Following the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 36th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year category.
The Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year is voted by MusicRow’s subscribers to honor a Nashville songwriter and recording artist who, for the first time, wrote or co-wrote a top 10 song during the eligibility period of June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2024. Outside nominations from Nashville’s publishing community are considered for this award.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 9 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Since becoming the only winner in American Idol history to claim the crown by singing his own songs, Chayce Beckham has been proving how his music can make an impact. The California native earned his first Platinum certification with his solo-penned “23,” which also gave him his first CMT Music Award nomination. Amassing over 406 million streams with “23” alone, the rising singer-songwriter found his stride with the release of his debut album, Bad For Me. Beckham wrote three of the 13 tracks solo, with an additional six co-written. The project features a timeless country-rock sound defined by fiddles, steel guitar and plenty of against-the-grain attitude. Beckham has been named an “Artist to Watch” by CMT, Amazon Music, MusicRow and more. He is currently on the road for his headlining tour and supporting Luke Bryan this summer before joining Parker McCollum in the fall.
After climbing the charts with his first country radio No. 1 “Mind On You,” George Birge is delivering another smash with his top-40-and-climbing “Cowboy Songs.” Hailing from Austin, Texas, Birge made a splash with the release of his debut album, George Birge: Mind On You, landing the title track on the Billboard all-genre Hot 100 chart. He also collaborated with Charlieonafriday and Kidd G for a remix of the song. To date, Birge’s catalog boasts over 67 million streams. He recently made his television debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and is currently on the road with fellow Texas native Parker McCollum and supporting Sam Hunt and Luke Bryan on their respective tours this summer. Birge has also previously shared the stage with Brantley Gilbert, Jake Owen, Matt Stell, Gary Allan and Scotty Mccreery, among others, and was part of the CRS New Faces Class of 2024.
Reigning CMT Music Awards Breakthrough Female Video of the Year winner Ashley Cooke is known for her skillfully-crafted lyrics, a knack for unforgettable performances, effortless vocal beauty, a bold sense of internal grit and a passion for capturing the magic between heartbeats. The Florida native has already been streamed over 270 million times globally, with hits such as “Never Til’ Now” with Brett Young and her first country radio No. 1 “Your Place.” The singer-songwriter has been on tour with Luke Bryan, Jordan Davis, Cole Swindell and Brett Young and made appearances on some of music’s most iconic stages such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. With the release of her debut album, Shot In The Dark, Cooke shared her sun-kissed blend of two-lane pop country in the project’s 24 tracks, inspired by true tales of love, heartbreak and all the moments in between. Cooke has also already seen her first ACM nomination for New Female Artist of the Year.
Platinum singer-songwriter Bryan Martin uses his tales of past struggles to tell a compelling story of survival. Martin began singing in church in his hometown of Logansport, Louisiana, giving him the influence of hymns, while later discovering a passion for country music. Before moving to Music City, he faced personal challenges, including drugs and a suicide attempt at 19. After sustaining a brain injury from a near-fatal car accident, he used music to address his struggles and started to unapologetically embrace his scars. Now, with over 700 million streams, Martin has shared the stage with Morgan Wallen and Jason Aldean, and has made his Grand Ole Opry debut. In 2023, Martin released his sophomore album Poets & Old Souls, which includes his smash hit “We Ride.” He recently released his newest track, “Wishbone,” which dives into his battle against the allure of stardom and the rigors of touring life. Despite the challenges, Martin’s indomitable spirit perseveres, infusing his music with raw emotion and seeking refuge in art.
