song that answers the musical question, “What would happen if Dolly’s jezebel Jolene had a child?” No surprise: He’s a wicked heartbreaker. The scampering track and Dolly’s pinpoint harmony singing are tingling delights.
BELLAH MAE / “Salt and Sugar”
Writer: Bellah Mae; Producers: Brett Truitt, JANEVA; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– In this pop-country ditty, she regrets her romantic decisions. He seemed like a nice guy, but then she got to know what he was really like. So she goofed, but can you blame her? After all, “salt and sugar both look the same.’
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS / “50 Years On”
Writer: David Bellamy; Producers: Randy Hiebert, The Bellamy Brothers; Label: Bellamy Brothers Records
– The legendary duo is marking its golden anniversary with this lilting, swaying reflection of music and memories. They’ve accomplished so much, so a little name-dropping in the lyric is only natural. Loggins & Messina, Merle Haggard, The Rolling Stones, George Jones, Queen and Conway Twitty are name checked, and the video shows many other compatriots who have passed on. Their innumerable international tours, Opry appearances, war-zone USO shows, youthful pop stardom and country classics are referenced, in case you need any reminders about Howard and David’s extraordinary career.
ALEX MILLER / “Just a Mom”
Writers: Steve Williams/Wood Newton; Producer: Jerry Salley; Label: Billy Jam Records
– Just in time for Mother’s Day (coming on May 10), Alex lists the multitude of multi-tasking jobs that being a mom entails. She’s embarrassed to be applying for work when her only experience is being “just a mom.” But she gets the gig anyhow. As usual, Alex delivers the goods as an expressive vocalist. Also as usual, Salley’s production is understated perfection.
Matt Maher Signs With Music Services
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Rose Cook, Chief Operating Officer, Music Services; Matt Maher; and Lynn Lowe, President, Label & Publishing Administration, Music Services.
Dove award-winning artist Matt Maher has signed with the Music Services Division of SESAC Music Group for independent label services, including digital distribution through AudioSalad, and label administration through Music Services Inc.
To align with this new chapter, Maher has also released a new single, “Gonna Be Alright.”
“Matt Maher is an artist whose music has shaped worship culture around the world, and we’re honored to partner with him in the next stage of his career,” says Rose Cook, Chief Operating Officer, Music Services Division. “With our extensive suite of services across the division we’re able to support Matt’s independent spirit and artistry while ensuring his music reaches listeners globally.”
Over the past two decades, Maher has helped shape the sound of modern worship, writing songs that have become global anthems for churches and listeners. His catalog includes “Lord, I Need You,” “Because He Lives (Amen),” and “Alive & Breathing.”
Beyond the stage and studio, Maher is also an accomplished writer, storyteller, and respected thought leader.
Ella Langley Stays Atop The MusicRow Radio Chart With ‘Be Her’
/by John Nix ArledgeElla Langley. Photo: Caylee Robillard
Ella Langley notches a second week atop the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart with her track, “Be Her.”
Langley co-wrote the song with Jordan Schmidt, Smith Ahnquist and HARDY. It appears on her sophomore album Dandelion.
The album has scored the largest streaming week for an album by a woman in 2026, and the biggest streaming week for a country album by a woman in two years. It currently sits at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.
“Be Her” currently sits at No. 8 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 6 Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
HAFFWAY Inks With Free Flight Records/Sony Music Nashville
/by Lauryn SinkPictured (L-R): Range Media’s Cameron Lutz; Sony Music Nashville’s Ken Robold; HAFFWAY; SMN’s Nathan Thomas and Taylor Lindsey. Photo: Matthew Berinato
HAFFWAY, the artist project of songwriter, producer, and engineer Sam Westhoff, has signed to Free Flight Records/Sony Music Nashville.
In celebration, HAFFWAY has released a reimagined version of his 2023 release “East Coast.”
“I put the original ‘East Coast’ out when I had nearly no listeners and no followers,” shares HAFFWAY. “My manager, Cam, saw us play this tune in L.A. and was inspired by the audience’s reaction and brought up the idea up to revamp the original. I loved the idea. So, we redid the whole tune from ground up. New parts, same song.”
