Bartlett Sher To Direct ‘Hello, I’m Dolly’ Broadway Musical

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Tony Award winner and nine-time nominee Bartlett Sher will direct Hello, I’m Dolly, the new musical inspired by Dolly Parton‘s life and career that is set to open on Broadway in 2026.

As previously announced, Hello, I’m Dolly will be produced by Parton, ATG Productions’ Adam Speers and her longtime manager, CTK Enterprises’ Danny Nozell. The musical’s title comes from Parton’s 1967 debut studio album. The production will feature a score by the superstar, including her hits as well as new songs she has penned for the musical. Parton will also write the script alongside Maria S. Schlatter.

After working in regional theater and on residencies all over the world, Sher made his Broadway debut in 2005 with the world premiere of The Light in the Piazza by Adam Guettel and Craig Lucas, which earned him his first Tony nomination.

He then assumed his current role of Resident Director of Lincoln Center Theater (LCT). While at LCT, Sher has also received Tony Award nominations for his productions of My Fair Lady, Oslo, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King and I, Golden Boy, Awake and Sing! and Joe Turner’s Come and Gone. Additionally, his film of Oslo  premiered on HBO in 2021 and was nominated for two Emmy Awards.

Sher’s Broadway credits include Pictures from Home, Fiddler on the Roof and The Bridges of Madison County. He took home the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical for the 2008 Broadway revival of South Pacific, and directed Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird, which became the best-selling American play in Broadway history, in 2018.

He most recently worked on the revival of Kiss Me, Kate, which is now running at London’s Barbican Theatre. Sher’s other upcoming productions include the stage adaptation of the movie-musical La La Land and the world premiere of a new Ayad Akhtar play, McNeal, starring Robert Downey Jr. at Lincoln Center this fall. He will also direct the world premiere of The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay for the Metropolitan Opera during the 2025–2026 season.

Cody Hibbard To Take A ‘Long Ride In A Short Bed’ Next Month

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Cody Hibbard. Photo: Brooke Stevens

Cody Hibbard plans to release his new album, Long Ride In A Short Bed, on Aug. 2.

The 10-track collection features Hibbard’s latest single, “Set In My Ruts,” and previously-released tune “Rollin’” as well as ballad “Backroad To Heaven,” drum-driven number “Storm That I Ride (feat. A Thousand Horses)” and the title track, which he co-wrote with Rivers Rutherford and Adam Craig.

Produced by Grady Saxman and solo-penned by Hibbard, “Set In My Ruts” centers around the Adair, Oklahoma native’s rural upbringing, and aims to instill his message of staying true to who you are—for better or worse.

“‘Set In My Ruts’ was inspired by the unsolicited advice us artists often get on how to write a song, or approach our career and industry,” says Hibbard. “Coming from the pipeline industry, you would never tell someone how to weld, lay pipe or work. The music industry is the only industry where that seems to fly. While some of the advice is great, and super helpful, ‘Set In My Ruts’ is my way of voicing my plans to do things on my terms. If I’m wrong, then that’s on me—but at least I’m staying true to myself.”

Long Ride In A Short Bed Track Listing:
1. “Kill The Messenger” (Cody Hibbard)
2. “Bad Trip” (Cody Hibbard)
3. “Had It Been A Boy” (Brinley’s Song) (Cody Hibbard, Rose Falcon, Kyle Schlesienger)
4. “Storm That I Ride (feat. A Thousand Horses)” (Cody Hibbard, Michael Hobby, Graham Deloach, Bill Satcher)
5. “Right Behind You” (Cody Hibbard, Mike Moberly, Tommy Karlas)
6. “I Wouldn’t Be Here” (Cody Hibbard, Tony Lane, Rivers Rutherford)
7. “Rollin’” (Cody Hibbard, Marc Oriet, Bryan Frazier, Alex Maxwell)
8. “Long Ride In A Short Bed (feat. Aaron Watson)” (Cody Hibbard, Rivers Rutherford, Adam Craig)
9. “Set In My Ruts” (Cody Hibbard)
10. “Backroad To Heaven” (Cody Hibbard, Wesley Davis, Reid Morris)

Hope In The Hills Slates Fifth Annual ‘Healing Appalachia’ Benefit

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Hope in the Hills’ “Healing Appalachia” benefit concert is set to return to Lewisburg’s State Fairgrounds of West Virginia for its fifth annual event, slated for Sept. 19–21.

This year’s lineup will include Tyler Childers, My Morning Jacket, Sierra Ferrell, Shooter Jennings, Benjamin Tod & Lost Dog Street Band, S.G. Goodman, Hiss Golden Messenger, Sierra Hull, Dan Reeder, Shadowgrass, Willi Carlisle, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, Justin Wells, Geno Seale and more.