Nashville native Conner Smith has always had songwriting in his bones. The singer spent 15 years matching his honeyed vocal to propulsive hints of bluegrass and the warmth of ’90s country. Now, Smith’s mix of prime-of-life passion with old soul perspective can be heard on his debut album, Smoky Mountains. Featuring his Gold-certified “Take It Slow,” viral hit “I Hate Alabama” and radio smashes “Creek Will Rise” and “Roulette On The Heart” featuring Hailey Whitters, the 12-track project lays an artistic foundation for Smith to root himself in the depths of the industry. Named a part of the CRS New Faces Class of 2024, Smith has already earned an ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year. His fans resonate with his authentic storytelling and rich, soulful voice while on tour with Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell, Chase Rice and Jordan Davis. Smith is set to embark on his own headlining tour this fall, while also joining Luke Bryan on the road.
While playing lacrosse at Frostburg State University, Warren Zeiders released his debut single, “Ride The Lightning,” launching the Pennsylvania native’s career. The Platinum-certified single showcased Zeiders’ country storytelling, heartland twang and larger-than-life rock & roll. He maintained his momentum with the release of his smash hit “Pretty Little Poison,” which then became the title track of his latest album. Following the release of the project, Zeiders sold out his first headlining tour in just 72 hours. He also made his television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show, his Grand Ole Opry debut and has been seen on the bill for several festivals including the iconic Stagecoach. To date, Zeiders has accumulated over 1.4 billion TikTok views and 895 million streams. He is busy on the road this summer at more festivals before joining Jelly Roll on tour this fall.
Luke Combs Stays Atop MusicRow Radio Chart With ‘Twisters’ Track
/by John Nix ArledgeLuke Combs notches his second week atop the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart with “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma.”
The track appears on Twisters: The Album from the film Twisters that released late last month. The song was written by Combs, Jessi Alexander and Jonathan Singleton.
Combs was recently featured in Post Malone’s new single, “Guy For That,” from his upcoming album F-1 Trillion arriving on Aug. 16.
“Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma” currently sits at No. 8 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and No. 9 on the Mediabase chart.
Click here to view the latest edition of the MusicRow Weekly containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart.
HAYLO Music Signs Aaron Farmer
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L–R): HAYLO Music’s Josh Saxe, Aaron Farmer and Tyler Hubbard. Photo: Evan Mattingly
Tyler Hubbard‘s HAYLO Music has signed songwriter and producer Aaron Farmer to an exclusive publishing deal, administered by Endurance Music Group (EMG).
With over 15 years of live performance experience, Farmer has worked with Hubbard and Florida Georgia Line as well as Nate Ruess, The Chainsmokers, Nelly, Mat Kearney, Backstreet Boys, Bebe Rexha and more. He has also placed original songs with national brands such as Facebook, Mitsubishi and P&G, among others.
“I’ve been fortunate to have Aaron in my life and in the band for years. Not only is he an incredible guy, but also a super talented writer, musician and producer,” shares Hubbard. “Aaron adds so much to anybody he works with, so I’m grateful he chose to call HAYLO his publishing home.”
“Adding Aaron to our HAYLO team was a no-brainer,” says Josh Saxe, GM of HAYLO Music. “His continued creative collaboration with Tyler on tour, along with a staggering aptitude for any music genre makes him a tour de force for our roster. We’re lucky to have him.”
2024 MusicRow Awards Category Profile: Male Songwriter Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 36th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Male Songwriter of the Year category.
Male Songwriter of the Year nominees are based on data from MusicRow’s Top Songwriter Chart. Eligible projects were active during the eligibility period of June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2024.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 9 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, becoming a MusicRow subscriber here.