HAFFWAY first earned early momentum with his Prequel EP and the Lady Lou collection, his 2025 debut album Wither. He has toured alongside Dermot Kennedy, and recently wrapped his headline “WITHER TOUR.”
As a writer and producer, Westhoff has earned credits with Noah Kahan, Shaboozey, Dermot Kennedy, Matt Maeson, Buffalo Traffic Jam, The Bends, Bo Staloch, Josie Edwards and others.
Tucker Wetmore Wins ACM New Male Artist Of The Year
/by Madison HahnenTucker Wetmore
Tucker Wetmore has been crowned ACM’s New Male Artist of the Year. This mark’s Wetmore’s first-ever ACM Award.
Wetmore was surprised with the news in London today (April 30) during his sold-out show at the O2 Forum Kentish Town. Thomas Rhett appeared on screen via video message to announce the win before Wetmore’s mom Sia presented him with the trophy on stage.
“I’m at a loss for words right now for the first time in a long time. I can’t do any of this without you guys,” Wetmore shared from the stage. “I can’t do any of this without that woman [mom] right there… Y’all made this possible. Every single person in this venue. And there’s countless more outside of this venue that I can’t sit here and name because I’d be here all night. Thank y’all so much and thank you ACMs for this amazing honor.”
Wetmore is currently amidst his “The Brunette World Tour,” selling out shows in New York, Boston, three consecutive nights in London and more, and he will also make his Red Rocks debut this summer.
The 61st ACM Awards will stream live Prime Video on May 17 at 7 p.m. CT from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Spotify Hosts Nashville Release Event For Kacey Musgraves’ ‘Middle Of Nowhere’
/by Lauryn SinkPhoto: Getty Images for Spotify
Last night (April 29), Spotify hosted an exclusive event with Kacey Musgraves to celebrate the release of her album Middle of Nowhere at the Nashville Palace.
Guests enjoyed line dancing, a mechanical bull, games of pool and a surprise performance from Musgraves, who previewed the album with the debut of “Hell On Me” and “Rhinestoned.”
The album, out tomorrow (May 1) via Lost Highway, marks the Texas native’s sixth studio project. The 13-track record was inspired by the sounds, stories, and sensibilities of her upbringing.
Musgraves will kick off her new “Middle of Nowhere Tour” in August.
Photo: Getty Images for Spotify
Photo: Getty Images for Spotify
Photo: Getty Images for Spotify
Photo: Getty Images for Spotify
Sam Barber Adds Dates To Upcoming ‘American Route Tour’
/by Lorie HollabaughSam Barber. Photo: Scott Sanford
Sam Barber has added new dates to his extensive 2026 “The American Route Tour.”
Newly confirmed stops include Los Angeles’ Greek Theatre, San Diego’s The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, Grand Prairie’s Texas Trust CU Theatre, Phoenix’s Arizona Financial Theatre and The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.
Tickets will be available for pre-sale May 6, with general on-sale following on May 8. The tour kicks off May 7 in Omaha, Nebraska and runs through Dec. 12 with stops from coast to coast.
The new shows continue a breakout year for Barber, who performed at Stagecoach this past weekend, and released his sophomore album, Broken View, earlier this month via Atlantic Outpost.
CRS360 Series Releases ‘The Music Test’ On Demand
/by Lauryn SinkCountry Radio Broadcasters has officially released “The Music Test” as part of its CRS360 series, now available for on-demand viewing.
Presented by NuVoodoo’s Leigh Jacobs, “The Music Test” serves as a follow-up to the organization’s Online Music Test (OMT) unveiled during CRS in March. This latest installment expands on those findings, offering deeper analysis, updated rankings, and strategic recommendations drawn from a national online music test conducted exclusively for CRS.
Jacobs is joined by CRS Research Co-Chairs Clay Hunnicutt and Justin Chase.
The original CRS 2026 research session featured a comprehensive nationwide study examining more than 400 songs spanning from the 1990s to today, tested among 600 country music fans ages 18 to 49.
Jason Aldean & Luke Bryan Announce Additional Stadium Headline Dates
/by Lauryn SinkJason Aldean & Luke Bryan. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan will embark on a run of co-headlining stadium dates set to kick off this August.