The three-day event aims to build community as people from across the world gather to celebrate recovery and raise awareness for the opioid crisis. In addition to the performances, the weekend will feature speeches from those affected by addiction as well as a variety of organizations providing support and information to attendees, including a free Naloxone training.

Also, for the first time this year, Hope in the Hills will present Rising Lazarus Awards with author Beth Macy, which will celebrate crucial members of the community working daily to help save lives and fight the opioid epidemic.

“We can’t wait to gather again to bring folks together using the superpower of music to celebrate recovery month, spread empathy and build communities of healing,” says Dave Lavender, Hope in the Hills Board President.

Tickets will go on sale July 9, and proceeds will fund grants that support addiction prevention, recovery and wellness programs around Appalachia and beyond. For more information, click here.

Hope in the Hills has distributed more than $450,000 to recovery efforts in the region, helping to reduce the stigma of addiction. Last year’s “Healing Appalachia” welcomed over 18,000 fans from across 42 states and three countries, and featured over 40 recovery group booths and the world’s largest Naloxone training along with performances by various artists. The nonprofit also supports other events and programs throughout the year, including their Music Is Healing music therapy programs in Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia.

Hanseroth Twins’ Debut Project ‘Vera’ Set For July Release

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The Hanseroth Twins. Photo: Hanna Hanseroth

Phil and Tim Hanseroth, also known as The Hanseroth Twins, are gearing up for the release of their debut album Vera on July 26. The two have unveiled a brand new single from the project, “Broken Homes,” available on all streaming platforms now.

On “Broken Homes,” the brothers process childhood scars from domestic turbulence and fraying family ties with an enlightened realization at the track’s conclusion: “Standing so tall on my own, because I come from a broken home.”

“It’s a personal story about our childhood,” share the brothers. “We grew up very poor, and our parents divorced when we were young. There wasn’t a lot of harmony after the split, so we just had each other. When you go through adversity, it makes you stronger. We’re standing here tall, because we come from a broken home.”

YouTube video

Vera—defined in Latin as “true, real, genuine, actual”—was written, recorded and produced by Tim and Phil, with Brandi Carlile serving as the album’s executive producer. Fans around the world first became acquainted with the identical twins as Carlile’s longtime songwriting partners and bandmates. Encouraged by her, Phil and Tim crafted the 10 tracks during sessions in their home studios in Maple Valley, Washington. The pair assembles a mosaic of Americana, folk, indie and rock threaded together with warm harmonies, storytelling and artful instrumentation. The record is the product of two brothers, best friends and creative soulmates using their voices to explore love, loss and what it means to be alive.

“Vera was the perfect name, because every note of this record is genuine in terms of how it was written and recorded. There’s no trickery; it’s just the truth,” shares Phil.

“Phil and I are so close. I can feel what he’s feeling all of the time, and it’s part of the music. With how busy we get, who knows if we will get to make another record like this. Vera is a special moment in time that we’ll never forget,” adds Tim.

Tim and Phil introduced The Hanseroth Twins earlier this year with the release of Vera’s lead single “Remember Me,” which was penned for their children.

Vera Track List:
1. “If Everyone Had Someone”
2. “Remember Me”
3. “Counting The Days”
4. “Under The Weather”
5. “A Little Respect”
6. “The Poor Side of People”
7. “I’ll Always Know I Do”
8. “Broken Homes”
9. “Somewhere Between”
10. “The Loyal Soldier”

Industry Ink: ‘Music For Mustangs,’ Amanda Nolan, Bandit Lites

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Mustang Heritage Foundation Hosts ‘Music For Mustangs’

Skip Ewing and Horsepower 307 with Clinton Shultz, CEO, Mustang Heritage Foundation. Photo: Courtesy of Mustang Heritage Foundation

The Mustang Heritage Foundation recently hosted “Music For Mustangs” in Nashville at the Texas Troubadour Theater. Headlined by Skip Ewing and Horsepower 307, the fundraising event had the crowd buzzing throughout the night. Additional performers included John Berry, William Lee Golden and the Goldens, Brady Seals, Heath Wright, LEVON, Twitty and Lynn, Ryan Larkins, Stephanie Quayle, Ira Dean, Sarah Beth Terry, Garrett Bradford, Rick Monroe and the Hitmen and Craig Wayne Boyd.

Since its inception in 2001, the Mustang Heritage Foundation has placed over 20,000 mustangs and wild burros into homes and programs. The recently launched their new college scholarship programs which provides scholarships to three students interested in furthering their education and supporting the mission of the foundation in the future.