Below are a selection of songs that entered the MusicRow Songwriter Chart for the Male Songwriter of the Year nominees:
John Byron
“’98 Braves” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“Last Night” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“Sunrise” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“Thinkin’ Bout Me” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” recorded by Dylan Scott
Ashley Gorley
“All I Need Is You” recorded by Chris Janson
“Bulletproof” recorded by Nate Smith
“Cowgirls” recorded by Morgan Wallen feat. Ernest
“Girl In Mine” recorded by Parmalee
“God Gave Me A Girl” recorded by Russell Dickerson
“I Had Some Help” recorded by Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
“Last Night” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“One Thing At A Time” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“Save Me The Trouble” recorded by Dan + Shay
“Something Real” recorded by Dierks Bentley
“Thinkin’ Bout Me” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” recorded by Dylan Scott “Truck Bed” recorded by Hardy
“Whiskey Friends” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“World On Fire” recorded by Nate Smith
“You Proof” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“Young Love & Saturday Nights” recorded by Chris Young
Charlie Handsome
“Cowgirls” recorded by Morgan Wallen feat. Ernest
“I Had Some Help” recorded by Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
“Last Night” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“One Thing At A Time” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“Thinkin’ Bout Me” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” recorded by Dylan Scott “You Proof” recorded by Morgan Wallen
Chase McGill
“5 Leaf Clover” recorded by Luke Combs
“Ain’t That Some” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“But I Got A Beer In My Hand” recorded by Luke Bryan
“Chevrolet” recorded by Dustin Lynch feat. Jelly Roll
“Creek Will Rise” recorded by Conner Smith
“God Gave Me A Girl” recorded by Russell Dickerson
“Mamaw’s House” recorded by Thomas Rhett feat. Morgan Wallen
“Next Thing You Know” recorded by Jordan Davis
“Strangers” recorded by Kameron Marlowe & Ella Langley
Hunter Phelps
“Bulletproof” recorded by Nate Smith
“Chevrolet” recorded by Dustin Lynch feat. Jelly Roll
“Drinkaby” recorded by Cole Swindell
“Take Her Home” recorded by Kenny Chesney
“Truck Bed” recorded by Hardy
Taylor Phillips
“Love You Again” recorded by Chase Matthew
“Thinkin’ Bout Me” recorded by Morgan Wallen
“This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” recorded by Dylan Scott “World On Fire” recorded by Nate Smith
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Jordan Davis ‘Tries On A Jaunty Tempo Tune’
/by Robert K OermannIt’s a variety pack of flavors in today’s DISClaimer.
We have a legend, Queen Reba, as well as newcomers Colin Stough, plus Ryan & Rory. We have folk (Kacey Musgraves), hip-hop (Shaboozey), gospel (The Oak Ridge Boys) yodeling (Phoebe White) and pop (The Mavericks).
Our two contenders for the Disc of the Day award are both solidly country, Drew Parker and Jordan Davis. I’m a huge fan of both singers. I’m giving the honor to Davis, but please play them both. A lot.
In keeping with our “variety pack” theme of the day, the DISCovery Awardees come to us from Brazil. Welcome Fernando & Sorocaba.
JUSTIN MOORE / “Put A Boot In It”
Writers: Jeremy Stover/Justin Moore/Randy Montana/Will Bundy; Producers: Jeremy Stover, Scott Borchetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– This takes aim at folks who trade trap beats for twang and move to Nashville from L.A. in order to make money in country music. He threatens mild violence if they don’t get more “country,” according to his definition of the lifestyle/sound. The verses and the choruses have jarringly different tempos.
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS / “Promised Land”
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Jeff Jones/Terry Clayton; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Lightning Rod Records
– Producer Dave Cobb insisted that the late Joe Bonsall sing a solo lead on this beautiful gospel ballad. The group has now issued a moving video of the tune in commemoration/homage to their fallen comrade. Bonsall died on July 9. The group will continue its farewell tour without him. Ben James joined as the Oaks tenor vocalist when Bonsall retired from the road in January.
PHOEBE WHITE, SUZY BOGGUSS & RIDERS IN THE SKY / “Ride Along With Me”
Writer: Phoebe White; Producer: Michael Jonathan; Label: Poet Man
– Here’s a smile for the day. Suzy Bogguss shares lead vocals with White on this lively track that kicks off the 14-year-old Kentucky yodeling phenomenon’s new album. Riders in the Sky provide the instrumental and vocal backing. The album, Cowgirl’s Delight, drops next month.