The “Double Down 2026 Tour” will make stops in Montana, California, Washington, DC, and Nevada. Gavin Adcock, Dasha, Chase Matthew, Jon Pardi, Dylan Scott and Lauren Watkins will serve as support across select dates. Dee Jay Silver and DJ Rock will join on all dates.
Both artists’ fan clubs can access ticket presales starting May 6. Tickets to the public go on sale May 8, and are available on both artists’ websites.
The announcement follows their first co-headline show last week at the University of Georgia.
“If our time in Georgia was a barometric measurement of what’s ahead, these shows with Jason will make it one of the best touring years of my life. And the fans will hopefully feel the same way,” says Bryan.
“Luke and I have each been at this, career-wise and as friends, for over twenty years, and have gotten to hit a lot of milestones along the way. We’ve gotten to share the stage plenty of times over the years, and playing UGA was just a preview of what’s coming for the rest of these shows,” adds Aldean.
“Double Down 2026 Tour” Dates:
August 1 – Missoula, MT – Washington-Grizzly Stadium + =+
August 16 – San Diego, CA – PETCO Park * +
August 20 – Washington, DC – Nationals Park = **
December 11 – Las Vegas, NV – Allegiant Stadium xx +
Openers include:
*Gavin Adcock
**Dasha
+Chase Matthew
xxJon Pardi
=Dylan Scott
=+Lauren Watkins
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Kassi Ashton ‘Has Never Sounded Better’
/by Robert K OermannThe country stars are swinging into spring in wildly diverse ways.
In this edition of DISClaimer, you’ll find flavors ranging from hip-hop to reggae, from rockabilly to pop.
You might think that one of the big star contenders would rule the listening session — Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Lee Brice or Dylan Scott. But you would be wrong. The Disc of the Day belongs to Kassi Ashton. She’s been musically all over the map during the past five years, but it sounds like with “Bitches” she has found her groove.
The DISCovery Award goes to Kelli Belles, who is billed with her last name only. She’s an old-school country singer duet-ing with a Living Legend. More power to her.
THE HEATHERLYS / “Maybe Baby”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: American Love Affair
– What a complete and utter blast. Merriment simply leaps out of the speakers as Eric and Lindsey strut their stuff on this deliciously retro rockabilly tune. Everly harmonies, stinging guitar, slappin’ bass, rollicking rhythm. What more could you want from a springtime single?
LEE BRICE / “Truck Bed Mixtape”
Writers: Andy Sheridan/Brian Davis/Lee Brice; Producers: none listed; Label: Curb Records
– He vows to make love to her in his truck all night. Which doesn’t sound all that comfy. The production of this love anthem is somewhat muddy.
LAUREN LUCAS / “Bringing Me Home”
Writer: Lauren Lucas; Producer: none listed; Label: LL
– Moody and contemplative. She has been wandering lost, but now she has found her way, thanks to the power of love. Lucas dips into her low alto range here, which adds to the languid atmosphere.
JASON ALDEAN / “Don’t Tell on Me”
Writers: John Morgan/Kurt Allison/Lydia Vaughan/Tully Kennedy; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: Broken Bow Records
– The track rocks mightily as he wails. His well-hidden secret is that he’s still in love with his ex. No one knows, but he’s afraid his heart will give him away. The new album is Songs About Us, and the title tune is a duet with Luke Bryan.
KASSI ASHTON / “Bitches”
Writers: Bryan Simpson/Kassi Ashton/Oscar Charles/Ryan Tyndell; Producers: Kassi Ashton, Oscar Charles; Label: MCA
– This is a wonderfully cool sound. A spare, thumping rhythm track features twang guitar and a splendidly drawled lyric. Ashton has never sounded better as she lays on the sass and admits that every gal in her family is as big a spitfire as she is. This delightfully refreshing track deserves massive exposure.
KEITH URBAN & MICHAEL McDONALD / “We Go Back”
Writers: BRELAND/Keith Urban/Sam Sumser/Sean Small; Producers: Dann Huff, Keith Urban; Label: MCA
– Urban’s forthcoming album is a collection of yacht-rock oldies (”Summer Breeze,” “How Much I Feel,” “Baby Come Back,” “I Just Wanna Stop,” etc.). Its lone original song is this collaboration with Rock & Roll Hall of Famer McDonald. The breezy ode appropriately recalls an old love from the 1970s. McDonald’s velvety voice shines on the choruses.
