Thunder Ridge art. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
There are hundreds of arenas, amphitheaters and rooms of various sizes across the nation that house memorable concerts every night, but there are only a handful of venues that reach icon status. Going to see a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The Hollywood Bowl or the Ryman Auditorium, for example, are experiences that make a lot of music lovers’ bucket lists.
A new spot that will undoubtedly find its way onto must-see venue lists is the Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri.
Located just a few miles outside of Branson, the 1,200 acres that make up Thunder Ridge showcase breathtaking views of the Table Rock Lake inlets and gorgeous forested Boston Mountains. With a capacity of 18,000, the arena is the perfect place to enjoy some music and appreciate the majesty of nature that is so beautifully showcased in The Ozarks. And showcasing that beauty is precisely the goal.
Morgan Wallen plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: David Lehr
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena has been developed for over a decade by noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris. He is extremely dedicated to conserving The Ozarks, as the property’s land, its buildings and infrastructure have been donated and permanently set aside as part of a not-for-profit foundation committed to the cause of conservation.
Morris wants the venue to be “America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater.” He’s well on his way.
But in order to get fans in the doors, Thunder Ridge has to book great talent. They have partnered with ASM Global for that task.
The first artist to take the Thunder Ridge stage was country icon Garth Brooks, who played the venue before it underwent more finalizations. In May, superstar Morgan Wallen reopened Thunder Ridge and started the flow of concerts there this summer. Chris Stapleton also took the stage last month, and on deck for July are The Rolling Stones and Luke Bryan. Imagine Dragons and Pitbull shows are also forthcoming.
Jason Rio. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
“We’re learning about the market right now,” shares Jason Rio, SVP of Live Entertainment for ASM Global, who is intrinsically involved in the development of the live show experience at Thunder Ridge. “So far we feel like the market is across the board. Country is definite, and we’re doing some rock shows. It’ll take some time for people to understand what we’re trying to accomplish here, which is bringing great music to this part of the country, and giving the fans an experience that’s unlike anything that they have been part of.”
He adds, “If you live in Kansas City, St. Louis or Arkansas, you have your amphitheater that you would go to to see Tyler Childers or whoever it may be. Those venues are great, but seeing Tyler Childers here…Once you experience that, it will set a new bar for what the potential is.”
In his line of work, Rio is well-acquainted with the concert venues the United States has to offer, and notes that Thunder Ridge is in a class of its own.
“It’s a unique and special place given where it sits within the country and the world,” he says. “It’s so highly-curated. Getting to know Johnny and how he operates his business, with the attention to detail and the focus, it’s obvious how personal it is. It doesn’t take you long to realize why he is who he is.”
In addition to shows in a 18,000-seat amphitheater, Thunder Ridge provides the complete experience with Morris’ Big Cedar Lodge, a 4,600-acre rustic luxury resort close by, as well as miles and miles of walking trails with breathtaking views. There are limitless opportunities to hike, fish and enjoy the great outdoors.
Chris Stapleton plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: Andy Barron
“As we’re advancing more shows and talking to more artists, the idea that the artist can show up a few days before, post up and relax is appealing. There’s a Tiger Woods-designed golf course [on the Big Cedar Lodge property]. There’s everything that you could want all within this area.”
The same is true for fans, who can drive in for just a show or make a vacation out of their trip to Thunder Ridge, adding potential for multi-day artist events or activations.
“It goes back to the unique experience that Johnny and his team are giving fans. The concert venue is another part of the package. There’s so many things to do there, and now you can go see an amazing show at an amazing venue,” Rio says.
Tasked with introducing the new venue to the music business, Rio states the only way to truly “get it” is to spend time at Thunder Ridge.
“Pictures are one thing, but you have to get out there. Having that big reveal when you come around the bend and see everything…I can’t put that into words,” he says. “In our business, there are so many shows and so many venues. The venues like Thunder Ridge are the exceptions to the rule. There’s a story behind it and deep meaning. You need to experience this in person because it is unlike anything that you have been a part of.”