SHABOOZEY & BIGXTHAPLUG / “Drink Don’t Need No Mix”
Writers: Collins Obinna Chibueze/McKay Stevens/Nevin Sastry/Sean Cook/Xavier Landum; Producers: Sean Cook, McKay Stevens, Nevin Sastry; Label: American Dogwood/EMPIRE
– It looks like Shaboozey is going to be country’s breakout star of 2024. His delightful “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” is a multi-week No. 1 smash on both country and pop charts and has been streamed 900 million times and counting. The native Virginian teams with heavyweight rising Dallas rapper BigXThaPlug in his new video. It is a profanity laced, tuneless outing that owes much more to hip-hop culture than country.
DREW PARKER / “Love The Leavin’”
Writers: Drew Parker/Lindsay Rimes/Matt Rogers; Producer: Jacob Rice; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Parker finally dropped his debut album Camouflage Cowboy a couple of weeks ago. He simultaneously released a video for this torrid ballad. The performance will make a believer out of you, if you’re not already in his fan club. This man is a spectacular vocal talent, among the very best of this generation of young country performers.
REBA McENTIRE / “I Can’t”
Writers: Tania Hancheroff/Tia Sillers/Victoria Banks; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Rockin’ R Records
– Very impressive. The Country Music Hall of Fame member unleashes one of the finest performances of her distinguished career with this dramatic power ballad. The lyric is wonderfully poetic and the production has tension and energy. The ode to romantic survival is accompanied by an artful video featuring an eye-popping set and florid ballet dancers.
COLIN STOUGH / “Lookin’ For Home”
Writers: Colin Stough/Lewis Brice/Rivers Rutherford; Producer: Alex Maxwell; Label: BBR Music Group
– This American Idol alumnus has issued his debut EP. Its title tune is a rolling country rocker with a wide-open-spaces “road” vibe.
JORDAN DAVIS / “I Ain’t Sayin’”
Writers: Emily Reid/Mark Holman/Steve Moakler/Travis Wood; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– Mr. Davis tries on a jaunty tempo tune, and it fits just right. He might not be Mr. Right, but that other guy “sure as hell ain’t.” I remain an enormous fan.
CHASE MATTHEW AND FERNANDO & SOROCABA / “Cold Blooded”
Writers: Chase Matthew/Felipe Kef/Laroy Sanchez/Lucas Santos/Sorocaba; Producer: Lucas Santos; Label: Warner Music Brazil
– The lyric might be a heartbreaker, but the fabulous Brazilian rhythms will make you want to dance down Lower Broadway with a grin on your face. Viva Fernando y Sorocaba!
KACEY MUSGRAVES / “Irish Goodbye”
Writers: Daniel Tashian/Ian Fitchuk/Kacey Musgraves; Producers: Daniel Tashian, Ian Fitchuk, Kacey Musgraves; Label: Interscope Records/MCA Nashville
– Pretty. Airy. Wafting. Folkie. Soothing.
RYAN AND RORY / “Pour Decisions”
Writers: Emily Reid/Kevin Bard/Maya Kurchner/Remy Gautreau/Ryan Follese; Producers: Kevin Bard, Nick Zinnanti; Label: BBR Music Group
– Drawling, drowsy, boozy, Southern and loping. Relax and ride along.
THE MAVERICKS & MAGGIE ROSE / “Look Around You”
Writer: Raul Malo; Producers: Raul Malo, Niko Bolas; Label: Mono Mundo Recordings
– Lovely and essential. The groove-soaked track features marvelous poly-rhythms, horn punctuations and twin harmony singing by group leader Raul Malo and soulful Maggie Rose. The hippie message of brotherhood is uplifting and uniting. You can dance to it, too.
Eric Church, Jamey Johnson, More Among Lineup For Robbie Robertson Tribute Show
/by Lorie Hollabaugh“Life Is A Carnival: A Musical Celebration Of Robbie Robertson,” the special concert honoring the late singer-songwriter, guitarist and founding member of The Band, will take place on Oct. 17 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California.