 

Amanda Nolan Signs With Lula Street Records

Amanda Nolan. Photo: Courtesy of Lula Street Records

Rising Christian singer Amanda Nolan has signed a record deal with Lula Street Records. The Pennsylvania native began her interest in music at 11 years old. Now based in Nashville, Nolan has been breaking into the Christian music scene with her soulful tone and heartfelt lyrics. She has also collaborated with well known songwriters and producers in the industry.

“This is a day I have dreamed of since I was a little girl, and I can’t believe it’s here,” says Nolan. “I am so thankful to God for blessing and trusting me with this opportunity to make music to encourage His people. Thank you to Lula Street Records and my manager Wisdom Moon for believing in me and coming alongside me on this journey!”

Nolan’s manager Moon is also the founder of Lula Street Records.

 

Harrison Reilly & Riley Rowan Join Bandit Lites

Harrison Reilly and Riley Rowan.

Harrison Reilly and Riley Rowan have joined live events company Bandit Lites as Integration Specialists. In their new roles, they will assist project managers in the office, work on site during the installation and programming phases of both architectural and performance systems as well as assist clients with any troubleshooting and further education opportunities.

Reilly spent two summers interning at Bandit Lites under Jake Ticke on various tours and productions. During his senior year, he interned with the Integration team assisting on site at the installation of new venues. He recently graduated from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem with his BFA in Lighting.

Rowan graduated from the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music with his BFA in Lighting Design and Technology. He has also spent time as an intern with the company in the Project Management department.

“It’s been great to see these two make the journey with our team from interns to full time staff members,” shares Chris Barbee, Vice President of Integration. “I had the pleasure to work with both during their internships on project sites. Their attitude, dedication and work ethic really solidified our desire to make them full-time members of the team.”

Chase Rice Brings The Farm To The Windy City

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Chase Rice

Chase Rice is opening a Chicago branch of his “Welcome to The Farm” entertainment venue with Jimmy Butler and the Forward Hospitality Group.

Welcome to The Farm in Chicago. Photo: Courtesy of Forward Hospitality Group

The third iteration of his popular Welcome to The Farm venue will feature a new 10,000 square foot space and will bring the brand’s signature live music, drinks and BBQ to downtown at ​​15 W Illinois Street with plans to open in early August. The Chicago venue will also include the brand’s ongoing partnership with Executive Chef Raheem Sealy, whose noted Drinking Pig BBQ will find a home at The Farm.

“It’s been incredible to see the Welcome to The Farm response so far,” shares Rice. “I’m so excited to keep growing this project together with the great team at Forward Hospitality Group. Chicago has always been one of my favorite places to visit and to perform, and summer music festival season seemed like the perfect time to bring Welcome to The Farm to the city.”

The completely renovated Chicago space located in the heart of River North will be anchored by a second floor stage that will host a rotating lineup of live music. The space will have capacity to seat approximately 300 guests and will offer both indoor seating and a retractable rooftop to enjoy during the warmer months. Executive Chef Sealey will bring his smoked ribs, brisket, cornbread, handheld sandwiches, elevated bare fare and sides to the Windy City for the first time. The Farm’s bar menu will also include an assortment of Farm Favorites Cocktails, a massive bourbon and whiskey list, along with new specialty coffee products from Butler’s coffee brand BIGFACE that will be available as well.

The Chicago location will join both the most recent St. Petersburg location and original flagship, which opened in Cleveland in 2021, and was joined by Rice and Forward Hospitality Group’s “I Hate Cowboys” cocktail and bourbon lounge next door earlier this year.

Grand Ole Opry To Celebrate 30th Anniversary Of ‘Forrest Gump’ With Special Show

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The Grand Ole Opry will celebrate the 30th anniversary of Paramount Pictures’ beloved classic Forrest Gump on July 28 with a special show.

The evening is set to include performances from the Gatlin Brothers, Mandy Barnett, Jamey Johnson, Gary LeVox, Scotty McCreery and more, in addition to the Opry debut of Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band, featuring songs from the 12-time Platinum movie soundtrack.

Forrest Gump premiered on July 6, 1994 and became not only a global blockbuster, but a cultural touchstone, winning six Oscars/Academy Awards including Best Picture. The film’s soundtrack is composed of some of the most popular American music of the 20th century, including songs by The Byrds, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Willie Nelson and Elvis Presley, among others.

Forrest Gump producer Wendy Finerman and actor Mykelti Williamson, who portrayed the iconic character Bubba, will appear as guest announcers during the show. Prior to the event, the Opry will also host a Forrest Gump-themed Plaza Party with music from the soundtrack, photo ops, giveaways, merchandise and more.

Fans can purchase an exclusive ticket package that includes a show ticket, post-show ticket, commemorative poster and more. Taking place in the Opry House’s Studio A, the post-show event in will feature a Q&A with Finerman, Williamson and Gary Sinise, who portrayed Lt. Dan, as well as photo ops on the famous park bench from numerous scenes in the film.