SMOKIN’ OTIS / “Trail Ride”
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Label: TS
– Also known as Tennessee Slick, handsome Smokin’ Otis is a Clarksville, TN native who stirs together his country raps, cowboy imagery and gang-sung choruses on this stoner anthem. Hooky and listenable.
DYLAN SCOTT / “Slow Down Ol’ Son”
Writers: Dylan Scott/Matt Alderman/Will Weatherly; Producers: Andrew Baylis, Will Weatherly; Label: Curb Records
– The inevitable passage of time and the fleeting hours we have to live are the themes of this powerfully delivered, thoughtful power ballad. Heartily recommended.
RAY BENSON / “Highway 61 Revisited”
Writer: Bob Dylan; Producer: none listed; Label: Tafari Records
– And now for something completely different. Durable Asleep at the Wheel leader Ray Benson is releasing a collection titled Swingin’ and Skankin’ that fuses western swing with reggae. Guitarist Warren Haynes joins him on this funky reworking of the Dylan classic. Believe it or not, the musical melange works. Also on board on the album are Willie Nelson, jazz legend Stanley Jordan and reggae superstar Sly Dunbar. Ear opening.
BELLES & DOLLY PARTON / “Son of Jolene”
Writers: Dolly Parton/Dan Harrison/Kelli Belles/Tyler Bank; Producers: Austin Luther, Johnny Gates, Kent Wells; Label: East Music Row Records
– The song that answers the musical question, “What would happen if Dolly’s jezebel Jolene had a child?” No surprise: He’s a wicked heartbreaker. The scampering track and Dolly’s pinpoint harmony singing are tingling delights.
BELLAH MAE / “Salt and Sugar”
Writer: Bellah Mae; Producers: Brett Truitt, JANEVA; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– In this pop-country ditty, she regrets her romantic decisions. He seemed like a nice guy, but then she got to know what he was really like. So she goofed, but can you blame her? After all, “salt and sugar both look the same.’
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS / “50 Years On”
Writer: David Bellamy; Producers: Randy Hiebert, The Bellamy Brothers; Label: Bellamy Brothers Records
– The legendary duo is marking its golden anniversary with this lilting, swaying reflection of music and memories. They’ve accomplished so much, so a little name-dropping in the lyric is only natural. Loggins & Messina, Merle Haggard, The Rolling Stones, George Jones, Queen and Conway Twitty are name checked, and the video shows many other compatriots who have passed on. Their innumerable international tours, Opry appearances, war-zone USO shows, youthful pop stardom and country classics are referenced, in case you need any reminders about Howard and David’s extraordinary career.
ALEX MILLER / “Just a Mom”
Writers: Steve Williams/Wood Newton; Producer: Jerry Salley; Label: Billy Jam Records
– Just in time for Mother’s Day (coming on May 10), Alex lists the multitude of multi-tasking jobs that being a mom entails. She’s embarrassed to be applying for work when her only experience is being “just a mom.” But she gets the gig anyhow. As usual, Alex delivers the goods as an expressive vocalist. Also as usual, Salley’s production is understated perfection.
Opry NextStage Live To Showcase Class of 2026 During CMA Fest
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Grand Ole Opry’s next “Opry NextStage Live” showcase is set for June 3 at Category 10 in Nashville during CMA Fest.
The one-night-only event will highlight country music’s top emerging talent from the Opry NextStage Class of 2026, and the lineup features several members of this year’s NextStage class, including Willow Avalon, Graham Barham, Tyler Braden, Carter Faith, Alexandra Kay, Emily Ann Roberts, and Jake Worthington.
Tickets are now on sale here. A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to the CMA Foundation to benefit music education. The event’s host and additional performers will be announced at a later date.
Since its launch in 2019, Opry NextStage alumni have gone on to chart 43 No. 1 singles, headline arena tours, earn CMA, ACM, and Grammy awards, and more. NextStage alum Lainey Wilson’s name now hangs on the Opry member wall.