The tribute show will feature Eric Church, Jamey Johnson, Ryan Bingham, Noah Kahan, Allison Russell, Mavis Staples, Bobby Weir, Lucinda Williams, Margo Price, Trey Anastasio, Mike Campbell, Eric Clapton, Elvis Costello, Warren Haynes, Bruce Hornsby, Jim James, Daniel Lanois, Taj Mahal, Van Morrison, Robert Randolph, Nathaniel Rateliff, Benmont Tench, Don Was and more performing Robertson’s most beloved work.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Canadian Music Hall of Fame and Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame member is known to have pioneered the Americana genre. His songwriting credits include the “The Weight,” “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” and “Up on Cripple Creek,” among others. Robertson also achieved success as a solo act, receiving accolades from the Recording Academy, the community of Six Nations and more. After The Band‘s 1976 farewell concert was captured on film by Martin Scorsese, he formed a lifelong bond with the famed director and collaborated as a composer, music supervisor and music producer on many of his acclaimed movies. In 2019, The Band’s concert film, The Last Waltz, was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry for its cultural significance.
Tickets for “Life Is A Carnival: A Musical Celebration Of Robbie Robertson” go on sale tomorrow (Aug. 2). For more information, click here.
Chris Ryan Inks With Liz Rose Music & New Management Venture
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L–R, back row): Dave Pacula, Gracie Glass, Jonathan Craig and Scott Ponce; (L–R, front row): Kate Shirley, Chris Ryan and Liz Rose
Warner Music Nashville artist Chris Ryan has signed an exclusive worldwide publishing deal with Liz Rose Music as well as a management deal with its new venture, Laguna Madre Management, in partnership with Left Right Management.
The Helotes, Texas native made the move to Nashville to pursue a career in music in 2018. With influences ranging from Eric Church to The Smashing Pumpkins and Kings of Leon, Ryan has been writing with a tight-knit crew, including Liz Rose herself, to craft a handful of songs that authentically represent who he is as an artist and person. He is set to release his new single, “Edge Of Town,” tomorrow (Aug. 2).
“Chris joining the team was such a natural fit. He is such a visionary artist, and his songwriting comes from the heart,” says Scott Ponce, Partner, Liz Rose Music. “Chris has an exciting journey ahead of him, and I am thrilled that we get to be a part of making his vision come to life.”
“Having known Liz well and loving our writing sessions together, Liz Rose Music was the perfect publishing fit,” shares Ryan. “I’m also thrilled to be working with Laguna Madre and Left Right for my management, and can’t imagine a better team to move forward with.”
“I love working with passionate artists—Chris Ryan is 100 percent genuine, and is bringing something refreshing to country music that it needs right now,” adds Jonathan Craig, Artist Manager, Left Right Management.
Industry Ink: Kadeem Phillips, Christi Thompson, Palmyra, Steinza
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Kentucky Gentlemen Sign With Kadeem Phillips
Kadeem Phillips
Country duo The Kentucky Gentlemen have signed with Kadeem Phillips at PowerHouse Management. The band played CMA Fest earlier this year and are now on tour with The War and Treaty. Phillips also manages Grammy-nominated producer HitKidd. Phillips was part of the first cohort of the Equal Access Development Program, organized by CMT and mtheory.
Establishing themselves as one of Nashville’s most exciting up-and-coming country acts, The Kentucky Gentlemen were named one of GLAAD’s New Voices in Country Music and an Artist To Watch by the Nashville Scene. Selected as one of just five artists for WXPN’s Black Opry Residency, the pair appeared on the subsequent WXPN’s Artist To Watch podcast and performed on World Cafe. They were also chosen for the inaugural class of the OnRamp program launched by The Black Music Action Coalition and the Academy of Country Music.