Industry Ink: ‘Music For Mustangs,’ Amanda Nolan, Bandit Lites
/by Madison HahnenMustang 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
/by Lorie HollabaughChase 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
/by Lorie HollabaughThe 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
/by Lorie HollabaughKarley 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
/by Liza AndersonJason 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
/by LB CantrellRusty 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.
Weekly Register: Post Malone & Blake Shelton Attain Top Country Songs Debut
/by Liza AndersonBlake Shelton and Post Malone performing at Spotify House during CMA Fest 2024. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Spotify
Post Malone and Blake Shelton‘s “Pour Me A Drink” attains the top debut on the country streaming songs chart this week, landing at No. 4 with 18 million streams, according to Luminate data.
Based on audio streams, Post Malone and Morgan Wallen‘s “I Had Some Help” maintains its No. 1 status with 33.5 million new streams, adding to 327 million ATD, followed by Shaboozey‘s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” at No. 2 with 33 million streams, adding to 365 million ATD. Zach Bryan‘s “Pink Skies” stays at No. 3 with 19 million new streams, adding to 127 million ATD, and Wallen and Moneybagg Yo‘s “Whiskey Whiskey” remains at No. 5 with 14 million streams, adding to 30 million ATD.
On the country albums chart, Wallen’s One Thing At A Time continues at the top with 73K in total consumption (1.4K album only/93 million song streams). His Dangerous: The Double Album reclaims No. 2 with 43K (363 album only/56 million song streams), while Shaboozey’s Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going holds No. 3 with 41K (2K album only/46 million song streams). Bryan’s self-titled album returns to No. 4 with 36K (3.1K album only/43 million song streams), as his American Heartbreak rises to No. 5 once again with 32K (1.2K album only/40 million song streams).
Bobby Wood To Be CMHOFM’s Next ‘Nashville Cats’ Honoree
/by Lorie HollabaughKeyboardist Bobby Wood will be featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s in-depth interview series, “Nashville Cats,” on Aug. 17 at 2:30 p.m. in the museum’s Ford Theater.
Raised on a family farm in Mississippi, Wood moved to Memphis after high school to pursue a music career. His recording of “If I’m a Fool for Loving You” was rising up the charts in 1964 when a car wreck laid him up for months. After recuperating, Wood focused on session work and songwriting and became a pivotal member of legendary studio crew the Memphis Boys, who were responsible for numerous hits recorded at American Sound Studio, including records by Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, Wilson Pickett and Dusty Springfield.
After moving to Nashville in 1972, Wood recorded with Garth Brooks, Kris Kristofferson, Kenny Rogers and Tammy Wynette, along with many others. He has played in Brooks’ studio band since the beginning of Brooks’ career.
The interview will be moderated by museum writer-editor RJ Smith and will be illustrated with vintage photos, film and recordings. “Nashville Cats” is included with museum admission and free to museum members. However, seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance.
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena Provides A Unique Touring Destination For Artists & Fans [Interview]
/by LB CantrellThunder Ridge art. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
There are hundreds of arenas, amphitheaters and rooms of various sizes across the nation that house memorable concerts every night, but there are only a handful of venues that reach icon status. Going to see a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The Hollywood Bowl or the Ryman Auditorium, for example, are experiences that make a lot of music lovers’ bucket lists.
A new spot that will undoubtedly find its way onto must-see venue lists is the Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri.
Located just a few miles outside of Branson, the 1,200 acres that make up Thunder Ridge showcase breathtaking views of the Table Rock Lake inlets and gorgeous forested Boston Mountains. With a capacity of 18,000, the arena is the perfect place to enjoy some music and appreciate the majesty of nature that is so beautifully showcased in The Ozarks. And showcasing that beauty is precisely the goal.