Package proceeds will benefit the Gary Sinise Foundation. (GSF), which was established in 2011 to support our nation’s veterans, first responders, heroes and defenders. The character of Lt. Dan in Forrest Gump made an enduring connection with veterans and service members, and amplified Sinise’s crusade to support those who have bravely served our country and their families. Five dollars from every ticket sold will also be donated to GSF.

For more information, click here.

Karley Scott Collins Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut

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Karley Scott Collins during her Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Rachael Black for Grand Ole Opry

Karley Scott Collins stepped into the hallowed circle to make her Grand Ole Opry debut, and her family proud, last Wednesday (June 26).

“I’m from a small town in Florida called Lake City, and it’s probably half empty back home tonight because my entire family is here,” Collins joked from the stage.

Charles Kelley performing with Karley Scott Collins during her Grand Ole Opry debut. Photo: Photo: Rachael Black for Grand Ole Opry

Performing songs from her recently-released EP, Write One, she kicked things off with “Heavy Metal,” before welcoming Opry member Charles Kelley of Lady A for their duet “How Do You Do That.”

The career milestone adds to a whirlwind past few months for Collins, as she toured with Willie Nelson and Dwight Yoakam in addition to releasing the new EP featuring Kelley and Keith Urban, who personally extended Collins her Opry debut invitation.

She is also slated to take the Ryman Auditorium stage to open for Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, and support Nate Smith and Corey Kent on their respective fall tours.

Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit Announce 2024 Ryman Residency

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Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit

Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit have announced their annual eight-night residency at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, taking place in October.

The group has contributed the Mother Church’s legacy with their performances over the past decade, delivering a diverse lineup of opening acts each year. This year, they will be joined by an all-female lineup, consisting of Alice Randall, Garrison Starr, Mary Gauthier, Caitlin and Liz Rose, Matraca Berg, Iris Dement, Gretchen Peters and Kim Richey.

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

Rusty Golden, Songwriter & Son Of Oak Ridge Boys Member William Lee Golden, Passes

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Rusty Golden. Photo: Kris Rae

Rusty Golden, award-winning songwriter and musician and son of The Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden, passed away on Monday (July 1) at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was 65.

Born William “Rusty” Golden on Jan. 3, 1959, in Brewton, Alabama, he is the eldest son of William Lee and Frogene Normand.

Music was ever-present in the Golden home, and young Rusty started sharing in the family passion at a young age. By the time he was 12, he was proficiently playing drums. A year later, at just 13, Rusty started playing drums for The Rambos featuring celebrated songwriter Dottie Rambo. He also showed a talent for songwriting at an early age, first putting his grandmother’s poems to music.

After attending an Elton John concert, a teenage Rusty was entranced by the piano. By age 17, he was good enough to play keys on the road with Larry Gatlin, and eventually started playing on studio sessions in Nashville. By age 20, Rusty was recording at Quadraphonic Studios for ABC Records.

He helped form The Boys Band, whose debut album for Elektra/Asylum Records included the single “Runner.” Another single, “Please Don’t Stop Me Baby,” landed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The group disbanded in ’84, the same year Rusty received a Gold plaque for his songwriting contributions on The Oaks’ Bobbie Sue album.

Encouraged by his success, Rusty and brother Chris Golden joined with Marc Speer to start the group Golden Speer in ’85. Although their album was never released, their label changed directions the next year, leading Rusty and Chris to record under the name The Goldens. The duo moved to Capitol/SBK Records and released the album Rush for Gold in 1990, containing three charting singles “Take Me Back to The Country,” “Keep The Faith” and “Long Gone.”

After undergoing a quadruple bypass, Rusty devoted his songwriting back to his gospel roots. This transition was rewarded with several No. 1 southern gospel hits and two Song of the Year awards for “What Salvation’s Done for Me” by The Booth Brothers and “I Want to Thank You” by Karen Peck & New River.

In 2020, Rusty joined brother Chris and dad William Lee to work on their family band, William Lee Golden and The Goldens. They recorded and released 34 songs from 2020 to 2021 and added brother Craig, nieces Elizabeth and Rebekah and nephew Elijah into the mix, making the group a three-generation family band.

Rusty was regarded as a charismatic entertainer in addition to an accomplished songwriter and musician. Last year he was awarded Keyboard Player of the Year by the Josie Music Awards.

Rusty Golden is preceded in death by his mother Frogene Normand, grandparents Luke and Rutha Mae Golden, and Elliot and Estelle Normand. He is survived by his father William Lee Golden (Simone), and brothers Craig Golden, Chris Golden (Marie) and Solomon Golden, along with many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

Funeral/memorial details are pending and will be made available at williamleegoldenandthegoldens.com and their Facebook page.