Christi Thompson Partners With Arny Granat & Tony Conway For Country Trio, The Heels
Pictured (L-R): Brittni Dominelli, Bobbi Smith, Christi Thompson and Kyla Rawlins
Music manager Christi Thompson has partnered with industry veterans Arny Granat and Tony Conway to manage Canadian country music trio, The Heels.
Hailing from Vancouver, Thompson began her management career, including publishing and writer representation for film and TV, during the Pacific Northwest grunge era, where she served as a publicist to some of the most well-known indie bands of that decade. She later handled a diverse roster on various imprints with A&M Records, Maverick Records, 604 Records, Roadrunner and Universal Music Group. Transitioning from label work to artist management, Thompson has represented chart-topping artists such as Matthew Good Band, Lillix, Xavier Rudd, Wake Owl author Shane Koyczan, and partnered with Matthew McConaughey on artist Mishka.
Palmyra Inks With Oh Boy Records
Palmyra. Photo: Rett Rogers
Virginia-based band Palmyra has signed with Oh Boy Records. Established in the Shenandoah Valley and now based in Richmond, Palmyra captures the collective spirit of three Virginia natives, Teddy Chipouras, Manoa Bell and Sasha Landon.
Their sound, often described as a distant cousin to The Avett Brothers and the Wood Brothers, nods toward appalachian and midwestern Americana, with intricate arrangements that create the illusion of a full, larger-than-three ensemble. Oh Boy is set to release the band’s 2023 six-song EP, Belladonna, on vinyl, with new music slated for release in 2025.
Steinza Signs With Listen To The Kids/Santa Anna Records
Photo: Courtest of Steinza
Nashville-based folk singer-songwriter Steinza has signed with Listen To The Kids/Santa Anna Records. Steinza is preparing to release his major label debut EP, Visions Of You.
“I feel amazing about my decision to partner with Listen To The Kids and Santa Anna. I think the team they’ve built is really special and I know my art is in good hands,” says Steinza of the new partnership.
2024 MusicRow Awards Category Profile: Breakthrough Artist-Writer Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 36th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year category.
The Breakthrough Artist-Writer of the Year is voted by MusicRow’s subscribers to honor a Nashville songwriter and recording artist who, for the first time, wrote or co-wrote a top 10 song during the eligibility period of June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2024. Outside nominations from Nashville’s publishing community are considered for this award.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 9 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
Since becoming the only winner in American Idol history to claim the crown by singing his own songs, Chayce Beckham has been proving how his music can make an impact. The California native earned his first Platinum certification with his solo-penned “23,” which also gave him his first CMT Music Award nomination. Amassing over 406 million streams with “23” alone, the rising singer-songwriter found his stride with the release of his debut album, Bad For Me. Beckham wrote three of the 13 tracks solo, with an additional six co-written. The project features a timeless country-rock sound defined by fiddles, steel guitar and plenty of against-the-grain attitude. Beckham has been named an “Artist to Watch” by CMT, Amazon Music, MusicRow and more. He is currently on the road for his headlining tour and supporting Luke Bryan this summer before joining Parker McCollum in the fall.
After climbing the charts with his first country radio No. 1 “Mind On You,” George Birge is delivering another smash with his top-40-and-climbing “Cowboy Songs.” Hailing from Austin, Texas, Birge made a splash with the release of his debut album, George Birge: Mind On You, landing the title track on the Billboard all-genre Hot 100 chart. He also collaborated with Charlieonafriday and Kidd G for a remix of the song. To date, Birge’s catalog boasts over 67 million streams. He recently made his television debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and is currently on the road with fellow Texas native Parker McCollum and supporting Sam Hunt and Luke Bryan on their respective tours this summer. Birge has also previously shared the stage with Brantley Gilbert, Jake Owen, Matt Stell, Gary Allan and Scotty Mccreery, among others, and was part of the CRS New Faces Class of 2024.