Morgan Wallen plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: David Lehr
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena has been developed for over a decade by noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris. He is extremely dedicated to conserving The Ozarks, as the property’s land, its buildings and infrastructure have been donated and permanently set aside as part of a not-for-profit foundation committed to the cause of conservation.
Morris wants the venue to be “America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater.” He’s well on his way.
But in order to get fans in the doors, Thunder Ridge has to book great talent. They have partnered with ASM Global for that task.
The first artist to take the Thunder Ridge stage was country icon Garth Brooks, who played the venue before it underwent more finalizations. In May, superstar Morgan Wallen reopened Thunder Ridge and started the flow of concerts there this summer. Chris Stapleton also took the stage last month, and on deck for July are The Rolling Stones and Luke Bryan. Imagine Dragons and Pitbull shows are also forthcoming.
Jason Rio. Photo: Courtesy of ASM Global
“We’re learning about the market right now,” shares Jason Rio, SVP of Live Entertainment for ASM Global, who is intrinsically involved in the development of the live show experience at Thunder Ridge. “So far we feel like the market is across the board. Country is definite, and we’re doing some rock shows. It’ll take some time for people to understand what we’re trying to accomplish here, which is bringing great music to this part of the country, and giving the fans an experience that’s unlike anything that they have been part of.”
He adds, “If you live in Kansas City, St. Louis or Arkansas, you have your amphitheater that you would go to to see Tyler Childers or whoever it may be. Those venues are great, but seeing Tyler Childers here…Once you experience that, it will set a new bar for what the potential is.”
In his line of work, Rio is well-acquainted with the concert venues the United States has to offer, and notes that Thunder Ridge is in a class of its own.
“It’s a unique and special place given where it sits within the country and the world,” he says. “It’s so highly-curated. Getting to know Johnny and how he operates his business, with the attention to detail and the focus, it’s obvious how personal it is. It doesn’t take you long to realize why he is who he is.”
In addition to shows in a 18,000-seat amphitheater, Thunder Ridge provides the complete experience with Morris’ Big Cedar Lodge, a 4,600-acre rustic luxury resort close by, as well as miles and miles of walking trails with breathtaking views. There are limitless opportunities to hike, fish and enjoy the great outdoors.
Chris Stapleton plays at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Photo: Andy Barron
“As we’re advancing more shows and talking to more artists, the idea that the artist can show up a few days before, post up and relax is appealing. There’s a Tiger Woods-designed golf course [on the Big Cedar Lodge property]. There’s everything that you could want all within this area.”
The same is true for fans, who can drive in for just a show or make a vacation out of their trip to Thunder Ridge, adding potential for multi-day artist events or activations.
“It goes back to the unique experience that Johnny and his team are giving fans. The concert venue is another part of the package. There’s so many things to do there, and now you can go see an amazing show at an amazing venue,” Rio says.
Tasked with introducing the new venue to the music business, Rio states the only way to truly “get it” is to spend time at Thunder Ridge.
“Pictures are one thing, but you have to get out there. Having that big reveal when you come around the bend and see everything…I can’t put that into words,” he says. “In our business, there are so many shows and so many venues. The venues like Thunder Ridge are the exceptions to the rule. There’s a story behind it and deep meaning. You need to experience this in person because it is unlike anything that you have been a part of.”
Brennley Brown Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
/by Lorie HollabaughBrennley Brown. Photo: Artisan Imagery
Former The Voice finalist Brennley Brown recently made her Grand Ole Opry debut.
The 22-year-old actually bought her Opry debut dress when she was just 11, and has been working towards the bucket-list goal ever since. At 14, Brown appeared on season 12 of NBC’s The Voice where she became a finalist and the show’s youngest, highest-charting artist to date. Following her run on the show, she began traveling monthly to Nashville to hone her craft and lean into her traditional country roots.
She earned her spot in the live music scene as an opener for Tim McGraw, Sheryl Crow, Dwight Yoakam, and others and released her debut EP Story Stays in 2020. After permanently moving to Nashville, Brown signed with Sony/Provident Label Group in 2023.