Reigning CMT Music Awards Breakthrough Female Video of the Year winner Ashley Cooke is known for her skillfully-crafted lyrics, a knack for unforgettable performances, effortless vocal beauty, a bold sense of internal grit and a passion for capturing the magic between heartbeats. The Florida native has already been streamed over 270 million times globally, with hits such as “Never Til’ Now” with Brett Young and her first country radio No. 1 “Your Place.” The singer-songwriter has been on tour with Luke Bryan, Jordan Davis, Cole Swindell and Brett Young and made appearances on some of music’s most iconic stages such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. With the release of her debut album, Shot In The Dark, Cooke shared her sun-kissed blend of two-lane pop country in the project’s 24 tracks, inspired by true tales of love, heartbreak and all the moments in between. Cooke has also already seen her first ACM nomination for New Female Artist of the Year.
Platinum singer-songwriter Bryan Martin uses his tales of past struggles to tell a compelling story of survival. Martin began singing in church in his hometown of Logansport, Louisiana, giving him the influence of hymns, while later discovering a passion for country music. Before moving to Music City, he faced personal challenges, including drugs and a suicide attempt at 19. After sustaining a brain injury from a near-fatal car accident, he used music to address his struggles and started to unapologetically embrace his scars. Now, with over 700 million streams, Martin has shared the stage with Morgan Wallen and Jason Aldean, and has made his Grand Ole Opry debut. In 2023, Martin released his sophomore album Poets & Old Souls, which includes his smash hit “We Ride.” He recently released his newest track, “Wishbone,” which dives into his battle against the allure of stardom and the rigors of touring life. Despite the challenges, Martin’s indomitable spirit perseveres, infusing his music with raw emotion and seeking refuge in art.
Nashville native Conner Smith has always had songwriting in his bones. The singer spent 15 years matching his honeyed vocal to propulsive hints of bluegrass and the warmth of ’90s country. Now, Smith’s mix of prime-of-life passion with old soul perspective can be heard on his debut album, Smoky Mountains. Featuring his Gold-certified “Take It Slow,” viral hit “I Hate Alabama” and radio smashes “Creek Will Rise” and “Roulette On The Heart” featuring Hailey Whitters, the 12-track project lays an artistic foundation for Smith to root himself in the depths of the industry. Named a part of the CRS New Faces Class of 2024, Smith has already earned an ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year. His fans resonate with his authentic storytelling and rich, soulful voice while on tour with Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell, Chase Rice and Jordan Davis. Smith is set to embark on his own headlining tour this fall, while also joining Luke Bryan on the road.
While playing lacrosse at Frostburg State University, Warren Zeiders released his debut single, “Ride The Lightning,” launching the Pennsylvania native’s career. The Platinum-certified single showcased Zeiders’ country storytelling, heartland twang and larger-than-life rock & roll. He maintained his momentum with the release of his smash hit “Pretty Little Poison,” which then became the title track of his latest album. Following the release of the project, Zeiders sold out his first headlining tour in just 72 hours. He also made his television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show, his Grand Ole Opry debut and has been seen on the bill for several festivals including the iconic Stagecoach. To date, Zeiders has accumulated over 1.4 billion TikTok views and 895 million streams. He is busy on the road this summer at more festivals before joining Jelly Roll on tour this fall.
Scotty McCreery & Songwriters Celebrate No. 1 Hit ‘Cab In A Solo’
/by John Nix ArledgePictured (L-R, back row): Mike Sistad, Kari Barnhart, AJ Burton, George Couri, MaryAnn Keen, Scott Stem, Cyndi Forman and Kevin Herring; (L-R, front row): Frank Rogers, Brent Anderson, Scotty McCreery and Derek Wells. Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI
Scotty McCreery and his team gathered on Wednesday (July 31) to celebrate his latest chart-topper, “Cab In A Solo.” The track marks McCreery’s sixth No. 1 hit.
Industry members gathered in the BMI lobby as the song’s writers and producers, McCreery, Frank Rogers, Brent Anderson and Derek Wells, took their seats on stage.
Kicking off the event was BMI’s MaryAnn Keen who congratulated McCreery on his multiple No. 1 hits including “Cab In A Solo,” his Gold-certified “You Time” and “In Between,” Platinum-certified “Damn Strait” and “This Is It” and triple-Platinum-certified “Five More Minutes.”
Pictured (L-R): Leslie Roberts, Scotty McCreery and MaryAnn Keen. Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI
Next, was ASCAP’s Mike Sistad who praised songwriters Anderson and Rogers for achieving their second and ninth No. 1 hits, respectively. Between the two, they have had cuts from artists such as Brad Paisely, Blake Shelton, Dustin Lynch, Chris Stapleton, Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars and many more.
As a songwriter, producer and publisher on the track, Rogers stepped to the mic to tout his writer Anderson.
“I’m here as a publisher right now—that is my current hat,” said the multi-talented Rogers. “I met Brent when he was 19 years old, after he had already signed a publishing deal at 16, which is amazing. He has already had a No. 1, but this one marks a new era of Brent Anderson. Y’all better get used to this because he is going to be on this stage a whole lot.”
Stepping up to the stage next for a special presentation was Studio Bank’s Kari Barnhart. To commemorate McCreery’s induction into the Grand Ole Opry earlier this year, Studio Bank donated to the Opry Trust on behalf of the songwriters and producers of “Cab In A Solo.”
Other industry members present to speak about the song and its writers were Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville’s Cyndi Forman and Triple Tigers’ Kevin Herring.
Soon, it was time for the writers and producers to share their thoughts. Wells was the first to take the mic. He started off by thanking the teams that made it possible before reflecting on the full-circle moment he was having. “The first master record I played on was for Scotty. A few months later, I got a call to play on a Blake Shelton record, which was Brent’s first No. 1. To be up here with all of these guys is a real special moment for me.”
Next, Rogers took the stage to speak for the second time. “This is songwriter Frank, who, just so you know, is my wife’s favorite Frank,” he joked. Rogers went on to thank the crew involved and compliment his fellow songwriters and producers for their talent and passion.
Anderson took the chance to thank God and congratulate everyone’s hard work before sharing a funny story. “I had a thought this morning, Frank,” he began. “When we met I remember thinking, ‘Frank is such a nice guy and he is really cool, but he is an older dude.’ I realized recently that you were my age now, and I just want to say that you were not an older dude!”
Lastly, McCreery shared his gratitude for another hit song.
“I am at the point in my career now where I am just grateful that I get to live my dream and grateful that I get to sing country music,” McCreery said. “I get to wake up every day and sing for a living—that is crazy. It is because of everyone in this room that I get to do that. So, thank you, I love you and I appreciate y’all being here today.”
Mark Irwin Signs With SMACKSongs
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L–R): Jeremy Groves, Robin Palmer, Mark Irwin, Carly Sater, Lee Krabel and Sam Sarno. Photo: Courtesy of SMACK
Mark Irwin has signed a publishing deal with SMACKSongs.
Over the past four decades, Irwin has amassed a catalog that includes chart-topping hits “Here In The Real World” by Alan Jackson, “Redneck Crazy” by Tyler Farr, “Highway Don’t Care” by Tim McGraw, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban and “Neon Light” by Blake Shelton. His songs have also been recorded by George Jones, Randy Travis, Faith Hill, Thomas Rhett, Lee Brice, Patty Loveless and more.
“Mark has always been one of the most talented, versatile, positive and hardworking songwriters in this town,” says Robin Palmer, Chief Creative Officer at SMACK. “We are all very happy to welcome him to our SMACK team!”
“At this point in my songwriting career, to get to work with the amazing team at SMACK…I’m over the moon!” shares Irwin. “I’ve had the privilege of working with Robin in the past, and to have the chance to work with her again as well as with Lee [Krabel], Jeremy [Groves], Carly [Sater], Sam [Sarno], the incredible writers and the rest of the SMACK family, is truly an honor. I feel like I’m just getting started!”